Should You Work With A Couple’s Therapist Before Divorcing
About half of marriages end in divorce, which should be keeping couple’s counselors in Highlands Ranch busier than ever. But a surprising number of people don’t bother with this step, or wonder if it can help at all. Should you work with a couple’s therapist before officially separating or divorcing your partner? Keep reading to see why professional marital or couple’s counseling can benefit your family in most situations.
Couple’s Therapy Before Deciding to Divorce
If you and your partner aren’t seeing eye to eye, or if the same issues keep arising, you may benefit from working with a couple’s therapist. This is especially true if one or both partners aren’t sure what to do—have you looked at your partner and wondered “Should we get a divorce? Would I be happier separating from my partner? Would it be better for the kids if we split up?” When you have these questions, starting with marital therapy is a good idea. This helps both partners to communicate their needs and feelings, solve problems, and determine if they really want to separate, or if they just need tools to make their relationship work better.
If We’ve Decided to Separate, Why Should We Work With A Couples or Family Therapist
For some couples, the decision to separate has already been made. So why bother with a couples or family therapist? For those without children, working with a therapist through your divorce can help you to process your own feelings, understand your partner, and make the process more smooth. Some people stay amicable after divorce, especially when there are shared family and friends. For those with young children living at home, working with a family therapist is even more important. While you may not be “together” any longer, you’re stuck as co-parents—at least until your child is 18, but more likely, throughout their life. Set the stage now for cooperative parent-teacher conferences, friendly graduation parties, and one day, happy family gatherings with the next generation. A psychologist in Highlands Ranch can help you navigate these multiple roles with divorce recovery therapy.
Are There Any Times When We Should Skip Therapy Before Divorce?
Like most things in life, there are exceptions to every rule. Some relationships cannot and should not be saved—if you and your partner are abusive to one another or your shared children, it is of utmost importance for everyone to stay safe. Prolonging the separation or hoping for a “miracle” is not the role of marital therapy. Likewise, if one person has effectively “left” the relationship already, such as with repeated infidelity, destructive substance abuse, or physical distance (i.e., moving out of state), it is often better for parties to separate and focus on their mental health. Finally, if you and your partner get along well, communicate effectively, and have a plan for the future and shared children, but just really don’t want to be married, you can likely handle the separation on your own. However, if you need help throughout the process, keep in mind that skilled professionals are available.
Don’t make divorce or separation harder than it has to be—work with an experienced couple’s therapist in Highlands Ranch to improve your marriage, understand each other’s needs, or plan for a successful divorce.
