Question 1

Does counseling really help couples?

Accepted Answer

Counseling does help couples as long as both members of the couple are willing to put in the work required. There have been several studies that support the effectiveness of couples counseling. For example, research on the treatment of couples in distress found that that couples counseling positively impacted 70% of couples who received it.

Counseling isn't easy. It usually forces us to take a hard look at ourselves, our behavior, and our reactions to see how these are affecting the relationship. Some people are afraid to change their behaviors or find it too difficult, but when both partners are dedicated to saving the relationship, they can overcome hardships when given the opportunity.

Couples therapists understand that many of the behaviors that hurt a relationship are unintentional, and they work to help the couple discover how they can change and improve their bond.

Question 2

What is the success rate of couples counseling?

Accepted Answer

Research suggests that the success rate of couples counseling is approximately 70%. On their website, the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT) reports an even higher success rate.This means that, in most cases, couples find that they are able to improve their communication, solve their problems, and remain together through hardships.

In decades past, couples counseling had a much lower success rate because the therapeutic methods used just didn't work as well. But in more recent years, psychologists and relationship experts have discovered what works and what doesn't.

Modern couples therapy focuses on building listening skills, cutting out negative reactions, changing emotional responses, and focuses on creating a more secure bond between both parties.

Question 3

What is the difference between marriage counseling and couples therapy?

Accepted Answer

The terms marriage counseling and couples counseling are usually considered synonyms and can be used interchangeably. The only real difference appears to be clinician preferences depending on where you live.

For example, more clinicians in Texas use "marriage counseling," but those in New York and California prefer to refer to themselves as a "couples therapist."

Does counseling really help couples?

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