In an ideal world, relationships would follow the formula of much-loved Hollywood films; we would meet the love of our life at a trendy bar, go on a few romantic dates, get married and live happily ever after. Of course, for the majority of us - this isn't quite the case.

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No two relationships are the same, so what works for one couple, may not work for another. Relationships are complicated and often rely on communication and a great deal of compromise between two individuals.

 

While there are plenty of ups and downs in every relationship, if you aren't happy it is important to know when to address the issues you're facing. If you believe your relationship is worth fighting for, but you have reached a roadblock with your significant other, considering relationship counselling could be the best step for you.

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Everyone experiences difficulties in their relationships from time to time - it's how we handle these which make the difference. It can be very hard to admit that we could do with some help in resolving our problems, and at New Dawn we try to encourage people to come to us before years of anger and bitterness have built up.

 

Some of the issues which clients bring involve problems with communication and conflict, step-families, affairs, the use of porn, remarriage, maybe talking things through before committing to marriage – especially if previous relationships haven’t worked out, bereavement, coping with major life changes, health or money worries, unsatisfying sex lives, balancing work and home, or the effects of past sexual abuse.

 

Some couples wish to explore what separating might look like, discuss how to part with a mediating presence, or talk through how to discuss your separation with your family.

 

Alternatively problems or life changes that one person is experiencing may affect the whole family group. Some clients may have particular difficulties such as depression or anxiety, mental health problems, alcohol and/or drug problems, or domestic violence in the relationship. Sometimes adult members of a family have unresolved issues from the past which are making it difficult to get along.

 

In all cases the first appointment is an important opportunity to discuss your problems and make sure that we can work with you in a safe and appropriate way.

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Lots of people have an idea of what relationship counselling is and think you only need counselling when things get really bad. However, we're here whenever you need us, no matter what situation you face in your relationship.

 

We can hold the hope for your relationship when things feel impossible, and whilst we cannot promise that everything will be ok, we can (and have) helped people discover new possibilities within their relationships when they are willing to embrace some changes. Even if your problems seem trivial, we’re here to help.

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