Couples Therapy & Marriage Counseling

Author: Nicole Palaio, MS, LPC

What is Couples Therapy?

What Can Couples Therapy Help With?

• Communication difficulties and conflict resolution
• Infidelity or breaches of trust
• Financial disagreements
• Parenting or family planning conflicts
• Intimacy and emotional disconnection
• Anger or resentment
• Career stress or life transitions impacting the relationship
• Separation or divorce considerations

Can I Use My Individual Therapist for Couples Therapy or Marriage Counseling?

How is Couples Therapy or Marriage Counseling Different from Individual Therapy?

• Individual therapy focuses on a single person’s thoughts, feelings, and personal struggles to foster individual growth and healing.
• Couples therapy focuses on the relationship between two individuals, addressing patterns of interaction, shared conflicts, and communication challenges.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a Couples Therapist or Marriage Counselor?

• Experience and credentials: Look for a therapist trained and certified in couples or marriage counseling.
• Approach and style: Therapists may use different therapeutic models, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Choose a therapist whose approach aligns with your needs and goals.
• Comfort and rapport: Feeling safe, heard, and understood is vital for progress. Choose a therapist with whom both partners feel comfortable.
• Availability and location: Assess whether the therapist’s schedule and location (in-person or online) are convenient for both partners for couples therapy or marriage counseling.
• Cultural sensitivity: Choose a therapist who respects and understands your background, values, and experiences.

How Do I Prepare for Couples Therapy or Marriage Counseling?

• Commit to the process: Both partners should be ready to engage openly and honestly without defensiveness.
• Set shared goals: Discuss what each partner wants to achieve through therapy and identify shared priorities.
• Be willing to listen: Approach sessions with curiosity rather than judgment, focusing on understanding your partner’s perspective.
• Take responsibility for your part: Therapy is not about assigning blame; instead, focus on understanding your own behaviors and how they contribute to relational patterns.
• Stay patient: Change takes time, and therapy is a gradual process. Avoid rushing or expecting instant results.

What providers at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offer Couples Therapy and Marriage Counseling?

Nicole Palaio, MS, LPC is offering Couples Therapy and Marriage Counseling at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates

Nicole Palaio, MS, LPC is a licensed clinical therapist offering virtual relationship, couples therapy and marriage counseling. Ms. Palaio employs evidence-based treatment approaches to address relationship challenges and provide compassionate, non-judgmental support. Services are tailored to each couple’s unique needs, whether it’s rebuilding communication, navigating life transitions, or resolving recurring conflicts. To learn more about Ms. Palaio, please visit our Provider Bios.

Why choose Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates for Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling and your other psychological needs?

• Experienced, compassionate providers: Our team is composed of skilled clinicians specializing in relationship counseling and various mental health needs.
• Evidence-based approaches: We utilize proven therapeutic methods tailored to each couple’s unique challenges.
• Holistic support: Whether it’s couples therapy, individual therapy, medication management, or mental health assessments, they offer comprehensive care to address emotional and relational well-being.
• Convenience and flexibility: Offering both in-office and online therapy options ensures access and flexibility for all schedules and lifestyles.
• A collaborative, supportive environment: The team prioritizes creating a safe, non-judgmental space where both partners can feel heard and understood.