How can you find clarity about your thoughts surrounding couples therapy or counseling? If you already feel sure about ending your relationship, what are your reasons for wanting to go?

Before going to couples therapy, you need to have a clear understanding of your reason for attending. According to Dr. Marie Murphy, many people go into couple’s therapy because they’re looking to stall difficult conversations, they feel obligated to attend, or they want help facilitating a breakup. But Dr. Murphy says that it is not a guaranteed or automatic solution — you will still have feelings of discomfort associated with ending the relationship regardless of what your therapist does.

In this episode of Your Secret is Safe With Me, Dr. Marie Murphy discusses how to determine if couple’s therapy or counseling is right for you. Dr. Murphy talks about justifying your reasons for attending counseling, the desire for a deeper understanding before ending a relationship, and the distinction between therapy and coaching.