Relationship difficulties are generally but not exclusively about couples and often concern intimate relationships between two adults. It is most likely the most common cause of stress in adults. Communication breakdowns, personal conflicts, conflicts as parents, sexual problems, affairs, violence and jealousy and possessiveness are some problems that might be encountered in a relationship. The relationship can be heterosexual, lesbian, gay or bisexual.

For lesbians, gay and bisexual people in psychotherapy a neutral therapeutic space should provide acceptance, support and validation.

Some clients are looking for growth or development in a relationship that has become "stuck". Some individuals seek to keep their personal integrity when ending a relationship.

Coinneach Shanks aims for balance between individual needs and those of the relationship concerned. Where psychotherapy follows divorce or separation, Coinneach works with the client to establish the personal  integrity of the individual.