Despite how perfect most relationships appear on the outside, each one will hit some snags and roadblocks at some point. While some of these issues may be easy for couples to navigate on their own, many may require the guidance and expertise of relationship therapists in New York City. Unless you already know a great relationship or marriage counsellor, beginning the task of finding the right one for you and your partner can be daunting. We have the questions you should be asking and the answers to those questions so you can start your search off on the right foot:
Are You Devoted to Nurturing Your Relationship?
Some counsellors and therapists offer a broad range of services, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But in order to get the most out of your couples therapy session, the best relationship therapists either have a practice that is devoted to couples counseling or that offers it exclusively. Working with a couple is far more different than working with a single individual. Experience in working with two parties at once is key to having an effective and helpful session.
Are You Part of a Professional Organization?
Relationship therapists who are devoted to their craft will gladly spend their time and money on membership in professional organizations that are relevant to couples therapy. This not only signifies that therapists are serious about their work, but it also tells you they have a network of other professionals who can help them and you with any issues that may arise throughout the course of treatment.
At a minimum, a therapist should be a clinical member of The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists, or “AAMFT.” This designation means the therapist has completed all of the necessary coursework and training to work as a couple’s therapist, as well as having been supervised by another seasoned family therapist.
What Sort of Training Have You Had?
Before seeing a counselor, it may be beneficial for you to do some homework on the different treatments or practices that relationship therapists may use when helping treat any issues between you and your partner. Both yourself and your partner can agree on the approach that you feel will work best, and then seek therapists who have received training and provide care using that model.
Does a Therapist Recommend Divorce?
This is an important question, as there are some therapists who make judgements and may even recommend that a couple divorce after a few sessions. The goal of a relationship therapist is to help you deepen your understanding of what you need from your lover and free you to decide whether you can have an emotionally safe, passionate, fulfilling and joyful life together.
Click here for more information on relationship therapy.
