Working Together to Address Relationship Issues

Are you and your partner or spouse fighting more often than you used to? Do you generally feel less content in your relationship? Is it difficult to discuss your feelings or ask for what you need? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to consider relationship counseling. In this blog, you can learn more about the types of relationship struggles that can be addressed in therapy. 

What Types of Relationship Issues Should You Discuss in Couples Therapy? 

A therapist can support your relationship goals at any stage in a partnership. Many would consider relationship therapy as being beneficial in one of three situations: 

• Developing a healthy relationship – this type of counseling is appropriate for individuals who have not been in a relationship for very long, but who are interested in establishing a deeper commitment and stronger bond for a lasting relationship that will thrive. Premarital counseling is a common form of this type of therapy. Topics discussed include wants and needs in relationship, desire for children, plans and goals for the future, and other topics that impact the long-term success of early relationships. 
• Sustaining a healthy relationship – you don’t have to be struggling to benefit from couples counseling. Instead, you can work with a therapist to ensure your relationship stays strong and satisfying for years to come. This might involve improving communication, working through little issues to prevent big problems, and planning for the future.
• Restoring a struggling relationship – this is what most people think of when they hear relationship therapy. If you and your partner are always fighting, having a tough time resolving specific issues, or just generally aren’t feeling satisfied, relationship therapy can help you resolve issues, improve communication, and create a more thriving partnership. 

What Factors Increase Risk for Relationship Struggle? 

All couples struggle during difficult times or when there’s a disagreement about something meaningful to one partner or the other. The willingness to work through these issues together is what sets successful relationships apart. While anyone may experience relationship issues, there are some factors shown to significantly increase risk for relationship struggles, including: 

• Financial difficulties, leading to increased stress within relationships. 
• Tendency to react in extreme ways when under stress. 
• Having divorced parents or parents who model unhealthy relationships. 
• Marrying young or very soon after meeting. 
• Bringing children from prior relationships into a new relationship is an added hurdle that should be undertaken with care. 
• Having different religious, political, ethical, or moral beliefs. 
• Working through a difficult transition. 
• Struggling with grief and loss. 
• Experiencing infidelity or betrayal (in past or current relationships).

How Do We Schedule a Relationship Therapy Session? 

If you’re ready to move forward in your relationship to achieve a greater level of intimacy, the Lansing Counseling team is here for you. To schedule your first couples counseling session, take a few moments to call (517) 333-1499, by email [email protected], or fill out our scheduling request form. We look forward to becoming part of your support network and partnering with you as you develop a healthier and more fulfilling partnership.