Couples Therapy

Rewire Obstacles to Authenticity and Intimacy

two arms holding hands

Couples therapy is a contemporary tool to help individuals grow and connect with one another in relationship. Passion, intimacy, adventure, and deep fulfillment can arise when we feel seen and heard. To be seen and heard, we often must pause to look and listen. 

In couples counseling at The Maine Relationship Institute, we treat each whole individual, not just the relationship. We want to examine each individual and their contribution to the relationship.

a couple in bed under the covers

What to Expect in Couples or Marriage Counseling at The Maine Relationship Institute

At MRI, we ask that each individual look at their role in the relationship dynamic. We may examine how projections, general and specific behaviors, and thoughts affect you, your partner, and the relationship you share.

Examining the self may take a deep vulnerability and a release of the ego. Trying this approach in the safe presence of a trained professional can lead to breakthroughs you may not experience independently.

Through this vulnerable practice in counseling, we aim to help you build a closer and more intimate connection. This more profound, intimate relationship takes courage and may take time to grow or restore, but with open hearts, expression, listening, and understanding, you may better see yourself and, as a result, better see your partner.

Maine Couples Therapy Approach

When a lack of connection arises in your relationship, you may feel, see, or hear the distance physically or verbally. At the Maine Relationship Institute, we use the Crucible ® Marital & Sex Therapy approach. Using the Crucible ® Therapy approach, we may ask questions like:

  • What do I want?

  • What does my partner or the people in my life want?

  • What are each of us doing to get what we each want?

  • How collaborative am I with my partner or others in my life?

  • Can I and they cope with not getting what we each need?

sun lit woods
two people in each others arms against a tree

Using Crucible Therapy in Couples Therapy

Crucible ® Therapy aims to find more ways of relating to one another. By helping you increase your capacity for seeing and connecting, intimacy and passion may also increase. When we witness the person we are "supposed " to be most connected to, when we have the tools to bear witness, we are showing up. Showing up in relationship means taking responsibility, participating without being asked, and remaining present even in the most trying and triggering moments.

Crucible ® Therapy is also an effective method for approaching the new and shared responsibility of parenthood.

MRI participates in ongoing training in Crucible ® Therapy to stay current with best practices in couples therapy. Learn more about the Crucible ® Therapy Approach.

The Sex & Gender Spectrum in Couples or Marriage Counseling

couple looking at each other laying in grass
young girl and man silhouette at waters edge in sun

At MRI, we see couples across the sex and gender spectrum with various concerns.

This includes but is not limited to

  • Adapting to new parenthood

  • Infidelity and affairs

  • Sexual issues

  • Couples & Relationship Conflicts

  • Communication Issues

  • Repeated conflicts

  • Loss of Connection & Intimacy

  • LGBTQ+ Relationships

  • Gender Identity

  • Sexuality Exploration

  • Difficulties with in-laws and family of origin

two silhouettes on horizon

Does The Maine Relationship Institute take co-pays? Can I use my health insurance plan to cover these sessions?

Currently, The Maine Relationship Institute does not accept insurance. You can read more about our costs and policies below.