In Relationship therapy, also called 'con-joint counseling' the "client" is now comprised of two people in therapy together. The therapist functions as an observer of the ways in which two or more individuals interact and as the catalyst for healthier more successful relations. Initial intervention includes establishing what the main problems are and what the separate and common goals of all the parties are.

While most who seek out relationship therapy are romantically involved couples, relationship therapy can also be an excellent forum to foster healthier dynamics between roommates, business partners, parents and children. Relationships of any kind are complex because they involve the perceptions, values, and goals of more than one person. Among the numerous desirable benefits of close relationships, there are many potential frustrations and conflicts.

Statistically, approximately 50% all marriages fail. Other types of relationships encounter similar circumstances. Many romantic couples who seek out relationship therapy have been through several relationships and have experienced the ups and downs. What originally drew you to each other? Why is that flame burning out and how can it be re-ignited? Is dissolution the only solution or can the relationship be rejuvenated into a better functioning, mutually satisfying, and ultimately rewarding situation for both parties?

Common Problems in relationship dynamics

Typically, some of the common problems areas that relationship therapy can address are:

• Poor communication, mind-reading, incorrect assumptions, "thinking errors"
• Meeting personal needs and needs of your partner
• Substance abuse / alcoholism by one or both partners
• Trust / honesty / infidelity / affairs
• Presence of mental illness in one or both partners
• Sexual dysfunction / difficulties / dealing with changes
• Different family of origin histories
• Differences in beliefs about parenting or religion
• Differences in social pursuits / introvert vs. extrovert
• Differences in values or life-goals
• Differences in choices of hobbies/leisure electives
• Co-dependency- healthy and unhealthy
• Domestic Violence (not always just physical abuse)
• Financial stress 

Some people who come to therapy, actually part company, and others seek treatment to improve their relationship. Many find that they really don't know their partner(s), children, friends or associates as well as would be necessary to achieve a healthy, forward-moving relationship. The actual process and goals of therapy will consist of learning how to give and take in a constructive and affirmative manner.