Knowing that it is normal to experience hurt, pain & frustrations (the power struggle phase) in relationships, don’t just leave it but seek help early to be able to experience real love again.
Last time we learnt that following the ‘honeymoon phase’ (phase 1) couples will encounter the ‘power struggle’ (phase 2). This is normal and not a sign that anything is wrong. It is an opportunity for growth.
The mistake most couples make is that they do not seek help early enough. Harville Hendrix says that most couples leave it on average seven years too long before finding a good relationship therapist or coach.
Taking action towards a conscious connected relationship means closing exits. Exits are any ways that you and your partner or spouse avoid each other or your relationship problems. Examples are silence, avoidance, purposely staying late at work, internet etc. In order to make changes we need to feel safe with our partners. Couple therapy and coaching offers you that safe space to work on your relationship.
Imago relationship therapy offers ‘safe’ effective ways to bring you and your partner or spouse back into a healthy loving connection. This is done through sharing insightful ideas and teaching practical ways to communicate effectively. This is mainly through learning the ‘couple dialogue’ which is a unique life changing method to enhance the positive and reduce the pain in the relationship.
Over the next ‘Relationship Enhancing Ideas’ emails I will share some of the problems couples experience and some of the solutions to those problems.
Relationship-Enhancing quote: “Asking for help isn’t weak, it’s a great example of how to take care of yourself” Charlie Brown
Relationship-Enhancing practice: Begin to work on your relationship issues by slowly closing any exits (exits are any ways that you avoid your partner or issues in your relationship). Start with the ones that are easier for you.
Gary Janit
I offer confidential individual psychotherapy & CBT as well as Imago Relationship Therapy in Manchester.
I am registered and accredited with the following professional organisations, abiding by their ethical codes:
BABCP (British Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Psychotherapies), UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy), HCPC (Health & Care Professions Council) as well being a graduate member of the BPS (British Psychological Society).