Couples Therapy - GearingUP Counseling

Over 70% of couples save their relationship through Couples Therapy, and over 90% of participants say Couples Therapy helped them.

Couples therapy is a collaborative process designed to help partners strengthen their relationship, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. Whether you’re facing specific challenges or simply want to deepen your connection, therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore your relationship dynamics and work toward shared goals.

At GearingUP, our evidence-based approach focuses on helping couples build healthier patterns, understand each other’s needs, and develop practical tools to navigate life’s challenges together. Through structured sessions and guided exercises, you’ll learn how to communicate more effectively, rebuild trust, and create a stronger, more fulfilling partnership.

What To Expect In Couples Therapy at GearingUP

A Safe and Neutral Space – Your therapist will create a nonjudgmental environment where both partners can express their thoughts and feelings openly.
Focused on Your Goals – Whether you’re addressing conflict, rebuilding intimacy, or preparing for a major life change, therapy will be tailored to your unique needs and objectives.
Practical Tools and Strategies – You’ll learn evidence-based techniques to improve communication, resolve disagreements, and strengthen your emotional connection.
Collaborative Process – Couples therapy is a team effort. Your therapist will guide you, but the real work happens when you apply what you’ve learned in your daily lives.
Measurable Progress – Through regular check-ins and structured exercises, you’ll track your progress and celebrate the positive changes in your relationship.

Types of Couples Therapy Offered At GearingUP

Each couple has their own needs for what will be effective for their situation. GearingUP offers a wide range of couples therapy options to best address what your unique situation may require. Below are brief descriptions of some of the Couples Therapies offered at GearingUP:

Gottman Method Couples Therapy

The Gottman Method, developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, is a research-based approach that helps couples strengthen their relationship through improved communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection. It focuses on building friendship, managing conflicts, and creating shared meaning. Studies show that couples who use the Gottman Method report a 90% improvement in relationship satisfaction and a significant reduction in conflict. This method is particularly effective for couples seeking practical tools to navigate everyday challenges.

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples

EFT is rooted in attachment theory and helps couples understand and reshape their emotional responses to each other. By identifying negative patterns and fostering secure emotional bonds, EFT helps partners feel more connected and supported. Research indicates that 70-75% of couples who undergo EFT move from distress to recovery, with 90% reporting significant improvements in their relationship. This approach is ideal for couples looking to deepen their emotional intimacy and rebuild trust.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Couples

CBT for couples focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to relationship problems. By teaching practical strategies, CBT improves communication, reduces conflict, and promotes healthier interactions. Studies show that couples who participate in CBT experience a 60-70% reduction in relationship distress and improved problem-solving skills. This approach is particularly effective for couples seeking structured, goal-oriented therapy.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Couples

DBT for couples combines mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills to help partners manage intense emotions and improve communication. This approach is especially helpful for couples dealing with high-conflict situations or emotional dysregulation. Research shows that DBT can reduce relationship conflict by 50% or more and improve emotional resilience. It’s ideal for couples who want to build a calmer, more balanced relationship.

Mindfulness-Based Couples Therapy

Mindfulness-Based Couples Therapy integrates mindfulness practices to help partners become more present, aware, and compassionate in their relationship. By focusing on the here and now, couples can reduce reactivity and improve emotional connection. Studies show that mindfulness practices can increase relationship satisfaction by 30-40% and reduce stress levels. This approach is perfect for couples looking to cultivate greater awareness and harmony in their relationship.

Couples After Children Therapy

Couples After Children Therapy, developed at the Gottman Institute, addresses the unique challenges that arise when partners become parents. This approach helps couples navigate changes in roles, responsibilities, and intimacy while maintaining a strong connection. Research shows that 67% of couples experience a decline in relationship satisfaction after having children, but therapy can reverse this trend by improving communication and teamwork. This approach is ideal for new or experienced parents seeking to strengthen their partnership amidst the demands of parenting.

Premarital Therapy

Premarital therapy helps couples build a strong foundation for marriage by addressing potential challenges before they arise. Through guided discussions, couples explore topics like communication, conflict resolution, finances, and shared goals. Research shows that couples who participate in premarital therapy experience a 30% higher marital satisfaction rate and are less likely to divorce. This approach is ideal for engaged couples or those considering marriage who want to start their journey on solid ground.

Reconnecting Your Relationship Therapy (Gottman Institute)

Reconnecting Your Relationship Therapy, developed at the Gottman Institute, focuses on helping couples rebuild trust, intimacy, and connection after periods of distance or conflict. Through structured exercises and evidence-based techniques, partners learn to communicate more effectively and reignite their emotional bond. Studies show that 94% of couples report significant improvements in their relationship after completing this program. It’s perfect for couples looking to restore closeness and strengthen their partnership.

The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy

The Developmental Model views relationships as evolving through stages of growth, each with its own challenges and opportunities. Therapists help couples navigate these stages by improving communication, fostering emotional connection, and supporting individual growth. This approach emphasizes that conflict is a natural part of growth and can lead to deeper intimacy when managed well. Couples who use this model often report greater self-awareness and improved relationship satisfaction over time.

Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT)

IBCT combines acceptance and change strategies to help couples improve their relationship. By understanding and accepting differences, partners can reduce conflict while also working on specific changes to increase intimacy. Research shows that 70% of couples in IBCT experience significant improvements in relationship satisfaction, even in high-conflict situations. This approach is ideal for couples seeking a balanced, compassionate way to address long-standing issues.

Attachment-Based Couples Therapy

Attachment-Based Couples Therapy focuses on how attachment styles influence relationship dynamics. By fostering secure emotional bonds, partners can build greater trust, intimacy, and emotional safety. Studies show that this approach can reduce relationship distress by 60% or more and improve emotional connection. It’s particularly effective for couples who want to heal past wounds and create a more secure, supportive partnership.

Positive Psychology for Couples

Positive Psychology for Couples emphasizes strengths, gratitude, and positive emotions in a relationship. Couples learn to celebrate their successes, cultivate resilience, and create a more joyful and fulfilling partnership. Research shows that couples who practice positive psychology techniques experience a 40% increase in relationship satisfaction and greater overall well-being. This approach is perfect for couples looking to enhance their happiness and build a more optimistic, thriving relationship.

Family Systems Therapy for Couples

Family Systems Therapy for Couples explores how each partner’s family of origin influences their relationship dynamics. By understanding these patterns, couples can break free from unhelpful behaviors and create healthier interactions. This approach emphasizes that relationships are part of a larger system, and changes in one partner can positively impact the whole relationship. Couples often report greater empathy and improved communication after addressing systemic influences.

Discernment Counseling

Discernment Counseling is designed for couples where one partner is considering divorce and the other wants to save the relationship. This short-term, focused approach helps couples gain clarity about their future by exploring their options: staying the same, separating, or working toward reconciliation. Research shows that 50% of couples who undergo discernment counseling choose to pursue therapy and work on their relationship. It’s ideal for couples at a crossroads who need help making a thoughtful, informed decision.

Collaborative Couples Therapy

Collaborative Couples Therapy focuses on improving communication and reducing blame by helping partners understand each other’s emotional triggers and needs. Through guided dialogues, couples learn to respond to each other with empathy and compassion. This approach emphasizes teamwork and mutual understanding, leading to reduced conflict and deeper emotional connection. It’s particularly effective for couples who want to break negative cycles and build a more supportive partnership.

Relationship Enhancement Therapy

Relationship Enhancement Therapy teaches couples specific skills to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and deepen emotional intimacy. Through structured exercises, partners learn to express their feelings constructively and listen with empathy. Studies show that couples who participate in this approach experience a 70% improvement in relationship satisfaction. It’s ideal for couples who want practical tools to strengthen their bond and navigate challenges effectively.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Couples Therapy

IFS Couples Therapy helps partners understand and heal the internal “parts” of themselves that influence their relationship dynamics. By fostering self-awareness and self-compassion, couples can reduce reactivity and create healthier interactions. This approach emphasizes that each person has a core Self capable of leading with calm and clarity. Couples often report greater emotional balance and improved conflict resolution after exploring their internal systems together.

CoupLinks Therapy Program

GearingUP’s exclusive CoupLinks Couples Therapy Program was personally developed by Drs. Sylvia and Milton Gearing. Following a skills based curriculum customized for each couples’ needs, Dr. Sylvia and Dr. Milt work with each member of the couple individually and then everyone meets for a joint session each week with both doctors and the couple. This incredible program supercharges couples therapy with the benefits of both individual therapy and couples therapy with two of the most senior and well trained clinicians in Texas. Please contact our office for more details!

When To Start Couples Therapy

Couples therapy isn’t just for relationships in crisis—it’s a proactive way to strengthen your connection, improve communication, and navigate challenges together. If you’re wondering whether it’s the right time to start couples therapy, here are some signs that your relationship could benefit from professional support:

Communication Feels Like a Struggle

If conversations often turn into arguments, or you feel like you’re not being heard or understood, therapy can help. Many couples struggle with expressing their needs clearly or listening without becoming defensive. Couples therapy teaches you how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts without escalating tensions, and truly understand each other’s perspectives. By learning these skills, you can break negative patterns and create a more open, supportive dialogue that strengthens your connection.

Trust Has Been Broken

Whether it’s infidelity, dishonesty, or a breach of boundaries, rebuilding trust can feel overwhelming on your own. Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship, and when it’s damaged, it can create distance and resentment. Therapy provides a safe, structured space to address these issues, express hurt, and work toward forgiveness. With the guidance of a therapist, you can rebuild a stronger, more secure bond and create a relationship that feels safe and supportive for both partners.

Couples Facing Major Life Transitions

Big changes like getting married, becoming parents, changing careers, or adjusting to an empty nest can strain even the strongest relationships. These transitions often bring new challenges and responsibilities that can create stress and disconnect. Couples therapy helps you navigate these changes as a team, ensuring you stay connected and supportive of each other. By addressing these challenges together, you can strengthen your partnership and create a shared vision for the future.

Intimacy Feels Like a Distant Memory

If emotional or physical closeness has faded, therapy can help you reconnect and reignite the spark in your relationship. Over time, life’s demands—work, parenting, stress—can create distance between partners. Therapy provides a space to explore the underlying issues affecting your connection and find new ways to bond. Whether it’s addressing unresolved conflicts or rediscovering shared interests, therapy can help you rebuild intimacy and create a deeper, more fulfilling relationship.

Parenting and Children Are Taking a Toll

Disagreements about parenting styles or family dynamics can create tension and resentment. Raising children is one of the most rewarding yet challenging aspects of a relationship, and differences in parenting approaches can lead to frequent arguments. Couples therapy helps you find common ground, align your approaches, and create a more harmonious family environment. By working together as a team, you can reduce conflict and create a supportive, loving home for your children.

You Want to Strengthen Your Relationship

You don’t need to wait for problems to arise to start therapy. Many couples seek therapy proactively to build stronger communication, deepen their connection, and create a more fulfilling partnership. Therapy can help you identify areas for growth, celebrate your strengths, and develop tools to navigate future challenges. By investing in your relationship now, you can create a foundation of trust, understanding, and resilience that will serve you for years to come.

How Couples Therapy Works at GearingUP

1.

Initial Consultation

Your therapist will meet with you to discuss your goals, concerns, and relationship history. This session helps tailor the therapy to your unique needs.

2.

Assessment and Goal Setting

Through conversations and sometimes questionnaires, your therapist will assess your relationship dynamics and work with you to set clear, achievable goals.

3.

Building Communication Skills

You’ll learn practical tools to express your feelings, listen actively, and resolve conflicts in a healthy, constructive way.

4.

Identifying Patterns

Your therapist will help you recognize negative cycles or behaviors that contribute to relationship challenges and guide you in breaking them.

5.

Developing Strategies

Together, you’ll create actionable strategies to address specific issues, such as rebuilding trust, improving intimacy, or navigating life transitions.

6.

Practicing New Skills

Between sessions, you’ll apply what you’ve learned in real-life situations, with guidance and support from your therapist.

7.

Tracking Progress

Regular check-ins ensure you’re moving toward your goals and allow for adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.

8.

Maintaining Growth

As therapy concludes, you’ll leave with a toolkit of skills and insights to sustain a healthy, fulfilling relationship long-term.

Benefits of Couples Therapy At GearingUP

Couples therapy at GearingUP offers a wide range of benefits, helping you and your partner build a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. Here’s what you can expect:

Improved Communication

Learn to express your thoughts and feelings clearly while listening to your partner with empathy. Our evidence-based approaches, like the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), provide practical tools to break down communication barriers and foster understanding.

Healthier Conflict Resolution

Turn conflicts into opportunities for growth with strategies that reduce escalation and promote collaboration. Our therapists help you identify negative patterns and replace them with constructive, solution-focused behaviors.

Rebuilt Trust and Intimacy

Whether you’re recovering from infidelity or simply feeling disconnected, our therapies help you rebuild trust and deepen emotional and physical intimacy. Approaches like EFT and Attachment-Based Therapy are particularly effective for restoring closeness.

Personalized Solutions

With access to a variety of therapeutic modalities, we create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. No two couples are the same, and we’re committed to finding the approach that works best for you.

Proven, Long-Lasting Results

Our evidence-based therapies are backed by research and designed to create meaningful, lasting change. Couples who work with us report significant improvements in relationship satisfaction and long-term resilience.

Support During Life Transitions

Navigate major life changes—like becoming parents, career shifts, or empty nesting—with confidence and teamwork. Our therapists provide the tools and guidance to help you adapt and grow together.

Enhanced Emotional Connection

Rediscover the joy and closeness that brought you together. Through therapies like EFT and Mindfulness-Based Couples Therapy, you’ll learn to reconnect on a deeper emotional level.

Practical Skills for Everyday Life

Couples therapy at GearingUP isn’t just about talking—it’s about learning skills you can use in real life. From stress management to problem-solving, you’ll leave with tools that strengthen your relationship every day.

A Safe, Nonjudgmental Space

Our therapists create a welcoming environment where both partners feel heard and supported. Whether you’re addressing sensitive issues or exploring new ways to connect, we’re here to guide you without judgment.

Prevention of Future Issues

Addressing challenges early can prevent small problems from becoming major rifts. Couples therapy helps you build a strong foundation, reducing the risk of future conflicts and misunderstandings.

Expert Guidance from Trained Professionals

Our therapists are highly trained in evidence-based approaches and bring years of experience to every session. You’ll benefit from their expertise, compassion, and commitment to your success.

Flexibility and Accessibility

With both in-person and virtual sessions, as well as flexible scheduling options, we make it easy to prioritize your relationship. Your healing journey shouldn’t add stress to your life—we’re here to make it as convenient as possible.

Invest in Your Relationship

Couples therapy at GearingUP is more than just a way to solve problems—it’s an investment in your future together. Whether you’re looking to resolve conflicts, rebuild trust, or simply strengthen your bond, we’re here to help you create the relationship you’ve always wanted.

Why Choose GearingUP for Your Couples Therapy

At GearingUP, we’re committed to helping couples build stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationships. Here’s why so many couples trust us with their journey:

Advanced Training and Expertise

Our therapists are highly trained in a wide range of evidence-based couples therapy approaches, including the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more. Many of our clinicians have trained directly with world-renowned experts in the field, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care. With specialized knowledge and advanced certifications, we bring proven techniques and insights to every session.

Decades of Experience and Proven Results

With years of experience helping couples navigate challenges and achieve their goals, our therapists have the expertise to guide you through even the most complex issues. We’ve worked with hundreds of couples, helping them rebuild trust, improve communication, and create lasting change. Our track record of success speaks for itself—couples who work with us report significant improvements in relationship satisfaction and long-term resilience.

Customized Solutions for Your Unique Needs

No two relationships are the same, which is why we tailor our approach to fit your specific goals and challenges. Whether you’re dealing with communication breakdowns, trust issues, or life transitions, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. With access to a variety of therapeutic modalities, we can adapt our methods to ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your partner.

A Focus on Lasting Change

We don’t just help you manage symptoms—we help you create meaningful, lasting change. Our therapies are designed to address the root causes of relationship challenges, equipping you with the skills and insights to build a stronger, healthier partnership. Research shows that couples who engage in evidence-based therapy experience long-term benefits, including improved communication, deeper emotional connection, and greater relationship satisfaction.

GearingUP vs Other Couples Therapy Options

	GearingUP	Other in-person couples therapists	Other online couples therapists
Advanced Training & Certifications GearingUP therapists have completed advanced trainings or certifications in multiple evidence-based methods of couples therapy; others may lack specialized training in couples, may only have one or two treatment options, or focus on general therapy.
Customized Treatment Plans GearingUP creates personalized plans for your unique needs, goals, and relationship dynamics; others may use one-size-fits-all approaches, have limited flexibility, or struggle to customize treatment to you.
Proven, Long-Lasting Results GearingUP focuses on lasting change and only uses therapies that have a proven track record to still work after therapy ends; others may prioritize short-term relief, focus only on surface level issues, or avoid addressing foundational traumas or disruptions of the relationship.
Flexible Scheduling Options GearingUP offers in-person and online sessions with flexible hours in the evenings and weekends; others are often limited to a small set of office hours, online-only, or only offer sessions from 9-to-5 when you are at work or busy with your life.
Comprehensive Assessments GearingUP uses detailed assessments specific to couples and relationships to accurately diagnose the actual issues your relationship is facing and to track progress; others may lack formal tracking, measurable goals, or any diagnostic testing whatsoever.
Family-Centered, Attachment Based Approach GearingUP integrates family dynamics, attachment styles, and systems theory into couples and marital therapy; others may focus only on the couple, not fully understand or use related theories like attachment styles, or struggle due to only following step-by-step guides without true understanding of relationship dynamics.
Specialized Expertise GearingUP therapists have been trained by world-renowned experts in couples in relationships like Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Sue Johnson; others may lack advanced training in couples therapy or were not trained by experts.
Real-Life Skills Practice GearingUP helps couples practice skills in real-world scenarios or coach couples on how to use skills during difficult moments between sessions; others may limit practice to only exercises in session or provide zero or little guidance for what to do between sessions.
Parental and Family Integration GearingUP understands that many couples and relationships also offers specialized therapies to help address family dynamics, how to coparent successfully, and how to run a household as a team; others may only focus on step-by-step couples therapy guides or not address family, parenting, or household dynamics at all.
Affordable and Accessible GearingUP offers sliding scale rates, cash discounts, and accepts insurance; others may only accept cash or check for high cost services without results.
Holistic, Root-Cause Focus GearingUP addresses root causes and foundational challenges impacting the health and functioning of your relationship for lasting change; others may focus only on symptoms, immediate concerns, or surface level issues without fixing overall systems or points of failure.
Wide Range of Related Therapies GearingUP offers specialized services in a number of related issues that may be effecting your relationship including parenting skills, trauma therapy, and family or child and teen therapies to address other disruptions in the household; other therapists may only offer couples therapy and require an external referral if related services are needed.

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What Your Relationship Will Receive From Couples Therapy at GearingUP

Couples therapy at GearingUP is designed to help you and your partner create meaningful, lasting change. Here’s what you can expect to take home from your sessions:

Better Communication Skills

Learn to express your thoughts and feelings clearly while listening to your partner with empathy. These skills will help you navigate conflicts and deepen your understanding of each other.

Deeper Emotional Connection

Rediscover the closeness and intimacy that brought you together. Therapy will help you rebuild trust, share vulnerabilities, and create a stronger emotional bond.

Healthier Conflict Resolution Methods

Turn arguments into opportunities for growth with strategies that reduce escalation and promote collaboration. You’ll leave with tools to resolve disagreements constructively.

Practical Tools for Everyday Challenges

From stress management to problem-solving, you’ll gain skills that strengthen your relationship in real-world situations. These tools will help you handle challenges with confidence.

A Shared Vision for the Future

Therapy will help you align on goals, values, and priorities, creating a roadmap for the life you want to build together.

Greater Self-Awareness

Understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors impact your relationship. This self-awareness is the foundation for personal and relational growth.

Renewed Trust, Security, and Connection

Whether you’re recovering from a breach of trust or simply feeling disconnected, therapy will help you rebuild a secure, supportive partnership.

Enhanced Intimacy

Reignite the spark in your relationship by addressing emotional and physical barriers to closeness. You’ll leave feeling more connected and fulfilled.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Develop the ability to navigate life’s ups and downs as a team. Therapy will help you build a relationship that’s strong enough to handle anything.

A Stronger Foundation

Address the root causes of relationship challenges, not just surface-level symptoms. You’ll leave with a solid foundation for long-term happiness and growth.

Renewed Joy and Playfulness

Rediscover the fun and laughter that brought you together. Therapy will help you balance responsibility with play, creating a more joyful relationship.

Empowerment to Grow Together

Therapy will equip you with the skills and insights to continue growing as individuals and as a couple, long after sessions end.

Your Relationship Deserves the Best

At GearingUP, we’re committed to helping you create the relationship you’ve always wanted. Take the first step toward a stronger, healthier partnership—contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Real Results: How Couples Therapy Can Strengthen Your Relationship

Couples therapy has been extensively studied and proven to deliver meaningful, long-lasting results. Here’s what research from leading authorities in mental health tells us about the effectiveness of couples therapy:

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 70-75% of couples who participate in evidence-based therapy report significant improvements in relationship satisfaction. Approaches like Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method are particularly effective in helping couples feel more connected and fulfilled.

Studies published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy show that couples therapy can reduce conflict by 50% or more and improve communication skills. Couples learn to express their needs clearly and listen to each other with empathy, leading to healthier interactions.

Research from the Gottman Institute indicates that 94% of couples who complete their programs report significant improvements in trust and emotional intimacy. Therapy helps partners heal from past hurts and create a stronger, more secure bond.

According to the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT), couples who engage in therapy are 30% less likely to divorce compared to those who don’t seek help. Therapy provides the tools and insights needed to navigate challenges and build a resilient relationship.

Studies on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) show that 86% of couples experience a significant improvement in emotional connection and closeness after completing therapy. This deeper bond helps partners feel more supported and understood.

Surveys conducted by the Child Mind Institute show that 85-90% of couples are satisfied with the results of therapy, citing improvements in communication, emotional intimacy, and overall relationship quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of couples therapy does GearingUP offer?

At GearingUP, we offer a variety of evidence-based couples therapy approaches, including the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more. Each approach is tailored to your unique needs and goals, ensuring you receive the most effective care.

How do I know if we need couples therapy?

Couples therapy can help if you’re experiencing recurring conflicts, feeling disconnected, or struggling with trust, intimacy, or communication. It’s also beneficial for couples who want to strengthen their relationship before problems arise. If you’re unsure, we offer consultations to help you determine if therapy is the right step.

How long does couples therapy take to work?

The length of therapy varies depending on your goals and challenges. Some couples see improvements in just a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. On average, many couples begin to see meaningful progress within 8-12 sessions.

Will our therapist take sides?

No, your therapist’s role is to remain neutral and support both partners equally. The goal is to help the relationship flourish, not one partner. They’ll help you understand each other’s perspectives, improve communication, and work toward shared goals without taking sides.

Can couples therapy help after infidelity?

Yes, couples therapy can be highly effective in rebuilding trust and healing after infidelity. GearingUP offers specific couples therapy approaches as well for couples recovering from infidelity or breaches of trust as developed by the experts like Dr. John Gottman. Approaches like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method are specifically designed to address betrayal and restore emotional connection.

What if only one of us wants to go to therapy?

It’s common for one partner to be hesitant about therapy. Your therapist can help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where both partners feel comfortable. Often, the hesitant partner becomes more engaged once they see the benefits of therapy.

Do you offer virtual or online couples therapy?

Yes, we offer both in-person and secure online therapy sessions to accommodate your schedule and preferences. Virtual or online therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions and provides a convenient option for busy couples.

How do you measure progress in couples therapy?

We use a combination of methods to track progress, including regular check-ins, feedback from both partners, and standardized tests and assessments. You’ll receive updates on your growth and any adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure you’re meeting your goals. Of course, you can always ask your therapist about progress as well.

What if we have different goals for therapy?

It’s normal for partners to have different goals initially. Your therapist will help you identify shared objectives and create a treatment plan that addresses both partners’ needs. It’s common that both partners’ goals overlap quite a bit but are miscommunicated, misunderstood, or phrased differently. Over time, you’ll likely find common ground and work together toward a stronger relationship.

How much does couples therapy cost, and do you accept insurance?

We believe therapy should be accessible to all couples. We accept most major insurance plans and offer sliding scale fees based on income. Contact our office to verify your insurance benefits or discuss payment options.

Can couples therapy help with parenting issues?

Absolutely. Couples therapy can address parenting disagreements, improve co-parenting communication, and help you create a more unified approach to raising your children. GearingUP also offers specialized parenting programs and parenting coaching with trained therapists if that is deemed necessary by you and your couples therapist. We’ll work with you to strengthen both your relationship and your family dynamics.

What if we’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t work?

Every couple is different, and finding the right approach can take time. Many therapists only offer one or two approaches, and it’s possible that their style or personality was not a match for your needs. At GearingUP, we specialize in evidence-based therapies that are proven to work. We have multiple couples therapists on staff who are trained in multiple couples therapy approaches that will hopefully be a perfect match for your relationship. We’ll take the time to understand your unique needs and create a plan that’s tailored to you.

Is Couples Therapy different than Marital Therapy?

At GearingUP, we work with all types of couples, regardless of marital status, in Couples Therapy or Marital Therapy to help them build stronger, healthier relationships.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, couples therapy typically refers to therapy for any committed partnership, whether married or not. Marital therapy also considers issues that may arise within a marriage. Both Couples Therapy and Marital Therapy are intended to help committed couples improve their relationship and their lives together. Many treatment professionals prefer to use the term “Couples Therapy” in their advertisements since it applies more broadly and to more types of relationships.

Every couple is different, and they bring their own goals to therapy depending on their particular situation. Many unmarried couples are interested in strengthening their bond, improving satisfaction and intimacy in the relationship, or working through life transitions. Married couples share those goals, but they are often also working through additional complications such as financial stress, co-parenting concerns, caring for extended family members, and more. No matter your situation – GearingUP’s couples therapists are equipped with proven tools to improve your relationship.

Can only married couples start couples therapy?

No, couples therapy is for any committed partnership, whether you’re dating, engaged, married, or in a long-term relationship. Our goal is to help you strengthen your connection, improve communication, and resolve conflicts, no matter your relationship status.

How do therapists become couples therapists?

Couples therapists undergo specialized training in relationship dynamics, communication, and evidence-based approaches for treating couples like the Gottman Method, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Many of our therapists have advanced certifications and have trained with world-renowned experts in the field.

Can I do couples therapy on my own if my partner doesn't want to participate?

Yes, individual therapy can still be beneficial if your partner is unwilling to participate. Your therapist can help you understand relationship dynamics, improve communication skills, and make changes that positively impact your partnership. Often, one partner’s growth can inspire the other to join later. However due to professional standards and ethics, these sessions would be considered “individual therapy” and not “couples therapy” if only one person attends.

Isn't couples therapy for when relationships are already ending?

Not at all! The American Psychological Association urges couples to seek out therapy early since is most effective before problems escalate. It’s a proactive way to strengthen your relationship, improve communication, and address challenges before they become overwhelming or cause damage in multiple areas instead of a single issue. Many couples also use therapy to enhance an already positive relationship or get ahead of potential future issues before they develop.

How do Couples Therapy sessions work?

Sessions typically involve both partners meeting with a therapist to discuss challenges, set goals, and learn new skills. Your therapist will guide you through structured exercises, help you identify negative patterns, and provide tools to improve your relationship. Sessions are collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. Every couple has different strengths and needs, and your couples therapist will work with you both to create a customized treatment plan to meet your goals.

Do I need a referral or pre-authorization to start Couples Therapy?

No, you don’t need a referral or pre-authorization to start couples therapy at GearingUP. Simply contact our office to schedule a consultation, and we’ll guide you through the process. We would also be happy to contact your insurance to verify your benefits on your behalf.

Does insurance cover Couples Therapy?

Many insurance plans cover couples therapy, but coverage varies depending on your plan and benefits. We accept most major insurance plans and can help you verify your benefits. We also offer sliding scale rates and flexible payment options to make therapy accessible.

How do I know GearingUP delivers effective Couples Therapy?

Our therapists are highly trained in evidence-based approaches like the Gottman Method, EFT, CBT, and more which are backed by exhaustive research studies and proven by science to deliver results. We also track progress through regular assessments and feedback, ensuring you’re moving toward your goals. Many couples report significant improvements in communication, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction after participating in Couples Therapy.

GearingUP has been delivering therapy in the Dallas and Plano areas since 1986 with over 500,000 completed therapy sessions. GearingUP therapists have an average of over 10 years experience as a licensed therapist, and each therapist completes an average of 75 hours of continuing education and professional development per year (based on 2022 and 2023 clinician data). Multiple GearingUP therapists have years of experience working with couples, and many have completed advanced training and certifications with world experts in couples therapy like the Gottman Institute and Dr. Sue Johnson.

GearingUP also regularly monitors the quality of care and clinical effectiveness through anonymous client ratings, surveys, and internal clinical data reviews. Based on our clinical testing data, 93% of GearingUP clients show “significant improvements” in resolving their clinical issues after 6-12 months of therapy. Client surveys show that 99% of our clients report that they have made progress on their goals since starting with GearingUP and 100% agreed that the therapist was effective for their therapy needs. Approximately 97% of clients say that they feel better since they have started therapy with GearingUP, and 99% of clients responded that they are happy with their care at GearingUP.

How do we get started?

You can get started with couples therapy in minutes! Contact our office for a quick enrollment process – all we need is your basic demographic and contact information, insurance details (if using insurance), and payment information. Our staff will schedule your first appointment with one of our senior therapists to discuss your needs and how GearingUP can help you. We often have same day or next day appointments available for new clients, but most new clients are seen in less than one week after contacting our office.

Locations GearingUP Offers Couples Therapy

We're happy to offer Couples Therapy at the following locations.

Dallas (Lakewood)

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Frisco West

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McKinney

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North Richland Hills

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Plano (Mapleshade)

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Plano (Stonebriar)

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Prosper

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