Couples Counseling
Relationships do not always run smoothly and in some cases the communication links between a couple may break down to the extent that the relationship is in danger of ending. In this situation many people realise that it they have to get professional help from a counselor or person to mediate.
Finding a resolution to your relationship ills starts with admitting that there is a problem and then allowing a third party to intervene. Therapists and counselors aim to provide the answers to questions that may have been the cause of the problem. At the same time couples must understand that counseling is not always a panacea, and that they are only part of the healing process.
Reasons for seeking counseling
The complexity of human relationships often means that they can go wrong sometimes. There may be obvious reasons for a breakdown in a relationship but if the couple are not sure why they are facing problems, then the following indicators might help.
Infidelity
This is one of the main reasons for problems. If either one or in some cases both partners have cheated on their spouse in any way, there will be tension in the relationship. Affairs rarely have a happy ending and the resentment which is harboured can ruin the relationship. If the couple decide that they want to continue their relationship, then they will need to confront issues that they are not able to deal with objectively. A counselor can help to guide the couple towards reaching an understanding of the dynamics of the relationship. At all times acting impartially and respectfully towards the couple they are treating.
Commitment
This is another reason for a relationship breakdown, and often occurs when the distribution of effort and energy invested into the relationship is not equal. This might be because one half of the couple wants children or even to commit to marriage whilst the other one does not.
Communication
The inability to express how you really feel and subsequently suppressing emotions will have a disastrous effect on a relationship. The reasons can often be as simple as not wanting to offend, but actually having a counter productive effect in the long term and often causing feelings of resentment to manifest. The simplest method of communication comes in the form of speech, being able to listen and understand. This type of communication breakdown will have physical effects.
Sex
Many couples experience a lack of communication when it comes to sex, this can be brought about by several factors such as:
- Stress – this can be related to work or exacerbated by anxieties about the relationship going wrong.
- Discomfort – physical changes may mean that sex is not physically enjoyable.
- Boredom – can stem from a feeling that the relationship has run its course.
- Sexual confusion – questions about sexuality might be affecting the relationship.
