Lesbian & Gay Couples

Relationship help for couples whose hearts are hurting.

While same-sex couples struggle with similar issues straight couples face, there are far more barriers and prejudices these couples encounter. This, and so much more, can seriously weaken their relational bond.  While struggles such as communication problems, negative interactional patterns that hijack relationships, parenting struggles, intimacy issues, affairs, and financial discord, the need for support and safety is just as great, if not greater.

 

Some bigger more painful challenges same-sex partners experience occur in a social context. This can be a result of discrimination from family, friends, and those in the workplace, as well as prejudice from the surrounding community and society at large. Much of this is related to ignorance about same-sex relationships and discrimination. Additionally, parenting issues can cause a serious strain on same-sex relationships because a lack of family or community support can put further tension in the relationship.

 

Finding a good match for gay and lesbian couples in need of therapeutic support who are struggling with their relationship is essential. At CHC, Carol Corcoran, LCMFT, LMFT, is a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, who has the training and experience to work with same-sex couples in distress by providing a safe and supportive nonjudgmental presence. This additional training assists CHC in being empathically attuned and in turn, helps the couple feel comfortable to talk openly about the unique qualities and struggles of their relationship.

 

Emotionally Focused Couples therapy at CHC can be invaluable for any and all relationships, including and especially, same-sex relationships. Helping couples build safe, loving, connections to support one another around the societal barriers, as well as working through the attachment injuries that create disconnection to make a transformative shift. We start, in most cases, working through the negative, interactional cycles together, which helps build safety and allows us to deepen our work together, thereby building a strong foundation for resilience in the future.

Additional AAMFT information on same sex couples