Relationship Therapy
What to Expect in Couples Therapy
Everyone deserves a satisfying and respectful intimate relationship.
From the very first session, I’ll guide and support you as you work toward your relationship goals. I’ll work closely with you to start making positive change from the start. You’ll take away ideas and actionable steps from Day 1.
I’m trained in Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT). As we progress through therapy, I’ll emphasize ways to find lasting, meaningful change without changing who you are. I will also help you find acceptance and comfort for yourself and your partner.
Here’s what happens when we begin therapy
I make a thorough assessment of your relationship from the start. Our first conversations will focus on identifying aspects of your relationship.
- Your strengths: What makes you a great match as a couple?
- Areas for growth: What doesn’t work so well or makes you feel less intimate?
- Your patterns: How do you communicate? What are your habits with each other? Which patterns in your relationship work smoothly and which ones make you feel stuck?
Specialty Counseling for Couples
Not all couples come from the same mold, nor should they. I celebrate the diversity I see in the couples I work with. To better serve partners of all kinds, I have gained expertise in several specialty areas of couples and relationship therapy.
Certified Sex Therapist
I’m a certified sex therapist (CST) and work with couples with a wide range of sexual interests and values. Communicating openly about sex can be difficult, which is why working with a therapist can help.
Our therapy sessions are a safe zone for you to talk freely — no shame or judgement. It’s OK to feel unsure or embarrassed at first. It’s my goal to help you feel more comfortable with sex-related conversations.
I am a kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ allied therapist as well. You can speak openly about your erotic interests and unique ideas about sexual pleasure. We’ll talk about what’s most personal to you with acceptance and respect.
Interracial Couples
I’m passionate about helping interracial couples connect and become more intimate. Navigating cultural differences can be a challenge, even with the best of intentions. I can help you relate better and understand each other more clearly.
Ethically Non-Monogamous (ENM) Relationships
I have experience helping partners in ethically non-monogamous (ENM) relationships. As we work towards your goals, we’ll address trust, boundaries, and communication. I’ll help you understand how to best meet your needs for love, intimacy, and pleasure with your partners.
ADHD and Relationships
ADHD is not just a “kid problem.” Adults with ADHD often find that their symptoms affect their parenting, home organization style, and intimate relationships. In couples therapy, I can help you and your partner understand the role ADHD plays in your relationship. One of my passions is working with couples where one is affected by ADHD and the other is not.
Chronic and Pelvic Pain
Any type of chronic pain, including pelvic pain, can put strain on a relationship. If this is a concern for you as a couple, we can work through this in therapy. I may also consult with your physician and physical therapists for the best outcome.
Premarital Counseling
When you’re considering a lasting commitment like marriage, premarital counseling can get you off on the right foot. I believe that honesty and focused preparation can set you up for a lifetime of happiness together.
Going Through a Life Transition
Life transitions can be amazing opportunities for growth, but they can also be draining. Whether you’re becoming a parent, changing jobs, or facing a health concern, I can provide support and guidance. I’ll help you grow together instead of apart during times of stress.
Rebuilding after Infidelity
I help couples heal and rebuild trust after an affair or a breach of trust has occurred. Repairing a relationship where trust has been broken can be difficult at times. But no matter where you are in the process, I’ll work with you to create the relationship you have been hoping for.
Sound like the help you’re looking for?
Reach out today to schedule your FREE consultation to see if New Spark Therapy is the right fit for you.
3326 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd Suite A230, Durham, NC 27705
Dr. Maggie Carraway is currently accepting new clients at this time.