Private Couples Therapy in Central London

Frequently Asked Questions

What is couples therapy?

Couples therapy is a structured, confidential process in which both partners work with a trained therapist to explore the dynamics of their relationship. Sessions create space to examine communication patterns that have become difficult, address specific challenges such as conflict or a significant loss of trust, or deepen understanding between partners who want to invest in their connection.

At London Bridge Therapy, sessions are led by experienced psychologists and top psychotherapists, with each approach shaped around the specific needs of the couple.

Does couples therapy work?

Research and clinical experience both support the effectiveness of couples therapy, and outcomes tend to be strongest when both partners are open to examining their own patterns, not only the other person’s. Seeking support earlier, before difficulties have become deeply entrenched, is advisable where possible. That said, our experienced psychologists and psychotherapists are well placed to support couples meaningfully even when a relationship is in crisis.

Therapy cannot guarantee a specific outcome, and no responsible clinician would suggest otherwise. What it can offer is a structured, honest space in which both partners can develop a clearer understanding of what is happening between them, and make more informed decisions about the way forward.

Read more in our guide to couples therapy here.

How much does couples therapy cost?

Sessions at London Bridge Therapy are £250 to £300 per 60-minute session. An initial assessment session is £300. We also offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation with our Clinic Director, Dr Steven Mahan-Taylor, which gives you the opportunity to ask questions and explore whether our approach is the right fit before committing to an appointment.

View our full fees here.

What can we expect from our first session?

The first session is an assessment. Your therapist will take time to understand each partner’s perspective, the context of the relationship, and what you are both hoping to gain from the process. There is no expectation that you will have everything clearly defined, or that you will agree on all points. The assessment is an opportunity to be heard, to begin to understand how therapy works, and to explore whether the approach and therapist feel right for both of you.

Book your free consultation call.

How does couples therapy work?

Sessions take place with both partners present, led by a trained therapist who provides a neutral, structured space for the work. Your therapist will help to identify patterns in how you communicate and relate, introduce frameworks relevant to your specific difficulties, and support you both in developing a more grounded understanding of each other. The number of sessions varies depending on the nature of the work, and your therapist will discuss this with you as things develop.

Do both partners need to attend every session?

In most cases, yes. Couples therapy is designed as a joint process, and the presence of both partners is central to how the work unfolds. On occasion, a therapist may suggest an individual session alongside the couples work where it would be clinically useful to do so. This would always be discussed and agreed with both partners. If individual therapy is something either partner is considering separately, our team can support this alongside or independently of the couples work.

What therapeutic approaches do you use for couples?

London Bridge Therapy uses evidence-based models adapted to the specific dynamics of each couple. These include Schema Therapy, which works with deep-seated relational patterns; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which addresses unhelpful communication and thought patterns; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which builds resilience through shared values and mindfulness; and Psychodynamic Therapy, which explores how earlier relational experiences may be shaping the present relationship.

Is couples therapy only for relationships in crisis?

No. Couples therapy is not a last resort, and many couples who seek support are not in acute difficulty. Some come to understand patterns that have become quietly frustrating. Others want to strengthen a relationship that is fundamentally sound but has grown less connected over time.

Addressing difficulties earlier, before they become deeply entrenched, is advisable where possible. That said, our experienced psychologists and psychotherapists are well placed to support couples at any stage, including those navigating a relationship in crisis. Seeking support is a reflection of investment in the relationship, not a signal that something is irreparably wrong.

Read more in our guide about when to seek support here.