Reasons to consider couples counselling

There are so many factors both internal and external that can have an impact on relationships in the 21st century. With the emergence and growth of social media sites, changes in the economy, pressure on both men and women to have a certain appearance, earn particular amounts of money etc., there has been an increase in the number of couples who are married or in long-term relationships seeking guidance from a third party. In some cases, this is a therapist.

Couples counselling is where a couple meet with a qualified therapist to explore the issues that are negatively affecting their relationship. The therapist will provide the time and the space for the couple to express their views in a non-judgemental environment and will also assist them in being open and honest about their feelings. One of the main objectives is to try to get to the root causes of what is creating the disruption within the relationship.

A therapist will usually provide tasks for couples to take away and complete, useful resources, information and plenty of opportunities for couples to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment with no distractions. Couples counselling can be useful for couples who may be holding onto feelings that they have suppressed and also for couples who struggle to communicate with each other, often leading to arguments. As the therapist does not know either party, it allows for some neutrality as opposed to couples discussing issues with family members where there is obvious bias.

Couples who access therapy may find that it highlights the areas that they need to work on to move forward productively in their relationship or in some cases, it may provide a conclusion about their relationship coming to an end. Either way, therapy can provide resolution in most cases.