Frequently Asked Questions About Couples Counseling
Q: How long does it take?
A: Ultimately, the number of sessions is up to you, based on your level of satisfaction in meeting your goals. But, here are some scenarios that may help you:
Many couples are satisfied with their results in a few sessions
Some come in from time to time when they feel that a third party may help resolve particular issue more quickly
Couples with complex issues, who have long standing difficulties or issues of trust and betrayal generally require a greater number of sessions
Some couples come in for a specific issue associated with life change: engagement, parenting, being a new parent, step-parenting, empty nest, retirement, moving, caring for an aging parent, grief, etc.
Q: How do I know it will work for us?
A: While I wish I could guarantee that it will, some things are certain when you try something this or anything new (or again). You will:
Have more knowledge, and be changed by the experience.
Know more about yourself and about your partner
Have new perspectives that can affect you and relationship for the better
Learn about essential skills for interacting and responding that enhance relationship stability
Q: What if my partner just sits there?
It may be the most he or she is capable of at first.
The willingness to attend, in itself, increases the likelihood that things will work out.
If “just sitting there” is what happened before, know that trying again shows that your partner has some hope that things will change. Capitalize on that.
Most importantly, you will feel good knowing that you are doing, and ultimately have done, everything you can;
something many people regret not being able to say. |
Q: What if my husband, wife, significant other, partner won’t come?
A: You can see more about this under the Counseling Page and on the Individual Counseling Page
A terrific aspect my work has to do with my skill facilitating changes with whomever is in the office, so that it more often than not results in positive responses in the other (s) and in the relationship.
Working with you may be what has to happen first.
Working with you first may be the only way that your partner will engage in the process of change.
Keep in mind that the goal is to have a satisfying and healthy relationship, not to, ‘do couples counseling.'
While some say having to go by yourself is a bad sign, my experience has shown me that it is not.
If you would like more information, or would like to make an appointment, I am easily reached by telephone at 917-338-6294.
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