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.
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™.
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.
