Pandemic-Proof Your Relationship

I've worked with adults, kids as young as two, families, and groups of friends but I have never worked with couples. So I was thrilled to virtually "sit down" with Julie Benoit, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and couples therapist.

This pandemic has been a long and weaving road and the demand for couples counseling has never been higher. I asked Julie, a New Orleans native and expert on working with couples some of my most burning questions.

Who are you and what do you do?

Hi! Thanks so much for having me. My name is Julie Benoit and I’m a licensed professional counselor. I work with individuals as well as couples to improve their relationships and overall wellbeing. I am licensed in both Louisiana and Mississippi and enjoy working with a variety of issues including anxiety, life transitions, and relationships. What kind of themes do you see in your practice? The past couple of years have been tough for many individuals. I am seeing a lot of themes surrounding uncertainty, grief, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues. For couples specifically, I often see the need for improved communication and transparency about life goals and values. How has COVID changed the problems facing couples today? I think COVID has presented many challenges to families in general whether that is a change in jobs, schedule, family roles and expectations, or the loss of a family member. Working from home and virtual schooling has presented its own challenges to households. Highly stressful times (such as COVID) can exacerbate any issues that were already present in a relationship such as: poor communication, lack of intimacy, resentment about duties, etc. At the same time, some couples may have become closer due to facing these challenges together and working through them.

It seems like there’s more optimism that the end of the pandemic could be in sight. What’s a bit of advice you have for couples now that restrictions are loosening again? Regarding restrictions loosening up a bit, I think it’s important to consider your partner’s stance on COVID and

asses their tolerance for risk. Always communicate this with each other to make sure you are on the same page. Also, when you do go out with each other make sure to enjoy the present moment and cherish the time you have with your partner!

Where can people go if they’re looking for help to build a stronger relationship with their partner? There are a variety of ways that couples can work on their relationship. For some couples that may be reading books, utilizing relationship apps on their phone (Lasting, Gottman Card Decks, Paired), enrolling in a course or workshop, or starting couples therapy. If couples therapy is desired, make sure you are choosing a licensed therapist who can help with the issues that you would like to work on such as communication, intimacy, parenting, etc.

For starters, couples can check out the book by Dr. John Gottman titled “Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work”. I will be hosting a virtual workshop on April 2 for couples who are interested in learning what the book says about relationships. This workshop is designed to give couples an opportunity to connect with each other and learn practical skills that will enhance the relationship. Couples will receive a copy of the book as well as the corresponding workbook. To read more information or to register please go to: Virtual Couples Workshop. It's never too late to learn how you can improve your relationships, whether that is with your partner, family, or friends!

There are a few spots left and registration closes Wednesday, March 30th so be sure to reserve your seat now.

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Thanks so much for your time and insight, Julie! For more information, reach out to Julie or myself and we'll be happy to point you in the right direction. There's never been more stress on couples, but there's never been a greater need for support. I hope the above tips helped you think of ways to strengthen your bond and connect more deeply.

If you'd like to work on your partnership from the comfort of your own home, be sure to check out that amazing workshop today!

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