Marriage Counseling: Is It A Good Option For You?

Illnesses, finances, poor communication, and anger, among other things, can cause problems in a marriage. If your relationship is on the rocks, you might be dealing with argument after argument. If you aren't sure how to fix things within your relationship, it might be time to look at marriage counseling as this can be the gateway to help you rebuild your relationship. Couples often turn to marriage counseling when they need help managing conflict and stress within their relationship. Marriage counseling can help you take a step back, get a better understanding of your relationship, and make better thought-out decisions. 

What is marriage counseling? 

Marriage counseling, sometimes referred to as couples therapy, helps individuals in a relationship better understand their conflicts. Over a series of sessions, couples will work to resolve their conflicts and improve their relationships in a healthy way. Therapists will give couples the tools they need to become better communicators, as well as ideas on how to negotiate through their differences and solve problems together. Arguing isn't always unhealthy. In fact, some therapists will teach couples how to argue in a healthier way. 

How does marriage counseling work?

While most marriage counseling is short-term, other couples may need these services for several months. Sessions are generally once a week and both individuals are present. The therapist helps the couple understand where the conflict is coming from and works with them to resolve it by teaching them new skills. These skills may include problem-solving as a team, openly communicating, and discussing the differences in the relationship.

While these sessions may not be easy and they may bring up hurtful feelings, your therapist is there to help guide you both through the emotions, not taking sides. After going to marriage counseling for a few sessions, you may start to notice you and your partner connecting better. 

Common Issues Marriage Counseling Helps With

No marriages are 100% perfect and there are bound to be conflicts at different points throughout the relationship. No matter the cause of the conflict, a disruption in the relationship can provoke feelings of sadness, fear, worry, stress, and more.

Some of the typical issues that lead couples to marriage counseling include:

• Affairs

• Loss of sexual attraction

• Substance abuse issues

• Mental health conditions

• Finances 

• Unemployment

• Communication problems

• Infertility

• Having children with special needs

• Permanent physical injuries

• And more

Contact Us

At Thrive Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, we help couples in the Cary, Apex, Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, Hope Mills, and Greensboro, NC areas, strengthen their relationships, and gain the tools they need to communicate better and work through their differences. Our therapists act as a neutral source, ready to help guide each partner as they learn to be more self-aware. Let us help you and your partner regain confidence in your relationship. Contact us today for more information.