As they always say, prevention is better than cure. This includes seeking couples therapy, which is best done before relationship patterns are set in stone. For example, it's smart to visit a therapist before getting married to your partner. Any change, aside from marriage, carries the possibility of conflict. That can include having children or even sickness in the family. Check out http://www.samnabilcounseling.com/marriage-counseling-indianapolis to get started.

Surprisingly, most couples still wait until the problems get worse or one partner wants to leave the relationship. While not necessarily impossible, creating a positive change becomes a lot more difficult. Regardless of your unique circumstances as a couple, here are tips that can help you find the right therapist:

Seeking Recommendations

Ask people around you for referrals. Maybe a friend, relative or colleague has sought couples counseling before, or maybe they're still in therapy now. In any case, ask them what they like or liked about the counselor, and whether they would be happy to recommend the same to you.

Credentials

Nearly all therapists say they provide counseling to couples, but that doesn't mean they have the necessary qualifications. This is particularly important to consider if you are a married couple, because the dynamics between two individuals who have tied the knot are obviously unique from those of couples who are technically single. If you are married to your partner, choose a counselor who is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). Otherwise, it is acceptable to have a psychologist (Ph.D or Psy.D) or a social worker (MSW or LCSW) for a counselor. Click here for more info.

Personal Connection

It is not only acceptable but actually recommended that you meet with a few counselor before choosing one. Technical qualifications aside, how do you know if a therapist is right for you? Pay attention to your instincts. Do you feel good with this person around, or does his or her presence make you uncomfortable in some way? Needless to say, you also have to trust the abilities of your counselor. The idea is to find someone you can bare your heart and soul to in full faith and confidence.

Expectations

Finally, take note that therapy is a process, and there's always a possibility that you or your partner (or both) will not be happy with how it turns out. Whatever the case, always speak up and find a way to solve your concerns.

Most importantly, remember that your problems won't go away overnight or even after a few meetings. But by your second to fourth session, it should be reasonable to expect some enlightenment about your issues, both for you and for your partner. Otherwise, it could be time to look for another therapist.

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For more info, check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_therapy.