When to seek Couples and Relationship Counselling
Couples counselling is not the last resort for relationships. It can be a powerful tool for strengthening communication, deepening connection, and navigating life’s transitions together. No couple is perfect, and every relationship can be complex and emotionally demanding. How do we identify when those challenges are normal, and when it might be beneficial to reach out to a professional? Here are some insights that may help make the decision.
Key indicators:
Communication Breakdown
Conversations frequently spiral into arguments, feel tense, or end in misunderstandings.
A psychologist can help you both express yourselves more clearly and listen without defensiveness.
Emotional/Physical Distance
You feel as though there is a lack of intimacy, disconnect, or you’re shutting down emotionally
Differences in desire, or avoiding intimacy can highlight deeper concerns that therapy can help to unpack and tackle.
Trust Issues
This may have occurred as a result of infidelity, secrecy, or lying
A psychologist can provide a safe, non-judgemental environment to explore what happened, establish accountability, and rebuild trust in order to heal together.
Life Transitions
Difficulty navigating big changes such as finances, parenting, moving homes, or blending families can lead to high emotions and escalating conflict.
A psychologist can provide an opportunity for both individuals to voice their concerns or stressors, and find solutions.
Indeed, if you are experiencing any of the above, counselling could benefit your relationship and foster communication and growth. It is also important to consider a more proactive approach to avoid reaching a critical point.
When to Consider (Proactive Approach):
Before crisis hits
In order to handle minor issues and avoid future conflict, a psychologist can help you understand each other’s perspectives and develop tools that can avoid these minor issues developing into bigger problems.
When you feel ‘off’ in the relationship
You do not need a specific issue or crisis in order to seek couples counselling.
If you feel unsatisfied emotionally, physically, or mentally in the relationship, voicing this with a psychologist can help.
When you are considering separation
Sometimes, it may be helpful to speak to a couple counsellor when you are considering separation. Not necessarily focusing on reconciliation, we allow space to end the relationship in a respectful and meaningful way. This also helps to allow time for reflection and management of grief appropriately.
A psychologist who specialises in couples counselling can help you rebuild trust, improve intimacy and connection, address individual issues impacting the relationship, and make decisions about the future. Every relationship requires the chance to heal, grow, and thrive. If you are interested in seeking support through couples counselling, please speak to us for more information.