Couples therapy is contra-indicated when there is ongoing alcohol or drug addiction.

Engaging in couples therapy while one or both partners are dealing with ongoing alcohol or drug addiction can be counterproductive and potentially harmful. Addiction often affects communication, emotional availability, and the overall dynamic of the relationship. When substance abuse is present, it can lead to a variety of issues, including dishonesty, emotional instability, and a lack of commitment to the therapeutic process, which can undermine the effectiveness of therapy.

When addiction is ongoing, it is often crucial to address the substance abuse first, either through individual therapy focused on addiction, support groups, or rehabilitation programs. This approach allows both partners to stabilize and have a clearer, healthier foundation from which to engage in couples therapy.

In couples therapy, the focus on enhancing connection and improving communication may run the risk of minimizing the addiction issue if it's not explicitly addressed. Therefore, it is generally recommended that couples therapy be postponed until there is a level of sobriety or stability regarding substance use, making the answer to this assertion true.