When you and your partner are going through a difficult time, it may seem like the end relationship. You two may be fighting often, not seeing eye-to-eye, or feeling like you have irreconcilable differences. It may seem like the situation is even worse if you suggest couples counseling, but they are adamant about not going. Maybe you’re nervous to bring up the topic to them.
No matter what, with some time, patience and a lot of love, you can be able to convince your partner that going to couples therapy together is the best option to save your relationship. Keep reading for more advice on how to get your partner to attend therapy.
Acknowledge Why They Don’t Want to Attend Therapy
Many people are embarrassed or embarrassed to admit that they may need some form of therapy. This can be especially true with couples therapy. Your other half may say they don’t want to air any dirty laundry. They may also even feel like they will be judged by a couples counselor, which is far from the truth. Even if you don’t agree with your partner’s beliefs, don’t attack them. Put yourself in their shoes, and try to understand where they are coming from.
Maybe your partner did not have the best experience with therapy in the past. Maybe they already struggle with opening up to those closest in their lives, which is what has caused a strain on your relationship. Whatever your partner’s reason may be, be open and understanding when they tell you their reasoning for not wanting to attend couples therapy. Shutting them down won’t help you when you try to explain your reasons why it would be beneficial.
Explain Yourself with Gratitude and Love
When you get around to explaining to your partner why you two should attend couples therapy together, do so with gratitude and love. Tell your partner you have been trying everything in your possible power to mend the relationship (if you have been), and that you understand and appreciate that he or she has been as well. Remind them that this is not to put blame on anyone, but just so you two can communicate better and work through issues you have been experiencing.
If you need to mention any faults that could be potentially fixed with couples therapy, make sure to do so in a non-accusatory way, and follow it with positive reinforcement. Genuinely explain how it makes you feel. Your partner will not feel attacked and close themselves off, and this is a way to get them to understand where you’re coming from, and why.
If you and your partner have been experiencing issues in your relationship and feel that it can be helped through couples therapy, you should reach out to Marriage Couples Counseling in New York City. We can help you and your partner strengthen your bond, resolve present and underlying issues in your relationship and help you two learn how to fight smarter, not harder. Give us a call at 212-673 4618 for an in-depth phone consultation.
