Relationship Counselling & Couples Therapy in London
For many people relationship have been problematic, unhealthy and unsatisfying
Understanding Patterns Of Unhealthy Relationship
As humans, we are programmed, or hard wired, to be in relationships. This is likely due to both the need for the species to survive and our emotional need for companionship, love, and support. For many people, however, relationships throughout life can become problematic, unhealthy, and deeply unsatisfying. Understanding unhealthy relationship patterns and why they repeat is one of the most common reasons individuals seek relationship counselling London, relationship issues therapy, or couple therapy London.
Dysfunction in the Family
As humans, we tend to replicate patterns of behaviour and emotional experiences we have encountered earlier in life. Even when these patterns are unhealthy, they feel familiar and, on some level, safe.
When the family of origin is dysfunctional, that dysfunction is often carried into adult relationships. For example, growing up without boundaries or consistent parenting can create a sense that chaos is normal. As adults, individuals may unconsciously choose partners who struggle with commitment, lack structure, or ignore boundaries. If addiction, such as alcohol or drug use, was present in the family, people may repeatedly choose partners with similar issues in an attempt to “fix” what could not be resolved in childhood. These dynamics are often explored in therapy for relationship challenges and long-term relationship support London services.
In some cases, individuals do the opposite of what they experienced growing up. Someone raised in an environment without structure may seek a controlling partner, or accept verbal or physical abuse as a form of punishment they believe they deserve. These deeply rooted beliefs are often addressed through relationship issues therapy with a trained professional.
Relationship Addiction
In certain unhealthy patterns, the relationship itself becomes more important than the wellbeing of the individuals involved. People may stay together out of fear of being alone, fear of judgment, or belief that they cannot find another partner.
In these situations, men and women may remain in emotionally or physically abusive relationships due to low self-esteem and lack of confidence. This can evolve into relationship addiction, where the individual believes the relationship defines their worth. Relationship addiction therapy focuses on rebuilding self-identity and emotional independence.
When a relationship ends, individuals who are emotionally dependent may experience extreme distress. This can include obsessive thoughts, attempts to re-establish contact, or difficulty letting go. In these cases, relationship help online or online relationship counselling can provide immediate, accessible support during periods of emotional instability.
The reasons people repeat unhealthy relationship patterns must be identified before meaningful change can occur. With the guidance of a trained counsellor and, where appropriate, communication therapy for couples, individuals can develop healthier attachment styles and emotional boundaries. Once these root causes are understood, people are better equipped to evaluate future relationships, make informed choices, and build a healthy, fulfilling partnership based on mutual respect, trust, and emotional safety.
testimonials
“Working together over the past months has helped me process past trauma and start looking to the future with hope rather than fear.”
Tom
“I felt truly listened to for the first time; having a safe, non-judgmental space allowed me to open up about things I’d kept inside for years.”
John
“I was skeptical about therapy at first, but the sessions helped me gain perspective and make meaningful changes in my relationships.”
Rodrick
”Therapy has been life-changing; I’m better able to manage stress, communicate my needs, and take care of my mental health day to day.”
Laura
”Ur work has greatly improved my self-esteem, and I’m finally able to set healthy boundaries.”
Delphine
“For the first time I got real help for my bulimia”
Valerie
“2 years clean of drugs, Thanks Philippe”
Emma
“You changed my life, thank you so much”
Eric
“Thanks you for all the help during my divorce”
Malik
“Thank you for all your insights”
Robert