My approach to
Couples Counseling in Austin, TX
Once you've committed to someone 'till death do you apart, it's easy to fall into a status quo of ``this is how it is now``. We live hectic lives, and you and your partner might find yourselves making use of temporary methods (for instance, using smartphones) to avoid the challenging topics of sex, money, in-laws, time, kids, and mess.
Some methods may provide immediate relief, but they do not have lasting solutions. Remember, you cannot always play games on your smartphones to run away from severe problems in your relationship. Similarly, fighting, then fighting about how you fight and never coming back to the original issue takes a toll on you.
Working with a therapist ensures a safe place to set time to talk about and work through your issues with someone who is trained in providing expert advice and guidance. Having a professional to address your problems with will help you reduce tension in the relationship and get you back on track. Every relationship has its set of perpetual issues, but therapy helps you solve what's solvable and develop a more productive way to talk about the things you can't.
Couples therapy is a great way to break the repetitive cycle of conversations that just go in circles. This can be done by:
Some methods may provide immediate relief, but they do not have lasting solutions. Remember, you cannot always play games on your smartphones to run away from severe problems in your relationship. Similarly, fighting, then fighting about how you fight and never coming back to the original issue takes a toll on you.
Working with a therapist ensures a safe place to set time to talk about and work through your issues with someone who is trained in providing expert advice and guidance. Having a professional to address your problems with will help you reduce tension in the relationship and get you back on track. Every relationship has its set of perpetual issues, but therapy helps you solve what's solvable and develop a more productive way to talk about the things you can't.
Couples therapy is a great way to break the repetitive cycle of conversations that just go in circles. This can be done by:
Creating Emotional Safety
When defenses are up, it’s nearly impossible to get anywhere in a conversation. Together we will create a safe space where you both feel comfortable talking more openly. Most people end up feeling a sense of relief, as though a weight has been lifted.
Going below the surface
We’re good at hiding from the real issues. Good therapy is about getting to the deeper problems (hint: it’s never really just about the laundry or finances).
Practicing Over Time
Change does not occur in one hit-and-run conversation. Resolving conflict and getting closer is hard, and it takes practice. Therapy does get easier, and it has the potential for big gains.
Creating Emotional Safety
When defenses are up, it’s nearly impossible to get anywhere in a conversation. Together we will create a safe space where you both feel comfortable talking more openly. Most people end up feeling a sense of relief, as though a weight has been lifted.
Going below the surface
We’re good at hiding from the real issues. Good therapy is about getting to the deeper problems (hint: it’s never really just about the laundry or finances).
Practicing Over Time
Change does not occur in one hit-and-run conversation. Resolving conflict and getting closer is hard, and it takes practice. Therapy does get easier, and it has the potential for big gains.
My passions
in working with couples in counseling
Navigating Transitions
Moving in, getting married, preparing for kids, thinking about breaking up or getting divorced—these can all be stressful moments in a relationship.
Facilitating Connection
There are many ways to connect in a relationship (verbally, sexually, emotionally, etc.). Intimacy, like dancing, is an art-form which must be practiced.
Addressing unmet needs and improving communication
It’s frustrating and lonely when your partner no longer seems to hear or see you. Communicating is as much about listening as it is about talking.
Rebuilding Trust
Whether trust was broken by lying, cheating, or neglecting one another, betrayal takes a toll on relationships. Rebuilding trust is essential to moving forward.
Set your appointment
Whether you still have questions or are ready to make an appointment, I'd love to chat with you on the phone.
Address
4131 Spicewood Springs Road, Bldg. C Suite 8 Austin, TX, 78759
Phone
830-351-8477
info@alexbarnettecounseling.com
