Why Some Wait So Long to Start Couples Therapy

Relationship issues can be challenging, and it's not uncommon for couples to wait years before seeking professional help. According to the Gottman’s, couples often wait up to six years before addressing any serious issues in their relationship. This decision could be based on various reasons, from trying to fix it on their own with self-help books, therapy podcasts, and workshops to not wanting to admit that there's a problem because it could raise more significant questions. We believe that couples should normalize these feelings but seek professional support when their issues start to repeat and remain unresolved.

Trying to fix it on their own

Many couples avoid therapy because they believe they can fix their relationship issues on their own. They read self-help books, listen to podcasts, and attend workshops, thinking they can solve their problems without professional help. However, while there's nothing wrong with reading or listening to advice from relationship experts, these resources only provide general tips and can't substitute professional and specialized support. Ultimately, each relationship is unique, and each case requires an individualized approach that considers all aspects of the dynamic.