Types of Relationship Therapy
- Kelsey Wilson
- Aug 12
- 4 min read
When people start looking for support with their relationships, they often come across a long list of options: couples counseling, marriage therapy, premarital counseling, and more. It can feel overwhelming to figure out which type might be the best fit. The truth is, the “right” choice depends on what you are hoping for, the values you bring to the process, and the kind of conversations you want to have.
As a postmodern, collaborative therapist, I see relationship therapy as a shared space for exploring the stories, patterns, and hopes that shape how people connect with one another. Rather than focusing on “fixing” a person or diagnosing a relationship, we look at how meaning is made between people, how cultural messages shape what is possible, and how partners can move toward the kind of relationship they both want.
In this post, we will explore several types of relationship therapy, what they tend to focus on, and how to know which one might meet your needs.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy is one of the most recognized types of relationship therapy. It involves two partners meeting together with a therapist to explore challenges, strengthen connection, and navigate change.
Some couples come to therapy because they are experiencing conflict, feeling emotionally distant, or struggling with communication. Others come during times of transition, like becoming parents, moving, or adjusting to a shift in roles. Sometimes one partner is leaning toward ending the relationship while the other is leaning toward preserving it. Therapy can be a space to slow down, look at what each person truly wants, and decide on next steps from a place of clarity rather than urgency.
In a collaborative approach, the work is not about assigning blame, but about creating a conversation where both people feel heard and respected.
Marriage Counseling
Marriage counseling is often similar to couples therapy but is specifically focused on couples who are married. The emphasis can be on improving relationship satisfaction, addressing recurring conflicts, or deepening intimacy.
We will invite an honest discussion about what each person hopes for and the hopes for the relationship.
Premarital Counseling
Premarital counseling is a proactive form of relationship therapy for couples who are planning to get married or make a long-term commitment. This is a way to have important conversations about values, finances, intimacy, family relationships, and visions for the future before making a formal commitment.
In a collaborative approach, these conversations are guided by the couple’s own priorities rather than a fixed checklist. This way, the process reflects the unique relationship rather than imposing a universal formula for what a partnership “should” be.
Relationship Therapy for Non-Traditional Partnerships
Not all relationships fit the mold of monogamous, heterosexual couples. I often work with people in polyamorous, open, queer, or otherwise "non-traditional" partnerships.
In these cases, the work often involves navigating agreements, balancing multiple relationships, or addressing differing preferences with partners. We'll discuss how to support the values and commitments that matter most to the people in the relationship.
Family Therapy
Some couples choose to engage in therapy that includes other members of their family, especially when broader dynamics are influencing the relationship. Family systems approaches might involve adult children, parents, or even close friends who are part of the couple’s support network.
This can be especially important when cultural values, extended family involvement, or generational patterns are part of the story. In these conversations, the relationship is understood within the larger web of connections rather than as something that exists in isolation.
Choosing the Right Type for You
If you are wondering which type of relationship therapy is best, it can help to start with your hopes. Are you looking to deepen connection? Navigate a decision about the future? Prepare for a major commitment? Repair after a betrayal? Explore the influence of outside relationships or family?
The type of therapy you choose should feel like it opens the right kind of space for your stories. And remember, you are not locked into one format forever. Many couples move between different approaches as their needs evolve.
The Role of Weekly Sessions
While the type of relationship therapy matters, the rhythm of meeting can be just as important. I encourage couples to begin with weekly sessions. Meeting weekly helps the conversation stay alive between meetings and allows us to keep momentum without losing the thread of what we are exploring. Over time, the frequency can shift, but starting weekly offers the most supportive foundation.
Final Thoughts
There are many types of relationship therapy, each with its own focus and style. What matters most is finding an approach that honors your values, supports your hopes, and creates space for both people to be heard. In a collaborative, postmodern process, the goal is not to fit your relationship into a box, but to shape the work around what matters to you.
If you are ready to explore what kind of therapy might fit your relationship best, I would be glad to talk with you. Reach out today to schedule a conversation or learn more about starting therapy with a free 15-minute consult call.
Get in touch:
✨ Learn more about Couples Therapy with Kelsey
📞 (657) 339-2672
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