Posted on January 20th, 2026

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

In a fast-paced city like Chicago, the hustle of daily life—from navigating the Loop to balancing demanding careers—can often leave couples feeling more like roommates than partners. If you’ve felt a drift in your relationship, you aren't alone. Couples therapy in Chicago offers a dedicated space to bridge that gap, helping partners move from conflict to collaboration. By integrating time-tested Adlerian principles, therapy goes beyond "venting" and focuses on building a foundation of shared purpose and mutual respect.

Building a Relationship with Purpose: The Adlerian Approach

While many therapy styles focus solely on past traumas, the Adlerian-integrated approach used by our therapists at The Caruso Wellness Center in Chicago, IL, looks at the goals of your behavior. It’s built on several core pillars that are essential for relationship improvement:

1. Cultivating Social Interest: In a relationship, "social interest" means moving from a "Me" perspective to a "We" perspective. It involves genuinely caring about your partner’s well-being and understanding that the health of the relationship contributes to the health of the individuals within it.

2. The Power of Encouragement: Adlerian therapy emphasizes encouragement over praise. While praise is often conditional, encouragement focuses on valuing your partner for who they are, not just what they do. This builds the "courage" needed to face life's challenges together.

3. Creating Shared Meaning: Every couple is a small community. Therapy helps you identify your shared values and goals—your "shared meaning." Whether it’s how you want to raise a family or how you support each other’s career ambitions, having a unified vision reduces friction and increases connection.

How Therapy Improves Your Daily Life

Seeking professional support isn't just for couples in crisis; it’s for any pair looking to improve their relationship. Here is what you can expect to gain:

1. Refined Communication: Learn to express needs without triggering defensiveness.

2. Conflict Resolution: Move past the same recurring arguments by identifying the "lifestyle" patterns underneath the surface.

3. Deepened Emotional Bonds: Rediscover the intimacy and friendship that first brought you together.

Take the Next Step for Your Relationship

Your relationship is one of the most important investments you will ever make. Whether you are navigating a major life transition or simply want to feel closer to your partner, couples therapy at The Caruso Wellness Center in Chicago, IL, can provide the tools you need to thrive.

Ready to strengthen your bond? Looking for couples therapy in Chicago, Illinois? Reach out today to learn how Adlerian-integrated counseling can help you and your partner find deeper connection and purpose.