Depression can significantly impact all aspects of life, be it work, social, or close relationships. In the case of close relationships, depression can come in way of intimacy between you and your partner.
Now, couple therapy for depression is designed to help people with relationship distress and one depressed partner. Relationship distress very frequently influences the course of depression or could also be a reason of onset for depression, hence it is crucial to address any conflict and dissatisfaction within the couple.
Couples therapy for depression provides a confidential and safe space where you and your partner can explore issues that are affecting your relationship. The sessions in couple therapy for depression emphasize on emotional acceptance between partners and lessen their emotional reactivity to each other.
How does it work?
In order make the most out of the therapy sessions, you as a couple need to be committed to the process and attend all your session. Typically, the therapist will see both out you together for the first session. Then you will be asked to attend one session individually to get a clearer picture of how you are in the relationship. The proceeding session, you both have to attend together.
The therapist will discuss the number of sessions you can expect and when the therapy will end. A session lasts anywhere between 50 minutes to an hour. You may also be asked to do homework task between session to build on the work you are doing.
How is it going to help you and your partner?
Couples therapy for depression does not only focus on diminishing depression but also on improving the relationship quality. The therapist applies intervention that focuses on the exchange between the partners, healthy communication and problem-solving. Besides, the therapist also focuses on growing caring behaviour and reducing conflict between partners.
You will also learn how to manage your feelings of anxiety and stress, be more aware of your partner’s needs and feelings. These sessions will also help you better understand yourself and create self-awareness and communicate more openly and clearly to your partner. This will lead to increased confidence and trust in one another, reduced jealousy and an improved sexual relationship.
Attend couples therapy for depression if either you or your partner are going through depression causing distress in your relationship. It will help you achieve an overall stable family life.
To learn more about Dr. Prerna Kohli click here
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