Couples Therapy in New Zealand
Couples therapy helps partners improve communication, rebuild trust, and navigate relationship challenges together.
What is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy provides a safe, guided space for partners to work through difficulties together, improve communication, and strengthen their relationship. A skilled couples therapist acts as a neutral facilitator, helping both partners feel heard and understood while working toward shared goals. Common approaches used in couples therapy include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on attachment and emotional bonds, and CBT-based approaches that address communication patterns. Couples therapy can help with everything from recurring conflicts to major relationship crises.
What to expect in sessions
Couples sessions typically run longer than individual sessions (often 75–90 minutes) to give both partners adequate time and space. Your therapist will work to understand both perspectives and will help create a space where difficult conversations can happen more safely. You may be given exercises to practise between sessions.
Who it may help
Couples Therapy is often used to support people experiencing:
Practitioners using Couples Therapy
Emma Chen
Relationship Counsellor
MNZAC
Location
Approaches
Frequently asked questions about Couples Therapy
How many sessions of Couples Therapy will I need?
This varies widely depending on your situation and goals. Some approaches like CBT and solution-focused therapy tend to be shorter-term (6–20 sessions), while others like psychodynamic therapy may continue for months or years. Your therapist will discuss this with you.
Is Couples Therapy available online in New Zealand?
Yes — many New Zealand therapists offer Couples Therapy via online video sessions. This can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many approaches and gives you access to a wider range of practitioners.
How do I know if Couples Therapy is right for me?
The best way is to take our quiz — it considers your specific situation and preferences and suggests approaches that may suit you. You can also discuss it with a therapist in an initial consultation.