Here's why couples therapy is necessary at times (Source: Freepik)
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In this day and age, where most of us have a pseudo-life on social media, where we try to best each other all the time, it becomes increasingly complex to be open and show your authentic self without the fear of judgment. Therapy is one of the safe spaces where a person can open up and speak their mind.
So, to maintain healthy relationships, couples therapy is touted to be an excellent choice. The same was recently spoken about in the Tamil film Iragapatru on Netflix featuring a marriage counsellor, her clients who opt for therapy, and the intricacies of it.
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“Even when things are not bad between a couple, going for a session now and then can help promote healthy dialogue that may have been missing or it can bring to light any habits that may create a rift between partners,” said Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist, and life coach, and founder and director – Gateway of Healing.
Besides establishing healthy communication, couple therapy builds trust between partners when the people involved do not shy away from being completely open with each other. According to Dr Tugnait, by creating a safe space for vulnerable dialogue, couples therapy allows you to illuminate blind spots, dismantle dysfunctional patterns, and rediscover each other with more compassion and wisdom. “When two individuals commit to doing the difficult personal work – confronting their insecurities, destructive behaviours, and unmet needs – they emerge with a renewed understanding of themselves and each other,” said Dr Tugnait.
How does it work?
The focus tends to be on communication, patterns of interaction, value systems, goals, and vision for life, explained clinical psychologist Kamna Chhibber. “The emphasis is laid on building a mutual understanding, becoming attuned to each other’s emotional experiences, understanding expectations, and responding to needs. Varying techniques, strategies, and approaches are utilised for the same,” mentioned Dr Chhibber.
With the guidance of a therapist, you can articulate mutual goals, realign expectations, and revitalise intimacy. “Partners discover how to fight fair, communicate lovingly during conflict, and repair rifts before resentment sets in. They build a toolkit of strategies for expressing appreciation, managing stress, and overcoming challenges as a team,” shared Dr Tugnait.
While uncomfortable at times, couples therapy catalyses growth – deepening mutual trust, respect, and purpose. Dr Tugnait explained that for relationships to remain vibrant, we must be courageous enough to illuminate the darker corners and dedicate ourselves to change. “In essence, couples therapy is not merely a remedy for discord but a proactive step towards nurturing a resilient and loving bond,” said Dr Tugnait.
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Jayashree Narayanan writes on fitness, health, aviation safety, food, culture and everything lifestyle. She is an alumnus of AJKMCRC, Jamia Millia Islamia and Kamala Nehru College, University of Delhi ... Read More