When we think of relationship issues we think of troubles in our primary relationship. But it must be noted that a relationship issue is a broad category that covers all problems that can arise in any relationships, whether those relationships are primary relationships, workplace relationship, or peer relationships. Any and all troubles surrounding relationships can be addressed in the counseling setting.
Most importantly, understanding the type of the relationship is important to know the specific rules and regulations of that relationship. Meaning, you don’t expect the same depth and flavor from a workplace relationship as you do a primary relationship with your boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife.
Relationships are rule based. When we can understand the nature, we can understand the rules, and thus appropriately understand the expectations of what the relationship can provide. Troubles arise when one of these areas has been violated.
So what constitutes an issue? Generally, when there is tension or dissatisfaction in the relationship. After completing an assessment of the type, rules and regulations, and overall expectations of the relationship, interventions can be put into place to help manage the negative outcomes of the issue.
Example: An over-bearing supervisor in the workplace which cause you frustration.
There are three general ways to intervene with this relational issue. Complete the analysis laid out earlier. Three options are presented in descending order of appeal are thus set forth.
Firstly, attempt to appropriately discuss the impact their actions have on you and suggest new ways of interacting that can mitigate the negative response (Try and change the relationship). This would be an assertive response and would be practiced in session. Understanding the feelings and responses associated with your reaction is incredibly important to the appropriate presentation of this change model.
If they are unwilling or unable to do this, the second option would be to create specific interventions to mitigate your negative reactions towards the interaction. Learning to relaxation techniques or finding a positive outlet to vent your feelings (Learn to live with it).
Finally, if you feel you cannot effectively learn to proactively manage the negative fallout from the relationship you will have to find another place to work (Leave it).
Each of the options listed above are viable options to help address the deficits in the relationship. And each will take a great deal of work to implement, but in the end will assist in managing the relational issue. For each option specialized interventions would be created to efficiently and quickly address the issue.
It must be noted not all relationship issues can be solved so cleanly, that is why sitting down with a counselor and breaking down the specific relationship issue you have is the most effective way of addressing your precise challenge.