Can marriage counseling save your marriage? Find out if marriage counseling works and how it can improve your relationship.
There are many reasons why couples fight: finances, parenting styles, infidelity, or even work-related stressors that can spill over into the marriage and create tension. Although some level of conflict is a natural part of any marriage, when not properly addressed, it can build up to resentment that can deeply impact the relationship.
You have probably already heard about marriage counseling or couples therapy. But you still might be wondering: Does marriage counseling work? And more than that: will it work for you?
How does marriage counseling work?
Marriage counseling — also known as couples counseling or couples therapy — involves the participation of a couple and a specialized therapist throughout several sessions. The main goal is to help couples work together to strengthen their relationship and feel more connected.
Working with a therapist provides couples with a safe and non-judgmental space to understand their issues and improve the relationship.
Throughout the marriage counseling sessions, you and your partner will be able to identify areas of conflict, negative patterns, communication blocks, and any underlying problems that are contaminating your relationship. Moreover, you will develop new strategies to communicate with empathy, deal with conflict in a healthy way, and rediscover intimacy.
Depending on the approach, marriage counseling can include sessions with both partners, individual sessions, or a combination of both. The process usually begins with an initial evaluation where the therapist gathers information about the relationship and identifies areas of concern.
Keep in mind that your relationship doesn’t have to be unraveling for you to seek marriage counseling. On the contrary, you will get a better result if you see it as a way to prevent your problems from getting to a breaking point. Contact us for a free 15-minute consultation for couples therapy.
Is marriage counseling effective?
Most people who experience couples therapy agree that it has a positive impact on their relationship. In fact, research shows that 75% of couples who attended counseling report an improvement in their relationship.
A recent survey found that 99% of people in couples therapy say it benefits their relationship. Despite the cost and, in many cases, the need for private pay, 94% state it is worth the investment, and 83% see it as a priority in their relationship.
Still, it is important to remember that every relationship is unique, and results can vary. The success of marriage counseling will largely depend on the dedication and willingness of both partners to put in the effort. As well as, the skill and experience of the couples therapist.
Will marriage counseling work for you?
Any couple — married, engaged, or dating — can benefit from therapy. Whether you’re going through a rough time in your relationship or fear your marriage is reaching a breaking point, marriage counseling can help.
A good indicator that it’s time to start couples counseling is if both you and your partner feel dissatisfied with the relationship. More so, if you’re dealing with a conflict that you have difficulty communicating about and coming up with a solution.
You don’t have to wait for your problems to be “serious” or “bad enough” to seek help. On the contrary, the earlier you address your issues, the better the chances of success. Waiting too long can lead to deeper damage and make it more challenging to rebuild trust and repair the relationship.
Couples therapy is a great way to check in on your relationship. It will allow you and your partner to work through your problems when they first arise, and learn how to manage future obstacles together.
How to choose the right couples therapist?
Choosing the right therapist is crucial for the success of your therapy process. Look for a therapist specialized in couples counseling and experienced in the specific issues you and your partner are facing. It’s also important to find a therapist with whom both of you feel comfortable and can trust.
A good relationship between a couple and therapist is essential to get the most out of therapy and stay committed to the process. At Deep Connections Counseling, we offer a free 15-minute consultation with our expert couples therapist Dr. Kinga Gudor. This way, you will get a sense of the style and approach, and determine if it is a good fit for your specific needs. Book an appointment or contact us to know more.
Keep in mind that it might take a few sessions to establish a good connection with your therapist. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings, hesitations and ask questions. The only way to make it work is if all of you work together with honest and open communication.
Kinga Gudor, PhD
Kinga is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 15 years of experience. She specializes in couples therapy and working with individuals from a multicultural background.
