What Is the Difference Between Marital Counseling and Divorce Therapy?
Counseling and therapy can offer immense value at different stages of a relationship. You may have heard the terms “marital counseling” and “divorce therapy.” Let’s take a look at what each one is and how they differ.
Preserving a marriage vs. navigating a divorce
Marital counseling is a form of therapy that seeks to mend frayed bonds, foster communication, and resolve conflicts. It's about finding common ground, understanding each other's perspectives, and working toward a harmonious future. The goal is not just to avoid divorce but to create a healthier, happier marital relationship.
Divorce therapy is appropriate when divorce seems inevitable or has been decided upon. It helps individuals cope with the emotional turmoil that accompanies the end of a marriage. This type of therapy is meant to guide you through the divorce process, manage stress, and prepare for life post-divorce.
The goal you have in mind, whether it is to preserve your marriage or navigate a divorce, dictates the type of therapy that suits your situation.
Types of marital counseling
Marital counseling is also known as couples therapy. Its primary goal is rehabilitative: to mend broken bonds, foster communication, and resolve conflicts. This form of therapy is not about placing blame or dredging up past mistakes. Rather, it aims to create a space for both people to freely express their feelings and concerns with the ultimate goal of a stronger, healthier relationship.
There are several types of marital counseling, each with its unique approach and objective:
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
This approach targets the emotional bond between partners. It encourages open communication about emotions, helping couples understand and empathize with each other's feelings. The goal is to strengthen the emotional connection and rebuild trust.
Gottman Method
Based on Dr. John Gottman's research on relationship stability, this method focuses on improving friendship and conflict management and creating shared meaning. It promotes respect, affection, and closeness, aiming to deepen the understanding and connection between partners.
Imago Relationship Therapy
This method helps couples understand the unconscious factors influencing their relationship. By recognizing these influences, they can change their patterns of interaction and behavior, fostering growth and healing.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
As the name suggests, this approach is focused on finding solutions to specific problems rather than delving into underlying issues. It's about working together to find practical solutions that can improve the relationship.
Types of divorce therapy
Whereas marital counseling aims to repair and preserve a relationship, divorce therapy is designed to help individuals navigate the complex emotional landscape of divorce. The journey toward separation can be fraught with intense emotions, anxiety, and uncertainty. Divorce therapy provides support, guidance, and strategies to cope with these challenges.
Divorce therapy is not about fostering blame or regret. It creates a space for healing, acceptance, and planning for the future. It's about dissolving a marriage in the most constructive and least-damaging way.
Here are a few types of divorce therapy, each with its unique focus:
Individual therapy
This form of therapy focuses on the individual going through the divorce. It helps manage the emotional turmoil, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. The goal is to promote healing and prepare for life after divorce.
Child-centered divorce therapy
This therapy strives to minimize the impact of divorce on children. It offers parents strategies to communicate effectively with children about divorce, manage co-parenting issues, and safeguard the child's well-being.
Co-parenting counseling
This form of therapy helps divorced or separated parents work together for the best interests of their children. It provides techniques to manage disagreements, communicate effectively, and create a stable, supportive environment for the children.
Divorce group therapy
This type of therapy provides a supportive group environment for individuals going through a divorce. It offers a platform to share experiences, learn from others, and gain emotional support.
How to get the type of therapy you need
Deciding to seek therapy is a significant step. Knowing which type of therapy you need can be overwhelming, especially if you're also dealing with the complexities of marital issues or divorce.
First, identify your needs and goals. Are you hoping to mend your relationship or navigate the process of divorce? Or, are you unsure what you want to do at this point? Your answers to these questions can help guide your decision.
Next, research different types of therapy. The summaries provided earlier in this article can serve as a starting point. Look for therapists who specialize in the type of therapy you're considering.
Finally, reach out. Schedule an initial consultation or session. This will give you a feel for the therapist's style and decide if it's a good fit for you.
Seeking help is a testament to your strength. It's about taking control of your situation and making decisions that support your well-being.
Suggested: Guide to Therapy During and After Divorce
