Amber has been in and out of relationships since she was sixteen years old. Her parents were always busy working, and her empty house never really felt like home.
During her first year of college, she dated a sophomore. At first, her boyfriend was kind, supportive, and fun to be around. But as the weeks went on, something didn’t feel right. He became overprotective and manipulative. He constantly checked in on her and berated her in front of her friends.
After a year of dating, Amber finally had the courage to break up with him. She filed a restraining order and made sure to surround herself with supportive friends. Even so, she never felt entirely safe on campus again. She felt jumpy, irritable, and scared whenever she would pass his old residence hall or see his friends around the quad.
It’s been years since that relationship ended. She’s been dating her current boyfriend, Rhodes, for the past three years. He’s recently expressed his desire to get married, but Amber is hesitant. In the back of her mind, she still remembers the fear she felt with her first college boyfriend. She worries that Rhodes could one day become as dangerous as her former partner.
Rhodes understands her fears and suggests that they speak to a relationship counselor. Amber agrees, and they set up an appointment at Thriveworks. Within days, they’re seen by a relationship counselor. She works to address Amber’s trauma and helps the couple develop stronger communication methods.
It’s been years now since they first went to couples therapy, and Amber and Rhodes are now happily married and expecting their first child. They still see their counselor occasionally, who continues to encourage them as they grow and nurture their relationship.
Every couple has their own reasons for starting couples counseling. A licensed marriage and family therapist can address all sorts of issues, from trauma and abuse to lack of intimacy and conflict resolution. Whether you’re looking to solve a problem or simply gain tips on strengthening your relationship, a couples therapist can help you get there.
Call us at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX when you’re ready to speak to a dedicated therapist or counselor about your relationship. We’d love to work with you and your partner.
Reasons To Seek Therapy or Counseling
No matter how well they maneuver through streets and on interstates, cars require maintenance. Their shiny exteriors can often hide problems below the hood.
Just as cars require the occasional checkup, so do relationships. And just like the problems that plague vehicles may range from minor air conditioner trouble to transmission repairs, the different challenges that relationships face can range in severity. But therapy can help couples address those problems no matter what they may be.
Some of the more common reasons couples pursue therapy include:
- Intimacy issues
- Trust issues
- Communication concerns
- Divorce or separation
- Jealousy
- Differences in child-rearing
- Physical illnesses
- Mental health
- Premarital talks
- Grief or loss
- Infidelity
- Financial problems
If you or your partner can relate to any of the above experiences, please consider scheduling an appointment with us at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX. We’d love to help you work together to achieve your collective and individual goals.
How Can I Benefit From Couples Counseling?
Relationships are a work in progress and any worthwhile relationship takes cultivating. Sometimes that cultivation requires outside guidance and support. That’s where a couples counselor comes in.
Because of their experience dealing with various types of relationships — from new love to long-married couples — counselors and therapists can help partners navigate some of the trickier aspects of maintaining strong bonds.
A marriage or couples specialist can help you and your partner learn to:
- Effectively communicate
- Actively listen
- Remain engaged
- Handle feedback
Your therapist will use specific forms of therapy to address any concerns you may have. They may rely on the Gottman Method, Imago Relationship Therapy, or narrative therapy. Regardless of which method they choose, your provider will work with you and your partner to create a comprehensive plan to help you manage your challenges. Schedule an appointment with us at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX to get started.
Book Marriage Counseling or Couples Therapy in Amarillo, TX
Many people schedule therapy sessions with a couples or marriage counselor to improve their relationship. The experience can provide clarity and structure. It can also be a time of self-reflection.
No matter your reason for pursuing relationship counseling, know that the team at Thriveworks is committed to helping you. That’s why we offer such services as online counseling by phone and video, weekend and evening sessions, and online video content.
Should you need additional support, many of our providers are available between sessions via phone and email. We accept different insurance plans and we are often able to offer new clients the chance to schedule an appointment within 24 to 48 hours.
Meet with us at Thriveworks in Amarillo, TX to see how we can strengthen your relationship. Whether you’re seeking marriage and family therapy or couples counseling, we look forward to helping you.
