” The most powerful solace in the world comes from our relationships.”
Conversely, it is our relationships which can cause us the most pain.
Couples Counseling Center of Los Angeles is here to help. No matter what your situation — married or unmarried — good therapy can make relationships work.
THERAPY AND COUNSELING FOR THE ROMANTIC COUPLE
Counseling is for girlfriends and boyfriends who simply want to get along, or perhaps move forward into greater commitment. Therapy is for newly married couples who are trying to adjust to being married, or living together, with marriage’s new expectations. New parents often need counseling to cope with sharing childcare and household responsibilities, or help in maintaining the romantic bond. Counseling is also for couples who have been together for years, but are feeling distant or discouraged, and want help in getting closer again or revitalizing romance.
SANCTUARY: STRENGTH IN COUPLING
Why do we gravitate toward one another? Human beings are social animals; we are not meant to be alone. Furthermore, we choose a mate because we anticipate that this one chosen, special person will fulfill our hopes and our dreams… of friendship, of love, and of companionship. We know that life is often difficult, and that many stressors exist, in our day-to-day journey. When we choose a partner, we are hoping for “sanctuary” — a place of loving support and solace. We trust that our mate will listen and understand, and offer an ear, a shoulder, and helpful suggestions. We hope that the love, and laughter, and warmth will provide a counterpoint to our troubles. But sometimes, something prevents couples from achieving this “sanctuary.” At Couples Counseling Center of Los Angeles, we examine the roadblocks which interfere with the achievement of true emotional safety.
COMMUNICATION: THE METAPHOR OF “THE WOUNDED DOG”
The key to successful relationships most often lies in the couple’s ability to communicate effectively, and to listen compassionately. I always like to relate the metaphor of “the wounded dog.” Imagine for a moment, that two dogs have been wounded and hit by a car. They are both hurting, and frightened. One dog is confused and afraid to be hurt again, and expresses his pain by snarling. Would you want to get close to this dog to help? The second dog expresses his pain by whimpering. This is the dog you’d feel safe to get close to. You would want to approach, and do what you can to help take away his hurt.
People often express their pain by expressing anger. Deep down, they are probably very hurt, or frightened. As your therapist, I will help you both speak from a place not of anger and resentment, but rather of vulnerability. We will explore some of those softer, deeper emotions… such as hurt, despair, longing. Your partner in therapy will then be able to hear you. Because they love you, they will not withdraw or get defensive. Rather, they will naturally want to listen–and help.
TRANSFORMATION: FROM CONFLICT TO EMPATHIC CONNECTION
Couples Counseling Center of Los Angeles can wonderfully transform the significant relationships in your life. If you’re in pain, troubled, frustrated, discouraged… call for a confidential consultation, and appointment. Daytime and evening sessions are available. Sliding scale possible for financial need. 10350 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 300, Los Angeles 90025; secondary office located in Sherman Oaks, CA.
COUPLES COUNSELING CENTER OF LOS ANGELES — CALL 310-712-5753
California Board Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist: Psychotherapist Deborah Kurman, M.S., M.F.T. License #MFC 36829
COUPLES COUNSELING CENTER OF LOS ANGELES 