We know that there are many ways to improve and strengthen your relationship, which is why we offer marriage counseling services for those of you who are interested in growing as a couple. The research performed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman have proven to be extremely useful when creating a strong relationship, which is why we are happy to teach the nine components of the “Sound Relationship House.”
The Sound Relationship House
A home cannot be built without a solid structure and foundation, and the same can be said about relationships. A relationship needs to have the following in order to not only survive but to thrive:
- Build Love Maps – Think about how well you truly understand the psychology of your partner. What is his or her history? What about worries, stresses, hopes, and joys? Once you know the ins and outs of your partner, you can have a more thorough “map” to understand the other.
- Share Fondness and Admiration – When you express how much you love one another frequently, it can be a gentle reminder that even through your arguments, you care about one another. Expressing appreciation and respect can help this.
- Turn Towards – Instead of hiding how you are feeling, be sure to state your needs. Whenever your partner is seeking attention, make sure to respond. It’s the little parts of the day that build a strong relationship.
- Stay Positive – Keeping a positive approach to any issues will keep energy high and connections strong.
- Manage Your Conflict – Relationship conflict is completely normal and actually serves several purposes. Once you recognize this, you can handle ongoing issues and solve the little problems.
- Make Life Dreams Come True – When you foster an atmosphere that allows for both parties to talk about their hopes and aspirations, as well as their convictions, it creates a healthy and uplifting partnership.
- Create Shared Meaning – Understand the important narratives and visions in your relationship. What is your story, and where will it go from here?
- Trust – This is the knowledge that your partner will have your back no matter what happens. You believe that your partner will always act in a way that will maximize both of your best interests.
- Commitment – This isn’t just promising to be true to one another. It’s also believing and acting as if your lifelong journey is with this person, no matter what happens. It means focusing on the good in your partner instead of the bad and avoiding unfair comparison to others.
Contact Us
Of course, this is just a brief overview of what you would learn when you partake in marriage counseling at Counseling Services of Parker. If you would like to make an appointment with our therapist, please contact us today. We know that together, we can work on strengthening your relationship or marriage, as well as find out what has been troubling the two of you. We greatly look forward to coaching the pair of you towards a healthy and durable relationship that will last a lifetime.
