All normal relationships experience times of stress, but stressful situations sometimes turn into something larger. When this happens, couples can either split up or find a means of repairing the damage. The Good Therapist website defines marriage counseling as a holistic approach, focusing on the marriage, not just the individuals involved. Unmarried couples can also benefit from counseling.
Reasons Couples Seek Counseling
Financial disagreements and problems with in-laws are the most common reasons that couples seek counseling, according to Dorothy Andrew, MSW, of Cape Fear Healthy Minds. Domestic violence, substance abuse, infidelity and life changes are other common reasons couples enter therapy. Engaged couples may seek counseling before entering into marriage, in an effort to clarify their intentions and expectations.
Benefits
Marriage and couples counseling helps to improve the couple's communication, a skill which is key to healthy relationships. Therapy assists couples to identify underlying issues and to address them in a productive and respectful manner. The counseling process facilitates introspection, allowing each person to pinpoint what they need from the relationship or marriage. The improved level of intimacy, arising from working through problems in counseling, brings a sense of fulfillment to the participating couple.
Time Frame
The team of professionals at The Counseling Center recommends an initial counseling commitment of three to six months. Within the suggested three- to six-month period, couples can see if counseling helps their relationship. Couples coming to therapy for specific problems may require less time in therapy than couples who present with broader issues.
Cost
Fees for marriage and couples counseling vary. Some counselors provide a sliding scale fee for couples who cannot pay the full rate. Scheduling counseling sessions every other week provides a cost-effective option for couples with financial concerns. Insurance does not typically pay for marriage or couples counseling, but you may wish to inquire with your insurance provider to find out if your policy covers marriage or couples counseling.
Considerations
Before seeking relationship counseling, consider your commitment to the marriage or relationship. Counseling provides you with tools to overcome your relationship problems, but it does not fix the problems for you. At times, only one member of the couple wants to move forward with counseling. According to The Counseling Center, an individual can seek marriage or couples counseling without the direct involvement of the spouse. The non-participating member of the couple can be asked to enter therapy at a later date.
