Counseling Center

Relationships

Relationships are a matter of both the heart and the head. They are often passionate, intimate, enjoyable, confusing and frustrating all at the same time. Although every relationship is unique and there are relative differences between a healthy relationship and an unhealthy one, many of the problems start because people tend to ask too few questions, don't communicate important feelings, ignore warning signs, make premature compromises, become seduced by lust or money, or place commitment before compatibility.
These are relative guidelines. For example, the level of communication varies for every couple, or a warning sign for one person is not a problem for another person. Without over-analyzing, it is important to ask periodically what the relationship is about (e.g., the expectations, needs and so on), is it what you want, are you happy and if not what are you and your partner willing to change.
Listening to your instincts is also important—they are not perfect but they usually provide some insight into your feelings. It is important to remember that you always have a choice about how you feel and what you do in your relationship. Ultimately, relationships are meant to be passionate, fun, caring, and an intimate part of your life.
Help at SIUC

Counseling Center offers couples counseling to SIU students. The typical focus of couples counseling is relationship difficulties. Non-SIU- students are eligible to attend couples counseling as long as the partner is a registered student. Student Heath Center, Room 253, 453-5371
Clinical Center offers couples and family counseling to both students and non-students on a sliding fee scale.. 141 Wham Building, 453-2361

Links to Additional Resources

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