Relationship Therapy
For most of us, relationships take center stage in our lives. We spend much time thinking about finding that special someone, our very own happy ever after. However, we know that, unlike in the movies, life keeps rolling, and relationship issues start to appear.
Life can get quite stressful and overwhelming, so even when we get along really well, we may be confronted with conflicts that seem difficult or almost impossible to overcome.
It’s entirely normal for couples to experience ups and downs. Obstacles in relations are inevitable. Work responsibilities take too much of our time and energy. Daily routines and chores fizzle out our sexual spark. Meddling family members drive wedges.
There will always be hardships along the way. What’s important is how we handle them. Studies show that being in a happy relationship makes us less likely to experience emotional and mental health problems, such as depression. Understanding relationship issues and confronting them head-on can prevent them from snowballing into irreconcilable differences.
Why Consider Couples Therapy?
Have you been feeling lonely, disappointed, or misunderstood? Have you lost connection with your partner? Do you think that your needs and expectations are being overlooked?
Whether you’re experiencing relationship issues or want to reconnect with your partner, seeking couples counseling can make a difference. Couples therapy can help you work out an existing problem, prevent a worsening of problems, or get you through a period of transition or increased stress.
Misconceptions about couples therapy prevent couples from seeking help early on. Research tells us that, on average, couples wait six years before seeking professional help. Many of us think of therapy exclusively for severe issues or even as a last resort before ending the relationship.
This is not to say that couples counseling isn’t effective at solving long-term problems. However, it will probably be more challenging and take more time to explore years of hidden conflicts and frustrations. So, it can require much commitment and effort from both sides.
Every relationship is unique, as every person is. Nonetheless, there are a few typical relationship issues that most of us will experience along the way. Identifying and recognizing these problems can be the first step toward a healthier and happier relationship.
5 Most Common Relationship Issues
1. Lack of communication
Sometimes, we avoid bringing up things that are bothering us, believing that talking about problems will only make them worse. This fear of instigating a nasty fight compels us to keep things to ourselves. However, this tactic can work against us in the long run.
Different people communicate differently. Our communication style is deeply affected by the models we grew up around. So, it is essential to be aware of these differences and commit to honest, effective communication to thrive together.
Learning how to express your concerns openly and listening with an open mind can make a great difference in your relationship. If you master communication, you’ll be far less likely to experience other relationship issues.
2. Mistrust
Trusting one another is the essential foundation for a solid and healthy relationship. However, trust can be really hard to build, primarily when past relationships—romantic or family—have sowed suspicion. And it is even more difficult to get back. After trust is broken, relationships can be harmed or even lost.
Learning how to trust someone again is a slow and painful process full of setbacks. Once trust is shaken, it can be frustrating for both parties to move forward. Counseling helps couples regain trust and provides tools to work together to solve any underlying issues.
3. Growing apart
As time passes and routine settles in, couples can become more roommates than intimate partners. We have to juggle many responsibilities, so our relationship sometimes takes a back seat without us even realizing it.
We all have moments when we feel overwhelmed by our own life. This can create a distance and make you and your partner feel disconnected and even alone. This doesn’t necessarily mean that there’s a problem in the relationship, but rather that you’re both facing individual issues that are interfering with your life together.
The good news is that you can rebuild intimacy with your partner once you both focus on what you need from each other. Making a conscious effort to reconnect and dedicate time to each other and the relationship can help you shorten the distance.
4. Sex and intimacy
It’s pretty standard for the sexual spark to fade as the years go by and the monotony takes over. Keeping your relationship fresh and exciting can be challenging, as we tend to lose some spontaneity and romantic surprise in our daily routines.
Put in the time and effort to rekindle that sexy spark and reconnect with your sexual side. Be honest and open with each other about what you want. Explore together new fantasies, wants, and craves free from judgment and embarrassment.
Sex can be an indicator of other problems in the relationship. A couples therapist can help you and your partner unveil what lies underneath and get you back between the sheets.
5. Money
We begin to form our relationship with money in early childhood by observing our parents, relatives, and others around us. Years later, these financial beliefs can seriously impact our relationships.
Differing strategies for spending and saving money can cause tension and conflict in relationships. Many couples find having a shared account for their expenses and separate accounts helpful to keep some financial independence.
Having a clear understanding with your partner about how you want to handle money can avoid unnecessary arguments and resentments.
Couples Therapy In New Jersey
Suppose you are experiencing issues in your relationship. In that case, couples therapy can help you and your partner resolve your conflict, find new ways of communicating, and strengthen your connection.
Our therapists are experienced in helping couples work through their problems and start a new chapter with a renewed connection and intimacy. A key aspect for the success of therapy is for both partners to feel comfortable and at ease, so we will make sure to find the right fit for both of you.