RELATIONSHIP THERAPY Edel Dewhurst CBT and ACT Therapist
A Safe Space for Growth and Connection
Relationship therapy offers a supportive, non-judgmental space where couples can explore challenges and build a stronger, more connected partnership.
Identifying the Issues
The first step in therapy is to understand what’s brought you here.
Every relationship has its own story, but some common issues include:
- Affairs or breaches of trust
- Intimacy challenges (emotional or physical)
- Parenting disagreements
- Clashing values or belief systems
- Financial stress
- Involvement from extended family
- Uncertainty about staying together
- Mental or physical health issues
Recognising the Patterns
The next step involves understanding the patterns that emerge between you when trying to cope with these problems. These patterns often become automatic and may involve:
- Blaming or attacking
- Defensiveness
- Withdrawal or avoidance
- Controlling behaviours
It’s common to be unaware of the role we play in these cycles. However, recognising these patterns is crucial to creating change. Often, relational difficulties stem from:
- Poor communication
- Unrealistic or unspoken expectations
- Unclear or rigid roles
- Non-consensual dynamics
Therapy helps bring these patterns into focus so that change becomes possible.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR
RELATIONSHIP STYLE
How we learned to give and receive love starts in childhood. Early relationships shape our "attachment style," influencing how we behave in close partnerships.
The good news?
"Even if your early experiences were difficult, you can develop new ways of relating—with awareness, support, and practice."
Building New Skills
Once you understand your part in the relationship dynamic, therapy helps you learn new tools to support a healthier, more fulfilling connection. These might include:
- Communicating needs clearly and respectfully
- Listening with empathy
- Managing conflict constructively
- Rebuilding trust and intimacy
- Setting boundaries that work for both partners
These skills help ensure that both of you feel seen, heard, and valued.
