Katie Piper has opened up about the behind-the-scenes work it takes to keep her marriage strong, revealing that she and her husband Richard Sutton have turned to couples therapy as a “relationship MOT”.
The Loose Women star, 41, said the decision to seek therapy came from a desire to feel “seen and heard” in a relationship that has evolved over more than a decade. “I’ve been through different kinds of therapy over the years,” she explained. “The one for my burn injuries ended long ago, but life still throws challenges. Rich and I went to couples therapy to strengthen our bond — it’s like maintenance for your relationship.”
Katie, who shares two daughters — Belle, 11, and Penelope, 7 — also revealed that the couple have been talking seriously about growing their family through fostering or adoption. “We tried naturally before I turned 40, but it wasn’t meant to be. We considered IVF, but I told myself I was done with medical procedures,” she admitted.
Instead, she sees fostering as a path forward, adding: “I know my kids would love to welcome another sibling.”
Life at home recently got busier as the family adopted a rescue dog, thanks to a connection with Alison Hammond’s For the Love of Dogs series. “It’s like having a newborn again,” Katie laughed, “but it’s helping the kids learn responsibility.”
Reflecting on her past, Katie spoke honestly about the sulphuric acid attack that changed her life at age 24 and left her with over 250 surgeries. She said she “never thought she’d make it to 40,” but now feels more alive than ever.
Katie also used her platform to challenge society’s obsession with youth and beauty. “I was removed from the male gaze in seconds at 24,” she said. “Women should embrace ageing. Don’t fear change — it’s not the end, it’s a new chapter.”
She now feels that her 40s have become her most fulfilling chapter yet: “This is the time I’ve truly started living.”
