Is it time for couples counseling?

couples counseling, marriage counseling, pembroke pines

Many couples struggle with the idea of counseling for different reasons. One reason is that starting counseling confirms there is a problem. Recognizing a problem can be very difficult. No one wants to admit there is something wrong with their relationship. It can be especially difficult to admit if you see all your friends doing just fine in their relationship, but the truth is all couples have ups and downs. It is part of being in a close relationship with someone. The real problem arises when couples keep their head in the sand, so to speak, and do nothing about what is going on. Unfortunately, it doesn’t go away on its own. Sweeping things under the rug isn’t an effective approach to resolving the conflict. In fact, in the long run, this conflict resolution tactic will only lead to other major problems. It doesn’t have to get to that place, but it will if left untreated.

Couples counseling is private and confidential. No one needs to know. All they will notice is how things seem to be different between the two of you. Better, improved, refreshed. You invested in this person. You married them and planned a future with them. However, you didn’t expect there would be maintenance that needed to be done to keep the relationship in its best condition. Like everything else that we own, it needs our care and attention. Our relationship needs it too.

Don’t wait any longer thinking you can work this out. I hear that all the time. If you could have “worked it out” without help you probably would be reading something different. If you could have done it alone, your relationship would be in that different and better place. It really isn’t too late. It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to seek a professional about improving your marriage. It’s about your commitment to your partner and your family. They should be more important than anything else.

If you’re interested in couples counseling and would like to meet with a therapist, contact me. I serve Pembroke Pines, Davie, Weston, Southwest Ranches, Plantation, Cooper City and surrounding areas.

Stress and its Stages

Stress is defined as “the nonspecific response of the body to any demand made upon it”. These demands that cause the body to react and adapt can be positive or negative. 

The body’s biological response to stress occurs in three stages: The alarm reaction (AR) stage, the stage of resistance, and the stage of exhaustion. 

During the alarm reaction stage, the body exerts energy that helps it adapt to the perceived threat. This is known as the fight, flight, or freeze response. 

In the stage of resistance, the body attempts to maintain homeostasis. After prolonged exposure to stress the body begins to break down, this is known as the stage of exhaustion. Depression, anxiety, and trouble sleeping can be evident in this last stage. 

Talking with a professional counselor is an effective way of decreasing stress and finding ways of coping.