In couples counseling, I regard the relationship as the client. Depending on the situation, I may meet with clients either together or individually. I may also refer one or both clients for individual work with another therapist if it appears concerns may best be addressed separately. In general, I treat information shared in individual sessions confidentially, though I may encourage information gathered in individual sessions to be shared in the couples’ sessions. If I believe, based on what is shared individually, that couples therapy will not be effective (for example, one of the partners is not willing to disclose a major secret that is affecting the relationship), I may choose to terminate the couples counseling. In this case, I will still not reveal what was shared individually but will discuss the termination with each person and will do what I can to facilitate a smooth transition.
Interpersonal Violence:
In order for couples counseling to be successful, both partners must be willing to take responsibility for their actions and make adjustments to their behavior. Both partners should feel and be safe in order for therapy to be effective. Couples counseling is not effective if partner abuse or domestic violence is present in the relationship. If you are seeking couples counseling and are presently in an abusive relationship, I can refer you to the appropriate resources but I cannot provide couples counseling.
Cactus Center NJ 