In most cases, people consider counselling following troubles in their relationships. The decision to go for counselling can arise early if one of either party in the relationship is aware of the problems affecting their relationship at an early stage. The decision is often after trying to resolve the issues on their own and failing. Thus, a counsellor becomes the most relevant solution to prevent a dissolution of the relationship. Relationship counselling is the specialised stream allocated for resolving conflicts between couples or between family members. Relationship counsellors are trained psychologists who try to resolve the issues at hand after carefully analysing the root cause behind them. Being the best relationship counsellor in Pune, We at the Center for Mental Health suggest that the main indicators for relationship counselling are frequent arguments, silent relationships, physical violence, divorce / separation talks, lack of motivation to come back home, extra-marital relationships, suicidal threats or thoughts.
Some of the main benefits of having a relationship counsellor are:
Providing non-judgmental environment
In counselling sessions, the psychologists provide a secure and non-judgemental environment, which facilitates ventilation without any fear of being judged. Clients can discuss extremely personal problems like financial issues, family violence, sexual problems etc. without fear of stigma and judgement.
Improving communication
Communication is an integral part of any relationship. The common communication issues seen in relationships are
The setting advocates for open and honest communication and this helps each person to understand better their role in the issues pegging the relationship. It helps to break the ice by fostering communication to enable all involved persons to understand each other and have a positive approach when resolving conflicts.
Finding out discrepancies between expectations of the couple or family members
Expectations in a relationship are subjective and can differ from person to person. When such expectations are not fulfilled then the relationship goes through bitterness, sadness and disappointment. In relationship counselling, the counsellor explores expectations and tries to find out if they are realistic or not. The focus remains on what has been done rather than what is lacking in the relationship thus achieving a balance between appreciation and expectation.
Enhancing Relations and Strengthening Bonds
Conflict is inevitable in relationships and is often anxiety-provoking. In a family setting, the relationship can be affected negatively by jealousy and different personal interests. The same traits may be evident in a romantic relationship resulting in fights. It may be easy for misunderstanding to take centre stage invalidating the significance of each individual in the relationship. Seeking professional help assists all parties to have a better understanding of self and the others in the relationship. Through the aid of the counsellor, they learn how to express their feelings while bringing everyone together thus strengthening their bonds.
When Dealing with a Divorce
In family relationships as well as romantic relationships, a disconnect and discord will often be what tears them apart. Divorce is a sad outcome that most counsellors do their best to help couples and families to avoid. However, some couples are often too quick to go the divorce route seeing it as a faster and simpler solution to avoid the problems they face in their relationship. What they often fail to understand is that their actions that are fuelling the disconnect led to the divorce. The relationship counselling benefits include trying to prevent families and couples from such outcomes. The counsellor helps them to resolve their issues and promote healing thus strengthening the relations between the couples and the family unit.
Negotiating and Re-establishing Commitments
Commitment can be one of the most problematic aspects of having a strong relationship. Commitments can be in different forms that include that of having kids, financial support, emotional support, and a general commitment to the relationship. Personal interests, concerns, and fears tend to influence an individual’s commitment to the relationship. Attending the counselling sessions can help both members to have a voice for their concerns and to express their caution or disagreement in some areas.
Relationship Counselling nurtures and protects a family. It is never too early or too late for the beginning of relationship counselling. There is no shame in asking for help if we and any of our close ones are suffering. Ignore the stigma; be open, be honest, be prepared.