Couples Counseling

Relationships and marriages take work.

Often, perspectives and expectations differ, and problems arise from these differences.

People do not change quickly, and thinking we can change someone becomes frustrating. Each partner brings experiences and behaviors learned throughout childhood and into adulthood, creating differences in perspective that can lead to potential conflict.

Communication issues arise when couples have different ideas about finances, parenting, and how to handle family issues. Anger and resentment become common, and arguments seem to be the only conversations the couple can make happen.

Many spouses or partners will shut down or avoid conversations for days so arguments don’t happen. Living as roommates and walking on eggshells are often used to describe this lifestyle. This is the first step toward the end of what could be a good relationship.

Where did the ability to listen actively go?

Can you feel what your spouse or partner feels, or is your opinion more important to the conversation?

Words of affirmation, meaningful discussions, and learning to keep your relationship close/intimate all help you get through the rough times. When we start to take these things for granted, we do not give them the attention they need to keep our relationship close.

Without open and respectful communication, where both sides listen, problems don’t get solved. Empathy and understanding are needed from both partners to start to lower the tension that comes from bad communication.

Couples counseling can make a difference.

Couples counseling is about helping each partner learn ways to listen and understand without judgment.

I offer a space where everyone’s thoughts and concerns are allowed as we explore the issues that impact your relationship. I will facilitate not taking sides but point out where some thinking or reactions are causing problems.

In couples counseling, nothing is off-limits. It is a time for you to have honest conversations about sex, raising children, in-laws, money, overreacting, and many more issues. These issues keep couples apart rather than working as a team.

Discovering how to make the other person in your relationship feel loved and respected offers many rewards. Grace on both sides is more effortless to give with this approach. Loving each other is the easy part. Liking each other is much harder. Know your partner’s love language and give it to them freely and without condition.

Don’t let your relationship continue to suffer. I can help and encourage you to address problems before they become too big to handle.

Please get in touch with me today about my approach to couples counseling.