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November 10, 2024
11:20 pm

Marriage Counseling: What Is It and Does It Work?

Quick Marriage and Divorce Statistics

Did you know the U.S. has the world’s highest wedding expenditure rates? On average, in 2022, couples in the U.S. spent 150 USD on a wedding day.
Couples in New Jersey are the top spenders on weddings in the United States. In 2022, they spent an average of 51,000 USD on their wedding. Following closely behind were Massachusetts and New York, where couples spent an average of 46,000 USD each.
There are approximately 1 million weddings every year in the United States.
Over 40% of marriages end in divorce.
Second and third marriages fail at a far higher rate, with 60% of second marriages and 73% of third marriages ending in divorce.
The average length of a marriage before divorce is 8 years.
Divorce can be quite costly, with couples typically spending around 7,000 USD to end their marriage.
Around 6% of divorced couples choose to remarry each other, and when they do, their chances of success are promising. 72% of these reunited couples stay together after getting back together.

Marriage and Divorce rate in the U.S.

The most common problems in Marriages

The most frequently reported major issues leading to divorce are a lack of commitment, infidelity, and constant conflict or arguing. The Shocking Truth About ‘Sleep Divorce’ – Could It Save Your Relationship? When it comes to the final decision to end a marriage, infidelity, domestic violence, and substance abuse are often the tipping points. Interestingly, couples frequently disagree on the final straw that led to their marriage’s end. More participants in the study on reasons for divorce, blamed their partners than blamed themselves for the divorce.

When couples can’t agree on the main cause of their marriage’s breakdown, it suggests that critical conversations and mutual understanding may have been lacking throughout the relationship, leading to unresolved conflicts and misunderstandings

Marriage counseling – could it really help us?

When conflicts arise, communication breaks down, or distance grows, many couples ask themselves, “Could marriage counseling really help us?” In fact, an average of 49% of married couples end up in marriage counseling at some point during their union, highlighting how common it is to seek professional support to strengthen a relationship.

Marriage counseling, also known as couples therapy, is a type of psychotherapy that helps partners address conflicts, improve communication, and deepen their understanding of one another. It provides a safe space for couples to express their feelings, explore underlying issues, and work through challenges together. Studies show that couple therapy has an impact, with about 70% of cases showing positive change, such as better communication, increased intimacy, and resolved conflicts.

If you’re considering Marital Counseling NJ or marriage counseling for the first time, it can be helpful to understand what to expect. At Advanced Psychology Institute, our licensed Marriage and Family Therapist often begin with an initial evaluation with both partners to discuss the relationship’s concerns. Sometimes, the therapist may also hold individual sessions to address personal issues that could be affecting the marriage, such as ongoing affairs or individual psychological concerns. These separate meetings can help each partner gain clarity on their feelings, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the relationship. During counseling sessions, couples can expect to learn and practice:

Effective Communication
Openness and Honesty
Managing Emotions, including anger
Rediscovering Purpose
Reviving Romance

At Advanced Psychology Institute, we believe that whenever two willing partners are given a safe, supportive environment with a trained mental health professional, positive change and growth are not just possible but probable. Our therapists are dedicated to helping couples navigate challenges, build stronger foundations, and rediscover the love that brought them together in the first place.

If you’re curious about how marriage counseling could benefit your relationship, contact Advanced Psychology Institute. Our compassionate and experienced therapists are here to guide you every step of the way.

We also offer interpersonal relationship counseling for whole families.

Advanced Psychology Institute’s marriage tip of the day

It’s not necessary to always be right or win every argument. In Relationship Counseling NJ, you learn that even when you disagree, you can still find common ground—without compromising. If the issue isn’t something you’re deeply passionate about, it’s okay to let the other person have their way (assuming you don’t believe they’re taking advantage of you, right?).

Even if you notice logical flaws, you don’t always need to point them out. Unless there’s malicious intent, it likely just means the person is struggling to rationalize their intuition, convincing themselves they have a logical reason. Recognizing this can save you time and frustration. A simple “it feels right” or “it doesn’t feel right” can justify your position without the need for deeper explanations.

Remember, there are things more important than being right all the time—like happiness.

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DISCLAIMER: The health info on this site is provided as an information resource only. It is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Consult our mental health providers before making any medical decisions.