Couples Therapy
A More Connected Love Relationship Starts Here
Many couples reach a point where the relationship no longer feels the way it once did. Communication may feel strained, the same arguments keep repeating, or emotional and sexual intimacy have faded. Some couples are navigating a painful rupture such as infidelity. Others have a strong relationship and want help talking through something important or deepening their connection.
If you are here, your relationship matters to you. You may be tired of trying to fix things on your own or worried about where the relationship is heading. I help couples slow things down, understand the patterns getting in the way, and create a more loving, secure, and connected relationship.
What to Expect from Couples Therapy
Couples therapy works best when it feels emotionally safe, focused, and collaborative. I am not here to judge either partner or decide who is right. I help you understand yourselves, each other, and the relationship more clearly so you can begin responding to one another differently.
In therapy, you will have space to:
Stop repeating the same fights and have more productive conversations
Repair after conflict
Express what you need in ways your partner can hear
Rebuild trust and heal relationship injuries
Strengthen emotional, physical, and sexual connection
Respond to one another with greater empathy and compassion
I tailor therapy to your relationship and goals. Sessions are 50 or 80 minutes and are available in person in Encinitas or virtually throughout California. Most couples begin with weekly sessions, and together we can find a rhythm that supports your relationship, lifestyle, and goals.
My Approach
My work is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy and attachment science. I pay close attention to the patterns that take over during moments of tension, stress, and disconnection and help you understand what is happening underneath them.
Rather than focusing only on communication techniques or problem solving, I help you create greater emotional safety and security in the relationship. As the connection changes, communication often changes with it.
I help couples navigate communication and conflict, emotional disconnection, sexual intimacy, parenting and family stress, mental health concerns, trauma, substance use, and healing after infidelity or betrayal.
Who I Help
I specialize in couples who want a better relationship. I welcome couples and partnerships from all cultural, relational, and family backgrounds and provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. You may want to:
Communicate more openly and productively
Stop repeating painful patterns
Heal after infidelity or betrayal
Navigate parenting, family, financial, or career stress
Rekindle emotional and sexual intimacy
Create a stronger, more secure bond
About Me
I am Cristina Trette, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in couples and relationships. My advanced training is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy and attachment theory, and I am committed to ongoing education, consultation, and supervision in this work.
You can expect warmth, presence, directness, and engagement from me. I will help you understand the patterns between you and create new ways of connecting that feel more secure, loving, and responsive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my partner is hesitant to come to therapy?
It is common for one partner to feel unsure at first. If your partner is not ready to attend, you are welcome to reach out on your own. I can help you think through the best next step and, when appropriate, work with you individually around your relationship.
How long will we need couples therapy?
I generally recommend beginning with weekly sessions so we can build momentum. Some couples come short term to address a specific concern, while others stay longer to deepen their connection. I will check in with you along the way to make sure the work remains aligned with your goals.
Will you tell us who is right or wrong?
No. I help both partners understand their experiences, recognize the pattern between them, take responsibility where needed, and create new ways of relating that work for both of you.
Will you tell us whether we should stay together?
No. I do not make decisions about your relationship for you. My role is to help you better understand your relationship, your values, and what you each need so you can make thoughtful decisions about your future.
Can you help if abuse is present in my relationship?
When psychological abuse, violence, coercive control, financial abuse, sexual harm, or other forms of abuse are present, couples therapy is not safe or appropriate. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For confidential support, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org.
Next Steps
Whether your relationship is struggling or you simply want greater depth and connection, couples therapy can help you cultivate love and wellbeing. When you are ready, reach out to get started.