Maintaining a healthy and happy relationship takes effort, commitment, and a willingness to work through the challenges that inevitably arise. However, even the strongest relationships can face difficulties that are difficult to overcome on their own. This is where couples counseling comes in. Couples counseling is a form of therapy that helps couples identify and work through their problems, improve their communication skills, and ultimately strengthen their relationship.
One of the primary benefits of couples counseling is that it provides a safe and supportive space for couples to work through their problems. In many cases, couples are dealing with issues such as communication breakdowns, trust issues, infidelity, financial problems, or disagreements about parenting styles. These issues can be incredibly difficult to work through on your own, and can often lead to feelings of frustration, anger, and despair. However, with the help of a trained therapist, couples can learn new communication skills, improve their conflict resolution abilities, and work through their issues in a way that is healthy and constructive.

Research has consistently shown that couples counseling can be incredibly effective in helping couples overcome their difficulties and improve their relationship. In fact, a meta-analysis of 75 studies published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy found that couples therapy was effective in helping 70% of couples improve their relationship. Additionally, the study found that couples who participated in therapy saw an average improvement of 10-20% in their relationship satisfaction scores.
One of the reasons that couples counseling is so effective is that it helps couples to identify and address the underlying issues that are causing their problems. Often, couples get stuck in a cycle of negative interactions, where they blame, criticize, or withdraw from each other in response to conflict. However, a skilled therapist can help couples to break this cycle by identifying the underlying emotions and needs that are driving their behavior. By learning to communicate their feelings and needs more effectively, couples can begin to build a stronger, more resilient relationship.

Couples counseling also provides a non-judgmental space for couples to explore their feelings and concerns. Often, couples feel as though they can’t talk to their partner about certain issues because they don’t want to hurt their feelings or cause conflict. However, in therapy, couples can explore these issues in a safe and supportive environment, without fear of judgment or backlash. This can help to create a sense of openness and trust in the relationship, which can lead to greater intimacy and connection.

Couples counseling can be incredibly effective in helping couples save their relationship. Whether you’re dealing with communication issues, trust issues, infidelity, or other challenges, working with a skilled therapist can help you to identify the underlying issues and develop the skills you need to work through them. By improving your communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection, you can build a stronger, more resilient relationship that will stand the test of time.

If you are your partner are needing some extra support, I am currently accepting new clients both online and in-person. You may call me at the number below or book directly on my website!

www.new.truemecounseling.com 818.851.1293

The question of whether being a parent leads to greater happiness has intrigued researchers and individuals alike. The answer, it seems, is not straightforward and varies depending on different stages of parenting and personal desires. In this blog post, we will delve into the research findings to shed light on the complex relationship between parenting and happiness.

The Role of Parental Intentions
A meta-analysis conducted by Sonya Lyubomirsky, which examined multiple studies on parenting and happiness, concluded that parents who intentionally chose to become parents tend to experience slightly higher levels of happiness compared to non-parents. This suggests that the desire to become a parent plays a significant role in one’s overall happiness.

Happiness Levels and Childbirth
Research has shown that happiness levels change as individuals transition into parenthood. Initially, the birth of a first child can lead to a boost in happiness. However, subsequent children tend to result in declining happiness levels. The responsibilities and challenges that come with raising multiple children can contribute to this decline. Nonetheless, it is important to note that individual experiences may vary.

Finding Joy in Larger Families
While happiness may decline with each subsequent child for some parents, there is evidence to suggest that individuals with larger families experience more joy during mid-life. As parents reach a certain stage in their lives, having a bigger family can bring a sense of fulfillment, companionship, and increased support networks, leading to greater overall happiness.

The Importance of Supportive Relationships
Parenthood can be both rewarding and demanding, and having a strong support system plays a vital role in parental happiness. Friendships that provide practical help, emotional support, and opportunities for confiding and sharing experiences can significantly contribute to a parent’s overall well-being. Building and nurturing these supportive relationships is crucial for parental happiness.

The relationship between parenting and happiness is nuanced and depends on various factors. While intentional parenthood and the birth of a first child may initially bring a sense of joy and fulfillment, subsequent children can lead to declining happiness levels for some individuals. However, those with larger families may find increased happiness during mid-life.

Importantly, the presence of supportive relationships and a strong support system can greatly impact a parent’s overall well-being and happiness. Ultimately, the decision to become a parent and the subsequent experiences are unique to each individual. It is essential to consider personal desires, circumstances, and the availability of supportive networks when reflecting on the connection between parenting and happiness. Are you struggling as a parent? We are here to help.

If you and your partner are looking for additional support in your relationship my associates and I are accepting new clients. Please feel free to call 818.851.1293 to learn more.

Prosocial behavior, characterized by acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity towards others, holds immense potential to create positive change in both individuals and communities. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating research that showcases the numerous benefits of engaging in prosocial behavior. From enhancing personal well-being to fostering social connections, these studies provide compelling evidence for the transformative power of kindness.

Improved Mental Health
Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact of prosocial behavior on mental health. Engaging in acts of kindness has been linked to increased life satisfaction, overall happiness, and a reduced risk of depression and anxiety. When we extend kindness to others, it activates brain regions associated with pleasure and reward, leading to a sense of fulfillment and contentment.

Enhanced Social Connection
Prosocial behavior plays a crucial role in building and strengthening social connections. Acts of kindness facilitate trust, cooperation, and reciprocity, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion within communities. Research shows that individuals who engage in more prosocial behavior tend to have larger social networks, experience greater social support, and report higher levels of social connectedness.

Increased Physical Well-being
The benefits of prosocial behavior extend beyond mental health to physical well-being. Studies have found that individuals who regularly engage in acts of kindness and volunteer work experience lower levels of inflammation, reduced cardiovascular risk, and improved overall health. These positive physiological effects can be attributed to the reduction in stress and the boost in positive emotions associated with prosocial behavior.

Longevity and Well-being in Older Adults
Research suggests that engaging in prosocial behavior can have profound effects on the well-being and longevity of older adults. Older individuals who volunteer or engage in acts of kindness tend to experience better physical health, improved cognitive function, and a higher quality of life. Prosocial behavior provides a sense of purpose, social engagement, and a meaningful connection to others, which contributes to healthy aging.

Positive Impact on Workplace Culture
Prosocial behavior is not limited to personal relationships but can also transform workplace environments. Studies have found that when employees engage in acts of kindness and support their colleagues, it fosters a positive work culture, increased job satisfaction, and improved productivity. Acts of kindness can also create a ripple effect, inspiring others to engage in similar behaviors and creating a positive feedback loop.

Promotion of Prosocial Values in Children
Instilling prosocial values in children is vital for the development of compassionate and empathetic individuals. Research suggests that children who are exposed to prosocial behavior and are encouraged to engage in acts of kindness exhibit higher levels of empathy, emotional intelligence, and pro-social behaviors themselves. Cultivating kindness from an early age has long-lasting effects on children’s well-being and their ability to positively impact society.

Be kind!
The research is clear: engaging in prosocial behavior has a profound impact on our well-being, social connections, and overall happiness. By embracing kindness, compassion, and generosity, we not only improve our own lives but also create a ripple effect of positivity and inspire others to do the same. The evidence underscores the significance of pro-social behaviors in fostering healthier individuals, stronger communities, and a more compassionate world. Let us harness the power of prosocial behavior and contribute to a brighter future for ourselves and those around us.

If you and your partner are looking for additional support in your relationship my associates and I are accepting new clients. Please feel free to call 818.851.1293 to learn more.

Below is a list of some of the things you might experience in couples therapy, with a therapist who has empathy for and is supportive of both partners:

• Conversation about your goals for therapy
• Formal/Informal assessment to pinpoint areas for focus in sessions
• Joint and individual sessions
• Discussion of the history of your relationship, and possibly previous relationships
• Discussion of your lived experience and how it relates to your current issues
• Exploration of your conflict pattern
• Discussion about areas of gridlock, such as finances, becoming parents, parenting, family, in-laws, work/life balance, etc.
• Discussion about your attachment style and what it means for your relationship
• Exploration of infidelity and betrayal, the effects of it for both of you, what you both can do to support each other and rebuild connection and your relationship, identify risk factors
• Learning ways to communicate effectively and coping strategies, practicing them in sessions, and between sessions
• Finding ways to reconnect and reignite the bond, trust, and connection in your relationship
• Learning more about your partner, increasing understanding and empathy for them
• Revisiting areas of concern and support for growth, as you practice the new skills you have learned, with your therapist

Couples in healthy relationships still experience conflict, but it is how they communicate, the strength of their bond, and the positive sentiment they hold for each other that helps them get through it successfully and without resentment. John Gottman discovered that in healthy relationships, for every ONE negative interaction, there are at least FIVE positive interactions – the 5:1 ratio.

Couples therapy is not just for partners in trouble, some couples seek out therapy for a relationship tune-up or for premarital counseling.

If you are thinking about couples therapy, you can schedule a complimentary 20 minute virtual or phone conversation with Suzanne here.

Blog post written by Suzanne Perry, MS 7/31/23. Click here to read more about Suzanne and her theraputic style.