Great Couples Counselling in Connellys, ON. Therapy to heal relationships.

Couples coming to counselling are asked to be honest about their own motivation levels, skepticism and hopes for therapy as part of the assessment. Problems are initially identified in both one on one sessions, and then lead into mutual encounters which are guided to elicit authentic feelings and engender empathy, understanding & appreciation. If a relationship is badly damaged (such as by infidelity) exercises for unraveling contempt are presented. Often in couples work, individuals become aware of certain cultural, inter-generational or early life patterns that get played out and learn strategies to manage them. When a relationship has run its course the work may be about "farewell".

Are you and your partner struggling to connect or facing ongoing conflict? I’m Simona Ilieva, a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in couple therapy. Together, we’ll work to improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen your relationship. Whether you're dealing with intimacy issues, frequent arguments, or feeling disconnected, I’m here to help you both navigate these challenges and find a path forward. Every relationship can benefit from support, and with the right tools, you can create a healthier, more fulfilling partnership. No matter how stuck you feel, change is possible. Let’s take that step toward a stronger connection together. Book a free consultation today.

When communication breaks down in relationships it can often lead to a disconnection from our partners which can seem irreparable. This can lead to a lack of intimacy, resentment, or mistrust towards each other. When a couple agrees to reach out for help, it shows a commitment to each other and an openness to change. When doing couples work it is a priority for me that each partner’s concerns and feelings are heard and addressed. This involves ensuring equal time for each person to talk about their concerns and needs as well as their goals for our work together. I have experience in working with heterosexual as well as same sex couples. Book a free consultation today.

I have experience working within non-monogamous/open/poly(amorous, affective, fidelity) contexts. When considering couple/family counselling, it is important that everyone is open to the idea because it can be difficult work. Counselling with an intimate partner/s can be slow going but, usually, the goal is the development of a ‘communications toolkit’ that can be used in the longterm without further mediation. Couples/family counselling can also be valuable in the shorter term to resolve one or more specific conflicts or to break out of existing unhealthy dynamics thereby renewing respectful communication.

If you are in a relationship that is marked by conflict, chronic arguing, anger, frustration or feeling stuck in some way, counselling can give you some tools to help you move forward. If you are feeling emotionally disconnected or distant from your parter there are ways to reconnect with your loved one that can be quickly learned. If you have been impacted by addiction, particularly compulsive sexual behaviours, I can help you understand how to move forward in to new healthy patterns.

[I OFFER VIDEO SESSIONS THROUGHOUT ALBERTA AND ONTARIO]. Your struggles might seem overwhelming now, but most situations can be rectified. I have worked with many couples, regardless of their lifestyle. I have been a psychologist since 1986. I am also a professor emeritus of counselling psychology. Set up an appointment now before things get worse by going to https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=14249112

I provide couples counselling, because I believe in couples. Whether you are dating, common law, or married - problems can arise even when two people care and love each other. We work together seeing the couple and the individuals to work with the whole package, strengthening and adapting so you can form the foundation, skills and relationship you desire. Let's work together on the problematic areas so we can become better together.

When it comes to couples, the total is greater than the sum of its parts. Therefore, in couple therapy, the focus is not on the two sides of the equation. Rather, the object of inquiry and therapy is the relationship between those two sides. The therapy examines the interpersonal relationship and treats it as a third space. Therefore, the goal is not to change the individuals but to change the way they communicate, understand, and accept each other. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.

I work with Couples who are committed to staying together. Every Couple will experience rocky times throughout their relationship, it is how they overcome challenges together that will keep their relationship healthy. I offer strategies and insights into how to understand each others ever changing needs, as well as helpful communication strategies to avoid miscommunication and unhelpful "mindgames".

Couples are supported to communicate more clearly with each other, as well as learn more positive communication skills, see the strengths in each other, and in the relationship. They will be encouraged to work on breaking down old, unhealthy habits and beliefs, and build healthy, positive relationship habits, that bring them together for deeper connection and bonding.

Relationship’s dynamics can be challenging to navigate even during the best of times, and couple therapy can help partners find new ways to relate, connect, and communicate with each other. Asking for what you want and need in a relationship can be scary, so therapy should be a safe space where you and your partner feel comfortable exploring your needs and expectations together. I work collaboratively with clients to identify and explore patterns of interaction that they want to strengthen or change in their relationships, as well as holding space for vulnerability and connection. Book a free consultation to learn more about my approach and explore if we are a good fit.

In providing couples therapy I follow the approach of Stan Tatkin. Stan Tatkin work focuses on helping a couple notice their reactions to their partner and learn how to support each other in their attachment needs. In part this approach is focuses on arousal regulation, current and past attachments, how our brain fires in relationships. The focus in this approach is on the couple and the “couple’s bubble”. Some of this work can include reflecting and managing the “thirds” in a relationship, i.e. others that impede or impact on the couple’s bond. I welcome you in contacting me for a free consultation session before setting up your couple’s therapy appointment.