Maybe you're having trouble with your relationship, but can't get your spouse or partner to buy into couples counseling. Or perhaps you feel like you might be part of the problem, and want to become a better partner. Or you may be having a hard time because of a break-up or divorce, or because you're trying to decide if you want to stay in your relationship. Any of these issues is a valid reason for entering relationship counseling.
Everyone wants to have loving, positive relationships in his or her life. Yet barriers to communication and intimacy often become a stumbling block. Counseling can help you identify those barriers and teach you the skills you need to have a healthier love life.
You can also seek relationship counseling if you're dating and aren't in a committed, long-term relationship yet. Doing so can help you make dating more fulfilling, and could pave the way to a lasting relationship.
What Does Relationship Counseling Do?
Relationship counseling can teach you how to move towards the love life you envision for yourself. For example, you could learn how to manage conflict and communicate your needs more effectively, including simple techniques you can start to use right away. And, if conveying your needs is difficult for you, you might learn new ways of looking at the situation that could help you feel better about asking for what you need.
You'll also benefit from a more objective view of your situation. Sometimes this can help pinpoint new avenues that you and your partner may not have tried yet. Having someone just listen without judgement may lead you to some of those solutions, too.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't always need both parties to "get on-board" in order to improve a relationship. Sometimes a few adjustments on the part of one person can soften the other partner's responses and open up communication in new and unexpected ways.
Does Relationship Counseling Work?
The data suggest that it does over 90% of the time. Of course, it depends on what you're looking for.
If you're hoping to learn how to build a strong, supportive, and loving partnership, this is a very reasonable goal for relationship counseling. In fact, you'll be able to apply the skills you gain in-session throughout your life, and use them no matter whom you are seeing.
Can I Segue into Couples Counseling Later On?
Absolutely. Many people do. It can often be helpful to do some individual counseling before you dive into various issues with your partner.
Feel free to contact me to arrange a 15-minute phone consultation at no charge if you'd like to discuss your goals for relationship counseling and how I can help.
