Couples Communication Skills Group

Healthy relationships thrive on clear, respectful communication — but these skills don’t always come naturally. The Couples Communication Skills for Individuals Group is a supportive, skills-based program designed to help you strengthen how you listen, express yourself, and resolve conflict. Whether you’re currently in a relationship or preparing for one in the future, you’ll gain practical tools to improve connection, reduce misunderstandings, and build healthier partnerships.

Who this group is for

This group is designed for individuals who want to strengthen their communication skills in relationships.

It’s a great fit if you:

Find yourself caught in repeated conflict cycles.
Struggle with expressing needs clearly or listening without defensiveness.
Want to build intimacy, connection, and healthier boundaries.
Are preparing for couples therapy, or want personal growth independent of a partner.

Program Overview

This 6-week Couples Communication Skills Group is designed to help you and your partner break unhelpful patterns, build empathy, and communicate more effectively. Each week focuses on a core relationship skill, with concrete strategies you can start using right away.

Session 1 – Foundations & Setting Intentions

Identify your relationship goals for the program.
Learn common communication pitfalls couples fall into.
Understand how small shifts can make a big difference.

Session 2 – Listening to Understand (Not Just Respond)

Learn the difference between hearing and really listening.
Practice active listening and empathy-building skills by using “I statements”.
Reduce misunderstandings before they escalate.

Session 3 – Managing Conflict Constructively

Understand why conflicts repeat and how to break the cycle.
Learn “fair fighting” rules that reduce escalation.
Practice de-escalation and repair strategies.

Session 4 – Expressing Needs Without Blame

Learn how to communicate needs clearly and respectfully.
Identify your own Limiting Beliefs and filters.
Build openness and trust in conversations.

Session 5 – Strengthening Connection & Appreciation

Learn rituals of connection that deepen intimacy.
Practice expressing gratitude and positive feedback.
Build resilience in your relationship.

Session 6 – Integration & Moving Forward

Review all skills learned and combine them into your relationship toolkit.
Identify which tools work best for your partnership.
Create a plan to keep communication strong long-term.

Facilitator(s)

Led by ShiftGrit-trained therapists experienced in communication skills training, CBT, and ShiftGrit’s Pattern Theory™.

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What you’ll learn (high-impact skills)

Over six structured sessions, you’ll practice:

Healthy expression – sharing thoughts and feelings without escalation.
Active listening – hearing your partner fully, even in conflict.
Boundary-setting – saying “yes” and “no” with clarity and compassion.
Conflict repair – de-escalating fights and restoring connection.
Empathy-building – tuning into your partner’s perspective.

What to expect each week

Each session combines therapist teaching, group discussion, and roleplay practice.
Expect to:

Learn a new communication concept each week.
Apply skills in safe roleplays with supportive feedback.
Recognize and recondition defensive or avoidant patterns using ShiftGrit’s Core Method.

Results people report

Participants often share outcomes like:

Greater confidence in expressing needs.
Fewer recurring conflicts.
Stronger sense of closeness and connection with partners.
Feeling more emotionally regulated during difficult conversations.

How it works

6 weekly sessions, 2 hours each.
Small-group format for practice and feedback.
In-person, virtual, or hybrid delivery (see sidebar).
Worksheets and exercises provided.

Coverage & fees

Cost: Price: $220 per 2-hour session, paid upfront ($1320 total) 👉 Can be direct billed to benefits if covered..
May be eligible for insurance coverage under group therapy benefits (check with your provider).
No refunds once the group begins (closed group policy).

How to join

Ready to start?

Spots are limited to keep the group effective.

A brief screening call ensures fit and safety.

FAQ

❓ Who is this group for?

This group is for individuals who want to improve how they communicate, whether you’re facing ongoing conflicts, want to feel more connected, or simply want to strengthen your relationship. All couples are welcome.

❓ Do we need to be in crisis to join?

Not at all. Some couples join because they’re struggling, while others come to strengthen already solid relationships. Think of it as “relationship skills training” — useful at any stage.

❓ How is this different from couples therapy?

This is an educational skills group, not therapy. We focus on teaching tools, practicing them, and sharing strategies in a supportive environment. While the group is facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker, it’s not a substitute for personalized therapy.

❓ What will we cover?

Each week focuses on a specific communication skill, such as listening with empathy, reducing defensiveness, managing conflict, and expressing needs effectively. You’ll learn why certain patterns keep couples stuck and how to change them.

❓ How many couples will be in the group?

We keep the group small (usually 6–8 couples) so everyone has the chance to practice and ask questions.

❓ How is the group delivered?

The group runs online via a secure video platform. You’ll receive handouts and tools by email before sessions. Sessions include interactive practice, breakout discussions, and guided exercises.