“We have our differences, but everything always works itself out.” That’s how Alex and Jonah summarize their relationship. While it’s good that they acknowledge the challenges they face, Alex and Jonah fail to realize that overcoming these challenges requires real effort. It’s their job to work through their differences together, as opposed to waiting or hoping their problems will resolve themselves. The two realize this when a rather big issue arises: Alex is offered a job promotion that requires her to relocate. While she’s excited about the opportunity, Jonah is more than hesitant to move away from friends and family.
This is an issue, they realize, that won’t just work itself out. It requires effective, timely communication, as well as patience and understanding. Unfortunately, Alex and Jonah haven’t yet learned effective communication skills and aren’t sure how to address this problem. However, they know that it isn’t too late—they reach out to a couples counselor who helps them talk and work through this issue at hand. After a few sessions, Alex and Jonah decide together that moving to the city so Alex can embark on her new job is the route for them. And they make a plan for discussing issues that may arise in the wake of their new adventure, of which involves meeting with a couples counselor if they decide they need the assistance.
“A strong relationship requires two people working together as teammates. A weak relationship involves two people going against each other as opponents.” –Bryan Burden
This is couples counseling in a nutshell. In other words, couples counseling is designed to help couples work through their presenting problem(s). This problem might center around communication, as it did with Alex and Jonah, or it might involve working through jealousy, infidelity, differences of opinion, and so on. If you and your partner think you could benefit from working with a couples counselor or psychologist, reach out to Thriveworks Midlothian in Chesterfield, VA. Our skilled, caring providers would love to help you improve your relationship.
Resolving Issues in Couples Counseling
It’s true that all couples fight—it’s also true that many of us need help resolving these issues. And who better to help than a professional with specific skills and experience helping couples improve their romantic relationships? The couples counselors at Thriveworks Midlothian in Chesterfield, VA can assist you and your partner, whether there’s an issue that’s threatening the very foundation your relationship is built on, or a lesser issue that’s been simmering on the backburner. Here’s a list of issues, big and small, that are often discussed in couples counseling:
- Infidelity
- Jealousy
- Differing lifestyles
- Plans for the future
- Communication
- Honesty
- Compatibility
- Sex drive
- Parenting
These issues are common in romantic relationships, especially as they progress. While they might seem scary, the good news is that the counselors at Thriveworks Midlothian are prepared to step in and help you, your partner, and your relationship. Whether that means working through the current problem and strengthening your bond or deciding that going your separate ways is best for both of you.
Talking to Your Partner About Couples Counseling
Some people are open, even eager, to begin counseling. Others, however, are hesitant, especially when they feel threatened. Your partner might get defensive when you bring up couples counseling. This can be frustrating, but you shouldn’t grow angry with them. Instead recognize that they are likely just protective of your relationship, and then try the following:
- Tell them that you’re in this together.
Explain to your partner that you want to seek couples counseling because you care about your relationship. Remind them that you are in this together, and that improving your relationship requires both of your involvement.
- Explain the benefits of couples counseling.
Maybe your partner doesn’t understand what couples counseling is or how it can be helpful. If this is standing in your way, discuss what couples counseling entails, explain the benefits, and show them the statistics. For example, a study from the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy says that 97.4% of couples surveyed had a positive experience in couples counseling. Furthermore, 93% said counseling helped them deal with their problems effectively.
Meet with a Couples Counselor or Psychologist at Thriveworks Midlothian, VA
If you and your partner could use some professional mediation in your relationship, consider working with a couples counselor at Thriveworks Midlothian. These professionals have the skills, knowledge, and experience to provide you with the assistance that you need to overcome your relationship issues and foster a happier, healthier life together. To schedule an appointment, just give Thriveworks Midlothian a call.
