Which therapy is best for relationship problems?

There are multiple types of therapy that can be useful for addressing relationship problems. The best option for you will be determined by the issues you’re facing in your relationship, and you and your partner’s preferences. Three common types of therapy couples can consider are:

1. Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Developed by husband and wife psychologists John and Julie Gottman, the Gottman Method is based on 40 years of scientific research focused on behavioral patterns in successful and unsuccessful relationships.

2. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT was first developed as a form of individual therapy to help address difficulties such as anxiety and depression. It is based on the idea that because your thoughts impact your behavior, reframing how you think of situations can help you to better cope with them. CBT for couples applies this concept to issues affecting relationships.

3. Discernment counseling: Created in 2008 for couples struggling to resolve a disagreement, discernment counseling can be especially useful for those struggling to see eye-to-eye on a decision they are making together. Couples who disagree about parenting or financial decisions, or even whether to continue pursuing their relationship, may find discernment counseling helpful.

Do you know your attachment style? 

Take this free, online Attachment Styles Quiz today to find out your attachment style. Get a free, customized report too! Knowing your attachment style is the first step to understanding why you act the way you do. 


Monarch does not employ any provider and is not responsible for the conduct of any provider listed on our site. All information in member profiles, and messages are created from data provided by the providers and not generated or verified by Monarch. As a user, you need to perform your own diligence to ensure the provider you choose is appropriate for your needs and complies with applicable laws and licensure requirements. Monarch is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Monarch assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable, for the quality or any other aspect of the services a provider may provide to you, nor will Monarch be liable for any act, omission or wrongdoing committed or allegedly committed by any provider.

Articles and information and assessments posted on Monarch are for informational purposes only, and it is not intended to diagnose or treat any health conditions. Treatment and diagnosis should be performed by an appropriate health care provider.

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, DO NOT USE MONARCH. IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, OR THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE OR HARMING YOURSELF OR OTHERS, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY OR ANOTHER APPLICABLE EMERGENCY NUMBER.