The terms "couples therapy" and "couples counseling" are often used interchangeably, and their meanings can vary depending on the context and the professionals' preferences. However, in general, counseling prioritizes everyday problems and areas of conflict, such as challenges with:
sharing household responsibilities and mental load
infidelity
intimacy issues
On the other hand, therapy tends to prioritize historical challenges or trauma that may be fuelling persistent present-day problems.
Some professionals may prefer to use the term "couples therapy" to emphasize the therapeutic aspect and the focus on emotional healing and growth within the relationship. On the other hand, "couples counseling" may be used to emphasize the guidance, advice, and problem-solving approach provided by the counselor or therapist.