What is relationship counselling?
Relationship counselling is a type of psychotherapy aimed at analysing and solving conflicts that arise in a relationship. Depending on the type of problems a couple has, the therapist adapts the treatment and the frequency of sessions to find the best solution for the relationship.
Objectives of relationship counselling:
The main objectives of relationship counselling are:
- Recognising the problem
- Understanding behaviour patterns (usually repetitive and toxic)
- Establishing a new partnership to renew the relationship
- Changing attitudes
- Renewed and healthy communication
However, relationship counselling is not only about resolving conflicts; it is also about diagnosing and dealing with cases where the best solution is to separate, providing support for the people affected and guiding them so that it is as non-traumatic as possible.
When to go to relationship counselling:
When a relationship starts to deteriorate and both parties feel that there is no way out, it is time to consider seeing a specialist who can provide advice and guidance. Normally, one partner in the relationship raises the alarm, but the other partner must be willing to collaborate, otherwise therapy will not be effective.
Keep in mind that separation is always an option, but you can first visit a professional who will provide a series of guidelines to change the habits of the relationship and redirect it.
Reasons for going to relationship counselling:
The most frequent problem the specialist is consulted about is a breakdown in communication between parties. Recurrent and destructive arguments are another main cause for relationship deterioration, along with the habits, a frenetic pace of life and work overload.