Marital therapy presents many elements that are similar to family therapy, but also requires some unique understanding.  Every therapist brings his or her own biases to the therapeutic intervention.  These biases come from our own life experiences, and while we are trained to be aware of these biases, they cannot be totally eliminated.  In recognizing our bias, our own lives reflect a long, stable marriage relationship dating back to a college courtship.  As you might guess then, our bias would be toward the expectation that most marriages can function successfully, if the problem areas are identified, understood, and subsequently fixed.  We are also aware that the marriage relationship is not static, but changes many times as the couple moves though different life phases.  The relationship requires constant attention and adjustment, if it is going to meet each of the couples' needs.  Over the years, we have developed many techniques and skills that help people maintain a healthy marital relationship.