Whether married or not, marriage counseling can benefit all couples by allowing them to explore their problems, learn to communicate better, and learn how to have a healthy and successful marriage, according to MayoClinic.com. If you want to attend marriage counseling for the betterment of your relationship, but your husband or partner is resistant, take care to avoid forcing the issue. Instead, calmly discuss with him why marriage counseling could benefit your relationship and include him in the decision-making process in order to convince him to go.
Step 1
Talk to your partner about the possibility of going to marriage counseling before you make a decision about going. Simply making an appointment and springing the idea on your partner could cause him to be even more resistant or feel offended. He may see your relationship as healthy and satisfying already, so it's important that you talk to him about the possibility of marriage counseling before you book an appointment.
Step 2
Explain to your partner why you think marriage counseling is a necessary step for your relationship. People choose to go to marriage counseling for a variety of reasons, points out HealthyPlace.com. These reasons may include infidelity and trust issues, financial difficulties, changing relationship roles, abuse, infertility, communication issues, blended families, sexual difficulties and anger. You may simple feel unsatisfied in the relationship and feel as though counseling would help you work through your problems together as a couple. Without making accusations, gently let him know you'd like to work on a few things together.
Step 3
Mention the potential benefits of marriage counseling to your partner. He may not immediately see why you feel the need to go and may be apprehensive of airing his problems in front of a stranger. Once you explain that you want to improve your relationship and resolve your issues together, point out that counseling could lead to greater relationship satisfaction, increased harmony and less arguing. This may make him more receptive to the idea. If necessary, write down the benefits and the disadvantages of counseling so your partner gains a clearer picture of its purpose.
Step 4
Choose a marriage counselor together so you're able to choose a therapist or counselor that he feels comfortable with. Contact at least three counselors in your area and ask them questions about their rates, philosophies and experience. Brainstorm with your partner before choosing one whose experience you find most impressive and who shares similar philosophies on love, marriage, divorce and relationships as you and your partner. It's important that you both trust your counselor, notes HealthGuidance.org, or your partner may be less receptive to the counselor's advice.
Things You'll Need
- Pen
- Paper
