Couples & Relationship Therapy
Couples therapy — sometimes called relationship therapy — is a form of psychotherapy that helps partners understand recurring patterns, improve communication, and work through specific challenges with a trained therapist. We use the term “relationship therapy” because we work with all relationship structures, not only two-person couples. At the Ottawa Centre for Relationship & Sex Therapy, we support people in relationships of all types and stages with a variety of concerns.
Why couples seek therapy
People come to couples therapy for many different reasons. Some are in acute crisis — dealing with infidelity, a major breach of trust, or the possibility of separation. Others are dealing with persistent communication problems, conflict that does not resolve, or a growing sense of disconnection. We also work with couples who are exploring an open relationship or navigating non-monogamy. Some seek therapy proactively — to address a specific transition such as having children, job loss, or relocation, or simply to invest in the health of their relationship. We offer couples therapy in Ottawa for all of these situations.
What relationship therapy can address
Specific presenting concerns include:
- communication difficulties and recurring conflict
- trust repair following infidelity or other ruptures
- emotional or physical distance
- differences in values, parenting approaches, or life goals
- sexual and intimacy concerns the dynamics of open, polyamorous, or non-monogamous relationships
How couples therapy works at this practice
Most couples begin with a joint session to discuss what has brought them to therapy and what they hope to work toward. Sessions typically take place weekly or every two weeks. We draw from several evidence-based approaches, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems and Narrative Therapy. The approach used will depend on the couple’s situation and goals. Relationship therapy is available both in person in Ottawa and virtually across Ontario.
Frequently asked questions
Couples therapy is a type of psychotherapy in which partners work with a trained therapist to address challenges in their relationship. Sessions focus on communication, patterns of interaction, and specific concerns the couple brings to the work.
This varies considerably depending on the situation and goals. Some couples complete a focused course of treatment in 8 to 12 sessions. Others continue for longer, particularly when working through more complex concerns. We assess progress regularly and adjust the plan accordingly.
No. While many couples do come to therapy during a difficult period, others seek support as a preventive measure or to address a specific issue before it becomes entrenched. Relationship therapy is useful at many different points in a relationship.
We work with heterosexual couples, same-sex couples, and couples of all gender configurations. We work with married and unmarried partners, and with couples in monogamous, polyamorous, and other non-monogamous relationship structures.
In most cases, yes. Couples therapy is most effective when both partners participate. In some situations, a therapist may recommend individual sessions alongside the couples work.
Yes. We offer online relationship therapy for couples. For most couples, virtual sessions are as effective as in-person work. Virtual sessions are conducted via Owl Practice, which offers secure video and fully supports HIPPA, PIPEDA and PHIPA compliance.
The terms are often used interchangeably. At our practice, all services are delivered by registered psychotherapists, which means the work is grounded in clinical assessment and evidence-based treatment, rather than general advice or coaching.