It can be hard to find the time to have marriage counseling, especially as it means coordinating to have you both make an appearance at an office at the same time. That’s why virtual marriage counseling is becoming popular.
If you both share a car, or work in different locations, this can be particularly difficult. And if you have children, you may also have to arrange for babysitters which adds to the cost.
Even if your partner doesn’t have the time to leave the office and to drive to a counseling office, sometimes they can take an extended coffee break. They can do the marriage counseling from the privacy of their car. Or you could schedule an evening appointment when you are both home from work and after the kids have gone to bed.
You might feel more in control if you are in your own space.
Time is such a precious resource these days, and you certainly don’t want the marriage counseling session to become yet another stress. It’s supposed to help solve your problems, not create another one.
How does virtual marriage counseling work?
You can either connect on your phone or laptop using just audio or video. It is always best to use video if you can, because then you get to see the reactions of your partner and the therapist.
Marriage counseling generally isn’t covered by your insurance. So you don’t have to worry about whether your insurer requires video rather than just phone.
All you have to do is to schedule a session with a therapist. Call us on 630-986-0599 or send us a message via our contact us page.
Is it as effective as a face to face meeting?
Sometimes people feel less inhibited when they are online rather than face to face. Being on phone rather than video can make some people feel even more relaxed. It can also be easier to make sure it doesn’t become a shouting match.
Whether it is as effective, depends to some extend on the people involved. Most therapists are used to talking to clients via phone / video. Sometimes can be useful for the therapist to see your home – where you live – via video. It can be easier for people to take notes when they are at home. Some clients aren’t as used to virtual meetings, but the more you do it, the more natural it will feel.
And you can’t squeeze your partner’s hand or give them a hug after a tough subject is discussed. But you can do that when you both get home later that day.