Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a therapist?
You do, especially if you’re:
- Going through a strained relationship
- Constantly fighting with your spouse
- Feeling that your relationship is crumbling down
- Unhappy with life
- Experiencing stress or anxiety
- Seeking help to deal with your problems or issues
Therapy can help you and your spouse overcome your fears, control your emotions and get a grip on your relationship.
What do marriage therapists do, exactly?
Marriage therapists work with married couples to either help them handle marital discord or improve their existing relationship. They are trained professionals who can teach couples various techniques to resolve their conflicts and enhance communication.
Typically, a marriage therapist will work with the couple together at first but will eventually work with each individual as well. This helps the person to open up and share their true feelings with the therapist.
Therapists also identify and diagnose mental or personality disorders that could be causing the rift between the couple. Mostly, a therapist will counsel couples on improving relationships, give advice on child rearing, home management, and managing finances to name a few.
What can a therapist do for me?
A good therapist helps you to become stronger and more aware about yourself. They will listen to your problems individually and as a couple, and help you navigate through the issues that are causing the rift in your relationship.
The right therapist provides a safe environment for you to discuss your matters openly and offers the best possible solutions. However, note that your therapist cannot do all the work for you. To make the most of your sessions and to achieve the results you want, you must be an active participant.
What type of a marriage therapist do I need?
Depending on your concern and the area where you need help in, you can find a therapist that matches your needs.
Types of therapists
Psychologist
Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and are licensed in clinical psychology.
Perfect for:
Those who seek counseling and psychotherapy. Psychologists mostly work with those who have life adjustment problems, emotional disorders or mental illness. Treatment is provided for people of all ages as well as families and groups.
Clinical Social worker
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) have a Master's degree in social work (MSW) along with additional clinical training.
Perfect for:
Those looking for clinical services such as the diagnosis of mental, emotional, behavioral, developmental, and addictive disorders. LCSW also devise treatment plans.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) have a Master's degree and clinical experience in marriage and family therapy.
Perfect for:
Married couples looking to treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage. They also provide therapy for the entire family.
How do I select the right therapist?
What is their experience?
Look for a therapist who is experienced in treating the problems that you have. Often, therapists have expertise in solving certain issues, such as depression or addictions. Experienced therapists can offer insight and provide accurate solutions. For issues related to trauma or PTSD, seeing a specialist is an absolute-must.
What about their treatment orientations?
Many therapists do a blend of orientations (treatment methods or types). It would be a good idea to learn about them before-hand.
What about license?
Make sure the therapist holds a current license. Also, check for complaints against the therapist (if at all there are any)
In addition to the above, you need to trust your gut feeling when selecting a therapist. Even if he meets all the above requirements yet does not seem like someone you could be comfortable with, then go with another choice. A good therapist will understand and never pressure you to continue or make you feel guilty about choosing another.
How long does a therapy session last for?
A typical session lasts for about fifty minutes. But, everyone’s treatment is unique.
The length of a therapy session depends on several factors. Some couples may have complex issues, such as addictions or infidelity, so therapy may last longer, session-wise and overall duration-wise. When requested or called for,
a session can be extended to about eighty minutes.
Others may have relatively straightforward problems that can be solved quickly. In such cases, the therapists would prefer doing a strict 45 minutes’ session or even less.
What fees and costs should I expect?
Rates vary from about $50 – $250 per session. The average can be about $200. Since most marriage counselors see couples once a week for the first three months, you can expect to pay about $2500 in that period of time if it's at about $200/hr.
Remember Good Marriage Counseling is Cheap.
Divorce is Expensive.
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