Couples seek counseling for a number of reasons. Often it is when things get "out of hand" and we know we have to get help. If you are deciding to start this process before that point, you have a head start but either way Couples Counseling should offer a safe place to learn how to express your general and deeper concerns.
Much of what we find difficult in relationships is "communicating" with each other and sometimes this is the main focus for couples work, but here is a short list of other issues you and your partner may be experiencing, and could find help with:
- money management - Parenting Issues
- sexual intimacy - shared tasks
- infidelity - pressure to marry
- appreciation and support - Jealousy
- managing time - shared living
- social activity - monogamy
I generally see couples together but on occasion I may ask to see each person separately for one or more sessions. This helps each person evaluate whether they have been open enough in the joint sessions and helps isolate areas that need further attention. I have found the best frequency is for a couple to come once a week for a 60 minute session.
Couples counsenling is similar to Marriage Counseling but since not all couples have chosen to marry, there are many issues which may be different.