Posted on Feb. 17th 2025

By: Dr. Robert W. Caruso, DMin, MDiv, MART, MA, ALMFT

Relationships are naturally complex, woven with shared experiences, mutual support, and, at times, personality clashes. Throughout my years of counseling, I’ve seen couples struggle to understand each other’s differences, often lacking the vocabulary to communicate them effectively. These unspoken differences frequently lead to unnecessary conflict. Navigating these complexities can be challenging, and that’s where couples counseling—especially when enhanced by tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)—can be incredibly beneficial.

What is the MBTI?

The MBTI is a clinical personality assessment based on Carl Jung’s psychological theories. It helps individuals gain deeper self-awareness and understand how they relate to others, particularly their partners. While the MBTI should not be the sole focus of therapy, it provides a valuable framework for couples to recognize their communication styles, needs, and interactions.

How the MBTI Can Help in Couples Counseling

1. Understanding Communication Styles

Imagine a partner who is "Introverted," requiring time to process thoughts internally before responding, paired with an "Extroverted" partner who thrives on immediate verbal processing. The MBTI helps illuminate these differences, reducing misunderstandings and conflict.

2. Identifying Relationship Needs

Different personality types have varying needs. A "Feeling" type may prioritize emotional connection and validation, while a "Thinking" type values logical discussions and problem-solving. The MBTI assists couples in identifying and articulating their core needs, fostering greater support and understanding.

3. Navigating Conflict

Understanding your partner’s MBTI type can provide insight into their conflict resolution style. A "Judging" type may prefer structure and closure during disagreements, whereas a "Perceiving" type may need space and flexibility to process emotions before addressing conflicts.

4. Appreciating Differences

The MBTI emphasizes that all personality types are valid and compatible in their own ways. Rather than trying to change each other, couples learn to embrace their differences, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.

5. Improving Communication

By recognizing each other’s communication preferences, couples can adapt their styles to create more effective and harmonious interactions. This leads to fewer misunderstandings and a stronger emotional connection.

What to Expect in MBTI-Informed Couples Counseling

As a marriage and family therapist certified in MBTI, I guide couples through the assessment process, helping them interpret their results and understand how these insights apply to their relationship. Counseling sessions facilitate discussions on how personality differences contribute to conflict or miscommunication, while also developing strategies to navigate these differences constructively.

Important Considerations

• The MBTI is not a test and does not measure behavior traits. It is a self-report assessment designed to improve self-awareness, not to label or stereotype individuals. It does not definitively measure personality traits.
• Focus on growth, not change. The goal is not to alter your partner’s personality but to develop an appreciation for their unique qualities. Couples learn to collaborate despite differences rather than attempting to reshape each other.
• Professional guidance is key. A trained and certified MBTI therapist is essential to maximizing its effectiveness. I provide the necessary insights and structured support to help couples navigate their relationship dynamics safely and productively.
  
  

Join Our Upcoming MBTI Couples Workshop

Do you think the MBTI could be a valuable tool for your relationship? I believe it can. By providing a framework for understanding personality differences, it empowers couples to communicate more effectively and strengthen their bond.

If you are interested in exploring how the MBTI can enhance your relationship, I invite you to attend my upcoming workshop:


“Learning How to Dance in Our Personality Differences”
📅 Date: March 29, 2025
📍 Location: Renaissance Hotel and Conference Center, Schaumburg, Illinois

Contact Dr. Robert Caruso

If you’re interested in attending the MBTI couples workshop or scheduling an MBTI-focused couples or individual counseling session, reach out today.


📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call: 224-875-0393