When it comes to your relationship, each and every problem can seem magnified. Over time, many things could lead to a breakdown between you and your spouse or partner. Feelings of hopelessness, confusion, anger, or frustration may set in. Many wonder if there could be a way to resolve issues, work through obstacles, and whether there is a clear road to recovery and reconciliation.
There are many different paths that lead to couples seeking counseling. The process of deciding to attend counseling can seem like a huge step, and many people in relationships realize that they are not completely certain about what therapy might entail – let alone whether it will provide solutions. Finding the right provider, working appointments into various busy schedules, and honoring the financial commitment might seem daunting.
To shed some light on the couples counseling process, here are some of the common issues and concerns within a relationship where counseling could be beneficial.
A Lack of Trust
Infidelity does not always come in the form of a direct, physical encounter. While some couples deal with sex outside of the relationship, others are coping with an “emotional” affair with someone else. In other cases, lack of trust might be the result of excessive spending, financial secrets, or some other deception. With the help of a professional counselor, both parties might feel more inclined to discuss their emotions and vulnerabilities in a judgment-free environment.
Escalating Anger or Arguments
Discord can turn a happy partnership or marriage into something difficult to manage. Constant arguing and conflict can disrupt your daily life and the lives of children and families. While conflict from time to time is natural and normal, constant conflict is not normal. The fights might be about more than just what lies on the surface, as tension and resentment could stem from any number of sources. Counseling can help you dive into some of these issues and determine what is at the root of the constant conflict.
Faulty Communication
Just because a couple isn’t arguing frequently doesn’t mean that there aren’t serious issues that linger. Communication is key, and if one or both members of a partnership or marriage feel misunderstood, ignored, or not heard, it is important to resolve those issues as soon as possible. A professional counselor can help provide insight into why communication issues may exist. There might be a lack of understanding, personalities in conflict, or an unwillingness to hear the other’s concerns. Giving you the tools and strategies to communicate better and be honest with your partner can improve your life for the long haul.
Something Feels “Off”
Does something feel a little “off”, but you’re just not sure what to make of it? If you have dealt with major life changes, you suddenly feel uncomfortable with your partner, or doubts about your relationship seem to crop up out of nowhere, a counselor can help steer the conversation and unpack some of those issues. Counseling can help you and your partner not only resolve issues, but identify issues, as well.
Intimacy Is Nonexistent or Problematic
Sexual obstacles can hinder a relationship quickly. Whereas your sex life may have once been consistent and robust, age, stress, or other issues might have caused a disruption. For the other partner, rejection and resentment can arise. A lack of intimacy can be dealt with physically, but there are equally important mental and emotional components to the process, too.
Stuck in Bad Patterns
Bad habits and lifestyle changes that impact a relationship can rapidly turn into bad patterns. Even something as simple as a lack of sleep, unhealthy eating habits, or one spouse having to travel frequently can lead to division and frustration. Worse yet are problems that have come up over time, and have never properly been discussed or dealt with – one parent absorbing more chores or childcare duties than the other, for example. Sitting down with a couples counselor can help smooth over some of these long term issues and can help redirect your energy towards improving and moving forward together.
If you and/or your partner or spouse feel that you’ve encountered roadblocks towards a healthy, meaningful relationship, or if any of these scenarios seems a bit too familiar, Susan Block, LMFT is here to help. Call our offices today to schedule a free consultation: 954-675-1936, or visit our website for more information: https://coralspringscounselingcenter.com/.
Susan Block is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in marriage, family and individual therapy. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University in 1997 and completed her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2004. Also an active member of The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), Susan Block offers Couples Counseling in South Florida, as well as online therapy throughout the state. Click on the link to find out more: https://coralspringscounselingcenter.com/counseling-specialties/online-therapy/