Couples Therapy/Relationship Services in Brighton and Plymouth, MI.

We understand that relationships are an integral part of our lives. When we encounter rough patches, it can be overwhelming and hard to function. You may feel lost or ashamed. We are here to tell you that seeking support for your relationship is a sign of strength! Whether you're experiencing communication issues, increased conflict, or a sense of disconnection, our relationship therapy services are here to help you navigate through these difficulties and strengthen your relationship. 

Who Can Benefit from Relationship Therapy?

The short answer is—EVERYONE! Relationship therapy can be beneficial at any stage of your relationship—whether you are dating, newlyweds, long-term partners, or considering separation/divorce. 

You do not have to be in distress to seek out tools for relationship health. Relationship therapy isn't just for times of crisis—it can be a proactive way to strengthen connection, improve communication, and build resilience before challenges arise. Research shows that many couples in distress wait until issues become deeply rooted before reaching out. If you're thinking about relationship counseling, don't wait! 

Here are some common scenarios where couples/relationship therapy can make a positive difference:

1. Premarital Counseling (Learn more about Premarital Counseling Here)
2. Evaluating Overall Relationship Health (Learn more about our Relationship Checkup Here)
3. Lack of Gratitude and Appreciation
4. Lack of Shared Activities and Rituals
5. Lack of Affection and Intimacy
6. Increased Sense of Disconnection
7. Differences in Goals, Values, or Priorities
8. Sexual Health/Intimacy
9. Poor or Harmful Communication (Learn more about Intimate Partner Violence Here)
10. Avoidance/Withdraw from Difficult Conversations or Concerns
11. Increased or Intense Conflict/Disagreements
12. Lack of Conflict Resolution
13. Work/Life Imbalance
14. Division of Household Labor
15. Lack of teamwork
16. Navigating In-Laws or Family of Origin Relationships 
17. Infidelity (Physical or Emotional) or Trust Issues
18. Life Transitions/Navigating External Stressors
19. Cultural or Religious Differences
20. Co-Parenting Challenges
21. Individual Emotional/Mental Health Concerns
22. Consideration of Separation or Divorce (Learn more about Discernment Counseling here)

Our Approach

At MFS, we take an evidence-based approach to couples/relationship therapy and tailor treatment to the unique couple we are working with. Ideally, relationship therapy provides a safe and supportive environment where ALL partners can openly communicate, explore underlying issues, and work towards positive change. This means our relationship therapists work collaboratively to support the relationship, not just one partner. Our providers do not take sides or act as a referee during conflict. You can think of our relationship providers as more of a relationship coach who is there to cheer you on and give you feedback in areas where you can grow so that the entire team wins.    

Our experienced therapists are trained in various evidence-based relationship modalities, including but not limited to:

• Arammu: The Proactive Relationship Checkup
• PREPARE/ENRICH Premarital Counseling
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
• Gottman Method 
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 
• Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT for PTSD)
• Discernment Counseling

Getting Started & What to Expect

Taking the first step towards couples/relationship therapy can feel daunting, but it's a powerful investment in the health and longevity of your relationship. Typically, we like to meet with both partners for the initial appointment. However, if your partner is not willing to come in to meet with us at this time, it is perfectly okay (and quite common, actually) for you to come to the initial appointment by yourself. We will work with you to figure out the best way to proceed so that things can improve. 

Assessment Phase: 

Effective couples therapy begins with a thoughtful assessment process. During the first four sessions, we take time to understand your relationship concerns, clarify your goals, and determine the approach that is the right fit for your needs. 

          Session 1: Intake appointment with all relationship partners
          Session 2/3: Individual sessions with each relationship partner to review questionnaires
          Session 4: Feedback and treatment planning session with all relationship partners

Following the assessment, if it is determined that couples therapy is appropriate and can effectively address your needs, treatment can begin. If couples therapy isn't the appropriate choice, we will make sure to connect you to a more appropriate service (e.g., discernment therapy, individual treatment, etc.)

Treatment Phase:

After the assessment phase, all sessions will involve both partners together. This is to ensure that ALL partners feel supported by the relationship therapist. If you or your relationship therapist believe that you or your partner may benefit from individual treatment, they may refer you to a separate provider for individual support. While many couples complete treatment in about 20 sessions, the length of relationship treatment may vary based on the unique needs and dynamics of your relationship.

Maintenance Phase:

Once treatment is complete, many couples choose to schedule periodic check-ins—every three to six months—as a way to stay on track, reinforce progress, and prevent old patterns from resurfacing.