"Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply" - Stephen R. Covey
Couples Counselling
Whilst relationships can often start out with the feeling that the individuals are perfectly aligned, unconscious differences can, over time, start to cause problems. Sometimes issues are created due to a change in circumstances which have resulted in how you are communicating or experiencing your relationship together.
During relationship counselling, I will work with you as a ‘couple’, focusing solely on the relationship and the patterns of communication and/or behaviour that create problems within it. This type of therapy often involves identifying and learning to understand these patterns and then developing new ways of doing things that help make things better (if this is what both people want).
Couples counselling can also be useful when a couple is considering ending a relationship as it can help themwork through any issues and find a way of mutually moving on.
Whether you are married or living together, of opposite or same sex, if you are experiencing difficulties within your relationship, we can work together to address any problems and help you make the changes that you want.
After taking the first step by deciding to seek help, the next step is choosing a therapist. Coming to couples counselling, especially for the first time, may feel daunting but it is an investment in your relationship.
A relationship consists of three elements, both of you as individuals and the relationship itself. In couples counselling, the focus is on the relationship rather than the individuals' issues.
Whilst there will have been a conscious fit between you that drew you together, the unconscious differences can, over time, start to cause problems, or there may have been a change in circumstances which have resulted in a change in dynamics or how you are communicating or experiencing your relationship together.
As the therapist I am not a referee and will not take sides, but rather I will offer you a caring and supportive environment to talk about what you both feel is the problem, explore the differences and help you to gain understanding of each other. This will enable you to find the best way forward for your relationship, whether that be strengthening it together or finding ways to have a respectful uncoupling should that be the appropriate outcome for you both.
It is your journey but I will work alongside you to support you and help you get to where you want to be.
If this sounds right for you, please get in touch.