Couples Co-therapy Counseling
 

As human beings we are essentially relational.  We are, much like our cousins and ancestors in the evolutionary chain, pack animals.  We develop our sense of self and find our place in the world through relating with others.  Thus, relationships are the foundation of who and how we are in the world.  Relationships can be a profound source of joy, love, passion, safety, compassion, empathy, and fun.  At the same time, our relationships with others often are the most challenging elements of our lives.  At Ground Counseling, we view relationship as the best source for healing. 
Our approach to couples counseling is a radical and reparative one that is based on this very premise - that we heal through relationship.  In co-counseling the couple or family meets with two counselors versus one.  There are many benefits and possibilities that open up in this context.  First, and foremost, is the natural reflection of the basic dynamic of a couple.  Having two therapists creates a much more dynamic and natural container for couples to explore what is possible in their relationship.  The co-therapy team functions as a couple and models healthy relationship skills to the clients.  Having two therapists opens up the possibilities exponentially for resolutions for the couple’s issues. 
One of the major challenges in couples work with one therapist is the active triangulation (both clients working to get the therapist on their side against the other partner), which co-counseling dramatically shifts.  In our format for co-therapy with couples and families, we actively work to match the gender balance of the couple (i.e. a female and male therapist).  This arrangement allows for the therapist team to be more efficient and creative in their work with the couple.  For instance, one therapist can be directing and managing the session, while the other therapist can be observing what is transpiring which allows them to give a different perspective that one therapist most likely cannot.  In addition, the co-therapy model creates a safe container for both of the partners in the relationship to experiment, make changes, and grow individually.