NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME
Have you done all you could before you leave your marriage? This is the one question that most people want answered before divorce. Speaking as a marriage counselor at Blair Counseling and Mediation, we hope and plan that each partner in a marriage can answer the question. We assume that saving the marriage is just as good, if not better, than the “greener grass on the other side of the fence.” Many people find that their second marriage is better for a time, but over time the level of happiness is not that different than the level of happiness in the first marriage. If there is the possibility of abuse, we do not recommend marriage counseling. Here are some circumstances that may, but do not have to, get in the way of success:
Couples therapy is not appropriate for abusive partners. Get help, and refuse to abuse before you work on the relationship.
Cheating and infidelity begin in the mind and end up in bed. The damage that is done may feel insurmountable, but most couples can make it work. Honesty, empathy, and true remorse are required.
Ultimately, it takes two to make a relationship work. A lack of effort from one side of the equation creates an unhealthy dynamic.
What does it take to make a marriage or couples relationship work?
Speaking up, the ability to describe your and your partner’s emotions and thoughts, asking for what you need, asking your partner what he or she needs, and creating healthy boundaries defining what you are willing to do and are not willing to do, are all part of what creates passion and closeness in healthy relationships.
Identifying what makes you feel loved is critical and includes time, talk, touch, tasks, and tokens.
People need motivation and a reason to keep pursuing their relationship and to make the sacrifices necessary.
We use whatever means necessary, including humor, tools, and coaching.