Relational Assessments: Relational Assessments are designed to assist the Licensed Clinical Professional (Therapist) and the Couple to assess the points of strength and vulnerability in their relationship. These assessments provide valuable information to guide treatment planning and prescribe the most helpful interventions. Relational assessments are an investment and a “best practice”, as they assist Therapists and Clients to hone in on and address the vital issues more effectively and efficiently; ultimately saving the couple time, money and further distress.
Marriage Counseling or Marital Therapy: These terms are typically synonymous. Marriage Counseling/Therapy is generally focused on the marital relationship between partners, and centers on supporting the strength and vitality of that relationship. Typically this is done via private therapeutic sessions wherein couples address their relational concerns in the presence of a Licensed Clinical Professional. Quality Marital Therapy will be highly individualized to the marriage needs, and will include assessments and benchmarks to ensure that adequate progress is being achieved. Further, effective Marriage Counseling focuses on a compilation of the relational strengths and the principles and dynamics that are creating barriers vs. a play-by-play review of each argument or disagreement the couple is experiencing; the latter being a common trap many Clinical Professionals and their clients fall victim to.
Couples Counseling: Similar to Marriage Counseling is Couples Counseling. Couples Counseling also focuses on supporting the strength and vitality of the partner relationship, though is broadened to include those who may not have entered into a marital relationship. For example, Couples Counseling may also include couples who desire to assess and strengthen their relationship in preparation for marriage. These sessions are also typically done via private sessions with a Therapist who aids the couple in addressing their relational goals. Like Marriage Counseling, quality Couples Counseling will be highly individualized to the couple seeking support, will focus on healing the principles and dynamics that are creating barriers, will utilize the strengths of the relationship to promote healing, and will include assessments and benchmarks to ensure progress is being achieved.
Couples/Marriage Workshops: Workshops can be stand-alone experiences, or can be presented in a series. For example, some workshops are offered as a one-time event for duration of 1-2 hours, with the goal of educating couples regarding common practices to support the improvement of their relationship. Other workshops may be offered in a series wherein 4-8 workshops build upon one another to create an in-depth platform for relational growth. Workshops are generally multi-systemic, meaning that numerous couples participate in the experience together. Workshop topics can also vary widely. A quality workshop will both educate you on several factors you can implement to strengthen your relationship, as well as provide dynamic visuals and exercises to help solidify the information you are receiving.
Couples/Marriage Retreats: Retreats are similar to the workshop dynamic, though often include a destination and/or thematic element. Retreats are designed to remove a couple further from the routine of daily living, and provide focused time and attention to nurturing their relationship. A quality retreat will provide a compilation of educational learning, dynamic group exercises, and individualized relational attention.
Ultimately the priority is securing the right services to fit your relational needs. This may be the selection of one service, or a combination of several services. If you’re having trouble determining where to begin, call for a free consult. If we can’t offer what you need, we’ll help you find it! The most important factor is to begin now to Renew your relationship.
Article By: Nevin Alderman: Owner/Clinical Director - Renew Relationship Counseling
Specializing in: Couples Counseling, Marriage Counseling, Family Therapy, Marriage Workshops, Marriage Retreats, Premarital Counseling, Marriage Therapy and Relationship Coaching.
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www.facebook.com/RenewRelationshipCounseling