marriage counseling .... does it work ? (insurance, home, cost)

[BZB2010]

I would like some feedback for a friend of mine who has 3 kids and is married for more than 10 years. They think professional help is required so here are some of the concerns or questions about marraige counseling :

- does it work ? Has anyone had any experience.. good/bad ? your recommendations
- which is the best place if one wishes to go for counseling in cordova, germantown, collierville area ?
- does it have to be both or just one spouse can do it ?
- whats the cost ? and how long does this process take ?
- are there any free workshops or church centered counseling one can try ?

any help is highly appreciated.

[BirdieBelle]

Yes, marriage counseling can work. It depends on the situation and the participants.
Yes, one spouse can go alone. Sometimes that is recommended. If it is truly counseling to make a marriage better, both partners should go eventually. One spouse can't go to counseling, then come home and teach the other what they've learned. It helps the therapist to see the couple's dynamic in person sometimes.
We have seen a few counselors, and you don't have to see a so-called Christian counselor if you are Christian to get good help. I preferred one who did not advertise himself as a Christian cousnelor. I don't know what religion he was but he respected and included our beliefs in our therapy.
The cost varies, but I've seen charges from $100 to $150 per session. If you're lucky, insurance may help. How long it takes is totally dependent upon the situation. It can take months, and it can be expensive. But it can work.

[thenuegeye]

Can work if the people truly want to stay together. If one or both parties are miserable and want to get out, then no. It's a complete waste of time.

[Kabluey]

Also, I've heard it's important to do it sooner rather than later. I think this is along the lines of the miserable insight. I know of a friend's sister who got marriage counseling the month after they returned from their honeymoon. It sounds funny if you don't know them, but if done for the right reasons for both partners it may be the best thing you can do to solidify a marriage.

That said, some marriages are irretrievable, and some just weren't meant to be.

[BZB2010]

thanks to all for you quick response. Does anyone have any suggestion about a good place to go in collierville or germantow area ?

thanks again

[bonniesaturn02]

while this does not replace involved counseling, i know folks who have attended and really seen changes in their marriage. my spouse and i have attended as well and it is well worth a go...

What couples are saying - FamilyLife.com (http://www.familylife.com/site/c.dnJHKLNnFoG/b.3931873/k.719C/What_couples_are_saying.htm - broken link)

[nan5623]

LOL ~~ depends on if YOU & your spouse WANT it to work.

[ShelbyCop]

I have heard that Bellevue has free marriage counseling.