Should We See a Relationship Coach or a Couples Therapist?

Whether you're newlyweds, a long-term couple, or anything in between, seeking support and guidance can be a valuable step toward a healthier, more satisfying partnership.


But here's the question: Should you see a Relationship Coach or a Couples Therapist? In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between the two and help you make an informed decision.


Understanding the Roles:

Before diving into the decision-making process, it's essential to understand the roles of Relationship Coaches and Couples Therapists.


Relationship Coach:

When you are ready to transform your relationship into an extraordinary journey filled with love, trust and growth, Relationship Coaching is ideal. A Relationship Coach is a professional who focuses on helping you achieve personal and relational goals. They often employ coaching techniques, which are future-focused and action-oriented.


Relationship Coaches can assist with various aspects of your relationship, including communication, conflict resolution, setting and achieving goals, and enhancing intimacy.


As a Relationship Coach I can help you develop skills, gain clarity, and take proactive steps to improve your relationship.


Couples Therapist:


A Couples Therapist, on the other hand, is a licensed mental health professional who specializes in treating couples dealing with emotional and psychological issues.

Couples Therapists often use therapeutic techniques to address specific issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and deep-seated conflicts within the relationship.


They focus on healing and resolving past issues, making therapy a good option for couples facing significant emotional challenges.


When to Consider a Relationship Coach:


Consider seeking a Relationship Coach when:


You and your partner want to deepen your connection, enhance your relationship, improve communication, or set and achieve specific goals together.

Your relationship is relatively healthy, and you're looking for guidance on overcoming some challenges and enhancing specific aspects.


You're proactive about personal growth and see your relationship as a journey of continuous improvement.


When to Consider a Couples Therapist:


You and your partner are dealing with emotional issues that are affecting your relationship, such as anxiety, depression, or unresolved traumas.


There is a history of deep-seated conflicts or unresolved issues that require professional intervention.


Your relationship is in crisis, and you need immediate support to work through significant challenges.


Making the Right Choice:

Choosing between a Relationship Coach and a Couples Therapist depends on your specific needs and the current state of your relationship. It's essential to have an open and honest conversation with your partner about your goals and challenges.


Complete the Relationship Assessment: Take the time to evaluate your relationship's overall health. Are you dealing with emotional and psychological issues, or are you seeking growth and improvement in specific areas?


Set Clear Goals: Define your goals as a couple. Do you want to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, or work on personal growth? Clear goals will guide your choice.


Seek Professional Guidance: Consult with both Relationship Coaches and Couples Therapists to discuss your needs and get a feel for their approach. Choose the professional who aligns best with your goals.


Both professionals play valuable roles in helping couples navigate the complexities of love, trust, and growth. The key is to choose the one whose expertise aligns with your specific needs and goals, ultimately leading you toward a healthier and happier partnership.


As a Relationship Coach, I bring a comprehensive toolkit that encompasses Growth Mindset and Emotional Resilience. These skills are designed to complement the core aspects of love, trust, and growth, providing you with a well-rounded approach to creating a more fulfilling and resilient partnership.


These additional skills can significantly accelerate your progress and growth as a couple.


Growth Mindset: Our mindset plays a pivotal role in how we perceive and navigate our relationships. I am well-versed in helping couples cultivate a positive and growth-oriented mindset. By addressing limiting beliefs, fostering optimism, and promoting a solution-focused approach, I'll empower you and your partner to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.


Emotional Resilience: Emotional resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and maintain emotional well-being during challenging times. As your Relationship Coach I'll equip you with tools and techniques to enhance emotional resilience individually and as a couple. This resilience enables you to better manage stress, navigate conflicts, and maintain a strong connection, even in the face of life's ups and downs.


Effective Communication: Effective communication is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship. As a relationship coach, I specialize in teaching couples the art of communication, including active listening, assertiveness, and empathy. These skills not only resolve conflicts but also deepen your emotional connection and understanding of each other.


Conflict Resolution: Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, but how you approach and resolve it can make all the difference. Relationship Coaches can provide strategies for constructive conflict resolution, helping you transform disagreements into opportunities for growth and understanding.



I'm the Author

Michelle Burns

Transformative Executive Coach - since 2001


From hyper-rational stockbroker to mindful and present yoga teacher, and ultimately to a career as an executive coach in a journey that spans over two decades, my job is to bring out the best in you, your business, and your life.


Cultivating executive presence isn't about becoming someone you're not, but rather recognizing and developing the greatness that already exists within you. By tapping into your authentic self and enhancing your communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence skills, you can take your presence to the next level and achieve your goals with confidence.


I look forward to meeting you.

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Transformative Executive Coach

Michelle Burns

Power Up Your Relationships

902-314-6340

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