Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT)

Repairing Conflict, Deepening Understanding, and Rebuilding Connection

Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) is an evidence-based approach that helps couples move beyond chronic conflict, emotional distance, and recurring misunderstandings. Unlike models that focus solely on behavioral change, IBCT blends practical problem-solving with emotional insight—helping partners step out of blame and reactivity and into empathy, acceptance, and deeper connection.

Grounded in both behavioral principles and attachment theory, IBCT recognizes that some relationship struggles stem not from communication failures alone, but from deeper differences in values, temperament, or life experience. Rather than trying to eliminate all conflict, this approach helps partners relate to their differences with more compassion, flexibility, and emotional closeness.

IBCT supports couples in:

• Identifying and interrupting painful patterns of conflict, shutdown, or defensiveness

• Understanding the emotional vulnerabilities and histories that fuel reactivity

• Promoting acceptance of core differences while encouraging meaningful change

• Enhancing emotional intimacy, responsiveness, and mutual understanding

• Building collaborative tools for navigating challenges as a team

IBCT is especially helpful for couples feeling stuck in long-standing tension, emotional disengagement, or repeated arguments that never fully resolve. Dr. Lauren Helm uses IBCT to help couples reconnect with each other’s humanity, strengthen their bond, and move forward with greater clarity, care, and resilience.

IBCT is an evidence-based couples therapy model that helps partners move from conflict and disconnection toward empathy and collaboration. At Rise Psychology, Dr. Lauren Helm uses IBCT to address longstanding patterns and support meaningful, lasting relationship growth.