Couples Counseling Palatine, IL

The idea of attending couples counseling can be scary for those who have never gone to a therapy session before. Many couples may decide to try counseling, especially if they are both tired of having the same arguments and are unable find a resolution. It isn’t uncommon for couples to need some extra help when they keep getting into the same rut over and over again. Couples counseling can be a helpful way to get back on track with your partner, and grow together within the relationship.

Q: What is the overall purpose of couples counseling?

A: The intention of counseling is to help the couple work through issues that may pertain to communication, fidelity, money, intimacy, children, and more. A couples counselor provides a neutral and safe space, so each partner can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings openly.

Q: What could be the cause of the repeating arguments?

A: There are many reasons why a couple may keep arguing about the same thing. Perhaps one or both partners have not truly overcome the issue, so it can rise to the surface once in a while. Or, it could be that the couple has to work on their communication. Perhaps one partner is sensitive to criticism, while the other is sensitive to feeling ignored. Each partner may have to learn how to communicate in such a way, that they both feel heard and can find a lasting solution.

Q: If the counselor wants us to meet for individual sessions too, is that bad?

A: It is actually fairly common practice for a counselor to meet individually with each partner, before or during the progression of their couples therapy. This helps the counselor understand each person separate from the relationship. It can also be a great way for the counselor to find out about things the partner isn’t happy with, that he or she may be nervous to share in couples counseling.

Q: Is there anything I can do to prepare for the counseling session?

A: Once both partners have agreed to attend couples counseling, it can help if they each think about what aspects of their relationship they would like to improve on. Counseling is not a platform for venting about all the things the other partner is doing necessarily. While partners may share how certain behaviors impact them, neither person should feel cornered or attacked.

Q: How many sessions may be needed to get over a rut in the relationship?

A: The number of sessions of couples counseling Palatine, IL offers that a couple may require in order to overcome a rut, depends on the partners themselves. If one partner is more invested than the other, then the progress may be slower than if both were to be putting forth the same amount of energy. For some, a single counseling session can provide enough awareness that immediate benefits are seen. For others, it may take several sessions over the course of months or longer to get through a deeper rut.

Contact Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into couples counseling when your relationship is stuck in a rut.