Couples therapy and choosing a relationship or marriage counselor to help you navigate through trying times in your life as well as your partners life is a delicate process. You might be feeling a sense of failure or even depression resulting from the difficulties you are facing in your relationship with your significant other, however, this is when it is likely time to seek a professional to assist you in better communication and techniques. Bettering your situation is possible, whether you are using a psychiatrist, online therapist, online mental health services, or couples therapy in person, professional mental health solutions are out there for you.
It can be scary and even embarrassing when coming to terms with the necessity of speaking to a professional about something that is meant to be "perfect" at all times, like your relationship. These topics can be some of the most difficult to truly open up about but it is important to keep in mind that you are not alone. Situations like this arise in so many relationships, no relationship is perfect although some might present them to be. There is something really strong and brave about a couple that is willing to take a deep dive into the issues they are facing that they didn't know were there for a long time.
Often times these difficulties in relationships can arise later on because they were never dealt with to begin with. Other times, problems in a relationship can come to light after big events in life. The effects that different scenarios have on our mental well-being varies, and feeling ashamed of those feelings that are troubling you or your partner are worth looking into.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Marriage Counselor
When searching for a marriage counselor for yourself and your partner, you will want to make sure that you ask or can easily find out if they are properly licensed. Conflict resolution within couples is something that a professional counselor should handle.
After researching a few different counselors that you think might be a good fit for you and your significant other, always ask them about if they have experience in working with other couples. Asking to speak to your potential counselor by phone could be a great way to determine whether their personality and their counseling style will work for you.
Having a good rapport with your potential counselor is important in feeling like their practice is going to feel like a safe space for your relationship. This might even mean trying one session with your top three favorites, and making your final decision from there.
What is a counselor and is this mental health specialist right for you?
A counselor is someone who has graduated with a four year degree, or bachelors degree, in counseling and has then moved on to train in the specialized field they are most interested in. These fields include but are not limited to addiction, recovery, school counselor, marriage counselor etc. However, keep in mind this is not typically someone who can offer you a diagnosis or coordinate a treatment plan for you and your partner. The main goal of a counselor is to guide you into whichever potential treatment you might need while providing your with advice and support at the beginning of your journey towards a better mental health space.
Do You Need an Online Therapist?
Whether you are leaning towards and online or in person therapist for your couples therapy, you will find that an online therapist or even licensed counselor have the same educational background and can offer you the same level of help. For example, both a therapist and licensed counselor will be able to offer you a diagnosis. Both of these mental health professionals require a four year degree in psychology as well as a two year masters degree course.
A psychiatrist on the other hand will be able to prescribe you medication depending on your diagnosis. This is often done when it is recommended that solo sessions should be taken by one or both individuals.
Online mental health services are now becoming more and more popular. If you and your partner feel you are in need of some guidance but feel too scared or nervous to meet a mental health professional in person, online options are becoming more widely accepted and available to anyone with an online internet connection.
