Why couples come to therapy
Most couples who reach out are not in a single crisis. More often the same argument keeps coming back, closeness has faded, or one partner feels unheard. Common reasons include:
- Communication that turns into criticism, defensiveness, or silence
- Recurring conflict about the same issues
- Rebuilding trust after a breach
- Differences in desire, or intimacy that has become strained
- Stress from parenting, family, work, or illness
- Life transitions, such as a new baby, an empty nest, or retirement
What both partners can expect
Early sessions focus on understanding the relationship: its history, what each partner wants, and the pattern that keeps repeating. Dr. Lehmann's insight-oriented approach looks at how each person's history shows up in the relationship, alongside practical work on how you talk to each other now.
Couples therapy works best when both people are willing to take part. It is not a place to decide who is right. Sessions are meant to feel safe for both partners, and Dr. Lehmann will slow things down when they do not.
When couples therapy may not be the right first step
If either partner feels unsafe at home, or one partner is using the relationship to control or frighten the other, joint sessions are usually not the right starting point. In that case individual support comes first. Dr. Lehmann will talk with you about fit during the first contact and can suggest other options if couples therapy is not the right format.
Couples therapy and individual therapy
Sometimes one partner is ready for therapy and the other is not. Individual therapy can still help you understand your part in a relationship pattern and decide what you want. See relationship concerns for how that work differs.
Learn more
Starting Therapy and Michigan Telehealth Guide: guides on how to choose a licensed psychologist in michigan; what happens in a first therapy session, and related questions.
Relationships, Couples, Intimacy, and Family Wellness Hub: guides on when should couples consider therapy; individual therapy vs. couples therapy: which setting fits the concern, and related questions.
Cancer Emotional Support Guide: guides on coping with the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis; emotional support for cancer caregivers, and related questions.
Common questions
Do we both have to come to every session?
Couples therapy is usually done together. Whether any individual sessions are part of the plan is something to discuss with Dr. Lehmann at the start.
Is couples therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage for couples sessions varies by plan. Call your insurer and ask specifically about couples or family psychotherapy, and ask Dr. Lehmann about fees for couples sessions.
Can we talk about sexual concerns in couples therapy?
Yes. Intimacy and sexual concerns are a common part of couples work. See the intimacy and sexual concerns page for more.