The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists reports that many couples or families who experience distress in relationships will seek professional counseling. Counseling is commonly offered by marriage and family therapists who are specifically trained to work with couples or families. Therapy typically lasts from eight to 12 sessions and primarily focuses on setting goals regarding communication and behavioral dynamics in the relationship. According to the AAMFT, almost 90 percent of clients who seek counseling with an MFT report improvements in their emotional and physical health.
Step 1
Get referrals for professionally trained MFTs in the local community. The AAMFT notes that referrals can come from trusted friends, family physicians or community mental health agencies that provide referrals. Consider any specific specialties that may be required. For example, if there are problems in a relationship due to substance abuse, a couple or family should seek a therapist who has clinical experience with substance abuse treatment.
Step 2
Schedule appointments for initial consultations with the therapists. MayoClinic.com notes that couples and families may want to meet with a few different clinicians to find a therapist whose style and clinical experience best matches their needs. Clients should ask clinicians about scheduling logistics, length of treatment and fees. Once the initial meetings have taken place, a couple or family can discuss the options and choose the therapist who will be the best fit for everyone involved in the counseling sessions.
Step 3
Attend counseling sessions, identify key issues occurring in the relationship and set goals with the therapist. MayoClinic.com notes that couples counseling and family therapy typically involve enhanced communication and conflict resolution. Clients learn new ways of discussing and resolving issues, and they identify negative patterns they hope to change. The therapist provides an unbiased source of support and feedback. Clients also learn to identify the positive and negative aspects of their relationship, often using strengths, such as shared interests or empathy to improve areas of difficulty. MayoClinic.com notes that counseling sessions can often be difficult and full of conflict, but as the clients work with the therapist they may often gain new perspectives on the relationship and develop new coping skills. Practicing these new coping skills outside of counseling sessions will give clients a chance to explore the relationship and report back to the therapist.
Things You'll Need
- Referrals for professional counselors
- Reading or self-help materials about couples and therapy
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