Addressing the Stigma Around Marriage Counseling in India
Marriage is no easy feat. Even the most Unshakeable marriage experiences difficult moments. So why does seeking help during these times often carry the stigma of failure? Marriage counseling in India is still viewed with skepticism, often seen as a last resort for couples facing serious issues or on the verge of separation. In reality, seeking therapy for relationship problems is not a sign of weakness; rather, it’s a proactive approach to enhancing and reinforcing your relationship. Whether it’s through online couples therapy, or in-person relationship therapy, seeking support can significantly improve communication and emotional connection. In this article, we’ll address some common misconceptions about marriage counseling and discuss why it’s not only normal but also highly beneficial for any couple seeking to nurture a healthier, more enduring bond. How Did the Stigma Around Marriage Counseling Begin? The stigma surrounding marriage counseling in India — and in many cultures — didn’t appear overnight. It’s rooted in cultural norms, generational beliefs, and misinformation about marriage counseling services and therapy for relationship problems. Historically, marriage in India has been seen as a sacred, lifelong bond that must be preserved at all costs. The family in relationship therapy plays an important role. Problems within a marriage were expected to be handled quietly within the family, often with elders or relatives intervening, not an outsider, which made many hesitant to seek relationship therapy. For generations, emotional struggles were either ignored or brushed under the carpet. Seeking help meant admitting that something was “wrong,” which clashed with the social expectation of maintaining a perfect public image, and caused couples to avoid even online couples therapy or affordable couples counseling. Additionally, mental health itself has long been misunderstood. Back in the days, therapy was only for the mentally ill or “retarded” — focusing on a small section rather than overall happiness and fulfillment. Because of this, couples’ therapy remained even more taboo, amplified by gender roles that discouraged men from being vulnerable or open to emotional help. In short, the stigma stems from a blend of traditional values, patriarchal norms, lack of awareness, and fear of judgment — all of which are slowly changing as society becomes more open, educated, and emotionally aware. Stigma Around Marriage Counseling Despite growing awareness around mental health, affordable couples counseling and marriage counseling services still face a lot of resistance, especially in cultures where seeking help is often seen as a last resort. Much of this hesitation comes from deep-rooted beliefs and misconceptions about therapy for relationship problems and relationship therapy. Here are 10 myths and truths around marriage counselling and the valid information you might need to know about online couples therapy. 1. Counseling is only for failing marriages. This is one of the most common perceptions about marriage counseling in india. People believe counseling should be considered when a marriage is in shambles. But it’s not true. While trying to mend problems by ourselves is a great step towards self-reliance, seeking therapy for relationship problems early can lead to faster and more effective solutions. 2. Involving a third person means admitting failure. Couples feel that sharing personal issues with a therapist is a sign of weakness or believe that no way a therapist knows better. The therapist provides a neutral space for both partners to work through issues together, without blame. It’s about growth, not failure 3. Personal matters should stay private. People don’t want to share their problems with anyone outside the family. However, keeping things private and not looking for effective solutions is like a frog in boiling water. Instead of letting problems build up over time, therapy for relationship problems encourages healthy, constructive conversations that lead to real understanding and resolution. Counselors offer a private, judgment-free space where couples can talk openly about difficult topics, making affordable couples counseling a valuable resource for many. 4. Counseling will damage the couple’s reputation. Most couples fear being judged by society if others know that they are seeking therapy. Seeking help is about growth, not shame. It’s just like seeing a doctor for health issues. 5. Men shouldn’t express emotions or seek help. Men are often told not to show vulnerability. Suppressing emotions can hurt relationships. Emotional expression is beneficial for relationships and for one’s well-being, which is why relationship therapy can be so important. 6. Real love doesn’t need counseling. People believe that the strength of love alone can solve all relationship problems. Love requires dedication, resources, and effective communication to flourish. Therapy teaches these important tools. 7. Therapists will take sides and judge the relationship. People fear that therapists might take one partner’s side or judge the relationship as “toxic”. Therapists are neutral and objective. Their job is to help both partners communicate and find solutions, not judge or take sides. Research shows that effective therapists create a safe, unbiased environment to facilitate healthy discussions. 8. Counseling is a waste of time and doesn’t lead to change. Some believe that marriage counseling in India doesn’t lead to real change or improvement in their marriage. Studies show that couples who engage in online couples therapy often experience long-term positive changes in their relationships. The Gottman Institute, known for its research on marriage, has proven that couples who follow the tools learned in therapy are more likely to experience improved communication and conflict resolution. 9. Marriage counseling is only for people with major issues, like infidelity or abuse. Many believe therapy is only needed when there’s a serious problem like cheating or abuse. Therapy can be beneficial for every relationship, no matter the size of the issue. Even healthy marriages can improve with regular check-ins. Small issues can snowball, so addressing them early with marriage counseling services can prevent bigger problems down the road. 10. Marriage counseling is expensive and not worth it. People believe counseling is a luxury that’s too expensive and unnecessary for most couples. While therapy can come with a cost, many therapists offer sliding scale fees or the best and affordable couples counseling