Fairy tales always portray relationships as a bed of roses, but reality poses some challenges. While the initial stages might indeed feel heavenly, sometimes things take a turn and get worse somewhere along the way. If you fail to recognize what is going on, the relationship may come to a bitter end.

However, you can try relationship counseling to rekindle your relationship before it gets to the extremes. Couples counseling gives you a better view of the relationship and changes those dysfunctional habits that kill relationships. To make the most of your sessions, here are four things you should do.

1. You Have to Be Truthful

It is easy to get tempted to lie during a relationship counseling session for many reasons. For example, some fear being judged, some are in denial, and others are just people-pleasers. However, your therapist is there to lend a listening ear and save your relationship.

Furthermore, you alter the counselor's approach when you lie and miss the chance to save your relationship. Therefore, although the relationship therapists might tell when you are dishonest and adapt proper treatment, you should avoid lies during your sessions.

2. Be Ready for the Discomforts Associated With Therapy

Coming clean about unhealthy habits is not easy. However, you will soon realize how liberating it is. Though you might not like the discomfort, you will acknowledge your wrongs and that you need to change or improve. So once you are psychologically prepared for this, you will be able to forge forward with the therapies till the end and revive your relationship.

3. Lend a Listening Ear to Your Partner

For successful relationship counseling, you need to do everything possible, including listening to everything your partner has to say. While you may not like everything they say, you must hold your horses until they express their opinions. Getting defensive will only aggravate the situation, and you might even end up in a fight. Since you will also turn to say what is in your heart, be ready to listen to your partner and the relationship counselor.

4. You Have to Be Dedicated

If you and your partner have agreed that you need help, you should be willing to take the journey till the end. That also means cooperating and doing your homework when necessary. For example, your relationship therapist might recommend new communication methods either at home or during appointments. If you are committed to making things work, you will make milestones and rekindle lost love before you know it.

If your relationship is in trouble, all hope is not lost. Therefore, before you call it quits, you should try relationship counseling first. Every relationship has its fair share of challenges, but your willingness to find a solution to those challenges can save your relationship.

For more information on relationship counseling, contact a professional near you.