Couples and family therapy

Articles, Films and practical Guides on couples and family therapy, part of Psyche’s coverage of therapies and practical advice.
Photo of two boys playfully confronting each other on a leaf-covered path beside a fence in autumn.
PARENTING AND FAMILIES

Trapped with no escape: the hidden problem of sibling bullying

When brothers and sisters victimise each other, the harms can be serious. But it’s never too late to heal old wounds

by Kristen Cvancara

Photo of people in aprons smiling and chopping vegetables in a kitchen setting.
COUPLES AND FAMILY THERAPY
8

How to survive and thrive through divorce

Take heart: there are ways to protect yourself and any children involved, and prepare for more joyful chapters ahead

by Lisa Herrick

An aeroplane seen in silhouette, flying against a dramatic sunset sky with clouds.
LOVE
3

How to make a long-distance relationship work

Whether an hour or an ocean apart, there will be challenges, but this therapist shows how to make the most of the upsides

by Charlie Huntington

A couple sitting on grass, kissing in a park with deck chairs and people relaxing in the background.
SEX AND SEXUALITY
4

How to get the excitement back

Long-term sexual boredom is common but not inevitable. Use these five focused strategies to rekindle your sex life together

by Ian Kerner

An elderly man smiling broadly with sunglasses on, reclining on a floral lounge chair beside an elderly woman outdoors.
LOVE
2

Does it matter if your romantic partner is similar to you?

From traits like extraversion to specific habits, there are many ways a couple can match. New research tests whether it helps

by Phuong Linh L Nguyen & Moin Syed

Black and white photo of a barren tree on a hill with two people and a distant building under a cloudy sky.
COUPLES AND FAMILY THERAPY
5

How to save a romantic relationship

Even couples on the brink of separation can find a way forward. See what’s possible with some ‘nonbinding experiments’

by Peter Fraenkel

Photo of two people embracing by a window, with dramatic lighting creating shadows on their faces and the wall.
VIOLENCE AND AGGRESSION
2

How to end a toxic relationship

Worried something is badly off with your relationship? Here’s how to detoxify the dynamics or, if necessary, get out

by Gunnur Karakurt & Rachel Croce

Blurry monochrome photograph of two intertwined nude bodies in an ethereal style.
SEX AND SEXUALITY
2

How to handle a mismatch in sexual desire

A difference in sexual appetite is a common source of tension for couples. Don’t ignore it – turn toward it with curiosity

by Ann O’Brien

Photo of a charred landscape with a narrow path leading through burnt terrain towards a distant hill under a clear blue sky.
CAREGIVING
8

Defensible space

My husband was in crisis and our home faced wildfire. When it came, I saw the cost of holding the line

by Moonshine Matthiessen