Couple Therapy

Gay couples face many challenges in addition to those that other couples face. We do not have access to the full legal rights afforded to straight married couples. Many gay couples lack support from their families. One or both partners may have difficulty trusting because of hurtful experiences growing up gay, or may be prone to secrecy after years of hiding his gay identity from others. Many gay couples also struggle with differing views about sex, monogamy, degree of being out, substance use and money. Some gay couples face the additional challenge of one or both partners being HIV positive.

Couples work begins with meeting together and separately to explore your separate and shared histories, as well as each of your views on current problems and goals. We'll establish treatment goals and address them in a stepwise manner, often including between-session tasks for you to work on, such as practicing Empathic Listening. Over time we'll be able to evaluate your progress as a couple and adjust the treatment approach and goals accordingly.

Please contact me by phone at 203-776-1966 or irwin@gay-therapy-ct.com if you would like to set up an initial consultation regarding your relationship.