Are you wondering if marriage therapy is worth your time, money and effort?
Have you thought that perhaps your relationship is too far gone so it won’t work?
If you are the slightest bit interested and willing and you know regret is a terrible thing, then this podcast is for you.
I’ve recognised working with hundreds of couples that this is very common and taking time to understand your own feelings and the relationship is a critical step in ascertaining if therapy is for you.
Recognising you may have a stigma, scepticism, and a lack of trust in the whole process. Having a realistic and open view to therapy can be very helpful and cheaper than a divorce.
🌟Do you have a fear of being vulnerable and the idea of sharing feelings and thoughts is uncomfortable?
🌟Are you a couple that are denying the extent of your problems believing they will resolve themselves?
🌟Do you have a fear of change? Therapy can create change which can be intimidating and scary.
In this article, you’ll identify your top 3 steps to approach marriage therapy with sensitivity, respect, and open communication.
It’s important to note that experiencing resistance is normal in exploring therapy, as everyone has moments of trepidation and hoping the disconnect goes away. However, we see a plumber when our pipes are blocked, a vet for our sick dog and so see a therapist when we want to improve our relationship and work through challenges.
3 steps to approach Marriage Therapy with sensitivity, respect, and open communication:
- Willingness to participate
- Check-ins regularly with each other
- Communication is key
Your three steps provide a good foundation for approaching marriage therapy with sensitivity, respect, and open communication. Let’s expand on these steps to provide more detail:
Willingness to Participate and Commitment:
Mutual Agreement: Both partners should agree to participate in therapy willingly. It’s essential that both individuals are on board and committed to the process.
Having an open-minded approach to therapy means you’re ready to explore your feelings and challenges in the relationship. Being willing to consider new perspectives and potential solutions.
Having shared goals and being able to clarify your shared goals for therapy is helpful. Discuss what you hope to achieve and what success looks like for both of you.
Regular Check-Ins and Ongoing Communication:
Frequent conversations outside of therapy sessions and making it a habit to have regular check-ins with each other is helpful. Discuss how you’re feeling, what progress you’re noticing, and any concerns that have arisen.
Practice active listening during these check-ins is so helpful. Give your partner your full attention and empathy as they share their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to do the same for you.
Effective Communication is Key:
Expressing your thoughts and feelings using “I” statements to avoid blame or accusations is so helpful. For example, say “I feel hurt when…” instead of “You always do this…”
Being able to validate your partner’s feelings and experiences, even if you don’t agree with them and letting them know that their emotions are valid and heard is so very helpful.
Approaching marriage therapy with these three steps helps create a supportive environment for working through issues, building a stronger relationship, and fostering open and respectful communication. Remember that therapy is a collaborative effort, and the more both partners actively participate and engage in the process, the more likely it is to be successful.
I support people to CHANGE, to design their best lives and relationships.
Counselling, Coaching and online programs – https://powerofchange.com.au/relationship-coaching/
Check out IGNITE an online program for couples to ignite their spark in their relationship. Download the Power of Change app or click the link
https://bit.ly/IgniteGoogleApp
Listen to the podcast on this topic – Podcast 124 – Does Marriage Therapy Really Work
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