Every relationship has its fair share of ups and downs, however, sometimes the tension can reach a boiling point, and assistance is needed. Online couples therapy can be the solution to relationship woes.
Studies have shown that current marriage counseling techniques are 75% effective in helping resolve issues in a relationship. So, if you are interested in learning about how to find the best online couples therapy keep reading!
Identify the Need
It can be difficult to pinpoint when it might be time to seek counseling, especially when two parties are involved. Many couples wait until after there is a serious issue to seek counseling, however, starting counseling before the issue is out of hand is the best course of action.
Counseling is not only needed when an issue arises. Online couples therapy can help a couple learn techniques to communicate more effectively and handle disagreements respectfully. With that being said, sometimes things can get out of hand, and counseling is needed to resolve the issue.
Here are a few examples of when a couple should seek therapy:
- Challenges with intimacy or sex
- Family tragedies or stresses
- Financial stress
- Infidelity
- Parenting issues
- Communication struggles
These are a few common issues where online couples therapy could help. You should never put counseling off until things reach a crisis level. Identifying that there is a need as soon as possible will give the best results.
Find an Expert
The field of therapy is very broad, so finding an online therapist who specializes in couples therapy or marriage counseling is essential to your success. Your search should go beyond ensuring that the therapist has ample couples therapy experience though. You should do your research to ensure that the therapist has experience with handling couples with your same belief system.
For example, you might find that you and your partner feel more comfortable with a therapist who is well versed in couples counseling with a religious focus, or one who has specific training in dealing with issues of intimacy. Because you will be doing the counseling online you must find a therapist that you feel comfortable with discussing any topic with via webcam.
Take Your Time
Online couples therapy gives you the option to shop around for the right fit from the convenience of your own home. Take your time in reading the therapist profiles and methods before making a final commitment. This is an important step for you and your partner as you will be working together to find a therapist that works for both of your needs.
In many cases, a consult over the phone or a short video chat can help you get a feel for if a therapist is right for you. You can try getting to know them by asking questions such as:
- Where did you receive your education?
- What is your opinion on divorce, and have you ever recommend it to a couple?
- What will the structure of the sessions be like?
- How many couples are you currently helping?
These are some questions that you can ask to help you understand the therapist a little better. Taking the time to find the best person for your needs as a couple will lead to more successful therapy sessions.
Be Ready to Commit
If you feel like you need couples therapy then you probably do. Be ready to dive into the process and stick with it for as long as it is needed. Studies show that couples who stick to the program have more success from couples therapy.
Many issues that couples face are only surface level. The truth is, it takes time to discern certain root causes and issues and find ways to fix them. While as a couple you might see improvement after only one session it is important to listen to the therapist and their treatment plan.
Dropping out of therapy early could lead to unresolved issues festering and reappearing later. Additionally, it might take one partner a little bit longer than the other to warm up to therapy so to speak. Giving the process time will help you both get the most out of therapy.
Prepare for Sessions
Online counseling is different in many ways than receiving traditional in-person counseling. When searching for an online couples therapist there are a few things that you need to take into consideration.
Making sure that you have a strong WiFi connection and a private place in the home to have your sessions is essential. During an in-person counseling session your therapist can see your whole body and read the body language between you and your partner.
When participating in an online couples therapy session it is important that you are prepared to position the camera to show as much of you and your partners bodies as possible. This will help the therapist read body language as they would in-person and help them make proper assessments. If you and your partner are currently separated joining from separate rooms or spaces is okay, however, still show as much of yourself as possible during the session.
Making the Most of Online Couples Therapy
Online couples therapy can be a tool for any couple whether they are in crisis or just looking for better ways to communicate. It is important to identify problems early on and seek counseling before the issues get out of control. Finding an expert in couples therapy will help you mitigate problems and the future and ultimately could save your relationship.
We want to connect futher with you! Navigating therapy can be challenging, however, with the right team it does not have to be. Visit us today so that we can help you find the option that is right for you.