Relationship Coaching vs. Couples Therapy: What's the Difference?
Readers who are experiencing difficulties in their relationship may be wondering what type of help would be the best for their specific needs. Should they seek out relationship coaching, or is couples therapy a better option?
While both approaches aim to help couples improve their relationships, there are some key differences between relationship coaching and couples therapy that you should be aware of before making a decision.
The Differences And Similarities Between Couples Therapy And Relationship Coaching
Relationship therapy deals with a very specific set of issues. A relationship therapist focuses on helping individuals address past traumas, recognize harmful relationship patterns and traumatic family histories, and work through the impact of mental health challenges or trauma on both their personal and professional lives. They also help individuals cope with loss and investigate how their childhood experiences may be affecting their current behavior.
A relationship therapist could, e.g., treat trauma by using a form of therapy known as TF-CBT or Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This helps people to process past traumatic experiences.
Another option is EFT or Emotionally Focused Therapy. This concentrates on helping to build emotional connections in a relationship to help both parties feel more secure. The therapist would sometimes also use techniques like relaxation, mindfulness, and communication skills to improve a couple’s relationship and help them deal with their trauma.
Gottman Therapy is also often used by couples therapists to help teach couples specific communication skills in order to better deal with conflict and strengthen their bond. This therapy often involves a therapist observing a couple in real-time and then providing feedback about how they can improve their communication.
EFT or Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a short-term but highly structured therapy where the aim is to help couples first identify and then change negative interaction patterns that cause them to drift apart. Here the therapist would assist the couple to identify underlying attachment needs and emotions driving their behavior. He or she would then work with them to establish more positive interaction patterns.
It is important to note that relationship therapy is done by a licensed professional such as an LMFT, LPC, or LCSW.
Relationship coaching, on the other hand, involves working with a specialist to help you achieve your career and romantic goals through various techniques. These include improving communication skills, gaining a deeper understanding of specific principles that can enhance your relationship, achieving a better balance between work and life, and learning how to be more attentive and empathetic towards your partner. Through the guidance of a relationship coach, couples can strengthen their bond and create a deeper connection.
When Should I Consult a Relationship Coach And When Would a Couples Therapist Be Better?
Both relationships coaches and couples therapists do valuable work - but as you have seen above, their focus differs somewhat. Before making a decision you should ask yourself a few questions.
Is the past negatively affecting the present? It's important to consider whether there are past issues that need to be addressed in order to improve your relationship. For instance, if there's been an emotional affair or if one partner has experienced trauma in their past. If you feel that untangling and understanding the past is necessary to move forward, it may be beneficial to seek the help of a therapist. However, if your focus is more on developing skills and improving your communication and conflict-resolution abilities, a coach may be a better choice.
Does either of the partners have a mental health problem? Another factor to take into account is whether either of you is currently dealing with a mental health issue. For instance, if one person is struggling with depression or severe anxiety, it may be affecting the relationship and making therapy a more appropriate option. Relationship coaching, on the other hand, is generally best suited for couples who are relatively stable in terms of their mental and emotional health.
Below is a more detailed comparison between couples therapy and relationship coaching:
Couples Therapists/Therapy
Rooted in psychology, with a focus on understanding the underlying issues causing relationship problems
Focuses on resolving conflicts and improving communication
Tends to be more open-ended and exploratory
Emphasizes individual growth and self-discovery
May continue for several months or even years, depending on the severity of the relationship problems
Often needs to give a diagnosis for insurance purposes.
Tends to work with the past, even looking at childhood experiences
Focuses on “why” certain behaviors occur.
Explores the subconscious and unconscious mind and untangle the underlying patterns of problems.
Therapists need specific education and licenses to practice
Relationship Coaches/Coaching
A Goal-oriented approach focused on personal growth and success coaching
Helps couples identify weaknesses and make goals to improve their relationship
Provides an action plan for how to achieve relationship goals
Emphasizes teamwork and the importance of working together towards a common goal
Typically shorter in duration, with an average of 3-6 months
Does not diagnose
Tends to focus on how problems are manifesting in the present
Focuses more on “how” to move a client toward a goal.
Helps clients achieve results, focusing on goal-oriented action
Coaches do not need a certification or specific training to practice
If you and your loved one are currently involved in relationship therapy but feel that you could benefit from additional support to improve your relationship, you may want to consider using relationship coaching alongside traditional therapy.
While couples may sometimes benefit from traditional therapy to address psychological problems that might be affecting their relationship, relationship coaching can be a valuable supplement for those who are focused on achieving specific goals. It is important to note that conventional couples or individual therapy may be necessary to address more complex issues. However, by using coaching in conjunction with therapy you can often improve your progress and increase the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome.
The Bottom Line
No matter which approach you choose, the most important thing is to seek help when you need it. Relationship problems can be challenging to navigate on your own, but with the help of a qualified professional, you can learn to communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts, and strengthen your bond as a couple.
If you're interested in learning more about relationship coaching or couples therapy and how it can help both of you, we encourage you to contact us without delay. Our experienced coaches are standing ready to help you and your partner work towards a happier, healthier relationship.
Sources:
https://hellorelish.com/articles/relationship-coaching-vs-couples-therapy.html
Begin Working With A Therapist today!
Our team would be honored to offer you and your partner the relationship support you need. We offer couples therapy from our Wake Forest, NC-based practice and across the state via online therapy. You can meet with a caring therapist by following these simple steps today:
1. Book your initial therapy session.
2. Meet with a caring therapist.
3. Start receiving the support you and your partner deserve.
Other Services Offered At My Therapist
We offer a variety of in-person and online services from our Wake Forest, NC-based practice. Our team is happy to offer individual therapy for relationship issues, couples workshops, and marriage counseling. We also offer family therapy, therapy for relationship trauma, couples intensive therapy, foundations of lasting love, and AAMFT supervision. For more helpful information, please read our blog or visit our services page!