The Benefits of Counseling Before Seeking a Divorce

Studies show that fewer than 10 percent of divorcing couples seek counseling or therapy before they move forward with the divorce. However, more than 90 percent of couples who attend therapy sessions when dealing with marital problems report the counseling to have been helpful.

Here are just a few of the ways you can expect counseling before a divorce to help you:

• You’ll determine whether or not divorce is the best path forward: Marriage counseling puts you into a scenario where you’re forced to talk through some of the issues plaguing your relationship. This puts you into a setting where you’ll be able to determine whether or not the issues you’re dealing with can be resolved. When you come out, you’ll have clarity regarding what the best path is forward for you, whether it’s staying together or getting a divorce.
• You’ll practice communication: Counseling is a great environment in which you can practice important communication methods. This allows you to better understand your partner and the kinds of communication that do and don’t work for them. It’s also a setting in which you can each open up to talk about your emotions and your needs.
• You’ll save money: Counseling isn’t free, but it could save you some significant money if you’re able to resolve problems in your marriage and avoid a divorce later on. Even if you do end up getting divorced, the communication practice you got during counseling could come very much in handy during mediation and divorce negotiations.
• You’ll feel better: Talking to a therapist gives you a path to happiness that you might not have been able to find on your own. If you feel content with the way you’ll take forward, you’ll find it much easier to achieve happiness again, whether or not you remain together.

For more information about the benefits of marriage counseling, contact an experienced Long Island family lawyer at Bryan L. Salamone & Associates.