3 Tips On How To Prepare For Couples Counseling

1) Be clear that the therapist is not responsible for fixing your relationship. He/she will guide you to making the necessary changes on your own, which occur mostly outside the office.

2) Each should consider what your roles have been in the relationship problems. It's easier to blame the other than to take responsibility. Now's the time to prepare to own your part. If you're not ready to do that now, that's ok. But be aware that this will probably come up sooner rather than later in the counseling process.

3) Each should reflect on what your relationship means to you and whether you're willing to make changes. When both partners make positive changes that have meaning to the other, it serves as reinforcement and can be a catalyst for more positive change. At this time, you may not be able to wrap your head around you making changes but this too will probably be explored in the counseling process.

When high levels of anger and resentment are present, it can be challenging to get to the place of owning your role - let alone be willing to change! This is perfectly normal. The important point here is that considering the above three tips prior to your first session will allow time for you to think about what will likely come up at some point in the sessions. It's good food for thought prior to jumping in - regardless of whether you're presently "there" or not.