Couple Counselling Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions About Couple Counselling in Singapore

• What exactly is "integrative psychotherapy," and how is it different for couples?

  Traditional therapy often uses either none or one single method. Integrative psychotherapy is a tailored approach where we blend techniques from several evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, Schema Therapy and Bibliotherapy to fit your unique relationship dynamics. We will create a custom plan that addresses the root causes of your conflict, whether they're past traumas, communication breakdowns or deep-seated patterns.

• We’ve tried couples counselling before and it didn’t work. How is this different?

  This is a common and understandable concern. Standard talk therapy can sometimes get stuck on surface-level issues. Our integrative approach is different because we actively work to heal the underlying wounds that fuel your arguments. If your previous counselling felt like just "managing conflict," we go deeper to alleviate emotional triggers, creating more fundamental and lasting change.

• How do we know if your integrative approach is right for us?

  Our approach is ideal for couples who feel their issues are complex and haven't been resolved by simply "trying harder." If you want a therapy that addresses your deeper emotional struggles, then our integrative method is likely an excellent fit. The best way to know is to schedule an initial consultation and see if it feels right for you both.

• We keep having the same argument. Can you help us break the cycle?

  Yes, absolutely. Breaking negative cycles is a primary focus of our couple therapy. We help you identify the hidden triggers and underlying needs that fuel your repetitive arguments. We can empower you to step out of your negative cycles and interact in healthier, more understanding ways.

• My partner is sceptical about therapy. How do you get a reluctant partner to engage?

  Scepticism is perfectly normal and we are here to meet you where you are. We frame our sessions as a practical, skills-based process rather than just "talking about feelings." The goal is to create a safe, non-blaming environment where both partners feel heard and can quickly see the practical value.

• Do you ever see partners individually?

  In an integrative model, the primary focus is on the couple's dynamic in joint sessions. However, there may be times when an individual session is recommended to resolve individual hurts and baggage that have been sabotaging your relationship. This is always discussed transparently and with the full consent of both partners to maintain trust.

• Do we have to air all our dirty laundry in front of each other?

  Not at all. While joint sessions are the core of our work, we are skilled at facilitating conversations with respect and structure. Furthermore, some techniques, like parts of Schema Therapy, help you understand your own individual contributions to the relationship dynamic in a non-shaming way. The process is about building safety and understanding, not about blame or confrontation.

• How long does couples therapy usually take for transformation to take place?

  It depends, as every couple is unique. During couple counselling, we may discover major individual issues to work on which require separate individual sessions. Some couples will notice improvements within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term therapy. Typically, couples attend around 8 to 12 sessions.

• One of us has past trauma. Can we still do couples therapy?

  Absolutely. In fact, our integrative couple counselling is uniquely equipped for this. Unresolved individual trauma often shows up in relationships. We can use, for example, EMDR within the couples context to directly address how that trauma impacts your interactions (e.g., one partner being easily triggered). This allows you to heal together, fostering a deeper sense of support and safety within the relationship.

• We're not sure if we want to stay together or separate. Can you help with that?

  Yes. We provide a neutral space to explore this tricky question without pressure. The goal of therapy in this case is not to push you toward any particular outcome, but to help you gain clarity, communicate honestly and make a decision from a place of thoughtful understanding rather than reactive emotion. Whatever you decide, the process can help you do it with respect and closure.