Finding a partner who makes you feel happy, inspired, and fulfilled is one of life’s greatest gifts. Of course, relationships aren’t without their conflicts and drama — you may disagree, argue, or even stop talking for a bit. But after those periods, you come back stronger and more resilient.
For some couples, though, the arguing doesn’t stop. Conflict takes over. Perhaps even a frustrating silence settles in as partners simply stop talking.
Couples in this spot want to end the discord and restore their happiness but may not be sure how or where to start. They may have friends who have consulted with a marriage and family therapist and wonder, “Will that work for us?”
The good news is that it can. Many couples have found ways to confront their issues, reestablish trust and rebuild a fulfilling relationship through counseling. It might not be easy; counseling requires honesty and commitment from each person. But it can be helpful.
If you and your partner want to address issues in your relationship, consider couples counseling at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA. It could be the first step toward restoring your bond and building a better future together.
Common Problems That Can Benefit From Relationship Counseling
Relationships ebb and flow over time, gliding through good times and grinding through the bad. That’s normal and healthy. Couples often emerge from low points with a richer bond.
But the time might come when your relationship fractures beyond recognition. Perhaps a life event, such as job loss or death in the family, has caused one person to withdraw. Maybe an unresolved disagreement continues to resurface, causing arguments and breeding resentment. Or it’s possible that you just don’t know how to talk to each other productively anymore.
Many problems can cause relationship friction. These are just a few:
- Infidelity
- Addictive behaviors
- Financial problems or disagreements
- A breakdown of trust
- Conflict of parenting decisions
- Emotional or psychological problems
- Health issues that prompt one partner to be a caregiver
- Lack of intimacy
- Feeling unsupported
This list is by no means exhaustive but it does provide common examples of struggles couples face. Your issues might be different but are no less important. If something is blocking your relationship from flourishing, consider making an appointment for couples counseling at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA.
The Benefits of Couples Counseling
Some couples are able to resolve their own problems through discussion and time. For others, an outside voice can offer a fresh perspective and promote more effective communication. That is among the most important aspects of couples counseling. Finding new ways to discuss problems without anger or hurt feelings can offer a breakthrough for many relationships.
Though you might not know where your relationship detoured, a marriage and family therapist can help to define it. Therapists can employ several techniques to help you dissect the inner workings of your relationship. For instance, the Gottman Method encourages partners to turn toward each other instead of away, know each other’s hopes and dreams, and focus on sharing respect.
Emotionally focused therapy prompts partners to dive into their feelings, leading to a deeper and safer bond. With narrative therapy, partners embrace each other’s experiences without judgment. This is helpful for couples whose trust has dissolved. And with relational life therapy, couples can try to break from society’s traditional roles, including those regarding gender, to find their true place together.
If you think you could benefit from couples counseling, consider making an appointment at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA.
Couples Therapy Appointments at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA
Seeing a marriage and family therapist is a sign of strength. It shows that you value your relationship enough to consider speaking with a trained professional to gain a new perspective.
Whether you want to address long-standing problems or prevent them, Thriveworks can help. Our licensed professionals are ready to address your marriage and relationship issues on your terms and schedule.
Thriveworks offers appointments early and late on weekdays, along with weekend availability, to fit your calendar. If an in-person appointment doesn’t work, therapists are available for online appointments, meaning you can speak with a provider without ever stepping outside your home. New clients can often see a provider within 24-48 hours, and therapists are available by phone or email between sessions to address emerging concerns.
Thriveworks accepts many major insurance plans and offers additional benefits, such as a flexible cancellation policy, life coaching, and text support via a phone app.
Relationships have plenty of milestones: first dates, first kisses, wedding days. These moments are precious and worth preserving. You don’t have to let conflict overshadow those moments. You don’t have to let those moments disappear forever. Successful relationships require dedication and hard work and that’s where counseling can help.
If your relationship could benefit from a fresh point of view, contact Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA to make an appointment for couples counseling.
