It’s Megan, Dóchas’ client care facilitator, on the blog this week to walk you through getting started with your first couples therapy session.
First, you and your partner both need to be willing participants. Make sure you’re on the same page of wanting to work together to build a strong foundation, and attend couples therapy as a team – this is an important first step toward creating a healthy and lasting partnership.
Couples therapy isn’t always easy. It will push your limits, drain your emotions, and sometimes feel stressful. But it can also help you and your partner better understand each other, improve communication, clarify what you want in a life-long partnership, and give you tools to handle conflicts together. It takes time, patience, and effort – but starting the process can be simple and manageable when you approach it step by step.
Read on or watch my video for more details:
Finding the Perfect Therapist for Couples Therapy
Now that you’re both ready to get started, the next step is finding a therapist who can offer the couples therapy support you’re looking for while staying comfortably within your budget – because nothing adds stress to a relationship like finances. You can find the right therapist for you and your partner in one of two ways:
- Take the Dóchas Compass Quiz on our website, then reach out to the clinic to book a couple’s therapy session with the practitioner it recommends.
- Call the clinic or send an email with as much – or as little – information as you’re comfortable sharing. From there, the clinic can help you and your partner set up your individual profiles, as well as a shared couple’s profile in the booking system, and guide you toward the practitioner who might be the best fit for both of you.
Matching Your Needs to Couples Therapy Professionals
While selecting therapist recommendations for you, a few key things will be taken into consideration:
- Any preferences you and your partner may have regarding who you might feel most comfortable speaking with.
- Whether you have insurance coverage for couples therapy, if not, what your budget allows.
- The specific reasons you and your partner are seeking couples therapy – such as an obstacle you’re struggling to overcome, areas of your relationship you’d like to focus on, or a particular therapeutic modality or approach you’re interested in.
Taking this information into account, 2 – 3 therapists from our clinic who best match your needs for couples therapy will be recommended to you. You’ll receive their bios, including a photo so you can put a face to the name, along with availability. From there, you can decide which therapist(s) you’d like to book a free 15-minute meet & greet with. If one practitioner really resonates with you, you also have the option to schedule a full 50-minute session right away.
The choice is entirely yours.
Completing Your Intake for Couples Therapy
After booking your first full session, each of you will receive an intake form to complete. This form will ask for some personal and billing information, outline any policies you should be aware of, and include a few questions about your wellbeing and the couples therapy process. You’ll need to complete the form before your first session.
The Key to Successful Couples Therapy
The final step – and it’s a big one – is showing up! Attending your first session with a willingness to start this journey together is an important part of the process.
From there, each session will guide you through conversations where you’ll explore patterns, learn new skills, and practice more effective ways of connecting and resolving conflict. You and your partner will work together to set goals, whether that’s improving communication, rebuilding trust, or navigating a transition. With an open mindset and a willingness to grow together, couples therapy can become a safe space to build the kind of relationship you both want.
Not Sure Where to Start with Therapy?
Take the Dóchas Compass (1–2 minute quiz) and we’ll guide you toward the best fit therapist for you.
If you already know what you’re looking for, you can book an appointment online (in-person in Spruce Grove or virtual across Alberta) or call us at 780-446-0300.
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
