What belief do many couples hold when they enter therapy?

Many couples who enter therapy often hold the belief that if they can resolve their problems, it will lead to happiness in their relationship. This underscores the notion that couples see a direct correlation between addressing issues and achieving fulfillment. They often believe that by working together to confront and fix the complications that have arisen in their partnership, they can restore harmony and satisfaction in their lives.

This belief aligns with a common expectation that therapy is a means to an end—specifically, achieving a state of happiness that might feel elusive amidst conflict. Recognizing this perspective is crucial for therapists, as it can help guide the therapeutic process toward setting realistic expectations and navigating the complexities of relationship dynamics.

The other beliefs, while they may be present in some couples, do not capture the primary sentiment that many have when seeking therapy. The focus on problem-solving as a pathway to happiness is a typical mindset that drives couples to seek help, making this belief particularly significant within the context of therapy.