Marriage counselling is an important resource for couples aiming to enhance their relationship, resolve conflicts, and achieve a more fulfilling partnership. In Jeddah and its surrounding areas, including Al Shatea, Al Nasim, and Al Andalus, selecting the right marriage counsellor can significantly impact the effectiveness of therapy and the overall satisfaction of both partners. Approximately 3-5% of couples seeking marriage counselling in Jeddah are of Indian origin, often dealing with issues such as balancing traditional values with modern expectations, managing family pressures, and navigating communication difficulties.

What is Marriage Counseling?

Marriage counselling is a therapeutic approach designed to help couples address and resolve issues within their relationship. It provides a structured environment where partners can openly discuss their concerns, improve their communication skills, and work through their problems with the guidance of a trained therapist. Rebuilding trust, fostering a better, more harmonious union, and strengthening the relationship are the objectives of marriage counselling.

Classification of Marriage Counseling

Marriage counselling encompasses various techniques and approaches, each tailored to address different aspects of relationship dynamics. Here are some common classifications:

• Traditional Marriage Counseling: Traditional marriage counselling involves talk therapy, where couples engage in dialogue with a counsellor to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. This approach helps partners gain insight into their relationship patterns, understand underlying issues, and develop strategies to resolve couple conflicts. The focus is on improving communication, enhancing emotional connection, and addressing specific concerns within the relationship.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a structured approach that helps couples identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviours contributing to relationship problems. In marriage counselling, CBT encourages couples to challenge distorted perceptions and replace them with more positive and realistic views. By fostering healthier communication and problem-solving skills, CBT aims to reduce misunderstandings and improve overall relationship satisfaction.
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): EFT is designed to enhance emotional bonding between partners by addressing the emotional needs underlying relationship issues. EFT aims to create a secure emotional connection, rebuild trust, and promote emotional responsiveness between partners.
• Gottman Method: Developed by Drs. John and Julie Schwartz Gottman, this method is based on extensive research and emphasizes strengthening relationships through practical strategies. The Gottman Method involves assessing relationship dynamics, improving communication, and fostering intimacy. 
• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT): SFBT is a goal-oriented approach that emphasizes finding solutions to current problems rather than dwelling on past issues. In marriage counselling, SFBT helps couples identify their strengths and resources, set achievable goals, and develop actionable plans to address their concerns. This approach is often preferred for its focus on practical solutions and positive change.

How a Counselor Applies Marriage Counseling Techniques

A skilled marriage counselor employs various techniques depending on the couple’s specific needs and the therapeutic approach they follow Here's how these strategies are commonly used:

• Assessment and Goal Setting: The counselling process often begins with an assessment to understand the couple’s concerns, relationship history, and individual perspectives. The counsellor works with the couple to set clear and achievable goals for couple therapy, ensuring that both partners are aligned in their expectations and desired outcomes.
• Communication Enhancement: Improving communication is a central aspect of most marriage counselling approaches. Counsellors teach couples effective communication skills, such as active listening, expressing emotions constructively, and using “I” statements to avoid blame and defensiveness.
• Conflict Resolution: Counselors help couples develop strategies for resolving conflicts constructively. This may involve teaching negotiation skills, fostering empathy, and guiding partners in finding mutually acceptable solutions to their disagreements.
• Emotional Support: Providing emotional support is essential in helping couples navigate their challenges. Counsellors create a safe and non-judgmental space for partners to express their feelings, validate each other’s experiences, and work through emotional barriers.
• Behavioural Changes: In approaches like CBT, counsellors assist couples in identifying and modifying problematic behaviours and thought patterns. They encourage the adoption of healthier behaviours and coping strategies to improve relationship dynamics.

Why Choose Online Counseling with TalktoAngel fro NRI's

Online counseling has become increasingly popular due to its convenience, accessibility, and flexibility. TalktoAngel offers an excellent platform for couples seeking marriage counselling online, and here’s why:

1. Accessibility: Online counseling with TalktoAngel allows couples to access top-notch therapists from the comfort of their homes. This eliminates the need for travel and makes it easier for couples with busy schedules or those residing in remote areas to receive professional support.
2. Experienced Counselors: TalktoAngel features highly qualified and experienced counsellors, including Samta, Mansi, and Nicole. These professionals bring a wealth of expertise in marriage counselling and are adept at applying various therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each couple.

• Ms Mansi: With a background in CBT and emotional support, Mansi is skilled at assisting couples in overcoming negative patterns and enhancing their emotional bond.
• Ms Nicole Fernandes: Nicole’s expertise in various therapeutic methods and her compassionate demeanour make her a valuable resource for couples seeking to improve their relationship dynamics.
• Dr R. K. Suri is a highly experienced clinical psychologist with over 40 years of expertise in hypnotherapy, psychoanalysis, neuropsychological assessments, career counseling, and relationship management. 
• Mrs Prachi Tiwari is a seasoned mental health professional with over 10 years of experience, specializing in psychometric testing, behavioural modification, and cognitive therapy across diverse client backgrounds.
• Ms.Riya Rathi is a dedicated counselling psychologist with a Master's in Applied Psychology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Guidance and Counseling. She specializes in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, motivation, goal setting, self-esteem, body image, and more.
• Mrs. Prakrithi Parthakochi is a passionate counsellor with a master’s degree in counselling psychology, experienced in diverse cultural contexts and age groups, emphasizing a person-centred approach to holistic well-being.
• Mr. Md Guljar Ahmad is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, sex therapy, and treatment for children, with experience in managing depression, stress, and anxiety. He currently works at the Child Development Center and Directorate of School Education in Jammu.
• Dr Prativa Sengupta is an MSC and PhD holder in Clinical Psychology with over 30 years of experience, affiliated with the Rehabilitation Council of India, and certified in social therapy from the East Side Institute, New York. She has also been awarded the Michael Arthur Fellowship from Fountain House, New York.
• Mrs. Dhannya Itty Mathew, with dual master's degrees and 18 years of experience, specializes in a range of areas including neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health, and stress management, and is certified in various therapeutic techniques.
• Mrs Neetu Rathore is a certified psychologist, family therapist, and counsellor with 20 years of experience across diverse demographics, aiming to foster a healthy society by addressing individuals' emotional and mental distress.

3. Convenience: Online counseling offers flexibility in scheduling sessions, making it easier for couples to find a time that works for both partners. This convenience can lead to more consistent participation and better outcomes in therapy.

4. Confidentiality: TalktoAngel prioritizes client confidentiality and ensures that all sessions are conducted in a secure and private environment. This fosters trust and allows couples to openly discuss their issues without privacy concerns.

Conclusion

Marriage counselling is a valuable tool for couples looking to enhance their relationship and address challenges effectively. The various classifications of marriage counselling offer tailored approaches to suit different needs, and online counselling with TalktoAngel. By choosing the right counsellor and approach, couples in Jeddah can work towards a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling partnership.

Contributed by:  Ms. Sakshi Dhankar, Counselling Psychologist

References

• American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Marriage and family therapy. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/marriage-family-therapy
• Psychology Today. (n.d.). Benefits of marriage counseling. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy/marriage-counseling
• https://www.talktoangel.com/blog/best-marriage-counselor-in-riyadh-saudi-arabia
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