Common Myths About Couples Therapy (and the Truth)

Couples therapy can be such a powerful way for partners to reconnect and grow together — but I know that for many people, the idea of starting therapy can feel intimidating. A big reason for that is the myths and misconceptions that tend to float around. As a couples therapist in Florida and owner of Healing Connections, I’m here to clear some of those up and share what couples therapy is really about.

Myth 1: The therapist will take one partner’s side

Truth: My job isn’t to pick sides — it’s to support both of you and your relationship. Sometimes I might gently challenge one partner more in a certain moment, but that’s never about blame, it’s about accountability and understanding negative cycles within the relationship. It’s about helping both of you move toward healthier, more connected ways of relating.

Myth 2: The therapist will tell us to end the relationship

Truth: I’ll never tell you whether to stay together or separate. What I can do is create a safe space for you both to explore what you want for your relationship. And if you do decide to go separate ways, therapy can help you navigate that process with care — especially if kids are in the picture.

Myth 3: The therapist will just nod and watch us fight

Truth: Couples therapy is anything but passive. I’ll guide conversations, step in when things get heated, and give you tools and strategies to help you break old cycles and really hear each other.

Myth 4: Only couples on the verge of divorce attend therapy

Truth: Therapy isn’t just a “last resort.” Many couples come in because they want to strengthen their bond, get better at communicating, or keep small issues from turning into bigger ones. It’s typical for couples to attend therapy as they are getting ready to meet a milestone, such as marriage, parenthood, big career shifts, etc. Think of it as relationship maintenance — not just crisis repair.

Myth 5: The therapist’s role is only to teach communication skills

Truth: Communication is important– and you will learn how to be a better communicator, but therapy goes deeper than that. Together, we’ll look at things like trust, intimacy, past wounds, stress, and the patterns that keep showing up between you. It’s about creating a stronger connection on every level.

Final Thoughts

Couples therapy isn’t about blame or quick fixes — it’s about building understanding, trust, and connection. Whether you’re working through conflict or simply want to grow closer, therapy can be the space where you find new ways forward.

At Healing Connections, my goal is to help couples across Florida create relationships that feel supportive, resilient, and authentic. If you’re curious about whether couples therapy could be right for you, I’d love to help you take that next step.