8 Things to Consider Before Starting Couples Therapy Online
Couples looking for help with relationship issues may find online couples therapy to be a convenient and cost-effective solution. But before making a decision about who you should see, there are several things to take into account.
1. Understand Your Therapist’s Approach: Before beginning couples therapy, make sure to research the therapist’s style and experience treating various relationship challenges. Doing this will guarantee you’re working with someone who understands what it’s like to have a difficult relationship and can offer the best support available.
2. Set Goals: Before embarking on couples therapy, it’s essential to know what you hope to achieve from the experience. Identify areas such as communication, intimacy, or financial worries so you can create a plan and work towards them together.
3. Be Prepared: Prior to each session, write down any questions you have for your therapist and prepare ahead of time. Doing this will help keep you focused and on track during the conversation.
4. Take Care of Yourself: If you find yourself in a stressful or challenging situation, it is essential to ensure your mental health is taken care of. If you feel overwhelmed, withdrawn, or uneasy, talk with a therapist about ways to cope so you can receive the assistance necessary.
5. Be aware of the pros and cons: Online couples therapy offers great flexibility, making it a great option for those unable to attend traditional in-person sessions due to busy schedules or living in remote areas.
6. Be mindful of distractions: If you’re using an online service, be aware that there may be interruptions such as children, pets or internet connectivity issues that can disrupt the flow of a session and make it harder for you to fully focus on your therapist. These can significantly disrupt the experience for both of you.
7. Be mindful of how your emotions are expressed: Some may believe that discussing feelings of anger or hurt only makes them worse, but this isn’t always the case. Online therapy therapists can help create conditions in your relationship so that discussing painful topics feels safe and productive.
8. Ask Questions Before Committing: Before booking an online therapist, be sure to ask plenty of questions. Doing this will give you insight into whether they’re suitable for both you and your partner.
9. Be Aware of Costs: The cost for online couples therapy varies depending on which provider and platform you select. Some offer subscription-based models, while others charge per session.
10. Utilize Your Resources: Before beginning therapy, be sure to utilize any resources your therapist suggests. This could include books, videos and other tools designed to help you better comprehend the issues at hand and strengthen the bond between both of you.
You can search for a therapist with expertise in online couples therapy on the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) website.
