Looking for information on marriage counseling? Every marriage has issues with communication it seems. Rarely are there couples who never fight or are always seen together holding hands and cooing softly in each other's ears. In fact, conflicts are a normal part of any relationship. But conflict can build respect between partners and when negotiated with love, these problems can be used to form a tight union.
Tips for successful marriage counseling
Communication is key to the development of a meaningful relationship. The following tips will help encourage healthy communication and ensure that you get the most out of your marriage counseling sessions.
Practicing diplomacy
Showing respect for the other and concern for their well-being and interest makes people feel as if you care about them and their lives. In a relationship, it is critical that you show true feeling for the other while being diplomatic when there are conflicts and issues. People tend to become emotional at times, and then later calm down and even regret and apologize for words spoken in anger. If you maintain a cool head and wait for later to make decisions, you can avoid the worst communication problems.
Listening without being defensive
This can be hard to accomplish when the other partner is often on the offensive. Yet that is a separate matter that needs to be dealt with on its own. When a partner is calm and reasonable but has points to make to you, including criticism of your behavior or complaints they need to have addressed, it’s important to listen to what is being said respectfully. Using disrespectful language will always result in a lack of trust between partners, so if you value your partner, make sure you always treat them with respect. Words have power, so listen and be loving even if you are mad.
Pay full attention when speaking seriously
When you are communicating with your partner about something of a serious nature, it is important to engage them completely in the conversation. Turn off any music and stop using any technology, and look at them face to face and make eye contact. Lean into them slightly so you will make a connection to the other person and the conversation. Don’t get distracted by your other thoughts, put yourself in the here and now and make sure you are listening to them the entire time you are communicating.
Show genuine interest
You care about your partner, and not just when things are good or intimate. It’s important that you show you care by being genuinely interested in the things they have to say. No one likes to be made to feel as if they do not matter. In order to grow in your relationship, or heal wounds, you need to open your heart on a real and personal level. You should realize the other person is a human being, and as tough as life is, no one should be treated as if they don’t exist or mistreated in other ways.
Do you need marriage counseling?
If you and your spouse would like to work on some issues together for the health of your marriage, we invite you to contact our office today for a consultation.
Request an appointment here: http://flourishcounseling.com or call Flourish Counseling & Coaching at (303) 455-3767 for an appointment in our Denver office.