A long-term relationship with a significant other that you deeply love is one of the greatest joys in life, but relationships aren’t always smooth sailing. When disagreements become persistent, and communication breaks down, seeking professional help through couples counselling can be crucial in repairing and strengthening your relationship.
But have you ever wondered about the science behind counselling? In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of couples counselling and explore the psychological, emotional, and biological aspects that inform it.
Psychological Aspects of Couples Counselling: Unraveling the Intricacies of the Human Mind
The foundation of couples counselling lies in understanding the emotional needs that shape our relationships. At From 2 to 3, we employ evidence-based techniques such as emotion-focused therapy (EFT) to help couples explore and express their emotions in a neutral, safe environment. EFT is a therapeutic approach based on the premise that emotions are key to identity, and act as a guide for individual choice and decision-making. Lacking emotional awareness or avoiding unpleasant emotions can cause harm and render us unable to use the important information emotions provide.
Emotions are even more complex where couples are concerned, as you have two sets of emotions involved – along with two sets of ‘skeletons in the closet’ – family-of-origin issues, different expectations and beliefs, legacies from past generations, family myths and secrets – which can interfere with the relationship and the couple’s ability to move forward.
Emotion-focused therapy helps couples use their emotions to guide healthy, meaningful lives – first recognising their emotions, then expressing them in positive (rather than unhelpful) ways. This helps couples develop open, respectful and insightful communication, as well as nurturing understanding and empathy.
The Importance of Emotional Support in Relationships: Shoring Up Bonds with Empathy and Compassion
Emotional support is the backbone of any successful relationship. To be able to effectively provide emotional support, partners must feel safe in expressing their emotions to each other. At From 2 to 3, we use the principles of EFT to help restore the emotional ties that may have atrophied (for whatever reason). This enables partners to be physically and psychologically open and responsive to each other – allowing you to together construct a mutually supportive and satisfying relationship in the moment and for the future.
How Counselling Affects Brain & Behaviour: Rewiring Our Neural Pathways for Relationship Success
The brain’s plasticity and capacity for change is truly amazing. When we engage in the therapeutic process, our brains undergo remarkable changes that reshape our behaviours and perceptions. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganise itself, allows for the creation of new neural pathways. Couples counselling can help rewire negative patterns of interaction, leading to healthier communication, increased intimacy, and a more fulfilling relationship.
Interpersonal Neurobiology and Couples Therapy: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
Interpersonal neurobiology, a multidisciplinary field that explores how relationships shape our brain and biology, also informs effective couples therapies. Researchers suggest that a secure and responsive relationship buffers the negative impacts of stress on our bodies and minds.
Couples counselling offers an opportunity to strengthen the mind-body connection by fostering emotional attunement, empathy and shared experiences. By nurturing these qualities, couples can create a haven of safety and support, promoting overall well-being within the relationship.
The Role of Hormones in Couple Interactions: Balancing the Chemical Equation
Hormones play a pivotal role in our emotional and physical well-being. Couples counselling can influence hormone production and regulation, ultimately shaping how partners interact. Research indicates that oxytocin, often referred to as the ‘love hormone’, is released during positive social interactions, promoting bonding and trust. Through effective couples counselling, oxytocin levels can increase, leading to greater emotional intimacy and a stronger connection.
Couples counselling is a scientifically grounded approach that is proven to help mend and strengthen relationships. At From 2 to 3, we provide expert couples counselling to restore and rebuild the foundations of your relationship. Contact us today to book your first session.
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