Many couples today find that their relationships are affected by the difficulty of coping with the demands of modern living. Couples counseling can help by providing guidance related to such issues as:
► The need to find the time to nurture a relationship.
► The impact on the relationship after one partner has been unfaithful.
► Conflicting ideas about financial matters.
► Problems related to dealing with extended family members.
► Family counseling is helpful when a family is going through a transition or a particular crisis situation. Therapy also can help the family adjust when problems are being experienced by individual family members that are impacting the entire family unit such as the following:
- A family member struggling with substance abuse.
- A child or adolescent exhibiting maladaptive behavior.
- Problems related to a parental divorce or separation.
- Circumstances created by the illness of a family member.
The goal of couples as well as family counseling is ultimately to reduce stress that individuals experience when interacting with others with whom they are connected in a personal relationship. Stress can be alleviated when individuals understand how to adapt patterns of functioning which allow for mutual trust, respect, and support.
Sometimes it is difficult to speak frankly when talking to a partner or relative. It can be easier to do so with a therapist who will provide a non-judgmental atmosphere by not focusing on blame but by helping the patients identify the needs that are not being met in their relationships. Once this has been done, individuals can learn to communicate and adapt behavior patterns that will lead to a satisfying relationship.