The Benefits of Christian Marriage Counseling

A successful marriage takes work, and that’s a challenge couples cheerfully take on. Even so, keeping that “perfect union” can sometimes be difficult, and outside help is needed to work through rough patches. Many couples turn to marriage therapy so they can find a safe space to talk through, and resolve, issues that have become problematic in their marriage.

For those with a strong faith background and lifestyle, that can sometimes be daunting. They may feel as though they are somehow failing a commitment they made to friends, family and God by admitting that their marriage is imperfect. To help them with that mindset, as well as the difficulties that are making counseling needed in the first place, they turn to a Christian therapist.

Christian marriage counseling is ideal for those couples who want to improve their relationship and do so through the filter of their faith and values. The counselors are fully trained, often with advanced degrees, and also may have received additional training through their particular faith tradition. Their work often pairs well with pastoral counseling, because they are able to blend both spiritual and secular approaches to tackle real-life issues from all angles.

All viewpoints considered in faith-based therapy

Chances are, there are many options for local marriage counseling, both Christian and secular. An important thing to remember when looking at Christian marriage counselors it to see if they share your values. Even if a counselor comes highly recommended by a friend or family member, every situation is different. The counselor may have been a lifesaver to the person making the referral, but their particular approach to Biblical marriage principles may not align with your, or your spouse’s, viewpoint. Having everyone agree on some basics up front will be key to success. That said, some differences around theology with a counselor may lead to frank discussions and new paths forward, so a perfect match doesn’t have to be the case.

That’s why it’s vital to enter into couples counseling with an open mind. It’s likely the counselor will create a “safe zone” where differences can be shared without arguments, eye-rolling or detachment — the very things that shut down communication within the relationship. An open mind leads to an open heart, understanding and forgiveness, all things a Christian marriage counselor can help to mediate.

What are some issues that a faith-based marriage counselor can help you tackle? Christian counseling can include coping with:

·       Anger management

·       Conflict result ion

·       Forgiveness

·       Mental health issues

·       Depression/isolation

It’s clear that just like a pastor, no counselor will have all the answers, all of the time. Engaging a Christian marriage counselor can be the first step on building a team, however, to help the couple resolve their issues. Think of it this way: between a pastor, a counselor, and doctors (both physical and psychiatric), there’s a lot of smart people with sound insights who have your back!

Most importantly, when moving to a counseling relationship, it’s vital that both spouses be willing to be challenged. One session might have the husband on the hot seat, the next time it may be the wife. That may seem unfair in the moment, but by digging deep into what’s going on, instead of just finger-pointing and blaming, each spouse will learn more about the other — and themselves. And from there, they can be open, honest and willing to put in the time and effort to recover the love and understanding that brought them together in the first place.