One of the questions I get asked most often by my potential patients is whether or not relationship counseling actually works. Of course, as with most things in life, the answer is that it depends. The really great news is that when both parties put in some effort, they start to see lasting changes for the better.
In today’s blog, I’d like to take a deeper look at some of the causes of both success and failure when it comes to couples counseling. If you’re wondering what it will take to start making some changes in your relationship, keep reading to learn more.
Relationship Counseling Dos
In my 25 years as a professional couples counselor, I’ve seen relationships completely and totally transformed. It’s really amazing what people can do when they set their minds to it and realize that it truly is a partnership. Here are a few of the things that can really help to make a difference:
- Open-mindedness
- Patience
- Determination
- Forgiveness
- Quality time
- Communication
- Humor
- Intimacy
- Trust
In an ideal world, we’d all possess these qualities and be able to call upon them at any time to help us out. The truth is that the qualities above can be hard to come by. At the end of the day, it takes a lot of willingness from both parties to do what it takes to see things through.
Relationship Counseling Don’ts
Along with the good comes the bad. There are plenty of things that can put a damper on any relationship. Here are a few of the things to avoid if at all possible:
- Immaturity
- Unrealistic expectations
- Unfair fights
- Criticism
- Lack of quality time
- Teasing
This is, of course, just a small selection of things to avoid, but generally speaking, many of the issues in relationships stem from the items above.
Couples Counseling in Michigan
Here’s the truth–at the end of the day, there’s no such thing as a perfect relationship. As I mentioned above, success comes when both partners have the willingness to work through whatever problems come their way. Having someone to rely on is an invaluable thing in life and when you’ve found someone you connect with and who makes you happy, it’s worth working hard to keep it that way.
As a professional therapist offering counseling services to couples who have gone through some of life’s biggest challenges, I’ve seen the power of dedication and determination that changed things for the better. If you’re seeking couples therapy and in you are in Farmington Hills or the surrounding area, I would absolutely love to help make a difference in your relationship.