After seven years of marriage and two children, my husband and I went through several months of marital stress which led to both of us contemplating divorce. We were fault-finding each others actions and opinions at every possible opportunity, and it seemed like hardly a day went by without an argument occurring over something small and, ultimately, insignificant. I can hardly remember what we fought about anymore, but at the time it just seemed like we had grown apart so much that separation was the only option. Our kids are 3 and 5; I think they were aware of the tension, although we did our best to keep it hidden.
A friend recommended The Next Program to me, saying the marriage counselors there had saved her marriage, and that we should at least try talking to an experienced therapist before making such a drastic decision.
I thank my friend every time I see her now. The Next Program educated my husband and I on the statistics of divorce--they make every effort to ensure their clientele have an informed view on the facts of how children of divorce suffer more in many aspects of life than children from stable homes. Our therapist also informed us that couples who divorce are likely to marry, and divorce, again. When my husband and I were faced with the realities of the trauma we had considered inflicting upon our children, we found ourselves agreeing on something for the first time in what felt like forever. That breakthrough was the first of many and I can happily say our marriage experienced a miraculous renewal; we are more in love than ever, thanks to The Next Program, my dear friend, and most importantly: us! read more