Why Marriage Counseling Fails: Is the Problem the Marriage—or the Counselor? by Dr. David B. Hawkins
Like life itself, marriage has moments of joy…and sorrow. As difficult as marriage can be, many who have said “I do” try to stick it out when problems arise because the alternative—being alone—is not very appealing. When a couple truly wants to save their marriage, they often turn to counseling.
Unfortunately, most marriage counseling ends with the couple dropping out and, more often than not, ending their relationship. Sometimes, the problem is not the couple but the choice of counselor. A counselor who is poorly trained, disinterested, or biased can destroy a marriage.
Why Marriage Counseling Fails explores various scenarios that cause problems for couples, as well as the different types of counselors who can either help or harm a marriage. Dr. David B. Hawkins, with over forty-five years of experience as a marriage counselor, has helped thousands of couples save their marriages.
“Sadly, when it comes to reaching out for help for marriage counseling, few have a sense of trust and confidence in their counselor,” Dr. Hawkins states. “Stories abound about how they came out of a counseling session worse than when they went in.”
Dr. Hawkins defines the “five I’s” of a qualified marriage counselor as one who:
- Offers wise instruction
- Takes an active interest in the couple
- Provides insight into recurring problems
- Is willing to work intensively
- Works in-depth to help the couple find long-term solutions
Why Marriage Counseling Fails provides valuable insights into marital issues, the brokenness of the counseling system, how to find good help, and how to ensure effective support when seeking a counselor.