FAQ – Relationship Counselling

Before you embark on couples or relationship counselling, ask yourself the most important questions. “Am I ready to let go of the past, take responsibility for my part in any dysfunction. Am I ready to move forward, leaving behind past hurt and pain? If you can answer yes, then below are 10 of the most frequently asked questions about relationship counselling.

1. What is relationship counselling, and how can it help us?
   • Relationship counselling, also known as couples therapy, is a type of psychotherapy. It helps support them to resolve conflicts, improve communication and strengthen their relationship. It provides a safe space to discuss issues and work towards mutual understanding and solutions.
2. What types of issues can relationship counselling address?
   • Relationship counselling can address a variety of issues. It can, include communication problems, trust issues, infidelity, sexual difficulties, financial stress, parenting conflicts and emotional disconnect.
3. How long does relationship counselling typically last?
   • The duration of relationship counselling varies depending on the complexity of the issues and the couple’s goals. Some couples may benefit from just a few sessions, while others may require several months of therapy. The amount of sessions depends on how committed each of you are to let go of all the past hurt and pain.
4. What can we expect during a typical relationship counselling session?
   • During a typical session, the counsellor will facilitate discussions between the partners. They support them to understand each other’s perspectives and provide tools and techniques to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Sessions often include exercises and homework to practice skills outside of sessions.
5. How do we know if we need relationship counselling?
   • Couples might consider counselling if they are experiencing ongoing conflicts, communication breakdowns, emotional distance, or dissatisfaction in the relationship. Counselling can also be beneficial for couples facing significant life changes or wanting to strengthen their bond.
6. Will the counsellor take sides in our conflicts?
   • A good relationship counsellor remains neutral and does not take sides. The counsellor’s role is to facilitate open and productive communication. This help each partner express their feelings and needs, without judgement or interruptions and guides them towards mutually beneficial solutions.
7. Can relationship counselling help if one partner is unwilling to attend?
   • While it’s ideal for both partners to participate, it is not mandatory. Individual counselling can still be helpful if one partner is unwilling to attend. Individual counselling can provide support and strategies for coping with relationship issues. Additionally, this may eventually encourage the other partner to join.
8. How do we find the right relationship counsellor for us?
   • Finding the right counsellor involves researching counsellors who specialise in relationship counselling. You can also look on a peak body website such as the ACA or PACFA and considering their qualifications. It’s important to choose someone both partners feel comfortable with. An initial consultation can help determine if the counsellor is a good fit.
9. Is relationship counselling only for couples who are married or in serious relationships?
   • No, relationship counselling is beneficial for couples at any stage of their relationship. It doesn’t matter whether they are dating, engaged, married, or in a long-term partnership. Additionally, it can help with non-romantic relationships, such as those between family members or friends.
10. What if we don’t see immediate improvements in our relationship?
    • Relationship counselling is a process and it may take time to see significant improvements. It requires commitment, patience and effort from both partners. Progress can be gradual and small changes can lead to more substantial, long-term improvements. If progress seems slow, discussing concerns with the therapist can help adjust the approach and set realistic expectations.

Relationship Counselling Helpful Links

Here is a link to a FAQ relating to Relationship Counselling list on this page that you might also find helpful

This is another helpful article of common relationship problems, you might be interested in

I found this article on Poor Communication in Relationships quite helpful

If you have any more questions or concerns please feel free to reach out to me directly via email (toni@tlcounselling.com.au), or phone (0414 718 338) and I am happy to support you in your exploration of whether couples counselling can work for you.