Did you know that the top causes of divorce in America are incompatibility, infidelities or other sexual issues, and financial stress?
Although there are plenty of reasons why couples divorce, all of these problems can usually be traced back to a lack of fundamental relationship skills, such as open communication.
If you’re going through a rough patch, you may be worried that your marriage is on the rocks. Have you ever asked yourself, “Do we need marriage counseling?” If so, keep reading for 8 signs that your relationship can be saved with professional help.
1. It’s Challenging to Communicate
Do you ever feel like you and your partner talk at each other instead of to each other? One of the biggest signs of a good marriage is effective communication. If you and your partner are struggling to share your thoughts or understand each other, a counselor can teach you techniques to improve the ways you connect.
2. Your Marriage Is Going Through Big Changes
Although change can be exciting, it’s also normal for one or both partners to feel stressed or upset. For example, if one partner gets offered a promotion that would require relocation, couples may start to fight if the other partner isn’t ready to uproot. Talking about your feelings with a marriage counselor can help you cope and develop a plan that satisfies both parties.
3. Your Sex Life Is Suffering
Sex is an intimate time for couples to connect and relax. It’s important to understand why you are haiving problems in the bedroom and learn how you can rekindle the romance and intimacy in your relationship.
4. Problems from the Past Won’t Leave You Alone
Every person carries baggage that they’ve accumulated from past partners, toxic friendships, and other unhealthy relationships. In a fulfilling marriage, both partners work together to unpack the past and heal. If you haven’t done this yet, marriage counseling can help you focus less on the past and more on your happy future.
5. One or Both Partners Have Lost Trust
There are plenty of reasons why people lose trust in a relationship. Affairs and lies are two of the most common reasons why couples seek help from a therapist. In that safe space, you can be able to work together to restore your trust.
6. You’ve Lost Emotional Intimacy
Sex is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to intimacy. You may have an active sex life, but if your partner doesn’t hug, kiss, and caress you enough outside of the bedroom, then your marriage can suffer. Spending quality time together, sharing sweet words, and doing small acts of kindness also contribute to your emotional intimacy.
7. You’re Having the Same fights Over and Over Again
If you start fighting more frequently, more intensely, or about the same topics, a therapist can help you get everything out on the table. Learning what your triggers are and how to address disagreements or issues in a healthy way will make your marriage more productive and nurturing.
8. You’ve Tried to Fix Your Marriage in the Past
One of the best benefits of marriage counseling is having a mediator and a safe space to heal problems that can feel impossible. As long as there’s love and commitment, there’s always hope that your marriage can get stronger. Sometimes all you need is a different perspective or coping mechanisms.
Do We Need Marriage Counseling? Being Honest About Your Relationship Is Crucial
After learning about these 8 signs, you should be able to answer the question, “Do we need marriage counseling?” Even if you’re still unsure, it’s always best to try going to see if there’s any room for improvement.
If you’re looking for marriage counseling near Midtown NYC, The Relationship Suite would love to help improve your relationship. Contact us to book an appointment with one of our experienced therapists.
