Using drugs and drinking not only affects the individual but also everyone around them, particularly their partners. Whether married, cohabiting, or in a relationship, if one or both partners have a substance use disorder (SUD), it can be detrimental to both parties and make it challenging to maintain a healthy and supportive partnership. Even if the partner with the SUD has sought treatment and is maintaining sobriety, the destructive patterns of communication, broken trust, and emotional pain in the relationship remain. This therapy focuses on the relationship, emphasizing the need to rebuild trust, make amends, and work together to overcome the past. However, this process can be difficult without professional guidance. Attending couples therapy provides a safe space for both partners to express their needs and work towards rebuilding a loving and healthy relationship. It is expected that those with a substance use disorder are sober and have completed or are in a separate recovery program.
In-person meetings are recommended for couples in crisis.