5 Myths of Marriage Counseling – How to Ignore Them and Find a Way to Heal

Sometimes people just feel out of touch with their partner, as if they are living on different worlds. Disagreements can take on a dramatic tone, with lots of hurtful phrases being tossed back and forth, and lots of excuses as well. At other times, there is just a lack of passion and communication in general.

Marriage counseling is an important step in solving relationship problems.

Unfortunately, some couples are reluctant to begin the process due to negative myths surrounding the practice. Here are five of those myths – 

1. Myth: Marriage counseling is a large time investment

Counseling isn’t necessarily a long process, but it can depend on the complexity of the issues a couple is trying to address.

Depending on the agreed upon schedule, a couple might only wish to visit a counselor once a week for several months. In other cases, couples might decide to remain in counseling for over a year as they attempt to heal, stabilize their relationship, and work on their individual growth.

In either case, this isn’t a permanent process, and patience is often rewarded with a happier marriage. 

2. Myth: Counseling is for weak or crazy couples

Society tends to place an unfortunate and undeserved stigma on anyone who seeks help through counseling, and the same applies for marriage counseling.

However, couples who seek help are everyday people who are willing to admit they don’t have all the answers. These couples are also willing to challenge themselves to learn, listen, and grow, rather than give up on the relationship.

In many ways, by seeking counseling, a couple is showing courage and resolving to take happiness into their own hands. The same is true for any individual who seeks help. 

3. Myth: A counselor has all the answers

As mentioned, a couple that seeks counseling has acknowledged they don’t have all the answers. But that doesn’t mean the counselor does either. The session won’t consist of the counselor simply handing out answers or instructions to magically fix the marriage. The couple plays an active role as well.

In fact, through open dialogue and some introspection, the couple will likely determine what problems can be solved and what the path forward looks like.

It is important to understand that not every problem has a solution, but many of them can be managed or overcome. 

4. Myth: A counselor won’t be fair

A good marriage counselor is a neutral individual who aims to work with each spouse to improve the relationship as a whole.

However, not every session will focus evenly on each person. For example, in one session the husband might spend more time listening rather than talking.

In time, both people will have their chance to voice their concerns as well as respond to their spouse’s concerns. 

5. Myth: Counseling is too expensive

Marriage doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive.

Couples looking to work within a budget should consider places like the Colorado Counseling Center, which lists prices on its website and explains how insurance is handled. This information helps couples find effective but affordable help.

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