Self-Help Tools Versus Seeing a Marital Therapist
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Self help tools, including this great toolkit from Marriage in a Box that is meant to help couples improve their marriages, can be a great resource for people that are not ready to commit to therapy or that want to work through things on their own.
Self-help tools can be great for learning how to cope with depression, anxiety and daily life stresses, as well as enhancing your outlook on life and improving your interactions with other people. They can be utilized in the privacy of your own home and allow you to work at a comfortable pace.
Self help tools can be utilized for the following situations:
- Minor miscommunication
- Unequal division of labor within the household
- Lack of time spent together as a couple
- Problematic and unproductive interactions between spouses
- Family finances
- Poor relationship habits
- Parenting struggles
While self-help tools can be helpful on their own, they are not a substitute for mental health treatment or marital therapy. Seeking help from a professional therapist will provide couples with guidance, hope and an objective view on their situation. Therapists are able to dig deeper into certain issues and can help individuals, couples and families overcome obstacles and work through difficult life transitions.
Professional therapy is advised for the following situations:
- Domestic violence and abuse
- Addictive behaviors (including drugs, alcohol, gambling, pornography, sex, etc.)
- Extramarital affairs
- Loss of love between partners
- Controlling, enabling or codependent behaviors
- Death of a child/loved one
- Secret keeping
- Disrespect, contempt or condescension
For more information on where to find a therapist in your area, please click here or call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card.
Sign up for a free trial of the Marriage In A Box online tracking tool!