A great time to begin couple's therapy is before you start having problems. Some couples are surprised to hear this, but it makes sense. You maintain your vehicle to avoid bigger problems later. You visit your doctor for checkups in the hopes of preventing illness down the line, so why wouldn't you take care of your relationship before something goes wrong? In fact, it's an excellent idea to start premarital therapy well in advance of the wedding. Planning weddings can actually be quite stressful. Going for counseling during this time can be very beneficial.
Learn to listen
This isn't just for couples, but anyone who may be trying to prove a point, or anyone who has a conflict with someone else. Most people don't have great listening skills.
Most people are thinking about what they will say next instead of listening.
Therefore, you don't really hear what the other person is saying.
You miss a lot when you do this.
In counseling, you will learn to listen to what your partner is saying. Not only will you learn to listen with your ears, but with your heart as well. This can mean all the difference.
Communication
While listening is important in any relationship, communication is even more important. Your partner can't read your mind, yet we often expect our partners to do just that. In therapy, you will learn how to communicate in a way that gets your point across and heard. When the person you are communicating with feels attacked, they will shut down. Even if you have a very valid point, it won't be recognized. In therapy, you will learn how to communicate your feelings without attacking. This enables you both to come up with a resolution.
Be present
Therapy can teach you to be present in the moment. You'll learn how important it is for your partner to feel valued and cared for. The best way to do this is to be present with them.
Love
Counseling can teach you how to love each other, even when it's hard to like each other. There are times when you'll argue, and you may even dislike one another for a bit. However, it's very important that you still love one another.
Therapy can do wonders for any relationship. Whether you're dating, about to get married, or you've been married for fifty years, you can benefit from counseling. Couples who seek counseling are more likely to stay together and work through their differences. Don't give up on love. It can be saved.