Which issue could be a significant concern in therapy with couples?

In couple's therapy, expectations in therapy can significantly impact the therapeutic process and the outcomes for the couple. When partners enter therapy, they often have varying assumptions about what the therapy will entail, what issues need to be addressed, and what outcomes they seek.

These expectations can shape their engagement, investment, and overall willingness to participate in the therapeutic work. If one partner expects immediate solutions while the other sees therapy as a long-term commitment to growth, there can be tension and frustration, undermining the entire process. Clear communication about expectations helps to establish a collaborative therapeutic environment, allowing the therapist to guide the couple in aligning their goals.

While other issues such as communication, conflict, and compatibility are important, the underlying expectations regarding the therapy itself can be foundational to the couple’s willingness to engage and navigate through their concerns effectively. Managing and clarifying these expectations early in the therapeutic process can foster a greater sense of partnership and commitment to the work ahead.