Can marriage counselling save my marriage?
There is a very long list of reasons that couples might embark on a journey of marriage counselling. Perhaps they have lost a connection to each other or they are trying to overcome a painful event. They might want to rekindle some passion or find a way to thrive in each other’s company once again. But, generally speaking, there is one thing that they all have in common: hope.
Where there is hope, there is opportunity for growth and development. Combining this with open-mindedness, willingness and compassion has the potential to kickstart huge changes in a marriage.
We don’t save, we transform
In Imago Relationship Therapy, we don’t work to “save” or “fix” a relationship. Instead, we help to transform a relationship. As Imago founder Harville Hendrix said: if you fix something, then it can be broken again.
Relationship therapists arm couples with the tools and skills they need to see things from a different perspective. They teach couples to move to a conscious partnership and make conscious decisions that will have a positive effect on themselves, each other and their partnership.
An open mind and heart
These tools and skills are only effective for those who are willing to invest in the process. Couples undergoing couples counselling must be open to taking responsibility for their progress.
Those who are successful will practise the skills at home, take part in the exercises and show compassion to one another throughout. Couples who come to marriage counselling with this mindset are much more likely to be successful in the pursuit of the relationship they want.
The potential for transformation is within reach
Any kind of relationship counselling must not be seen as a magical cure. Simply attending the sessions, without any openness, won’t save a marriage and no one should expect overnight results.
But, if couples choose to go through the process with an open mind, an open heart and a willingness to take responsibility, marriage counselling can have amazing outcomes.
If you’re considering marriage counselling, know that your therapist will be dedicated to guiding the way and helping you see the light. If you show up with optimism and openness, then it has the power to propel your relationship into a positive and strong place.
Click here to find a therapist in your area if you’d like to explore this journey.