Yes, couples therapy works for the majority of couples who commit to the process. Research consistently shows that approximately 70 percent of couples who engage in evidence-based couples therapy report significant improvements in relationship satisfaction. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method are two of the most well-researched approaches, with EFT showing recovery rates of 70 to 75 percent for distressed couples. Outcomes depend on both partners’ willingness to participate, the severity and duration of the issues, and the skill of the therapist. In my 30 years of working with couples, I have seen relationships transform when both people are genuinely willing to look at their own patterns and do the work.
What the Research Actually Says
Multiple meta-analyses have examined the effectiveness of couples therapy. The consistent finding is that evidence-based couples therapy produces significant improvements for approximately 70 percent of couples. Emotionally Focused Therapy, developed by Dr Sue Johnson, has some of the strongest research support, with 70 to 75 percent of distressed couples moving to recovery and approximately 90 percent showing significant improvement. The Gottman Method has demonstrated effectiveness in predicting relationship outcomes and teaching practical skills. These are not miraculous numbers, but for the majority of couples who engage genuinely, the evidence is clear: it helps.
When Couples Therapy Works Best
In my clinical experience, certain factors consistently predict better outcomes. The single most important is that both partners are willing to participate — couples therapy does not work when one person has already mentally left. It also works best when you seek help before things become entrenched (the average couple waits six years after serious problems emerge before seeking therapy), and when the therapist uses an evidence-based approach such as EFT, the Gottman Method, or Schema Therapy for Couples rather than simply listening without structure.
What Actually Happens in Couples Therapy
The process begins with an assessment phase (sessions 1 to 3): a joint session to hear each perspective, then individual sessions to understand each partner’s history and attachment style, ending with a formulation and plan. The working phase (sessions 4 to 16) is where the real work happens — identifying and interrupting negative interaction cycles (like pursue-withdraw), learning to express underlying emotions and needs, developing practical communication skills, understanding attachment needs, and addressing specific issues such as trust repair or parenting disagreements. A final consolidation phase reviews progress and plans for maintaining it.
Common Issues Couples Therapy Addresses
- Communication breakdown and constant arguments
- Emotional disconnection and feeling like flatmates rather than partners
- Trust repair after infidelity or betrayal
- Parenting disagreements and co-parenting conflict
- Intimacy and sexual difficulties
- Major life transitions (new baby, career changes, blending families)
- Deciding whether to stay together or separate
When Couples Therapy May Not Be Appropriate
Couples therapy is not recommended where there is active family violence (the person experiencing violence needs individual safety planning first — I always screen for this), active untreated addiction (which typically needs individual treatment first), or where one partner has already firmly decided to leave (separation counselling may be more appropriate).
How Much Does Couples Therapy Cost in Sydney?
At Anna Cohen and Co, couples sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes, with fees from $215 to $450 per session. Most couples attend 10 to 20 sessions. Medicare rebates are generally not available for couples therapy (Medicare funds individual treatment plans), though some private health insurers offer rebates for psychology sessions.
Book a consultation: Call 02 9555 1168 or visit annacohenandco.com.au/contact
About the Author
Dr Anna Cohen is a Senior Clinical Psychologist (AHPRA PSY1176554, Doc.Clin.Psych) with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She is the founder of Anna Cohen and Co and co-founder of Kids and Co Clinical Psychology, and the author of four published parenting books.
