So, you and your partner have decided to try
couples therapy. There may be several reasons why you feel that this is the
right choice for you two, and you might have a lot of goals that you want to
reach.
But before you dive into the world of couples
therapy, you need to keep a few things in mind. First and foremost,
you need to be ready to be very patient because couples therapy doesn’t solve
all of your problems right away.
There are numerous reasons why patience is key
when you start couples therapy. If you don’t practice, you and your partner
will soon become disillusioned, uncomfortable, and upset.
True
Resolution Takes Time: Remember, longstanding problems
do not pop up suddenly, and they will not be solved quickly either.
Many couples seek therapy with years and years
of conflicts, misunderstandings, and emotional wounds that have added up over
time. Dissecting these layer by layer demands a gradual therapy method to
ensure that both partners feel listened to and understood.
Rushing through this process will probably
result in shallow, superficial resolutions that fail to truly tackle the main
problems, increasing the possibility of issues resurfacing in the future.
Learning
How To Communicate: Additionally, treatment includes
learning and using new methods of communication and interacting that may feel
uncomfortable or unfamiliar at first. Active listening and communicating deep
emotions without assigning blame are important skills that may be difficult to
perfect. This, of course, takes time.
Replacing unhealthy habits with healthier
alternatives is a long process that requires a lot of time and effort. Having
high expectations for instant expertise with this can cause frustration, so it
is important to have patience for yourself and your partner. The good news is
that consistently practicing these new skills over time makes them second
nature, improving our communication skills and strengthening your relationship.
Healing
Takes Time: Another important part thing to remember
about couples therapy is that emotional healing does not always progress in a
straight line.
People may experience big steps forward in one
week only to feel like they are regressing right after. One step forward, two
steps back - this is something that many people in couples therapy feel.
This may be discouraging, but it is a regular
part of the process. Healing may require confronting difficult memories and
feelings, leading to a temporary increase in conflict or bad feelings. Having
patience lets couples remain dedicated to the journey, recognizing that
challenges are a natural part of the path to long-term progress.
Couples therapy needs both partners to be
vulnerable and open at all times, which can feel intimidating. But establishing
true trust and safety requires a long amount of time. Having patience is vital
when it comes to allowing both partners to feel comfortable enough to share at
their own speed without feeling rushed.