Connection, coping skills, empathy and understanding are very important for relationships and well-being. We inherit and learn from our parents and environment. Into each new relationship we bring our self and our history. In order to have fulfilling relationships we must start with ourselves, be willing to embrace change and be willing to learn. Couples can benefit from therapy at any time. Therapy can be a catalyst for positive change. The sooner you begin to address difficult patterns the less time for negative perceptions to harden. Therapy can help you to grow more deeply together or to work through differences that need resolution.
Understanding relationships:
Relationships seem so simple in the beginning when two people are attracted. However what many people do not realize is that the many appealing factors that bring them together can also become the source of problems. When relationships go through transitions, especially too many at one time the individuals may be coping however , the emotional concerns may easily take a toll and leave partners depleted and unable to provide the usual sense of comfort or connection.
It is also important to realize that the family environment which we are brought up in greatly influences our ability to relate and each individual has their own personal triggers for potential upset. When couples are self aware and able to communicate the chances are high that they can work through common problems but when stressors are high, self- awareness low and communication limited then the potential for problems increases dramatically.
Individual and couples therapy can assist each individual with in the relationship to explore patterns, background history, and develop communication strategies and emotional connection. Therapy can also assist in identifying patterns that are not noticed and can assist individuals even if the partner is not attending therapy. In some cases it can reconcile differences and development of a greater potential with in the relationship and in some cases it can assist in making a healthier process of disconnecting.
“As any traveler knows; you sometimes need a guide to go places you have never been…”
Some of the key issues for couples centers around transitions: Marriage, relationships with in-laws, new parenthood, illness, finance, task assignments, work and play, juggling time for self and independence, retirement, deaths in families, loss of work and personal emotional stressors.
Many of these transitions can be navigated more clearly and openly when individuals are aware of the potential for stress. Often what is taken for granted in life and relationships becomes a source of pain and problems. Couples can learn to openly discuss important issues with each other by being honest and allowing themselves to feel the emotions arising and communicate them effectively. They can learn to plan for healthier communication and connection which will lead to coping with change in a more meaningful and productive manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect during couple and marital issue therapy?
Couples and marital therapy often begins with counseling to identify the source of conflict in a relationship. Ultimately, the goal of couples and marital therapy is helping couples determine whether they want to move forward in their relationships; and if so – assist them in moving forward.
What should my partner and I expect to gain from a couple and marital therapy?
As you become more self aware and aware of patterns in your relationship you will begin to see yourself and your partner differently. Therapy can help you both be more aware of the generational patterns and emotional needs that require attention. The end goal is improved communication and a genuine appreciation for the depth of the process required to create change and be responsive to both yourself and your partner.
