Chances are you are not excited about
needing to find a marriage counselor. You and your significant other might be
having trouble communicating, and maybe one of you doesn’t even want to use therapy.
This conflict may be complicated if the first candidate you visit is not the
right fit for your relationship. Here are some solid ways to find the best
marriage counseling in Baltimore to help you get your marriage back on track.
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Check Out Your Options
A good place to start on the hunt for a
helpful therapist is asking around for recommendations. Other married couples
might have some ideas, but remember to be selective about whose advice you
take. If they aren’t happy in their relationships, they might not be the best
resource. If your friends and family give you a name, ask them when they like
that specific couples therapist and what to expect. Only consider counselors
who are near your area, who have prices you can afford and are available on a
schedule you can work within.
Gender Choices
As a couple, would you two be more
comfortable talking with a male or female therapist? This is one of the
quickest ways to reduce your list of candidates. If either of you feel as if a
marriage counselor will take that side of the person who matches his or her
gender, this is an important conversation to have before selecting a therapist.
Also, if children will be part of any sessions, think about which gender they
might prefer to talk to.
Strategy
There are many different approaches
marriage counseling in Baltimore might take, so think about your ultimate goal.
Are you looking for better communication in your relationship? Maybe correcting
destructive behavior or bad habits among you is what you are after. Perhaps
there has been some infidelity and you are trying to deal with it
constructively. There are counselors who cover all these areas, but they might
use different methods to try to reach a resolution. Know what you are trying to
accomplish so that you can find a professional who is a logical fit from the
outset.
Get to Know Candidates
When you have narrowed down your list, schedule
introduction appointments. During these interviews, be especially mindful of
the marriage counselor’s communication style. A therapist must be attentive and
open to discourse. He or she should not interrupt or try to steer the
conversation in one direction. Ask the candidate about his or her educational
credentials as well as for an explanation of his or her philosophy. If the
candidate doesn’t seem to understand your goals, you may want to look
elsewhere. If either of you don’t feel comfortable talking to the counselor,
move on. Don’t be afraid to ask about how long you might need to attend or what
the therapists think are the biggest problems in your marriage.
Finding the best marriage counseling in Baltimore will take a little legwork during
the selection process, but the effort may be worth it in the end.