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What Is Intensive Couples Therapy?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Intensive couples therapy is a type of professional counseling, typically given to a couple who have encountered difficulties in their relationship. The therapy sessions may be conducted by a psychotherapist, clinical psychologist, or a social worker with specialized training in marriage or relationship therapy. During an intensive couples therapy session, the therapist may employ cutting edge or non-conventional methods of treatment, such as workshops for couples with unstable relationships.

Intensive couples therapy is typically done on an outpatient basis, in weekly or daily sessions. When enrolling in such a program, the couple may be given an assessment or analysis to determine what aspects of their relationship should be focused on. Each partner may be asked a series of questions, in the form of either an oral or written examination. This examination will help the counselor determine an effective course of treatment for the couple's unique situation.

Intensive couples therapy aims to help couples with their relationship.
Intensive couples therapy aims to help couples with their relationship.

The couple may be asked what they hope to achieve from their relationship during a typical intensive couples therapy session. This will help the counselor or psychotherapist implement a course of action, and, as the sessions progress, he may keep a record of each goal that has been met. The counselor may also ask each partner to write down things that bother them most about their partner's attitude or habits. Additionally, the couple may be asked to share their fears or frustrations regarding their relationship.

Counselors in intensive couples therapy may assign tasks that require the couple to communicate openly with one another.
Counselors in intensive couples therapy may assign tasks that require the couple to communicate openly with one another.

Intensive couples therapy generally takes less than an hour for each session. Although session times may vary, it is rare for a session to last more than 90 minutes. According to experts in this field, sessions that move at a face pace generally produce better results.

Each session may focus on a particular area that needs to be addressed. Some of the topics may include infidelity or financial difficulties. Other aspects, such as difficulties dealing with stepchildren, may also be addressed. Intensive couples therapy programs may involve anywhere from one to five sessions, sometimes more. Some programs involve counseling from only one professional, while others may employ two or more therapists, either simultaneously or alternately.

Intensive couples therapy can help people rekindle their romantic feelings.
Intensive couples therapy can help people rekindle their romantic feelings.

The cost of intensive couples therapy will also vary, with most therapists charging an hourly fee. Many intensive couples therapy programs are covered by insurance. Not every therapist will accept insurance, so it is advised to inquire about fees beforehand.

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    • Intensive couples therapy aims to help couples with their relationship.
      By: Creativa
      Intensive couples therapy aims to help couples with their relationship.
    • Counselors in intensive couples therapy may assign tasks that require the couple to communicate openly with one another.
      By: Martinan
      Counselors in intensive couples therapy may assign tasks that require the couple to communicate openly with one another.
    • Intensive couples therapy can help people rekindle their romantic feelings.
      By: berc
      Intensive couples therapy can help people rekindle their romantic feelings.
    • Intensive couples therapy is done on a weekly or possibly daily basis.
      By: Syda Productions
      Intensive couples therapy is done on a weekly or possibly daily basis.