Benefits of Couples Counseling: At Beyond the Storm we have a strong focus on couples/relationship counseling. Nothing gives me, Caroline Gearing, more pleasure than working with a couple to work through their storm situation. (Please note that most insurance plans do not cover marriage or couples counseling, therefore, such work is usually not covered. Inquire with Caroline about the cash pay cost for such work.") (weekend appointments are not available and evening appointments are a bit of a challenge to schedule as I am busy with my couples. Any ability to do a session during the day is greatly appreciated. Thank you." ) Every couple has a "fight pattern" that if not dealt with, and worked through, will over time destroy their love and future together. We all want to have our own way and it is easy to think our perspective is the only "right" perspective. But in truth, and reality, we each see only a small "piece of the sky" or picture. Learning to value your spouse's perspective, while still holding your own is the work of love, marriage, and a committed partnership that will last a life time. However, if we fight for our own way and find ways to degrade, or invalidate our partner, our love will eventually die. Couple communication is vital for an intimate relationship, but that is much easier said than done. It takes true love and dedication to work with a loved one to reach the best decision, to resolve difficult challenges, and to create a plan for a successful future. In my practice I work with each partner to best understand their individual needs and perspective, and what is vitally important to them. With this vital knowledge of each partner, or spouse, I am able to guide the couple through their storm situation. Couples who land in my office with a plan "to do what they need to do" in order to end their marriage or relationship are not my preferred clients. I am a very effective marriage/couple counselor and my best results are with people who want to work out their relationship. In fact, the greater the willingness a couple has to work through the challenges to their love, the greater the results. Here are the primary areas of focus for Couples Counseling: Relationship enhancement Effective communication Resolving conflict Increasing intimacy Dealing with raising the children and step children Dealing with relatives and other family members Dealing with long-term patterns that are crippling the relationship Begin today to "move beyond the storm". For more information, or to ask about any needs you may have, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Caroline Gearing, MA, LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 503.244.4008/360.690.8400 e-mail: clearskies@beyond-the-storm.com www.beyond-the-storm.com "moving beyond the storm"