1. Communication Issues
The groundwork of every relationship is communication. Our way of communicating may depend on the type of communication we grew up around or even influenced by social media or the people around us.
According to The Gottman Institute of research-based Couples Therapy, there are 4 main errors couples make that may jeopardize the relationship.
Contempt: Treating each other with disrespect, mockery, sarcasm, ridicule, and name-calling. That results in assuming a position of superiority over your partner.
Defensiveness: Whether we feel attacked, or accused of something we don’t agree with, we can start being defensive with excuses, playing the victim, or even reverse blame.
Criticism: Criticizing your partner as a form of attack at the core of their character.
Stonewalling: This happens when one partner withdraws from the interaction, shuts down, or ignores the other partner.
2. Intimacy and Sex Concerns
Intimacy can bring couples closer together, and a lack of it can drive them apart. True intimacy is not only about sex but also about the emotional connectedness between the partners.
Sex concerns can make it difficult to enjoy sex. Sex concerns can include erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, inability to achieve an orgasm, or female genital pain.
3. Cheating
Cheating in a relationship can be extremely painful and difficult to go through. However, it does not have to be the end of the relationship. In therapy, partners can communicate openly and start their journey of healing from this painful event.
4. Feeling unsupported or missing the “spark”
Couples that slowly grow apart and stop supporting each other and being there for each other can experience loss of love. It is crucial to understand what each partner is missing and how to become best friends again.
5. Trauma
It is difficult to talk about traumatic events that happened in one’s life. Moreover, some partners find it more difficult to open up and share, leaving the other partner feeling distant. The therapy room can be a great place to learn how to open up and talk about difficult events in one’s life.
If you or someone you know is struggling, feel free to contact us and book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss any issues you might be facing.