Coming for therapy as a couple is about putting the focus on your relationship and communication. Sadly, a survey of callers to the Relate helpline showed that 44% had already endured two years of relationship difficulties before getting help. Unfortunately, many couples leave relationship counselling until it’s too late and then find that years of bitterness and resentment have built up and the fear of being hurt again blocks out any chance of change.
There is no doubt that the sooner people seek help, the better – and that is true if you want to stay together, or if you’ve chosen to separate.
If you’re experiencing any of the following, now could be the time to consider counselling:
- When you talk to your partner, it feels like you’re hitting a brick wall
- Your conversations just go round and round in never-ending circles
- After you’ve talked, you feel frustrated and confused
- You can’t talk for more than a few minutes without it turning into a shouting match
- You’re afraid that if you bring up a certain subject, things will get even worse
- There’s nothing left to say
People coming for joint therapy aren’t always in a current relationship. Sometimes clients are co-parenting children, going through separation or divorce. It offers a safe and supportive space with an impartial observer to way through the emotional and practical aspects of living apart.
What if your partner is threatening or violent?
If you’re living with a partner who is violent towards you or who makes threats, or behaves in a way that leaves you feeling intimidated, or unable to feel in control of your life, then you should come for counselling alone.
You can also get support and help from Woman’s Aid by calling 0808 2000 247.
Click on the link to find out about how couple’s counselling works:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL58613A8DB5C90756&feature=plcp
