Xavier has always been creative. He grew up in a big family with parents who let each of their children determine their own paths. His parents encouraged him to try any new passion or whim that suited him. As an adult, he dislikes too much structure and abandons projects as soon as they become uninteresting.
Michelle’s upbringing couldn’t be more different than her husband’s. She grew up in a small family with protective parents who micromanaged her life. From ages five and up, every aspect of her day was planned so that no time was wasted and every possibility was seized. She’s a high-achieving adult but sometimes has trouble thinking creatively.
Michelle and Xavier have been married for two years and have just had their first child. Initially attracted to their differences, they’ve lately become concerned about each other’s parenting styles. Xavier wants the baby to attend a more non-traditional daycare that focuses entirely on socialization and play, while Michelle wants one that focuses strictly on cognitive development.
Unable to agree on the best path forward, the two decide to attend counseling. Their licensed marriage and family therapist speaks with them and discovers that child-rearing is not the only area the couple has disagreements about. Through their discussions, their therapist learns that there are communication and trust issues that also need to be addressed.
The couple remains committed to improving their relationship. Through trust exercises, active listening, and open communication, they learn to come to agreements about the well-being of their child and to resolve their personal conflicts.
Many couples seek marriage counseling and couples therapy to improve their relationships. With the support of our compassionate staff at Thriveworks in Salem, OR, you and your partner can work on your individual challenges as well as your concerns as a couple. Reach out to us today to schedule your first couples therapy appointment.
When Should We Seek Relationship Counselling?
A common misconception is that couples therapy is only for couples who are having major problems in their relationship. In truth, relationship counseling offers you the opportunity to get to better know your partner, yourself, and both of your concerns and needs. It can be helpful whether your relationship is on the brink of disaster or could just use a tune-up.
There are many reasons why a couple might seek counseling. These can include:
- Issues managing joint finances
- Ineffective communication
- Arguments that never seem to resolve
- Lack of trust
- Issues with cheating and infidelity
- Dissatisfaction with sex life or intimacy
- Conflicting parenting styles
- Life planning issues
- Premarital problems
Both new couples and established couples can benefit from taking the time and energy to nurture and develop their relationship with their significant other. When you’re ready to take the next step, Thriveworks Counseling in Salem, OR is here to help.
What Can I Expect During Couples Counseling?
Relationships are incredibly intimate. This is one of the reasons that people are sometimes hesitant to pursue couples counseling.
But a professional therapist or counselor can add clarity to your relationship, help you strengthen your bonds, and provide a safe space to air grievances. Attending therapy sessions can even introduce you to new ways of resolving conflicts.
Before your therapy begins, your provider will take the time to get to know you and your spouse. Each of you will have the chance to share your challenges and to listen to the other’s concerns.
The type of therapy you receive will be based on your particular situation, but your provider may provide cognitive, emotional, or solution-based forms of therapy that require active participation from you and your spouse both inside and outside of the therapist’s office.
No matter what strategy your counselor introduces, the ultimate goal of the session is to resolve conflict and provide long-term support. If you believe you could benefit from the help of a licensed marriage and family therapist, please reach out to us at Thriveworks in Salem, OR.
Book a Marriage or Couples Therapy Appointment at Thriveworks in Salem, OR
The emotional and mental health of you and your spouse is important. That’s why we strive to create an environment that is supportive, responsive, and conducive to learning.
If you’d like to continue to develop your marriage or relationship, consider setting up a remote or in-person appointment. New clients can often book a same- or next-day appointment, and all clients can access exclusive online video content as well as our counselor-moderated message board.
Additional perks include offices that stay open early and close late, weekend and evening sessions, and a flexible cancellation policy. We also offer billing and scheduling support via text message and accept insurance from most health insurance providers.
Working on your relationship can be powerful and transformative. At Thriveworks in Salem, OR, we’re dedicated to helping with your future growth and development. Contact us today to get started.
