Every relationship has its challenges—misunderstandings, stuck conversations, or times when the distance between you feels harder to cross. If you’re feeling disconnected from your partner, stuck in cycles you can’t seem to change, or just unsure how to move forward together, marriage counseling can help.

At Josh Colby Counseling, we provide couples therapy in Grand Rapids for those looking to strengthen their relationship, rebuild trust, or simply find a better way to communicate. Whether you’re married, dating, engaged, or navigating long-term commitment, this is a space where both of you can feel heard, understood, and supported.

Why Couples Seek Therapy

Couples often come to therapy when communication has broken down, or when they find themselves having the same argument over and over again. Others seek help navigating a life transition—like becoming parents, moving, or recovering from infidelity. And sometimes, things just feel distant, and you're not sure why.

The truth is, you don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many couples use this space to tune back in to each other and learn new ways to connect. If something in your relationship isn’t working the way it used to, therapy is a good place to begin.

What to Expect in a Session

Most couples feel a little nervous at first—that’s completely normal. In our first few sessions, we’ll get to know your relationship dynamic and what brings you in. From there, we’ll work together to explore what’s not working, practice new tools, and build a stronger foundation.

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. As a therapist serving the Grand Rapids community, my approach to couples counseling is grounded in creating a safe and supportive space where both partners feel heard, understood, and respected. I believe that with the right tools and guidance, couples can navigate their challenges and build a stronger, more fulfilling connection.

My approach is Gottman informed, drawing upon decades of research into what makes relationships thrive. This means we will pay close attention to patterns of interaction that can either strengthen or weaken your bond. We will work together to identify and address the "Four Horsemen" – Criticism, Defensiveness, Contempt, and Stonewalling – and learn strategies to replace these destructive patterns with more positive and constructive ways of relating.

In addition to this framework, I integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This helps us explore how your thoughts and beliefs influence your feelings and behaviors within the relationship. By understanding these patterns, you can gain valuable insights and develop healthier ways of thinking and interacting.

In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and active approach focused on achieving your relationship goals. Together, we will work on:

• Regulating Emotions: Learning practical skills to manage intense emotions during conflict and communicate more calmly and effectively.

• Reducing Conflict: Identifying the underlying issues that fuel disagreements and developing strategies for productive problem-solving.

• Eliminating Negative Communication Patterns: Actively working to reduce or eliminate criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling, replacing them with gentler and more respectful interactions.

• Increasing Positive Interactions: Intentionally cultivating more moments of connection, appreciation, and positive engagement in your daily lives.

• Accelerating Shared Interests: Identifying and nurturing common interests and activities that bring joy and connection to the relationship.

• Valuing Individual Independence: Recognizing and respecting the importance of each partner's individual needs, goals, and autonomy within the relationship.

• Enhancing Positive Sentiments: Focusing on building a foundation of positive feelings, including fondness, admiration, and love, that can help weather inevitable challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover marriage or couples counseling?

Most insurance plans only cover therapy when an individual is diagnosed with a mental health condition, and they typically do not reimburse relationship counseling as a standalone service. This surprises many couples, as insurance companies often view couples therapy under the umbrella of family therapy. However, family therapy benefits still require an individual diagnosis to qualify for coverage. Because policies vary, we recommend contacting your insurer to ask specifically about your family therapy benefits, and reaching out to us to discuss your options.

Can we do couples counseling online in Michigan?

Yes, we offer online marriage counseling throughout Michigan via secure video. You and your partner can join from the same room or connect from separate locations, as long as you're both physically in Michigan. Virtual sessions often make it far easier for busy couples to stay consistent week to week.

What if only one of us wants to go, or my partner is reluctant?

That's very common, and it's still worth starting the conversation. Many partners feel hesitant at first and warm up once they see counseling is a fair, respectful space rather than a place to be blamed. If your partner isn't ready, individual work on the relationship can also help. Reach out and we'll talk through options.

Is it too late for counseling if we're considering separation or divorce?

Not necessarily. Couples come to counseling at all stages, including when they're unsure whether to stay together. Therapy can help you either rebuild connection or gain clarity and communicate through a difficult transition more respectfully. You don't have to already know the outcome to benefit from the process.

What is the Gottman Method, and how does it shape your approach?

The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples work built on decades of studying what makes relationships succeed or fail. Our sessions are Gottman-informed, which means we focus on replacing the "Four Horsemen" (criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling) with healthier patterns, while building fondness, connection, and better ways to handle conflict.

Start Couples Therapy in Grand Rapids

If you're ready to reconnect and move forward together, we’re here to help. We offer marriage counseling in Grand Rapids for couples of all backgrounds and stages.

Schedule a free consultation to see if it’s a good fit. You’re not in this alone.