Many people have very unsatisfactory interactions in their relationships. It takes time to change them, so people must be willing to come to counseling regularly until they have made significant improvement. Unfortunately, some couples come a few times and things improve slightly. Slightly is not good enough.

People who have addictions have to admit to their addictions before counseling can help them.  Otherwise, counselors are knocking on a bolted shut door.  Once someone admits that there is excessive and obsessive behavior, then coming to counseling can help that person open up and examine his or her actiions.  It helps when other members of the family come to the counseling session.