In every romantic relationship, challenges are inevitable. Whether it’s communication breakdowns, unmet emotional needs, or major life transitions like parenting or infidelity, many couples find themselves wondering if they should seek help—and more specifically, what kind of help they actually need.

As therapists, we are often asked: “What type of therapist is best for couples?” The answer depends on your goals, your concerns, and the type of therapeutic environment where both you and your partner feel supported.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of therapists who specialize in therapy for couples, the various approaches they may use, and how to choose the right one for your specific situation. We’ll also explain how trusted providers like RelationshipsandMore.com offer compassionate, experienced help for couples in Westchester, NY and beyond.

Understanding Therapy for Couples: Why It Matters

Therapy for couples isn’t just for relationships in crisis. It’s a powerful preventative and healing tool for couples at any stage—from newly dating partners navigating future plans to long-married spouses dealing with deep-rooted issues.

Research consistently shows that couples who attend therapy experience improved communication, deeper intimacy, and better conflict resolution skills. But not all therapists are trained the same way or use the same methods. So before you Google “couples therapy near me,” it’s helpful to understand your options.

1. What Is Therapy for Couples?

Couples therapy is a type of psychotherapy designed to help romantic partners improve their relationship. It’s conducted by a licensed mental health professional trained in relationship dynamics and therapeutic techniques.

This form of therapy can help with:

Improving communication and active listening
Resolving recurring conflicts
Addressing trust issues, infidelity, or emotional distance
Enhancing intimacy and sexual satisfaction
Navigating life transitions (parenthood, retirement, relocation)
Rebuilding after trauma or betrayal
Understanding attachment styles and emotional needs

At RelationshipsandMore.com, couples therapy sessions are tailored to the unique dynamics of each couple—ensuring that both partners feel heard, respected, and guided toward positive change.

2. What Type of Therapist Is Best for Couples?

Not all therapists specialize in couples work. Choosing a therapist with the right training and experience can make a dramatic difference in your outcomes.

Let’s explore the most effective types of therapists for therapy for couples:

a) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Best For: Most traditional and modern couples looking to improve or repair their relationship.

LMFTs receive specialized training in relationship dynamics and family systems. Their entire education and clinical experience is centered around understanding how individuals function within a couple or family unit.

They are typically the go-to choice for couples therapy.

At RelationshipsandMore.com, many of our therapists are licensed and experienced in both individual and couples work, offering a deep understanding of how personal and relational issues intersect.

b) Psychologists (PhD or PsyD)

Best For: Couples dealing with complex psychological issues or mental health disorders affecting the relationship.

Psychologists bring in-depth clinical training to the therapy room and are equipped to address co-occurring mental health issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD) alongside relationship concerns. They often utilize evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

c) Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)

Best For: Couples looking for a balanced approach to individual and relational work, especially in community or accessible settings.

LCSWs are trained to look at both interpersonal and systemic issues that affect relationships, including trauma, family history, and socio-economic stressors. They may offer a more flexible or holistic approach.

d) Mental Health Counselors (LMHC, LPC)

Best For: Couples wanting accessible, goal-oriented counseling with an emphasis on practical tools.

Mental health counselors may specialize in relationship dynamics and are often trained in conflict resolution, communication skills, and helping couples manage emotions more effectively.

3. Therapeutic Approaches Used in Therapy for Couples

Each therapist brings their own tools and preferred modalities to the table. Below are the most common evidence-based approaches used in therapy for couples:

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Focus: Deep emotional bonds and attachment needs
Best For: Couples feeling emotionally disconnected, withdrawn, or reactive
Outcomes: Greater emotional intimacy, empathy, and safety

At RelationshipsandMore.com, EFT is often integrated into our couples therapy process to help couples move beyond surface-level arguments and reconnect emotionally.

Gottman Method Couples Therapy

Focus: Communication, conflict resolution, and relationship repair
Best For: Couples experiencing frequent arguments, criticism, or contempt
Outcomes: Healthier patterns of interaction, rebuilding trust and friendship

Gottman-trained therapists use a science-backed approach involving tools like love maps, the Four Horsemen model, and weekly rituals of connection.

Imago Relationship Therapy

Focus: Healing childhood wounds that show up in adult relationships
Best For: Couples who feel triggered or stuck in recurring arguments
Outcomes: Better understanding of each partner’s emotional blueprint

This method emphasizes conscious dialogue and seeing your partner through a lens of compassion rather than blame.

Narrative Therapy

Focus: The stories couples tell themselves and each other
Best For: Couples struggling with past events or negative self-narratives
Outcomes: Rewriting shared meaning and creating a more empowering relationship story

4. TOFU: When You’re Just Starting to Explore Therapy for Couples

If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re at the Top of the Funnel (TOFU) stage. You may not even be sure if therapy is right for you and your partner. You’re asking questions like:

Is couples therapy worth it?
What happens during couples therapy?
Do we need to be married to go?
Is it normal to feel nervous about starting therapy for couples?

These are completely valid questions. And the good news is: you don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. In fact, starting early can prevent small issues from becoming major ones.

At RelationshipsandMore.com, we often help couples who are:

Recently engaged or cohabitating
Raising children and facing parenting stress
Dealing with differing values or cultural backgrounds
Hoping to “tune up” their relationship before problems escalate

5. How to Choose the Right Couples Therapist

a) Look for Specialization

Make sure your therapist has formal training and clinical experience in therapy for couples. It’s not enough for them to be a general therapist—they need to understand relationship systems.

b) Consider Their Approach

Ask about their preferred therapeutic methods. Do you feel aligned with a structured, goal-oriented method like Gottman, or are you more drawn to emotional depth with EFT?

c) Comfort and Compatibility

A good couples therapist will create a nonjudgmental space where both partners feel safe and heard. It’s okay to “shop around” until you find the right fit.

d) Location and Convenience

For in-person sessions, proximity matters. For Westchester-based couples, RelationshipsandMore.com offers local expertise in a warm, confidential setting. Virtual options are also available for added flexibility.

6. When Should You Seek Therapy for Couples?

Couples often wait too long—an average of six years after problems begin—before seeking help. But the earlier you intervene, the more options you have.

You may benefit from therapy if you:

Feel misunderstood or emotionally disconnected
Experience the same fights over and over
Are recovering from infidelity or breach of trust
Have stopped enjoying intimacy or companionship
Are contemplating separation or divorce

Even if things “aren’t that bad,” investing in your relationship now can prevent future heartache.

7. What to Expect in Couples Therapy

At your first session, your therapist will likely assess:

Your relationship history
Current challenges
Goals for therapy
Individual concerns (mental health, trauma, etc.)

From there, you’ll work on:

Learning communication tools
Understanding emotional triggers
Rebuilding trust and intimacy
Creating shared goals and values

At RelationshipsandMore.com, we tailor therapy to meet you where you are—whether you need gentle guidance, deep healing, or a space to make difficult decisions together.

8. Real-Life Outcomes: How Therapy for Couples Can Change Your Life

Couples who commit to the process often report:

Less arguing and more productive conversations
A deeper emotional bond and more affection
Renewed intimacy and romantic connection
Greater confidence in navigating future challenges

Therapy doesn’t guarantee a perfect relationship, but it gives you the tools and perspective to create a healthier one—together.

9. Why RelationshipsandMore.com Is a Trusted Choice for Therapy for Couples in Westchester, NY

At RelationshipsandMore.com, our team brings:

Over 20 years of clinical experience
Licensed LMFTs and LCSWs with advanced training in couples therapy
Flexible scheduling and telehealth options
Customized plans that honor your culture, history, and values

We believe relationships are the cornerstone of emotional well-being—and we’re here to support yours with care and expertise.

Whether you’re newly committed or decades into your marriage, we help couples across Westchester and surrounding areas rediscover connection, resolve pain, and build the relationship they truly want.

Final Thoughts: Start Where You Are

There’s no perfect time to start couples therapy. If you’re wondering whether it could help, that in itself is a sign it’s worth exploring.

And when you’re ready to take the first step, finding the right therapist for your relationship is the most important decision you can make.

If you’re located in or near Westchester, NY, RelationshipsandMore.com is here to help. Our therapists offer compassionate, evidence-based care for couples at every stage.

What Type of Therapist Is Best for Couples? A Guide to Choosing the Right Help for Your Relationship