What qualifications should a marriage/couples counselor have?

Question

I am doing some research for two very dear friends of mine who are having a difficult time. I recommended that they seek counseling, and they said “ok, so who do we call?” I found that I had my stock “seek counseling” advice and little more of substance to offer. I’d like to make some recommendations to them, but I don’t know how to sort out a qualified form an unqualified councilor. What I think they need (not that I have a clue, I mean I’m a carpenter! What do I know?) is a mediator. Someone who can facilitate open discussion. Their paths have clearly diverged, now I think they need to figure out whether or not they are possibly going to link back up, or at least run parallel in the future. Thank you in advance for your help.

Answer 1

Ask the counselor what theoretical approach will he or she be using. Usually a Bowen's or Minuchin's type approach is the best ones to use when counseling married couples and family. Also check to see if they are licensed by their state and how many years experience do they have with marriage therapy.

Answer 2

They should at least be married-that way they know some of the difficulties that come up in marriage. BUT, it is sometimes best for a couple to see their own counselor and deal with their own issues, then go from there. Because it has been my personal experience, that the counselor does choose sides ..... and I don't think teaming up on anybody is the correct way to initiate positive changes. People should always "work on themselves" and let the other person do their own work.

Answer 3

Maybe find a councelor who has had at least three marriages, has a happy sex life now, and has been in a relationship for at least ten years. ANyone who doesn't have those qualifications, even if they have lots of eduaction probably should NOT be allowed to councel people on how to have a happy relationship.

Answer 4

for dd...it is UNbiased....for the question, anyone can hang a shingle and call themselves a "counselor".... seek accredited academic credentials...how long have they been in business?...any complaints against them?...but most importantly, they will need to find someone with whom they both feel comfortable with, and this may take a few times with a couple different counselors till they find the right one

Answer 5

A good qualification: the marriage councelor should be someone who is happily married to one individual for a considerable length of time.

Answer 6

In california you must have a Masters degree in Psychology, with some training in family counseling.
You must also have a permit issued by the state.
The state also checks your credentials.
This then allows you to charge others for your services.

Answer 7

one who is bias