Signs Your Relationship Could Benefit from Therapy
Every relationship has its ups and downs, but how do you know when your challenges require professional support? Although occasional disagreements are normal, persistent issues can take a toll on emotional well-being and relationship stability. Relationship therapy can provide couples with tools to navigate conflicts, enhance relational and romantic consciousness, improve communication, and strengthen connection. Here are 10 common indicators that your relationship could benefit from therapy.
1. Communication Breakdowns
Healthy relationships thrive on open, honest, and respectful communication. However, when conversations consistently turn into arguments, or when partners feel unheard, misunderstood, or dismissed, it may signal a deeper issue. Communication breakdowns often arise from four key behaviors: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling (Gottman & Silver, 1999). If these patterns persist, therapy can help partners develop healthier ways to communicate and express their needs.
2. Recurring Conflicts Without Resolution
All couples have disagreements, but when the same arguments resurface without resolution, it can indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Whether it’s financial disagreements, parenting conflicts, or differences in values, therapy can provide a neutral space for partners to explore their concerns, understand each other's perspectives, and work toward sustainable solutions.
3. Emotional Distance and Disconnection
If you or your partner feel emotionally disconnected or like roommates rather than romantic partners, therapy may help reignite intimacy and closeness. Emotional withdrawal can be caused by unresolved conflicts, stress, or external factors such as work pressures. A therapist can help identify the root causes and guide couples in rebuilding emotional intimacy.
4. Trust Issues and Betrayal
Trust is the foundation of a healthy relationship, and once broken, it can be difficult to rebuild. Whether due to infidelity, dishonesty, or secrecy, trust issues can erode the foundation of a relationship. Therapy can help couples navigate the painful process of rebuilding trust through honest communication, accountability, and healing strategies (Rokach and Chan, 2023).
5. Decreased Physical Intimacy
A decline in physical intimacy is a common concern in relationships. While fluctuations in sexual activity are natural, a prolonged lack of intimacy may indicate underlying emotional disconnection, resentment, or stress. Therapy can help couples explore the emotional and psychological factors affecting their intimacy and develop strategies to restore physical closeness.
6. Life Transitions Causing Stress
Major life changes—such as having a child, career shifts, relocation, or the loss of a loved one—can place immense stress on a relationship. If partners struggle to support each other during these transitions, therapy can provide guidance on coping strategies and maintaining a strong connection through life’s challenges.
7. Frequent Thoughts About Separation or Divorce
If one or both partners frequently think about ending the relationship, it may indicate deep-seated dissatisfaction. Therapy can provide a space to explore these feelings, identify core issues, and determine whether the relationship can be repaired. Even if separation becomes the best course of action, therapy can help partners navigate the process amicably.
8. One or Both Partners Feel Unappreciated
Feeling undervalued or taken for granted can lead to resentment and dissatisfaction. According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, expressing gratitude in relationships strengthens emotional bonds and overall satisfaction (Algoe et al., 2010). Therapy can help couples develop appreciation for each other and reinforce positive behaviors.
9. External Stressors Are Negatively Impacting the Relationship
Work stress, financial struggles, or family conflicts can spill into a relationship and create tension. If external pressures frequently lead to conflict or withdrawal, therapy can help couples establish boundaries, manage stress together, and reinforce their partnership.
10. Unresolved Trauma Affecting the Relationship
Past trauma—whether from childhood, previous relationships, or other experiences—can impact emotional availability, trust, and communication in a relationship. Therapy provides a supportive environment for partners to process these experiences and understand how they affect their relationship dynamics.
Conclusion
Recognizing when to seek help is a sign of strength, not failure. Relationship therapy is a valuable resource that can help couples improve communication, develop healthier relationship skills, rebuild trust, and foster a deeper connection. If you and your partner identify with any of these signs, seeking professional guidance may be the next step toward a healthier and more fulfilling relationship, or an amicable separation.
If you're seeking support to strengthen your relationship or facilitate an amicable separation, Dr. Jonathan Mathias Lassiter and Lassiter Health Initiatives in New York City are here to help. Specializing in couples counseling in NYC, Dr. Lassiter provides evidence-based techniques and compassionate guidance to help couples overcome challenges and build lasting connections. Take the first step towards a healthier relationship by reaching out today. Visit Lassiter Health Initiatives or complete the online contact us form here.
Sources:
Algoe, S. B., Gable, S. L., & Maisel, N. C. (2010). "It's the little things: Everyday gratitude as a booster shot for romantic relationships." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
Gottman, J., & Silver, N. (1999). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. New York: Three Rivers Press.
Rokach A, Chan SH. Love and infidelity: Causes and consequences. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Feb 22;20(5):3904. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20053904. PMID: 36900915; PMCID: PMC10002055.
