Counselling can help move family in right direction

Q- Why do so many people refuse to get counselling?

In our home country, it’s common for parents to leave their children with relatives, work in distant countries, and send money home.

We were apart from our daughters for eight years not knowing that our relatives neglected their responsibilities. They disguised the fact that the kids didn’t progress well in school.

My husband and I were also living in different countries, with different work contracts. Finally, he joined me here and we sponsored our daughters to arrive, too.

We four didn’t know how to get along. There was a lot of coldness and anger between us.

Finally, a co- worker advised me to get help.

The counsellor said that it was time for my husband and me to show uncritical love for the children and each other, instead of showing disappointment, always demanding that they do better, try harder, etc.

We were told that forming a close bond and trust among our immediate family was now most important.

Or all that we’ve worked for would feel wasted if our daughters couldnít succeed in life.

They’re doing much better here now, my husband and I became a good parenting team, and our home is happier.

- Grateful for Counselling A- Many thanks for this personal and positive view of how a process of professional counselling can move an unhappy family towards doing the work needed to improve their relationships.

There are many approaches - through family services, community organizations, pastoral counselling through your faith, the Ys counselling services, as well as through private practice therapists.

A local online search is a place to start. Check also with associations of registered therapists, marriage counsellors, etc., in your city/ area.

FEEDBACK Regarding the woman whose online contact cancelled at the last minute after agreeing to finally meet (April 8):

Reader: “It’s happened to me multiple times, with some of the most ridiculous excuses, e.g. “I forgot that I’m hosting my daughter’s birthday party today.” Really!

ELLIE’S TIP OF THE DAY

Sexual fantasy pushed beyond the tolerance limit of your partner, can end your relationship.