Beginning couples counselling, also known as relationship therapy and previously known as marriage guidance, may feel like a big step, it may feel vulnerable or scary. You may feel hopeful or optimistic, or defensive and afraid of being judged or blamed. You may feel that nothing can help, that things between you are just too difficult, or too much has happened, and this is a last resort.
You may be certain that you want to be together, or perhaps you’re unsure and wish to find clarity, or you may already know that you want to part and just need to find a way to do so on good terms.
Rest assured that I will never take sides or keep secrets between you. I will treat both partners equally, and I am not here to judge you or decide who is right and who is wrong. I will not push you to stay together or to separate but support you to find a way to move forward and solutions that are truly right for you.
This process can help you resolve old hurts, bring insight and clarity, create new solutions, and teach you powerful tools to uplevel your ability to communicate honestly and effectively without triggering old patterns of conflict. These skills are useful throughout life, in all kinds of relationships, and in the workplace.
Couples counselling is:
- Supportive and non-judgmental
- Making changes and creating new solutions, learning new skills
- Taking responsibility for mistakes (Not blaming or being blamed)
- A way to grow as individuals and as a couple
Couples counselling is not:
- Proving who is right or who is wrong
- Blaming
- Ganging up on one partner
- Forcing one partner to change, or to continue the relationship if they do not wish to do so
- “Fighting it out”
- Making one person happy at the other’s expense
Call, text or email via the Contact form to arrange a 15 minute chat about your requirements free of charge. If you would then like to proceed we will arrange an first appointment. See the Appointments & Fees page for practical details.
Please note: If addiction or substance abuse is present in one or both partners this will need to be addressed individually before couples counselling may commence. I also recommend that meanwhile, the non-addicted partner undertake individual counselling or psychotherapy for support.
Where there is domestic abuse, I recommend individual counselling for one or both partners before considering couples counselling. If you are on the receiving end of abuse, are in danger, or do not have financial resources for counselling, please see the Useful Links page to find help as soon as possible.
Confidential, safe, effective Counselling for Couples in Leigh on Sea and Online