INTRODUCTION:

Movies and TV shows have a long history of portraying an inaccurate representation of marriage. Hollywood would have us believe that good marriages ‘just happen’. People meet, fall in love and live happily ever after. It doesn’t work this way in the ‘real world’. Even the best marriages require abundant work and commitment to sustaining and growing the relationship. These marriages also experience crisis situations for which couples must find resolution. This healing occurs through open and honest communication, positive and proactive conflict resolution and a commitment to mutual goals.

Unfortunately, not every couple has a high-level dispute resolution skill set. If there is trouble communicating or dealing with problems in a non-confrontational manner, it’s much more difficult to understand and resolve relationship issues. In this situation, it is imperative that a couple in crisis reach out to a professional with the training and experience to help. A marriage counselor or therapist can work a couple through the immediate crisis and set the foundation for greater understanding and intimacy in the future.

There are many highly qualified African-American marriage counselors all over the country. Here are some of the best in the state of Rhode Island:

Tania Weld: Ms. Weld is a therapist who specializes in helping individuals, couples and families in distress. She has experience working in a variety of settings including residential, inpatient, outpatient, and office environments. She achieves this by creating a peaceful and harmonious environment where clients feel comfortable communicating their emotional needs.

Once these needs are known and the real issues out ‘on the table’ the healing process can begin. At this point, Ms. Weld works to teach her clients–individuals and couples–coping skills for day to day life, as well as conflict resolution skills for relationships. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques that she tailors to the individual needs of her clients.

Ms. Weld has experience treating a number of psychological or emotional conditions that can contribute to or exacerbate marital discord. These include infertility issues, substance abuse, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. She can also help with extremely serious problems like domestic violence, family violence, and suicidal tendencies. Ms. Weld is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts–Boston and practices at offices in East Hartford, Cranston and Lincoln, Rhode Island.

Phillip Lowry: Mr. Lowry approaches his therapy practice from a unique set of disciplines. In addition to being a licensed counselor, he is a registered yoga instructor. He uses the techniques of relaxation and mindfulness inherent in yoga practice as part of a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Mr. Lowry has experience working with couples as well as individuals and families.

Mr. Lowry has experience in the treatment of many conditions that can contribute to relationship problems. These include PTSD, depression, anxiety, anger management and domestic abuse. These underlying problems can either be the cause of marital discord or at the very least can serve to complicate the resolution of relationship problems. Mr. Lowry has extensive experience in working with clients from different races and cultures. He is a graduate of Rhode Island College and practices in Providence, Rhode Island.

Read also: There are a number of a black marriage therapists in the Maryland area, that are available to help.