Are You on the Brink of Separation?

What are the Qualities of a Good Marriage Counsellor Who Can Heal Your Marriage and Relationship?

When people fall in love and tie the knot, all they dream of is a happily ever after– a life filled with laughter and sunshine. But sometimes, life brings unexpected storms, and the fairytale takes a turn. Those sweet moments of bliss can gradually fade, replaced by silences that echo louder than words ever did. No longer do the once-passionate glances linger; instead, they are replaced by distant stares that lack the emotional warmth they once held. Conversations become superficial. The couple seems to be emotionally disconnected. So, are they heading for a divorce?

Is there no way the relationship can be saved? Eminent couples therapist Shivani Misri Sadhoo tells us not to worry, for all is not lost. Sometimes, when couples fail to resolve their issues on their own, seeking professional guidance can actually help bring the relationship back on track.

What are the Essential Qualities To Look For in a Marriage Counsellor?

This article shares a few essential qualities that you should look for in a marriage counsellor, as explained by India’s top marriage counsellor, Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Good Communication Skills of a Marriage Therapist

Communication is important in every field of life, and even more so when it comes to marriage counselling. A counsellor should be an effective communicator who listens actively, speaks with clarity and empathy, thereby creating an environment of trust, understanding, and emotional safety for both partners.

Honest and open communication not only helps resolve conflicts but also bolsters the emotional intimacy between partners. Couples can freely talk about their feelings without the fear of being judged. A therapist acts as a neutral mediator who facilitates these conversations, ensuring that each partner feels heard and validated. The more they talk, the more they understand each other’s perspectives, needs, and emotional triggers. This constant communication loosens the emotional knots that have formed over time and paves the way for healing and reconnection.

Empathy of a Marriage Therapist

Empathy is a skill that every marriage counsellor must possess. When the couple sees that the counsellor is able to comprehend their emotions and perspectives without judgment, they will feel at ease and be more willing to talk about their problems. This creates a safe and comfortable environment where honest communication can thrive.

An empathetic counsellor will share the same wavelength as the couple, making them feel truly heard and understood. This builds trust, which is essential for proper marriage counselling. Once trust is established, it becomes much easier for the couple to share every detail with the counsellor.

Patience of a Marriage Therapist

Counselling is not an easy job. This is especially true for marriage counselling, where couples often come in with deep-seated issues, strong emotions, and sometimes opposing goals. Not everyone is the same. Some people take time to bare their hearts to the counsellor. They need time to put faith in the process and in the counsellor themselves.

Just like wounds take time to heal, emotional and relational issues need patience, understanding, and consistent effort. The counsellor should be able to wait for the client to open up at their own pace, and not rush them into the process. After all, counselling is not about hitting targets; it’s about understanding, nurturing, rebuilding trust, and creating a safe space for healing.

Problem-Solving Skill of a Marriage Therapist

Another important quality that you should look for in a marriage counsellor is their ability to solve problems and guide couples toward constructive resolutions. It’s not just about listening to the problems, but it is also about actively finding solutions. Every problem has a solution. A good marriage counsellor should be able to identify the root cause that led to the conflict and help both partners understand their roles in it.

Experience and Expertise of a Marriage Therapist

It is always wise to choose a counsellor who has considerable experience and expertise to handle problems pertaining to married couples. Marital problems often involve complex emotional, psychological, and interpersonal dynamics that require a seasoned professional to navigate effectively. So, always check their credentials, qualifications, and track record before you consult them.

Whether you are going through this phase of emotional disconnect or you know someone who is, the right marriage counsellor can make all the difference. So, look for a professional who can empathise, be patient, possess good communication skills, have an excellent problem-solving ability, and have relevant experience. With the right support, couples can rebuild trust, resolve conflicts, and restore the bond they once cherished.