31/08/2025
Couples Therapy Isn’t Broken—But Many Therapists Aren’t Trained for It
Couples therapy has a mixed reputation. Some people discovered it saved their relationship, while others walked away disheartened, feeling like it did little to help. This divide often fuels the belief that couples therapy doesn’t work. But here’s the truth: couples therapy does work—and quite well—when the therapist has specific training in evidence-based approaches. Unfortunately, that’s where the problem lies, and very few people are aware.
The Training Gap: Why So Many Couples Leave Therapy Disappointed
In both Australia and the U.S., a large percentage of therapists include couples counselling in their private practice—about 70% in Australia and 80% in the U.S. But here’s the startling reality: research in the U.S. around 2002 found that only about 12% of those therapists had formal training in a couples therapy modality. While we hope the numbers have improved since then, Australia faces a similar challenge. Many therapists offer couples therapy without being trained in a recognised approach.
This mismatch means couples often end up with well-meaning but underprepared support with mixed results. Instead of finding lasting change, they may experience frustration—or even more damage to the relationship.
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https://alivecounselling.com.au/resources/couples-therapy-isnt-broken-but-many-therapists-arent-trained-for-it
If you’re struggling, know that help is available, and it works—especially when you choose a therapist who is trained in approaches designed for couples. Don’t let a negative experience hold you back from the healing and connection you and your partner deserve.
