Marriage counselling, also known as couples therapy, often carries a stigma. Many couples hesitate to seek help due to misconceptions and fear of judgment. This blog aims to dispel those myths and provide a clear picture of what marriage counselling entails in Singapore. 

Understanding the Need for Marriage Counselling 

Every marriage faces challenges. Communication breakdowns, unresolved conflicts, and life transitions can strain even the strongest bonds. While some couples navigate these hurdles independently, others may benefit from professional guidance. Marriage counselling provides a safe and supportive space for couples to explore their concerns, improve communication, and develop healthier relationship patterns. 

The Journey to a Healthier Marriage 

Marriage counselling is not a quick fix; it’s a journey of self-discovery and relationship growth. The process typically involves: 

• Assessment: The therapist will meet with both partners to understand their concerns, relationship history, and individual needs. 

• Goal setting: Couples collaboratively identify their goals for therapy and the areas they want to improve. 

• Skill-building: The therapist guides couples in developing effective communication skills, conflict resolution strategies, and tools for managing emotions. 

• Exploration of underlying issues: Therapy may delve into deeper issues contributing to relationship challenges, such as past traumas, attachment styles, or individual mental health concerns. 

• Maintenance and relapse prevention: Couples learn strategies to maintain progress and prevent future relationship difficulties. 

Common Misconceptions & Myths About Couples Therapy 

Several myths prevent couples from seeking the help they need. Let’s debunk some of the most common ones: 

• Myth: Marriage counselling is only for couples on the verge of divorce. 
• Reality: Couples therapy can be beneficial at any stage of a relationship, even for those seeking to strengthen their bond and prevent future issues. 
• Myth: The therapist will take sides or blame one partner. 
• Reality: A skilled therapist remains neutral and helps both partners understand their roles in the relationship dynamics. 
• Myth: Marriage counselling is expensive and time-consuming. 
• Reality: While therapy requires an investment of time and money, the long-term benefits for your relationship can outweigh the costs. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees or packages to make therapy more accessible. 
• Myth: Marriage counselling will magically fix all our problems. 
• Reality: Therapy provides tools and guidance, but it requires effort and commitment from both partners to implement changes and improve their relationship. 
• Myth: Talking about our problems with a stranger is uncomfortable and embarrassing. 
• Reality: Therapists create a safe and confidential space where couples can openly express themselves without judgment. 
• Myth: We should be able to solve our problems on our own. 
• Reality: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just as we consult professionals for physical health, seeking guidance for relationship challenges is equally important. 
• Myth: Marriage counselling will change who we are as individuals. 
• Reality: Therapy helps you understand yourself and your partner better, but it doesn’t aim to change your core personalities. 
• Myth: If we go to therapy, our friends and family will judge us. 
• Reality: Prioritizing your relationship’s health is commendable. Focus on your well-being and disregard any negative opinions. 

Finding the Right Support with Promises  

At Promises Healthcare, our experienced couples’ therapists provide a safe and supportive environment for you to navigate your relationship challenges. We offer evidence-based therapies tailored to your unique needs, helping you strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and reignite intimacy. 

If you’re considering marriage counselling, don’t let myths and misconceptions hold you back. Take the first step towards a healthier, happier relationship. Contact Promises today for a confidential consultation.