National Counselor Exam (NCE)

What is the primary goal of couples therapy?

1. To identify individual issues

2. To enhance parental skills

3. To resolve conflicts and break destructive habits

4. To provide financial advice

The correct answer is: To resolve conflicts and break destructive habits

The primary goal of couples therapy is to resolve conflicts and break destructive habits within the relationship. In this therapeutic setting, counselors focus on helping partners improve communication, understand each other’s needs, and develop healthier patterns of interaction. By addressing ongoing conflicts and any negative behaviors that may be contributing to relationship distress, couples can work towards building a stronger, more supportive partnership. While identifying individual issues may be a byproduct of the therapy process, the main focus is on the couple as a unit rather than on individual problems. Enhancing parental skills could be an aspect of therapy if the couple is indeed facing issues related to parenting; however, this is typically a secondary focus rather than the primary purpose. Providing financial advice does not fall under the scope of couples therapy, which is centered around emotional and relational dynamics instead of practical financial matters.