Relationship 

Coaching

Translating insights into sustainable, real-world behaviors.

The Methodology

Why Relationship Counseling Matters

Relationships are dynamic systems where feelings, expectations, and behaviors continuously influence one another. Whether you are in a marriage, a committed partnership, or a dating relationship, unresolved issues—communication breakdowns, mismatched expectations, sexual or emotional dissatisfaction, and trust concerns—can undermine relationship satisfaction. Relationship counseling provides a structured space to examine the patterns that interfere with connection, learn new interaction tools, and align expectations and goals to build a healthier partnership.

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What we mean by coaching

Relationship coaching at Struggling Couples - Michael Borash LPC involves targeted, action-oriented work that helps clients:

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Implement communication and conflict management skills reliably

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Create accountability structures for behavioral change

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Translate therapeutic insights into daily practice

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Set and pursue shared goals (e.g., parenting plans, financial coordination, intimacy rebuild)

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Implement communication and conflict management skills reliably

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Navigate transitions with pragmatic steps and checklists

Who benefits from coaching

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Couples who have completed therapy and want to maintain gains

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Busy professionals needing structured, results-focused sessions

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Partners seeking support during a focused life transition

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Individuals who need help applying therapeutic tools to daily life

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Couples who prefer a pragmatic, goal-focused pace over traditional therapy

Key coaching features

Practical

Sessions emphasize doable actions, short checklists, and accountability rather than deep historical exploration.

Time-bound

Coaching typically spans a defined number of sessions aimed at concrete goals.

Collaborative

You set priorities; we help design the plan and keep you on track.

Complementary

Coaching can follow therapy or be used alongside periodic therapeutic check-ins.

Examples of coaching goals

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Establish a consistent weekly relationship meeting to discuss needs and logistics.

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Implement a transparency routine after a trust breach, with measurable checkpoints.

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Create and maintain a co-parenting schedule that prevents conflict and reduces decision fatigue.

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Increase affectionate behaviors and micro-rituals that sustain daily connection.

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Coordinate financial planning conversations with a structured agenda and role assignments.

Coaching process and structure

Intake and goal-setting: We identify specific, measurable objectives and a timeline.

Action plan design: Concrete steps, responsibilities, and small, manageable tasks are defined.

Accountability sessions: Regular check-ins to review progress, troubleshoot obstacles, and refine strategies.

Skills reinforcement: Short practice exercises reinforce new behaviors until they become habits.

Transition planning: A plan for maintaining gains after coaching ends, including optional periodic maintenance sessions.

Coaching vs. therapy: what’s the difference?

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Coaching is action and goal-oriented; therapy often explores emotional patterns and mental health deeper.

Sample coaching timeline

Weeks 1–2: Assessment, prioritize goals, start small behavior changes.

Weeks 3–6: Intensify practice, troubleshoot obstacles, measure progress.

Weeks 7–12: Consolidate habits, create maintenance plans, prepare for independence.

When coaching alone is not enough

Coaching can be powerfully effective, especially for motivated clients. However, when there are deep emotional wounds, ongoing depression, PTSD, or active substance use, clinical psychotherapy is necessary to safely and effectively treat those conditions before coaching can support sustainable change.

When coaching alone is not enough

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Attend scheduled sessions consistently

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Complete brief assignments between sessions

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Share outcomes honestly so the plan can be adjusted

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Be open to feedback and accountability

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

  • Is coaching covered by insurance?

    Typically, coaching is not covered by insurance since it is not clinical treatment. We can provide documentation if a combined clinical approach is used.


  • How many sessions are typical for coaching?

    Coaching is often 6–12 sessions, but timelines depend on goals and frequency.

  • Can coaching help after infidelity?

    Coaching can help implement transparent routines and accountability after therapeutic groundwork has been laid for emotional safety.

Contact

Consider whether coaching, therapy, or a combination best matches your current needs and relationship goals.