Marriage counseling is a counseling specialty by itself. In our program, we do a full relationship analysis in the first session to determine the issues involved and make a treatment plan. This anlysis includes a list of typical issues, a quick relatiohship analysis, family of origin issues, attachment styles, and spiritual assessment.
Usually the first step is to establish communication, estalish a strife break, and set boundaries. Many times the therapist will recommend additional books or resources, or the attendance of appropriate support groups in addition to therapy.
The therapist meets with the couple weekly until the relationship is stablaized or the major issues resolved and then meet bi-weekly as the relatiohsiop improves.
The fee is $145 for the first initial interview session due to the additional analysis involved. Additional sessions are $125 for a state licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Counselor, or social worker. If money is a major issue you may apply for a sliding scale, referral to a non-licensed, degreed counselor on a sliding scale plan or a lay counselor may be recommended. However, it should be realized that the cost of a divorce will far exceed any amount of money expended on therapy.
Because of the many variables involved the outcome is hard to determine, but in cases where the couple is willing to do what is suggested and stay in treatment long enough for things to be resolved, most couples recover from the difficulties and remain married. Although we never recommend divorce, if the couple chooses to divorce, the therapist will do everything possible to help the clients through this difficult time.