Couples Counseling McLean VA

No relationship is perfect. Regardless of how long you and your spouse have been married, you might find that you still have to work for happiness. It can be easy to take both your spouse (or partner) and relationship for granted, eventually leading to little or no effort being put into it. You might find yourself reflecting on the times in which you and your spouse were creating fun experiences, going out for dates, and learning about each other. With time, these things can fade. Routine, responsibilities, other obligations, and neglect of the relationship can set in. This kind of scenario is common and one that couples counseling in McLean, VA, might help.

What are some signs that my spouse and I might benefit from couples counseling?
If you or your spouse are experiencing any of the following signs, take a proactive step and consider scheduling an appointment with a couples counselor.

You are preparing to make, or have made, a significant transition: Whether you and your spouse are moving, starting a new job, or thinking about having a child, it is essential to discuss any assumptions, concerns, or expectations before the transition. In taking this step, both of you can get on the same page and avoid potential disappointment later on.

There is less communication: The longer you are in a relationship, the more likely you and your spouse are to make assumptions. You might assume conflict and then choose not to express how you feel. This can lead to a suppression of emotions and resentment. The longer this cycle goes on, the more you might associate talking with arguing. Couples counseling can provide you with a safe space to talk. Your therapist can also provide you with various tools and coping mechanisms that promote proactive communication.

You are arguing more often: If you and your spouse are arguing over “petty” things more often or get fired up over nothing, there could be underlying issues that need to be addressed. Couples counseling can help you to identify these issues and hopefully resolve them; thereby, leading to a reduction in conflicts.

There is less intimacy: Many couples experience a lack of affection or intimacy at one point or another. Many factors could be involved, including hormonal issues, low self-esteem, distrust, and so forth. Intimacy is a vulnerable part of a relationship, and when it lacks, it can quickly lead to disappointment and negativity. Whether you feel overly tired, less attracted to your spouse, or have been hurt by reoccurring experiences, it is crucial to address these issues sooner rather than later.

There has been a violation of trust: If infidelity or any other type of trust violation has occurred, couples counseling can be extremely beneficial. When trust violations are issues, one or both spouses might be feeling angry, hurt, and confused. There might also be expectations that include staying together now and in the future. If you are in this situation and would like to resolve the issues at hand, it might help to discuss things with your spouse while being guided by an objective third party.

Relationships can be very satisfactory; however, many include variables that get in the way of a couples’ happiness. Couples counseling is a proactive step that helps people to address concerns and positive transitions. It also teaches the skills needed to improve communication, share affection, and rebuild trust.

It is never too late to begin couples counseling. If you would like to talk with a therapist now about couples counseling McLean VA families recommend, call our office today.

What to Expect from Couples Counseling
When considering couples counseling, McLean VA community members turn to Lindsey Hoskins & Associates. Our therapists offer a variety of counseling options. Call us to find out more about the therapy solutions we offer.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get about couples counseling. However, you may have additional questions or concerns. If that’s the case, one of our therapists can talk to you further.

How does couples counseling work?
The experience of couples therapy is somewhat different for everyone. This is because not every couple’s needs are the same. Goals may be different as well. Before entering into therapy, it can be beneficial for you and your partner to identify what you’d like to focus on. In addition to couples counseling, clients sometimes participate in individual counseling as well.

What will we discuss in couples counseling?
This depends entirely on you and your partner; however, we’ve found that certain processes are more successful than others. Sessions are productive when we focus on issues that are preventing growth and positive interaction. It can be more beneficial to discuss the underlying reasons for arguments rather than the arguments themselves. For the healthiest outcome possible, both partners should be willing participants in counseling and have open minds to change things about themselves. When seeking couples counseling in McLean, VA, talk to a counselor to get started.

What role does the couples counselor play?
In many cases, the counselor does not play a passive role; she or he is an active participant in the session. As a professional who is removed from the emotional dynamics of the couple’s relationship, the counselor can provide a balanced and grounded perspective. Without taking sides, the couples counselor can guide clients in a direction that benefits the relationship. The counselor may also provide an objective approach and allow each partner to express their feelings, thoughts, frustrations, and needs. Healthy communication is key to a successful and happy relationship. Because communication issues are often what brings clients to therapy in the first place, a counselor may help establish a solid foundation of mutual trust. From there, the counselor can provide tools for the couple to use in ways that allow them to work through their issues.

Does couples counseling work for everyone?
Undergoing couples counseling does not guarantee that the relationship will survive. However, even if the partners decide to separate, it may provide a healthy path for them to do so. For others, couples counseling is a way to reconnect with one another. By addressing the challenges of a relationship, it can be possible to fall in love all over again — even if they never fell out of love in the first place. Though it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, couples counseling can have a tremendously positive impact.

If you would like to find out more about couples counseling in McLean VA, from Lindsey Hoskins & Associates, call our office today.

Common Misinformation About Couples Therapy

Couples counseling McLean VA residents recommends is a common consideration for many couples. Being in a relationship can be challenging, to say the least, and as many are aware, relationships are not always smooth sailing. Even couples with healthy communication may have challenges that warrant a clinician’s assistance from Lindsey Hoskins & Associates. Couples therapy can provide a supportive and effective way to repair your relationship purposefully. Unfortunately, many couples may be resistant due to the amount of misinformation out there that pertains to therapy. Here are several myths that many couples enter into therapy believing:

You Can Resolve the Problem on Your Own
Some people are resistant to therapy and may view support from a therapist as a sign of weakness. While sometimes couples may work through their problems without guidance from a therapist, sometimes a professional may be helpful. A therapist can assist couples with working through the challenges in their relationship. Being able to acknowledge that you need help from a professional is the first step towards moving forward.

There is Often an Acute Issue That Brings Couples to Therapy
Yes, sometimes there may be a critical catalyst that triggers a couple to seek McLean, Virginia couples counseling. While things like infidelity or financial problems may be a reason to seek therapy, there are several other reasons couples may consider counseling as an option. It should come as no surprise that life can come with its fair share of challenges. While some of these may be affecting one person in the relationship, if they are not managed or addressed in a supportive way, the issue may impact both parties and ultimately the relationship. A therapist can work with both parties by helping them feel heard and supported while in a safe environment. They can also play a vital role in assisting couples to feel as though they are taking steps in the right direction by developing a treatment plan that aims at achieving the couple’s goals for treatment.

Therapists Will Insert Themselves Where They Shouldn’t
A couples therapist may offer recommendations, but they will not provide you with an instruction manual for what to do next. An experienced professional is critical for many couples to feel heard, build communication and understand each other’s perspectives. A therapist should never tell you what to do, nor should they instruct you around whether you should remain in a relationship.

We Will Have to Attend Years of Therapy to Experience Improvement
While therapy can be a long process at times, some couples can resolve issues in a relatively short time frame. Timeframes will depend on the details of your situation. While no therapist can give you an exact timeframe for how long you will need therapy, know that improvement will mostly rely on you and your partner.

The Couples Therapist Will Side With One Party
Sometimes couples may have a misconception that a therapist is siding with one person over another. Know that your therapist may act as a mediator at times to ensure you can hear each other. A skilled clinician should never be ganging up on you or taking sides. Should this be the case, it may be a good idea to consider finding a different therapist.

There are many misconceptions that couples often believe before they begin the therapeutic process. Know that by meeting with a clinician from Lindsey Hoskins & Associates, a member of our team can answer your questions and help clarify any perceptions you have. Start couples counseling in McLean, Virginia, today by reaching out to one of our experienced practitioners.