When relationships get stuck and distant

The things couples argue about are rarely only about the topic at hand. A conversation about chores can also carry feeling taken for granted. Sex can bring up rejection, pressure, grief, or distance. Money, family, caregiving, and the future can expose differences in values and expectations. We slow these patterns down, pay attention to what each person is trying to communicate or protect, and make room for different ways of reaching, responding, and repairing.

Making sense of what happens between you.

Relationships take many forms.

We work with monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, polyamorous relationships and polycules, open relationships, LGBTQ+ couples, and chosen family.

Frequently asked questions

What if we see the problem very differently?

That’s common. You don’t need to arrive with a shared explanation of what has gone wrong. Part of the work is slowing things down enough to understand how each person experiences the relationship and what happens between you when those experiences collide. The goal isn’t to decide whose version is correct or locate the problem in one person.

Do you work with LGBTQ+ relationships and different relationship structures?

Yes. LGBTQ+ affirming relationship therapy is a core area of our practice. We work with people across sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as a range of relationship structures, including monogamous and consensually non-monogamous relationships, polycules, and chosen family. We approach relationships with attention to identity, culture, power, consent, and the different ways people create intimacy, commitment, and family.

Do we need to be in crisis to start couples therapy?

No. People come for many reasons: recurring conflict, increasing distance, changes in intimacy or desire, major transitions, grief and loss, questions about commitment, or simply a sense that the relationship has become harder to navigate together. Sometimes the issue is clearly defined; sometimes it’s the growing feeling that something between you has changed.

Can we talk about sex and intimacy even though Eureka isn’t a sex-therapy practice?

Changes in sex, desire, affection, and physical intimacy are common parts of relationship therapy and can absolutely be part of the conversation. Eureka does not present itself as a specialized sex-therapy practice; when needs fall outside a clinician’s scope or would benefit from specialized care, that can be discussed as part of treatment.

Can we meet in person or by telehealth?

Yes. Sessions are available in person in San Francisco and by telehealth for clients located throughout California.

How do we get started?

Begin with a 20–30 minute phone or video consultation. You can reach out to a clinician directly or contact Eureka if you’d like help finding someone who may be a good fit.

What if we’re not sure whether we want to stay together?

You don’t need to know the outcome before beginning. Therapy can make room for uncertainty and help you understand more clearly what is happening in the relationship, what each person wants, and what may be possible from here.

How often do couples meet?

Relationship therapy typically begins with a regular weekly meeting time. Session length and frequency can be discussed with your clinician based on the work, fit, and availability.

Request a Consultation

If you’re ready to begin working toward meaningful, lasting change, we’d be glad to hear from you.

Contact

In-person psychotherapy in San Francisco, with telehealth throughout California.

Email

Mailing List

Connect@EurekaTherapy.org

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