Choosing the right marriage counselor can be a pivotal step in saving and strengthening your relationship. Whether you’re in Boulder or Longmont, finding the right professional who can guide you and your partner through the complexities of your relationship is crucial. At Dan Michels Psychotherapy, we believe that every couple deserves a healthy, secure, and fulfilling relationship. Here are six essential points to consider when choosing the right marriage therapist for you and your partner.

1. Look for Specialized Training and Certifications

When searching for a marriage therapist, it’s essential to ensure that they have the proper training and certifications. At Dan Michels Psychotherapy, I am a Level 2 trained PACT couples therapist. PACT, or Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, integrates neurobiology, attachment theory, and nervous system regulation to promote secure functioning in relationships. This approach, pioneered by Stan Tatkin, is highly effective in helping couples understand and resolve their issues.

2. Consider the Therapist’s Approach to Couples Therapy

Different therapists use different approaches, and it’s important to find one that aligns with your relationship goals. My approach at Dan Michels Psychotherapy is rooted in the belief that all couples are capable of achieving secure functioning, regardless of their background or challenges. I use a combination of neuroscience, attachment theory, and mindfulness-based techniques to help couples improve communication, manage conflicts, and deepen their connection.

3. Check Their Experience with Specific Issues

Every couple faces unique challenges, whether it’s communication breakdowns, infidelity, or differences in sexual desire. It’s important to choose a therapist with experience in addressing the specific issues you’re facing. In my practice, I work with couples on a wide range of issues, including pre-marital counseling, infidelity, loss of connection, and more. Whether you’re seeking couples therapy in Boulder or couples therapy in Longmont, I offer tailored solutions that address your unique needs.

4. Evaluate Their Compatibility with Your Values

A good therapist should align with your values and approach to relationships. At Dan Michels Psychotherapy, I emphasize the importance of mutuality, fairness, and justice in relationships. These values are central to the work we do together, ensuring that both partners feel understood, respected, and valued.

5. Look for a Free Consultation Offer

Finding the right therapist often involves meeting a few different professionals to see who is the best fit. I offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals and determine if we’re a good match for each other. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for how I work.

6. Check Location and Availability

Convenience is key when committing to regular therapy sessions. Whether you’re looking for marriage counseling in Boulder or marriage counseling in Longmont, I offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy life. Ensuring that your therapist is easily accessible and available when you need them can make a significant difference in your therapy experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between marriage counseling and couples therapy?

The main focus of marriage counseling is usually on problems that arise in a married couple’s relationship. Current conflicts are addressed and efforts are made to strengthen the bond. Regardless of whether the couple is married, couples therapy can be more comprehensive and address a range of relationship problems. The goals of both strategies are to strengthen emotional ties, resolve disputes, and promote communication.

2. How do I know if we need marriage counseling?

Marital counseling can be very helpful if you and your partner are having constant arguments, communication problems, or a loss of intimacy. Counseling is also a smart move if you’re about to go through a big life change, like becoming a parent, or if there has been an affair or betrayal.

3. What should we expect during the first session?

The therapist usually has the chance to learn more about you both, comprehend the problems you’re having, and go over your therapy goals during the first session. I provide a free 30-minute consultation at Dan Michels Psychotherapy so that we can talk about how I can help your relationship and see if we’re a good fit.

4. How long does marriage counseling typically take?

Depending on the couple’s goals and the complexity of the issues, marriage counseling can last anywhere from one to two years. While some couples may benefit from ongoing therapy over several months, others may find resolution in a few sessions. We will work together to choose a timeline that will best strengthen your bond.

5. Is marriage counseling effective for all couples?

For the majority of couples, marriage counseling can be beneficial, but participation and change-making on the part of both partners are necessary for it to be successful. I employ a method at Dan Michels Psychotherapy that has been supported by research and has been demonstrated to help couples, even in trying situations, strengthen their relationship.

6. Can we attend marriage counseling if we’re not married?

Of course! All couples, regardless of their marital status, can benefit from couples therapy. Couples therapy can support you in overcoming obstacles and enhancing your relationship, regardless of whether you’re courting, engaged, or in a committed relationship.

7. What if one partner is hesitant to attend counseling?

It happens frequently that one partner is hesitant more than the other. It’s crucial to approach the prospect of counseling in these situations as a means of enhancing your relationship rather than as an indication that something is off. I’m here to support both partners in feeling at ease with the process and I promote open communication regarding the issues and objectives for therapy.

8. Do you offer online marriage counseling sessions?

Yes, for couples who would rather meet virtually for convenience, I do offer online marriage counseling sessions. You can receive couples therapy in the convenience of your own home, no matter where you live — in Boulder, Longmont, or somewhere else.

9. What are the costs associated with marriage counseling?

The length and frequency of sessions can affect how much marriage counseling costs. I provide a free initial consultation, following which we can talk about the price and come up with a schedule that suits you.

10. How do we schedule a session with Dan Michels?

By going to my website’s Couples Therapy page, you can arrange a session. To get things started, I provide a free 30-minute consultation.

Conclusion

A vital first step in strengthening your marriage is selecting the appropriate marriage counselor. You can choose a therapist who is most qualified to help you and your partner work through the difficulties in your relationship by taking into account these six factors. I’m dedicated to assisting Boulder and Longmont couples in establishing stable, satisfying relationships at Dan Michels Psychotherapy. Make an appointment for your free consultation right away if you’re prepared to move forward.