Are you in a troubled relationship? Perhaps you are planning to get married or engaged and you or your partner is feeling hesitant. Troubled relationships are common these days, and many couples find out that they need help from outside sources. Many turn to family and friends for advice, but this can have devastating consequences. It is also important to keep in mind that some individuals who are close to you might have opinions rather than the solid advice that a professional can offer. This is why it is worthwhile to consider relationship counseling for your troubled relationship. The following points will help you to understand specific problems that likely warrant professional help being needed. 

Infidelity

When cheating is involved, it can create a number of issues. Some people are not able to trust their partners after cheating is discovered, which can place strain on relationships. Counseling can help individuals who cheat, but it can also serve as a place of healing for individuals who have been cheated on. Without counseling, issues could get worse. The cheating partner might resort back to cheating. Romantic feelings between partners may subside. It is also possible for arguments and fights to escalate.

Separation or Divorce

Perhaps you are married and have been considering separation or divorce. You and your spouse may not be 100% sure that you want to go through with either of these options. If so, you likely have some feelings for each other, and there may be hope for the relationship. Counseling can help you determine whether you have a relationship that can be salvaged. Some couples separate temporarily while they are in relationship counseling. 

Premarital

There are also couples who seek relationship counseling prior to getting married. This can be ideal even if there are not any existing relationship issues. Marriage is a lot different from dating, and some people are not prepared for it. Relationship counseling can help you to get better acquainted with your future spouse. It can also make your relationship with them stronger. 

A relationship counselor, like Sharon O'Connell, MA, is a good resource to use to learn how you and your partner could benefit from counseling. Different counselors might offer differing approaches to counseling. Counselors will keep the information that goes on in your sessions with them private. This is something that you cannot always rely on if you decide to turn to friend and family for help with your relationship woes. It is possible for some relationships to get on track in a short period of time, but some couples with deep-rooted issues such as infidelity and forgiveness issues might need longer counseling.