Relationships are all unique and provide different circumstances and challenges. When the relationship is healthy, we feel respected, valued, loved, understood and content. On the other side, when the relationship experiences difficulties we can feel lonely, rejected, depressed, confused, and angry. Conflict is an unpleasant and normal part of a couple’s life, and it is one of the most common presenting issues for couples who attend counselling.
Problematic communication patterns prevent couples resolving problems, and limit their ability to effectively discuss challenges, that lead to relationship crisis.
Common Relationship issues
- Communication issues, communication break downs
- Conflicting values & beliefs
- Crisis event (death of family member or friend, illness, medical condition, natural disaster, loss of job, career progression)
- Trauma experienced from childhood events, previous relationships/break ups
- Broken trust (infidelity) lack of honesty
- Financial pressure
- Having a child
- Loss of intimacy
- Controlling and aggressive behaviour
- A feeling of one-sidedness
- Difficulties expressing and sharing feelings & emotions
Counselling can help
- Learn effective communication techniques and strategies
- Understand the root of the problem
- Understanding each other’s communication style
- Minimise criticism and blame
- Manage conflict
- Separating the problem from arguments about the problem
- Focus on the strengths and positives in the relationship
- Increase emotional intimacy
Understanding the relationship and learning about each other’s communication style and conflict resolution skills can be a big first step towards a healthy, caring, functioning relationship. At times a relationship in crisis cannot be saved, however learning about it can prevent future relationship problems and establish positive communication patterns that minimise conflict in life.
Contact us to book a 15 minute introductory call to see if our counselling services can help you achieve the outcome you desire.