The average online marriage counseling session may last anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes, though some practices may offer longer appointments initially as you establish care. Sessions take place depending on the frequency that feels right for you, your partner and your therapist. To begin your session, you will receive a link to a secure, confidential and HIPAA-compliant online platform, says Emily Stone, Ph.D., a licensed marriage and family therapist in Austin, Texas.
“The first session will focus on reviewing expectations and goals,” she says, “The therapist often will explain more about how he or she works, what theories, approaches and interventions he or she uses, and what you can expect in terms of structure.”
Stone recommends taking time to ensure your therapist and the method they employ are a good fit for you and your partner. Your therapist might use one of the following approaches to couples therapy:
Gottman Method: With this approach—developed and researched by John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman—your therapist will focus your conversations on the behaviors that harm relationships, such as criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Often used for anxiety and depression, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used in couples counseling to pinpoint the source of relationship issues and focus on improving communication.
Emotion-Focused Therapy: This approach allows you and your partner to discover the emotions driving conflict in your relationship, and find ways to address them.
Imago Relationship Therapy: A therapist would use this method to explore patterns stemming from past trauma, and to explore how these experiences cause conflict in your relationship.
Solution-Focused Therapy: A therapist using this approach would help couples seeking support for one or two issues, creating a plan that encourages you to work on them outside of your sessions.