So you and your partner have decided to go to couples counselling; that’s great news! Unknown to many, couples counselling is not only for those couples whose conflicts are getting bothersome because they always go unresolved, but actually it makes your relationship grow in a healthier environment, where there is a safe space to communicate, heal, and grow.
And we know what you’re thinking, as you might wonder how the therapist will help you through the process, and you are just in time because we’ll dive into the essential role of reputable couples counselling in Melbourne in your counselling session with your partner. Here’s how they guide your journey to a healthier relationship with you and your partner:
Creating and establishing a safe and neutral space. Communicating openly with your partner is often easier said than done, and this is where conflicts usually arise. The role of your therapist is to make sure that you and your partner’s perspective of the situation is heard and acknowledged.
Helping you and your partner identify the core issues. Often, what seems like a simple disagreement from one conversation becomes a root that branches out and develops a stem of unresolved emotions or maybe even patterns of behaviour that you cannot tolerate. The role of the therapist here is to ask subtle but targeted questions so they can provide you with insights that you and your partner understand.
Teaching healthy communication skills. This is where the counselling gets technical, as therapists use techniques, one of which is the “I statements,” that help you and your partner communicate effectively. And you might be surprised as to how it helps in resolving the issues you currently have, so as to equip you and your partner with the skills on how to handle future conflicts in a constructive manner.
Facilitating productive conflict resolution. Therapists will give you different insights into the matter at hand, like encouraging you and your partner to approach disagreements with a solution in mind.
Encouraging personal growth and accountability. In every session, your therapist will always act as your guide in recognising patterns that you and your partner have that may hinder the growth of your relationship and replace it with self-awareness and encouragement.
Supporting relationship goals and building a shared vision. A shared vision of long-term commitment in a relationship is one of the reasons why you and your partner are together, and a therapist will help you reignite that sense of purpose you both have.
Simple things in a conversation or an action can lead to either making the relationship work or suffer. In every situation, remember the reasons why you’re together, because as partners, one should complement the other to make the commitment lasting and loving. Remember that therapy is not a way to “fix” you, your partner, or your relationship. Instead, always see therapy as a guide on how to navigate life better. Being in a relationship means you are loved and that you are not alone in this journey that we call life.
