Relationships >> Marriage / Relationship Therapy

MARRIAGE / RELATIONSHIP THERAPY
All couples have conflicts or disagreements at times. The difference between a happily married (or otherwise committed) couple and an unhappy union most frequently involves the ability to discuss and resolve those differences in a positive manner that respects the interests and needs of each individual.

Common unhealthy, damaging relationship communications usually include such interactions as:

Hostility, or verbal or physical attacks on the other person Put-downs, name-calling or other contempt for the partner Dragging old information or experiences into a current argument Defensive responses Withdrawal from a disagreement Escalating negativity in the relationship

Some therapists have specialized training in marriage counseling. A marriage counselor usually sees both members of the couple together, though some will occasionally also see each person individually. The goals of a marriage or relationship counselor are generally to help the couple:

Improve communication patterns Develop empathic, active listening skills Improve problem-solving skills Resolve conflicts in ways that meet the needs of both partners Explore ways for old wounds (from this or previous relationships) to be healed If possible, find ways to stay together in a positive and mutually satisfying relationship If not possible to stay together, then to separate in a healthy and respectful way

Jaelline Jaffe, Ph.D., and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., contributed to this article. Last modified on: 2/02/07.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.helpguide.org/. C 2008 Helpguide.org. All rights reserved.

You can find the original article at
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/psychotherapy_relationship_
marriage_counseling.htm

SOURCE: www.helpguide.org

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