Want to Know More About Relationship Therapy? Start Here.
The majority of us value the relationships we are in and would invest a lot into making these relationships work to the best of our abilities. But, even so, there is no guarantee what the future holds. Sometimes relationships are difficult, even if all the parties involved are dedicated to making it work. That’s life. Full of curveballs and challenges along the way. If this situation seems familiar to you, perhaps it’s time to change your approach, and consider relationship therapy.
Too often, relationship therapy is seen as a final resort. Something that happens when there are no other options left on the table. The truth is that it can provide much more value long before you and your partner reach this stage.
When should you consider relationship therapy?
Therapy can be used to address any aspect of a relationship at any time, and is a great tool for a couple to use to maintain a healthy partnership, even during what they consider to be the good times. This is because counselling can help with a number of aspects that support healthy relationships, such as how to:
- express your feelings to each other
- tackle disagreements and conflict
- develop and apply problem-solving skills
- communicate better
- handle withdrawal or criticism
- deal with a stressful situation that affects one or more parties
- build a stranger relationship
- deal with financial stress
- deal with infidelity, addiction, or abusive behaviour
There are no “wrong reasons” to see a therapist, nor does there need to be a specific reason, problem or challenge before you seek counselling.
Where to go for relationship therapy?
The first thing to do is to select a therapist. This requires more consideration than simply picking up a phonebook or doing a quick Google search and contacting the first available service provider you can find.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the ideal therapist for couples counselling:
- Make sure you get in touch with a qualified professional.
- Check whether both of you are comfortable to talk to the professional you choose. This is important for openness and honesty during your sessions.
- Is the person accessible for both of you and do they offer sessions at times that are convenient to both of you?
Dr Tienie Maritz is a qualified psychologist with extensive experience in couples counselling. He offers relationship therapy sessions both in person at his practice in Pretoria, and online via WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom. To find out more about Dr Tienie Maritz – and to book a session – contact his office today.
