Conflict is bound to happen when two people meld their lives together in marriage. They will have disputes even if they love each other deeply. This is normal and can be very healthy if the couple is able to resolve their differences. Sometimes people cannot do it on their own. Marriage counseling can help restore harmony and find mutually acceptable solutions.
Definition
Marriage counseling is therapy done with both the husband and wife in attendance, although it may include some individual sessions. It is focused on solving relationship problems rather than individual issues. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, or AAMFT, explains that it is solution oriented and meant to give effective solutions within a short time period. The therapist develops goals with the couple and focuses the sessions on achieving them. Treatment effectiveness is measured by assessing progress toward the goals.
Time Frame
Marriage counseling runs an average of 12 sessions, according to the AAMFT. Some couples need more time, but more than 65 percent of cases required no more than 20 sessions to achieve results. Nearly 88 percent of couples complete their work within 50 sessions.
Effects
The AAMFT reports that more than 98 percent of couples that undergo marriage counseling report that the experience was "good" or "excellent." More than 75 percent of them say their relationship has improved, and many also report improved functioning in other life areas, such as the workplace. Couples see concrete changes when their therapy is effective. Help Guide, a mental health site, explains they should notice that old patterns are being replaced with healthy behaviors and that they are feeling more connected and see improvement in their moods.
Types
Couples seek marriage counseling for a variety of problems. MayoClinic.com explains that some of the most common include poor communication, financial issues, sexual problems, parenting conflicts, infidelity, anger and substance abuse. Certain issues may require one partner to do some individual work in addition to the couples therapy. For example, an alcoholic person might need to attend Alcoholic Anonymous meetings. A qualified marriage and family therapist can involve children in the counseling sessions if the marriage problems involve child rearing, according to the AAMFT.
Considerations
Couples should see a properly qualified marriage and family therapist to get the best results. The AAMFT explains that these counselors earn a masters or doctorate degree in marriage and family therapy and earn two years of clinic experience. They must get a state license and prove their qualifications in order to practice professionally. Prospective clients can check their credentials with their state's licensing office.
