Why is it important to bring my spouse to the counseling session?
In marriage counseling the best way to repair the relationship that seems to be broken is to have both partners in the room together. The therapist can then observe where there may be “splinters” in the communication that need to be addressed and removed. Within the safe haven of the therapy session new ways to communicate may be practiced as the therapist acts as a “coach” in helping the couple find healing alternatives to making their relationship work.
What if my spouse refuses to come with me to counseling?
The important first step is to recognize that the only one you can change in your relationship is YOU! Acknowledging that you can change and then enacting positive change within your own life, may encourage your spouse to seek therapy as well.
Q – If I have started therapy without my spouse can I bring them to the same therapist that I have been seeing?
A – No. You and your spouse (who did not start therapy with you) need to go to a new counselor who would not have a “bias” toward one or the other of you.