Relationship counselling in an individual setting
Possible reasons to start counselling
Relationships can be difficult for many reasons. When times are tough, we need our relationship to be there as a support, but it can buckle under the strain. Sometimes, the relationship is the cause of the stress. We can find ourselves stuck in patterns we can't understand or escape. Difficulties can cause communication problems, repetitive arguments, festering resentments and the loss of trust in each other, which can lead us to feel stuck, sad and angry.
On the other hand, difficulties can arise when looking for a loving relationship. Fighting loneliness or relationship style can be a reason to ask for help.
Entering a new life stage or being an expat and being exposed to a new culture (or many different cultures at the same time), can also put a lot of practical and emotional weight on relationships or increase the feeling of loneliness.
The way counselling can help
Counselling can help us to recognise repeating patterns of distress, understand the reasons behind (internal and external) conflicts, and learn to respond differently. Changing the way we react can also influence the response of others, helping to disrupt negative cycles. Developing communication skills and the creation of new patterns play a central role in this work.
In individual relationship counselling, I draw on my training in systemic therapy and on my many years of experience as a couple counsellor.
I have supported couples from all over the world, and this experience has taught me a great deal about the challenges that arise at different stages of life, the ever-present influence of differing backgrounds in relationships—whether shaped by family of origin or other factors—and the power of communication, attachment, and connectedness in creating change and restoring balance in relationships.
I have also learned that finding relationships can be hard work, and understanding ourselves can help a lot. In individual counselling, we explore your difficulties and resources and also your past and present, with a view to finding some clarity to be able to move forward.
Photo : Pomegranates and parrots, Church of the Apostles, Madaba, Jordan. @Helen Miles Mosaics