Why Marriage Counseling Fails, by David Hawkins

Marriage reflects life itself with moments of joy and sorrow. As challenging as marriage can be, many who have said I do try to stick it out even when problems do come up because the alternative, being alone, isn't very appealing. If the couple really wants to save their marriage, they usually turn to counseling.

Unfortunately, many marriage counseling sessions end with the couple dropping out and then, more often than not, ending the relationship. In some cases, the problem isn't the couple, but their choice of counselor. One who is poorly trained, disinterested, or obviously biased can destroy a marriage.

Why Marriage Counseling Fails explores different scenarios that create problems for couples as well as the different types of counselors who can help or harm a marriage. Dr. David B. Hawkins has over forty-five years of experience as a marriage counselor, and 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,” he says. “Stories abound about how they came out of a counseling session worse than when they went in.”

Dr. Hawkins outlines the five I's of a qualified marriage counselor as one who:

- Offers wise instruction
- Takes an active interest in the couple
- Offers insight into why problems recur
- Is willing to work intensively
- Works in-depth to help the couple find long-term solutions

Why Marriage Counseling Fails offers insights into marital issues, the brokenness of the counseling system, how to find good help, and how to insist upon effective help when turning to a counselor.