Who Should Attend Communication Skills Classes?
Any couple can benefit from communication skills classes. These classes are appropriate for both those looking for preventive care and those who are struggling. Although admitting the need for help might be difficult, it is a big step forward in relational growth. Attending a communication class for couples is a sign that we are dedicated to the long-term health of our partnership. Research consistently shows that practicing constructive responses is key to a dynamic of appreciation, interest, and understanding.
Communication challenges bring up different feelings for different couples. It is common to be frustrated, angry, upset, hopeless, or sad when communication is not working well. Communication skills classes help couples who are looking to identify and work through these emotions together.
We gain insight by giving ourselves the chance to sit down and take a closer look at the underlying patterns driving our behavior. Desiring a space for this process is a sign that a communication class for couples could be the right fit.
What to Expect in a Communication Skills Class
A communication skills class has the powerful ability to normalize our experiences of misattunement and conflict. The class material teaches us that, although challenges show up in unique ways, the underlying patterns are similar. Common patterns that keep us stuck include pursue and withdraw, attack and defend, and mutual shutdown. Identifying the ones we struggle with moves us from continuing to fight about the same topics to acknowledging what we are truly talking about.
Several important expectations to keep in mind when seeking a communication skills class are depth of content, psychoeducation, active exercises, and additional support. A class focused on providing depth will teach couples how to identify underlying communication patterns. This opens up opportunities to enhance communication on a more profound level than simply being given a list of dos and don’ts. Well-rounded skills classes will also include practice exercises to help participants get a felt sense for the educational components. Support will be provided by staff in guiding partners through areas they feel stuck and making individualized suggestions.
All partners should expect to be active participants in this process. Communication classes for couples are effective when there is shared investment and willingness to change behavior. Specific skills for interrupting conflict cycles, increasing security, and choosing healthy patterns are taught. A comprehensive class also includes information on how to connect more deeply with one another and emphasizes feeling close as a pillar of good communication. These skills have the ability to transform the tone of our relationships when they are implemented on a consistent basis.
Online Couples Communication Classes
A rise in the use of technology means that couples communication classes are now available online. This is an option for couples who have limited access to in-person classes due to location or scheduling. Online communication classes can be synchronous or asynchronous, meaning that there are opportunities for couples to engage either in real time or move through the material on their own.
The 8-Week Online Relationship Course through The Couples Center is an asynchronous (self-paced) course that centers communication as a way of guiding couples toward greater love. The material is inclusive and covers important topics in the areas of communication, intimacy, and connection. Those looking for a synchronous (real time) course that offers support staff and creates breakthroughs may benefit from joining the couples workshop. A commitment of one weekend reignites passion, builds an action plan, and helps communication flow more smoothly.
When choosing an online communication skills class, remember to look for a trusted source that develops content with licensed clinicians. Proper licensure and training amongst clinicians ensures we are receiving accurate information and the best assistance possible for our partnership needs. Signing up through an established therapy center that is clear about their philosophy helps us get the quality of guidance we are seeking. If questions about enrolling in a class come up, using the contact us form is useful in clarifying next steps and the best course of action.
Helpful information
