Marriage and Couples Counselling – What it is, Benefits and Common Myths
In India, where the cultural and societal fabric places significant importance on marriage, the pressures and challenges of maintaining a healthy relationship can be immense.
According to ABCT, approximately 20% of all married couples experience marital distress at any given time.
In urban centres like Mumbai, these problems are more pronounced, given the fast-paced lifestyle and diverse stressors that often exacerbate relationship issues, making marriage and couples counselling a critical resource.
This guide explores marriage counselling, why it might be necessary, how to find the right counsellor, and addresses common myths and misconceptions.
What is Marriage and Couples Counselling?
Marriage and couples counselling is a form of therapy that focuses on improving the relationship between partners. It involves working with a trained therapist to address issues, improve communication, and develop strategies to resolve conflicts. The goal is to foster a deeper understanding and stronger connection between partners.
Reasons You Might Need Marriage Counselling
Couples seek marriage and couples counselling for a variety of reasons, including:
- Communication Issues: Difficulty in expressing thoughts and feelings effectively.
- Frequent Arguments: Persistent conflicts and unresolved issues.
- Infidelity: Recovering from betrayal and rebuilding trust.
- Emotional Distance: Feeling disconnected or isolated from your partner.
- Life Transitions: Adjusting to major changes such as parenthood, relocation, or career shifts.
- Sexual Problems: Addressing issues related to intimacy and sexual satisfaction.
Financial Stress: Managing conflicts related to money and financial decisions.
Stages in Couples Counselling
The marriage and couples counselling process begins assessment of the relationship’s dynamics, strengths, and challenges through interviews and questionnaires.
Following this, the couple and counsellor collaboratively set specific, achievable goals for therapy in the goal-setting phase.
During the intervention stage, the counsellor employs various therapeutic techniques to address issues and facilitate positive change. Skill-building follows, where couples learn and practice essential relationship skills such as communication and conflict resolution.
Finally, in the maintenance phase, strategies are developed to sustain progress and prevent the relapse of old patterns, ensuring long-term improvement in the relationship.
Does Marriage Counselling Really Work?
Research indicates that marriage and couples counselling can be highly effective, with a success rate of approximately 70% according to the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
However, success depends on factors such as the couple’s commitment to the process, the counsellor’s expertise, and the timing of seeking help.
Early intervention typically yields better outcomes, as addressing issues before they become deeply entrenched makes resolution more achievable.
As for the counsellor’s expertise, we suggest choosing an experienced counsellor, as they are better equipped to understand your situation and recommend a solution accordingly.At Faculty Minds – the most qualified provider of couples counselling in Mumbai – we employ not only counsellors who are experts in the subject matter but also well-versed in dispensing the interventions.
Finding the Right Counsellor
Choosing the right marriage counsellor is crucial for the success of therapy. Here are some factors to consider:
- Credentials and Experience: Ensure the counsellor is licensed and has specialized training in couples therapy.
- Approach and Techniques: Different counsellors use different methods. Look for one whose approach you and your partner are comfortable with.
- Comfort Level: Both partners should feel comfortable and understood by the counsellor.
- Recommendations and Reviews: Seek recommendations from trusted sources and read reviews to gauge the counsellor’s reputation.
Availability and Accessibility: Consider the counsellor’s location, availability, and whether they offer in-person or online sessions.
Common Myths About Couples Counselling
- Myth #1: Counselling is Only for Couples on the Brink of Divorce: Counselling can benefit any couple looking to improve their relationship, not just those in crisis.
- Myth #2: A Counsellor Will Take Sides: A professional counsellor remains neutral, facilitating communication and understanding without taking sides.
- Myth #3: Counselling is a Last Resort: Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Counselling can be a proactive step to strengthen the relationship.
- Myth #4: Therapy is Expensive: While costs vary, many counsellors offer sliding scale fees based on income, and some insurance plans cover therapy.
Myth #5: Counselling Will Reveal Unfixable Problems: The goal of counselling is to identify issues and develop solutions, not to point out insurmountable problems.
Marriage And Couple Counselling with Faculty Minds
Organizations like Faculty Minds offer specialized marriage and couples counselling services devised to address the unique challenges faced by modern couples. Faculty Minds provides a supportive environment where couples can explore their issues with the guidance of experienced therapists.
Our holistic approach integrates various therapeutic modalities to create a customized plan for each couple, focusing on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and fostering a deeper connection.
Faculty Minds emphasizes the importance of both partners actively participating in the process and provides tools and strategies to help couples maintain their progress long after therapy has ended. With their comprehensive services, couples can navigate their relationship challenges and work towards a healthier, happier partnership.
Get the best marriage and couples counselling in Mumbai at Faculty Minds. Connect with us today and begin working on the relationship.
