A Journey from Distress to Reconciliation

The applicant arrived at the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) office in a state of distress and fear. Through a Individual counseling , the counselor gathered details about her case. She revealed that she had been living at her parental home, while her two children remained with her husband at her in-laws’ house. Since leaving, she had no communication with her children, adding to her emotional distress.
She recounted instances of physical assault by her brother-in-law, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law. Despite informing her husband, he supported his family rather than addressing her concerns. Although he repeatedly asked her to return, her sense of distrust and insecurity made her hesitant.

Initiating the Counseling Process

Recognizing her resilience—her ability to solve problems and maintain a positive self-view—the counselor initiated legal intervention. A legal notice was sent to the respondent parties, summoning them for family counseling at the DLSA office.
During the counseling sessions, all key family members, including the applicant’s mother, participated. The sessions focused on:

Identifying the causes of family disputes
Exploring solutions for reconciliation
Discussing the children’s well-being
Economic empowerment and financial support
Clarifying family roles and responsibilities
Structured Discussions and Conflict Resolution

In subsequent sessions, the counselor employed various techniques like confrontation, summation, and paraphrasing to help both parties understand each other’s perspectives. Family members, including the applicant’s sister-in-law and aunt , also contributed to the discussions. Even the brother-in-law was involved to address his role in the dispute.

A separate discussion with the children, was held to ensure their needs and emotional security were considered.

The Final Agreement

After multiple sessions, a resolution was reached:

1. Reconciliation with Clear Boundaries – The applicant decided to reunite with her husband but on the condition that she would be provided a separate living space.
2. Financial Support – The husband agreed to transfer ₹2000/- per month online for household expenses.
3. Alcohol Consumption Management – The applicant observed that although her husband had consumed alcohol only twice in the past week, he had been more responsible than before.
4. Childcare Commitment – The applicant ensured that she would live with her children in a safe and secure environment at her in-laws’ home.

Follow-up and Positive Outcomes

A follow-up session was conducted after 20 days, where both parties confirmed:
They were living peacefully with no further disputes.

The husband was fulfilling his responsibilities towards his wife and children.
Anger management, de-addiction strategies, and communication techniques had improved their marital relationship.
Through structured counseling, legal intervention, and family mediation, the applicant transitioned from a state of fear and distress to stability and reconciliation. The case concluded successfully, highlighting the power of matrimonial counseling in transforming troubled relationships into harmonious ones.