What happens in the first couples therapy session?

Starting couples therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what to expect. In this post, I’ll walk you through what to expect with me, a couples therapist in the Denver, Broomfield, Northglenn area, and how you can prepare.

I do therapy a little differently than some couples therapists. I am very thorough in the beginning assessment phase of therapy, so I can ensure I have a very deep understanding of what’s happening in your relationship and so we can get you to experience transformative change sooner rather than later.

First session:

1. Exploration of current issues & problems that brought you to therapy

2. A deep dive into your relationship history (from how you met to how it was moving in together to where you are now)

3. An exploration of current relationship circumstances (day-to-day lives, work, balancing responsibilities, children)

4. Questions around what you have done thus far to change things - what works, what hasn’t?

5. Discuss hopes and goals for our work together

Second and third session:

1. Meet with each partner individually to hear their understanding of the current problems in the relationship

2. Dive into personal family dynamics from your childhood & how that may be showing up in your relationship

3. Discuss personal life stressors or where mental health may impact relationships

4. Explore your personal hopes for relationships and how we can align that with our joint couple goals

5. Each partner will complete a digital thorough assessment from the Gottman Institute that identifies strengths & challenges

Fourth session:

1. Review the results of the Gottman assessment

2. Make a plan based on assessment results and each partner’s priorities

3. Usually begin with coping skills and physiological flooding education

4. Begin working on your first priority in the therapeutic process

The process may seem daunting, but if you want a successful and transformative experience in couples therapy, this method is evidence-based for couples willing to put in the time and effort.

No matter where you are in your relationship—rebuilding trust, navigating a major life change, or simply wanting to reconnect—an expert couples therapist in Denver can help guide the way.

If you're looking for compassionate, results-driven support, reach out to me - a local therapist serving Denver, Westminster, or Broomfield to schedule your first session or a free consultation.