Couples Therapy

Helping You Reconnect and Strengthen Your Relationship

Everyday when you see your partner, you feel a sense of distance and disconnect. You’re not sure what happened or when things started to fall apart, but now it seems like you’re just existing together instead of truly connecting. You remember picking out your home in Hermosa Beach and envisioning a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. But now, it feels like your connection has weakened and you’re both struggling to find your way back to each other.

Building and maintaining relationships at any stage requires effort, and even strong connections face challenges. Seeking couples therapy can be beneficial, offering support and guidance to navigate those inevitable bumps in the road. Our therapists understand how various aspects of well-being are connected. If you relate to the questions below or sense an imbalance, our team of couples therapists are here to offer support and guide you back to each other.

  • Are you experiencing communication issues with your partner?
  • Is intimacy becoming a source of tension in your relationship?
  • Do you feel a disconnection, as if you and your partner are more like roommates than a couple?
  • Do you need help finding your way back to each other and seeking guidance on the way forward?
  • Have significant life transitions brought unexpected relationship issues to the surface?
  • Are differences in parenting styles contributing to a sense of distance between you and your partner?
  • Are you contemplating separating or divorce, but seeking a peaceful, conscious uncoupling?

Couples Frequently Come to Therapy When They Believe Their Relationship is at a Breaking Point.

Communication has failed, trust has eroded, and intimacy seems distant. Opting for couples therapy in Hermosa Beach, CA provides an opportunity to address these challenges, significantly enhancing the chances of resolution. Couples seek therapy for various reasons, with a common thread being difficulties in effective communication. This breakdown often affects multiple aspects of the relationship. Many couples in Hermosa Beach and the South Bay express feeling time-starved, overextended, struggling with lost trust, betrayal, waning intimacy, or persistent unresolved conflicts.

What Issues Can Couples Therapy Address?

Couples therapy offers you and your partner a chance to navigate challenges in your relationship. When communication breaks down, trust wavers, or conflicts arise, couples therapy provides a safe and supportive environment to tackle these issues head-on. Not only does it foster self-awareness and improve communication skills, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your partner.

In couples therapy, I emphasize the importance of each partner diving into self-discovery rather than placing blame or attempting to change the other. During our work together, the focus is on understanding your individual needs and fostering personal growth. Instead of directing energy towards changing your partner, we navigate a journey of self-awareness. Allowing you to bring a more fulfilled and authentic self to the relationship. This shift not only strengthens your connection but also promotes a healthier dynamic based on mutual understanding and acceptance.

Couples therapy goes beyond conflict resolution. It’s an opportunity to deepen and strengthen your relationship, fostering a more fulfilling partnership. With self-discovery, you can enhance not only your relationship, but also your individual well-being. Uncovering the root causes of problems and understanding how past experiences shape present behaviors allows you to break negative patterns and create a safe space for open expression. Couples have a tendency to get caught in patterns, a dance of sorts. That dance can continue as is, until you understand each of your steps and how those steps influence the other and the relationship. Through therapy, you can develop the ability to truly listen, empathize, and demonstrate love in a way that resonates with your partner.

  • Some Common Issues that Couples Therapy Can Address Include:
  • Communication problems
  • Infidelity or betrayal
  • Intimacy and sexual issues
  • Blended families
  • Excessive arguing
  • Processing the end of the relationship, co-parenting
  • Conflicts over parenting styles
  • Adjusting to major life transitions
  • Pre-Marital

Couples Therapy is not only about repairing the cracks in your relationship. It’s an opportunity to connect, heal, and establish a more resilient foundation for the future. Occasionally, couples seek therapy to navigate the closure of their relationship. In such cases, we approach it through a conscious uncoupling perspective, fostering mutual understanding, respect, and collaborative decision-making, particularly if co-parenting is involved.

How Can Couples Therapy Help?

Effective communication is vital in any relationship, but it can be challenging at times. That’s where couples therapy comes in. It provides a safe and supportive environment, guided by a therapist, to help you improve your communication skills. You’ll learn how to express your needs, desires, and frustrations in a way that your partner can genuinely understand and respond to. Additionally, you’ll develop active listening skills without defensiveness or dismissal. The goal is to create a space for open and honest communication.

I will be there to create a safe environment where both of you can truly hear and understand each other. I will encourage you to turn towards each other, fostering connection instead of distance. Having a dedicated place for this type of communication might be a new experience for you. Here, you’ll have the freedom to express yourself without judgment or interruption. It gives both of you the opportunity to slow down and genuinely listen to your partner’s words. Instead of trying to change their perspective, it’s about opening your heart to gain a fresh understanding of them.

Emotional connection is the foundation of any strong relationship. Without it, a sense of disconnection and loneliness can arise, even in long-term relationships. In couples therapy, we’ll work on rebuilding emotional connection through various techniques and exercises. There will be opportunities to express love and appreciation for your partner while also understanding their needs and desires.

Couples therapy provides a safe and supportive environment to explore emotional roadblocks, allowing you to deepen your connection with your partner. By understanding each other’s emotions, triggers, and vulnerabilities, you’ll both learn how to support and validate one another. This creates a sense of intimacy that helps strengthen your bond as a couple.

Conflicts are bound to happen in any relationship. What really counts is how we handle these conflicts, as they shape the strength of our connection. In couples therapy, you will gain valuable insights on approaching disagreements in a healthy and constructive manner. It’s not about who’s right or wrong, but rather understanding each other’s perspectives and finding common ground.

My goal isn’t to eliminate conflicts, but to empower you with the necessary tools and strategies to resolve them in a way that strengthens your relationship. You’ll learn how to communicate without getting defensive, how to listen with empathy, and how to find compromise and mutually beneficial solutions. Conflict resolution is only one part of the puzzle, and with therapy, you’ll discover how to fit all the pieces together in a way that benefits both of you.

Trust is an important piece of any relationship, and when it’s broken, it can be difficult to repair. It takes time, effort, and patience. In couples therapy, we’ll work on rebuilding trust and repairing any damage that may have been done. You’ll both have the space to express your feelings and concerns, and through open communication, you can begin to rebuild a sense of trust in each other.

I will provide a safe and neutral environment for both of you to express your feelings and work towards rebuilding trust. We’ll explore the issues that led to the breakdown of trust, learn how to communicate effectively, and make amends for any hurt caused. Rebuilding trust takes time, but with effort and commitment from both parties, it is possible.

Making the decision to get married is a big step, and comes with its own unique challenges. Can you and your partner have those hard conversations? You know, the ones about the tough stuff…finances, children, roles etc. Have you and your partner discussed your expectations and goals for the future? Are there any unresolved issues that may cause problems down the road? Pre-marital counseling can help you both address these questions, laying a strong foundation for a successful marriage.

In pre-marital counseling, you and your partner will have the opportunity to explore your values, beliefs, and expectations for the future. You’ll also learn effective communication skills and how to handle potential conflicts that may arise in your marriage. This type of therapy can help you both enter into your marriage with a deeper understanding and commitment to each other.

Blending your families and lives together is a significant adjustment for both of you. Parenting styles, finances, household responsibilities, and extended family dynamics are just a few of the potential issues that can affect your connection as a couple.

One of the most common issues blended families face is the integration of different parenting styles. As individuals with diverse backgrounds come together, they bring with them a range of beliefs, values, and approaches to parenting. This can lead to confusion and disagreements on how to raise and discipline children. We recognize that finding common ground requires open communication and a willingness to understand and respect each other’s perspectives.

Another significant challenge is the delicate balance of bonding with stepchildren. Building trust and connection takes time, and it’s important to acknowledge that relationships may not unfold as quickly as we might hope. Patience, empathy, and consistent effort can foster the development of strong, meaningful connections within the family.

By addressing these issues early on, you can prevent them from causing bigger problems in the future.

Is Individual Therapy Beneficial in a Relationship?

Individual therapy can be a game-changer in the dynamics of a relationship. While couples therapy focuses on the relationship as a whole, individual therapy offers a safe space for each person to explore their personal issues and emotions that may not come up during joint sessions. It’s a chance to heal personal wounds that might be affecting the relationship. The insights gained from individual therapy can be life-changing, nurturing personal growth and fostering healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Sometimes, the patterns we bring into our relationships are deeply rooted in our personal histories, our past relationships, or our family dynamics. It’s fascinating to explore these patterns on our own, as it brings so much clarity and personal growth that directly benefits our relationships. It’s not about pointing fingers or placing blame; it’s about understanding and growth. It’s like untangling the threads of our past and truly comprehending how they’ve been woven into our present. That’s where individual therapy comes in and becomes a powerful ally to couples therapy.

If your partner is not open to couples therapy, or if you’re facing personal struggles that are affecting your relationship, individual therapy can be a valuable tool. This can be your opportunity to improve your understanding of yourself and your relationship. The insights and growth you gain from individual therapy will directly benefit your relationship, and may even encourage your partner to join in on the journey. Ultimately, it’s about taking care of yourself as an individual, which in turn strengthens your connection with your partner.

My Approach to Couples Therapy

I am not currently taking new couples at this time, but my colleagues at Marilyn Ashley, LMFT are. When choosing a holistic approach, you will not only address your relationship’s current challenges, but you will also tap into its true potential, cultivating a deeper connection and understanding. This means that we will work to listen to the stories that both partners bring to therapy. Then see how your mind, body, and spirit are reacting to them. Then use that knowledge to shape the future of your relationship.

Rather than focusing on placing blame or fixing each other, we will work together towards healing and growth. Your therapist’s goal is not to change your partner, but to facilitate communication and understanding between both parties. We will explore past experiences and how they may be affecting you in the present, learn effective communication skills, and create a safe space for vulnerability and growth.

This means couples therapy may look differently than usual talk therapy. In holistic couples therapy, we may incorporate mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and other mind-body practices to help you connect with your partner and strengthen your bond. Our end goal is for you and your partner to feel closer, more connected, and equipped with the tools and skills necessary to navigate any challenges that come your way.

You may be thinking, "But my partner and I are so different, we just don't understand each other."

That’s where holistic couples therapy can make a difference. By addressing all dimensions of your relationship – physical, emotional, spiritual – you’ll gain a deeper understanding of each other and find common ground, despite your differences. It’s not about changing who you are as individuals but rather developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other’s unique traits.

As a holistic therapist in Hermosa Beach, CA, my colleagues and I believe that by addressing the whole person, we can create lasting change in relationships. You may have tried traditional couples therapy in the past, and it may not have worked for you. But with a holistic approach, we focus on healing and strengthening the individual as well as the relationship, leading to more fulfilling and harmonious connections.

What to Expect at Marilyn Ashley, LMFT

At Marilyn Ashley, LMFT, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with relationships. We know that every couple is unique and requires a personalized approach to therapy. That’s why our team of therapists takes a holistic approach, incorporating various techniques and practices to help you achieve your relationship goals. Our goal is to offer you and your partner practical tools and techniques, cognitive and otherwise, to help you manage your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. We believe in working through the discomfort together, allowing for a deeper understanding of yourselves and each other. Through this process, you will build a stronger connection and learn how to navigate any challenges that come your way.

In a Typical Holistic Couples Therapy Session at Marilyn Ashley, LMFT, You Can Expect:

Our holistic approach to couples therapy integrates mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing that all aspects of you contribute to the relationship, fostering growth requires addressing these dimensions. Couples often seek therapy when facing relationship challenges. While a significant part of our therapeutic process involves delving into the roots of issues, we also focus on highlighting the strengths within your partnership.

In collaboration, we’ll build upon the aspects that contribute positively to your relationship and let go of what no longer serves both of you. Feelings of hurt, betrayal, or frustration are undoubtedly valid emotions, yet they only scratch the surface. As you and your partner consider or begin couples counseling with one of our holistic therapists, you step into a compassionate and non-judgmental space.

We foster an environment where both of you are encouraged to embrace vulnerability and honesty within the therapy room. True healing necessitates the individual exploration of both conscious and unconscious beliefs, thoughts, and feelings. Together, we’ll dig around and gain insight into each of you as individuals and the dynamics of your relationship. This deeper understanding serves as a foundation for progressing in the therapeutic process, ultimately contributing to the healing of your relationship.

Our team of holistic therapists specialize at exploring every facet of your relationship, looking to uncover profound understanding and growth. Curious about how our therapists can integrate mind, body, and spirit in couples therapy? Our holistic approach differs from traditional talk therapy, which can sometimes focus solely on the mind. Treatment varies from couple to couple, tailored to individual needs and preferences. However, a common thread is the use of mindfulness, a powerful tool we use with most clients. Mindfulness involves being conscious of our emotions and our physical bodies.

How Can Holistic Couples Therapy Help You?

If you and your partner are going through some tough times in your relationship, you might want to consider holistic couples therapy. It’s a great way to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of your bond and deepen your understanding and connection with each other. Holistic couples therapy can also provide a safe space for you to express your feelings without judgment, fostering acceptance and compassion towards yourself, and ultimately, creating healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Holistic Couples Therapy Can Help You If:

  • You have experiences that may be affecting your relationship, such as childhood trauma or difficulties with trust.
  • You're struggling with expressing and managing intense emotions, and this affects your connection with your partner.
  • Feeling disconnected from each other and want to strengthen your bond.
  • You want to improve communication and learn effective ways of resolving conflicts in a healthy manner.
  • You want to build a stronger foundation for your relationship and continue to grow and evolve together.

At Marilyn Ashley, LMFT, we acknowledge the courage it takes to seek help and support during challenging times. We understand that dealing with intense emotions can feel overwhelming.
Our holistic approach to therapy is designed not just to alleviate the surface symptoms but to dig deeper, addressing the root causes of your distress. By incorporating mind-body techniques, we hope to equip you with the necessary tools to manage your emotions, build a stronger connection with your partner, and ultimately foster growth and resilience in your relationship.

Reconnect with Your Partner with the Support of Holistic Couples Therapy in Hermosa Beach, CA

My goal is to guide you and your partner towards true healing on a deeper level – one that encompasses your minds, bodies, and spirits. Relationships can benefit from holistic couples therapy, which focuses on understanding and supporting each other’s growth. Together, we can work collaboratively to process experiences, build resilience, and create a fulfilling life together. I’m Marilyn Ashley, a holistic therapist based in Hermosa Beach, CA. While I may not be taking couples at this time, my colleagues at my practice are trained in the same approach and offer the same level of support. If you’re ready to take the first step towards strengthening your relationship, let’s connect:

Schedule Your 20-Minute Complimentary Phone Consultation

Learn More About Me and My Services

Reconnect with Your Partner and Yourself Through Holistic Couples Therapy in Hermosa Beach, CA.

Other Services Offered By Marilyn Ashley, LMFT

Couples Therapy is just one of the many services at my Hermosa Beach, CA practice. It could be worth your while to explore the other areas of expertise, too. I specialize in Relationship Dynamics, Anxiety, and Trauma, and more. I provide in-person sessions at my tranquil office in the beautiful Hermosa Beach. Clients find solace and a sense of grounding in the serene atmosphere. Additionally, I offer virtual therapy sessions for those who prefer online sessions. By integrating holistic practices into your daily routine, you can enhance your overall well-being. Let’s work together to strengthen your relationship and improve your mental health!

FAQs

Couples therapy, also known as couples counseling or relationship therapy, is a specialized form of therapy designed to help partners improve their relationship dynamics, communication, and intimacy. At Marilyn Ashley LMFT, we create a safe and supportive environment where you and your partner can explore your concerns, learn effective communication skills, and work towards resolving conflicts constructively.

Feeling disconnected, struggling with communication, experiencing recurring conflicts, or facing challenges in rebuilding trust are all common reasons why couples seek therapy. If you find yourselves stuck in negative patterns or unable to resolve issues on your own, couples therapy could provide the guidance and support you need to navigate through these challenges together.

Helping couples stay together is often considered a common goal in couples therapy, but it’s not the exclusive or universal aim. The primary goal of couples therapy is to promote the well-being and happiness of both partners within the relationship. This may indeed involve working towards reconciliation and strengthening the bond between partners. However, there are situations where maintaining the relationship may not be in the best interest of one or both individuals involved.

Regardless of the decision, couples therapy offers a sanctuary—a space where issues can be confronted openly, without fear of judgment or escalation.

Here, we prioritize communication, empathy, and mutual respect. Our aim is not to mend broken bonds at any cost, but rather to facilitate healing and growth, whether that means rekindling love or finding closure.

The duration of couples therapy varies depending on the specific needs and goals of each couple. Some couples may find significant improvement after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing support over a longer period. Together, we’ll assess your progress regularly and adjust the treatment plan accordingly to ensure you’re getting the most out of your therapy experience.

Not at all! Couples therapy is beneficial for couples at any stage of their relationship, whether you’re newlyweds, in a long-term partnership, or navigating the challenges of blending families. Our goal is to help you strengthen your connection, deepen your understanding of each other, and cultivate a thriving relationship that stands the test of time.

It’s not uncommon for one partner to be more hesitant about therapy than the other. We understand that taking the first step can feel daunting, but we encourage open communication and mutual respect throughout the process. We’re here to support both of you every step of the way and create a safe space where both voices are heard and valued.