What do you think will happen if you attend couples counseling? Many people have an overwhelming fear they will be blamed for every relationship problem. However, this is unlikely. Counseling is designed to improve communication and to come to terms with individual deficiencies, and to stop blaming and accusing. More likely, throughout therapy, you will explore several topics, including the following seven.
1. Current Problems
The first thing a counselor will want to know is why you and your significant other sought therapy. When talking about the relationship’s current problems, it is necessary to avoid accusations and blame. Therefore, present the issues in terms of how you feel.
2. Relationship History
Next, your counselor will probably want to discuss how your relationship began. When and how did you meet? Have there been issues since the beginning, or are problems reasonably recent? Did anything change leading up to the current issues? Knowing about your relationship will help the therapist understand where to focus on sessions.
3. Individual History
There is also a possibility that your counselor will want to speak with you and your loved one separately. Individual sessions are usually an excellent way to get to the heart of matters. Once the therapist has a better understanding of the couple individually, they will slowly bring the couple back together to open productive dialogue.
4. Desired Outcomes
Another common topic covered in therapy is a focus on the desired outcome. The objective of treatment should be something specific and not merely to stay together. Unfortunately, not every relationship can or should be saved. Therefore, take time to consider what you expect and desire from your sessions.
5. Relationship Strengths
If you have been in a relationship for any length of time, then there have likely been good times as well as bad. What made the good times good? Does your partner lift you up when you’re down? Are they on your side for support? What do you consider the strong attributes of your relationship?
6. Communication Strategies
All counseling, including couples counseling, will focus on communication. People are often conflicted about the best ways to broach topics and conversations, which can lead to compartmentalizing. Are you guilty of this? Do you stop yourself from discussing certain things because you are afraid of how your loved one will take it? Therapy will help you eliminate communication barriers if you are receptive.
7. Homework
Last, every couple’s counselor will typically give couples homework. Usually, the homework is related to communication strategies.
How is your current relationship? If you feel like it needs work, then consider reaching out to a therapist in Palatine, IL for help.
Thanks to Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into wellness and health.
