On the Brink of Divorce? Try Couples Counseling Before it is Too Late
Marriage is a lifelong commitment, and for that reason, there will certainly come a time in everyone’s relationship where they can feel that the fibers of their marriage are breaking. You might even reach a point of wanting to end it entirely. It’s a point at which many may ask themselves many questions on what to do and where to go from here. If you feel this way about your own marriage, it can be helpful to consider constructive options, like couples counseling, rather than make a drastic decision about divorce. You can undo couples counseling, but undoing divorce is much uglier.
What is it?
Couples counseling uses a kind of therapy called Emotionally Focused Therapy. This focuses on relationships between adults, and how to mend or reinforce them. In couples therapy, partners learn not only to develop more communicative and cooperative communication skills but also to learn to understand each other’s perspectives in a way that isn’t distressing or confrontational. It also allows partners to reach the root of the problem, which can often be insecurity or miscommunication, instead of getting distracted by what’s on the surface, like fights or arguments. It facilitates a space in which you and your partner can talk openly but constructively about your concerns, fears, and priorities.
Why Couples Counseling?
According to the American Psychological Association, couples therapy is around 75% effective. Couples counseling is an option for those who have experienced a breach of trust (such as in the case of infidelity), dysfunctional or repetitive arguments, a tragedy or stressor you both experienced, and much else. Additionally, couples therapy not only helps when you’re in a crisis but also proactively: such as when you might enter into a stressful situation, like the birth of a child.
If you think you might be ready to speak with a counselor, contact us today to discuss your options.