Couples therapy or counseling is a collaborative process in which individuals in a relationship work with a trained counselor to explore and understand patterns in their relationship, including behaviors, communication habits, and past challenges that may be hindering connection.  The focus in sessions is usually on fostering understanding, improving communication, and identifying strategies to navigate difficulties together without assigning blame.  Couples therapy helps partners strengthen their relationship, build mutual respect, and work towards the shared vision of the relationship they want to create and maintain.