If you have issues in your relationship that make it difficult for you and your partner to get along or communicate in ways that make you both happy, you might consider marriage counseling or couples therapy to help move your relationship in the right direction. Marriage counseling can help you deal with serious relationship issues, but it can also be helpful if you've reached an impasse on a smaller issue.
Identification
Marriage counseling is a specific type of psychotherapy that focuses on understanding and improving communication and resolving conflicts in relationships. Licensed therapists or clinical social workers usually lead marriage counseling sessions, which are based on many of the same principles used for individual therapy sessions. Marriage counseling is most frequently undertaken by both members of a couple together, but you can receive couples therapy by yourself, too, if you are trying to improve your relationship.
Types
Marriage counseling can deal with several different types of problems common in relationships. Marriage counseling can focus on improving inter-couple communications skills. Sexual issues, such as impotence or other sexual problems, can be explored in marriage counseling. Marriage counseling can focus on specific issues, such as financial or child-rearing disagreements, or on serious issues, such as infidelity and anger. Some marriage therapy may combine several of these different issues, depending on a couple's needs.
Function
According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, marriage counseling improves relationships while addressing the social and emotional issues that can contribute to relationship problems in the first place. Marriage counseling focuses on helping couples learn to communicate with each other better so that they can tackle tough issues together. In some cases, if a relationship is irreparably damaged, marriage counseling can help pave the way for a more peaceful divorce.
Considerations
Marriage counseling is usually a short-term therapy, though if your relationship is in serious trouble you may need a longer counseling series. Marriage therapy is most likely to give couples the results they want if they are truly open to the experience and willing to be honest about the issues in their relationship, even if they are embarrassed. Most counselors have heard it all and will not blink at your most embarrassing revelations.
Warning
Be sure you understand what, if any, part of marriage counseling your health insurance covers, and make your therapy plans accordingly. Some insurance plans cover all or part of a set number of sessions; others may require you to pay up front and file paperwork for reimbursement. Still others may not cover any counseling costs. There are numerous affordable counseling options, including community counseling centers and houses of worship, so don't let cost deter you from getting the help you need.
