Written by Sandy Rose
Not every partner is ready for couples therapy, but that does not mean your relationship cannot grow and improve. Individual therapy offers powerful ways to work on your relationship, even when you attend alone.
Change is natural—stagnation is not
Relationships change over time, and that is a good thing. Trying to keep everything exactly the same for years leads to frustration and stagnation. Growth and learning are essential for lasting happiness, whether you are learning new skills, exploring new ideas, or deepening your self-awareness.
Why individual therapy benefits your relationship
If at least one person is learning and growing, the relationship itself will shift. Even if your partner is not ready for therapy, your personal development helps both of you. Here are ways therapy can help:
How individual therapy supports relationships
- Process past trauma and current stress so you show up more present
- Learn emotional regulation and communication skills
- Practice tools to handle triggers and difficult conversations
- Receive honest feedback from an unbiased source
- Build your self-awareness and mental health vocabulary
- Gain new ideas for expressing your needs and understanding your partner
- Relieve stress in a safe environment so your partner is not your only outlet
Therapy helps you build a stronger relationship with yourself. When you are more authentic and confident, your relationship improves—or you gain clarity if it is not the right partnership for you.
Important reminders about relationship dynamics
Every relationship is a two-way system. You cannot single-handedly “fix” the partnership or be the only one invested in change. If growth on your end is not met by your partner’s effort, start a conversation or discuss this dynamic with your therapist. True relationships require willingness from both people.
About the Author
Sandy Rose is an associate sex and relationship therapist at Togetherness Therapy. She helps individuals explore self-awareness, sexual confidence, and relationship dynamics. She also works with couples on communication, emotional regulation, and desire. Both individual and couples therapy can make a difference. To connect with Sandy, visit Togetherness Therapy or follow her at @sexytherapystuff.