Couples Therapy (2019)
Far from reality-show caricatures, this is true documentary filmmaking that brings viewers into the authentic and visceral experience of weekly therapy with four couples. World-class therapist Dr. Orna Guralnik deftly guides the couples through the minefield of honest confrontation with each other and with themselves, revealing the real-life struggles — and extraordinary breakthroughs — typically hidden behind closed doors.
Seasons & Episode
In the season premiere, Josh, Aryn and Lorena unpack their polyamorous past and Lorena's fear of planning. Joey kicks her mother out but wonders if mom's dislike of Rex was right. Elíana wants Mitch to move back in now that they have a child. Casimar is desperate to end the explosive fighting with Alexes.
Aryn doesn't understand why Josh isn't excited about her new job. Orna tells Elíana that her condescension isn't helpful, and Mitch explains his view of fatherhood. Alexes reveals his troubling past of abuse.
In parallel sessions, Orna see how Josh plays out the same dynamic with Aryn and Lorena; Rex and Joey reveal their lack of a father growing up, and the roots of Rex's repression; Casimar tells of a brutal fight where Alexes dissociated into an alternate persona; Alexes can't remember what happened.
While discussing whether to have kids, Joey uncovers her darker fears behind pregnancy; Lorena is increasingly frustrated in her secondary role with Josh; Casimar's reveals how childhood homelessness shaped his relationship to trauma and creativity; Orna asks Mitch to come up with a new plan for how to live with Eliana.
Casimar is frustrated by Alexes's lack of progress; Joey demands that Rex give up family traditions to be a good Christian; Josh reveals a past brush with the law that colors his relationships.
Rex reveals his past as a sexual bad boy. When Alexes began pulling away, Casimar turned to infidelity. Elíana's past makes her 'weird' about sex. Aryn has conflicted feelings about Josh and Lorena.
Orna confronts Joey. Elíana invites Mitch to move in. Casimar and Alexes are forced to rent out their apartment, leading to a blow-up fight.
Rex and Joey have a breakthrough while on vacation. Lorena struggles to be the main character in her own life. Alexes realizes why he attacks Casimar's family. Orna encourages Elíana and Mitch to be vulnerable.
Joey has an epiphany. Elíana reveals what's underneath her OCD. Orna talks to Josh, Aryn and Lorena about the struggles of polyamory. While traveling, Alexes uncovers new feelings about Casimar and his hopes for their future. Season finale.