The role of a couple’s therapist is to observe the dynamics of the particular relationship; patterns are noted and explored. For example, one member of the couple may assume a more active role, left feeling unsatisfied with the other’s lack of participation and assertion. But maintaining the active role often only reinforces the other partner’s relative passivity who has his or her own complaints of feeling dominated; this leads potentially to continual frustration. Couples therapy provides an opportunity to “shake things up” so that familiar roles can be adjusted to address unsatisfying cycles and better help each one’s needs get met.
Couples therapy can also provide an opportunity to explore issues such as striking the appropriate balance between boundaries and intimacy, and of course guiding optimal communication.