Background:
Applicant, a dedicated mother and former teacher, sought help at the District Legal Service Authority (DLSA) office. She approached the counsellor with a heavy heart, expressing her desire to live with her children in her husband’s house while separating from her husband. Applicant felt trapped under the same roof as him, frequently articulating that “no one understands my pain.” The recurring theme in her narrative was her longing to maintain a relationship with her son while escaping a toxic marital dynamic.

Initial Sessions:
During the early sessions, the counsellor observed applicant emotional fluctuations-crying at times, then retreating into silence. Applicant shared that she attended spiritual gatherings (Satsangs) for solace often discussed and her situation with friends. The counsellor employed summarizing and confrontational techniques, paraphrasing her concerns to create a deeper understanding of her emotional turmoil.

Applicant repeatedly noted her husband’s inability to understand or cares for her, contrasting her situation to others who she felt were more fortunate in love and support. The counsellor encouraged applicant to keep a diary, suggesting she document her feelings and creative expressions-poetry and music-as a therapeutic outlet.

Multi-Party Involvement:
In the subsequent counselling session, both applicant and her husband attended. The husband opened up about his own struggles, including his battle with asthma and OCD, which had impacted their interaction and intimacy. The counsellor facilitated discussions about their behaviours and how they affected their son

Family dynamics began to surface. It became evident that the couple’s son was caught in the middle, often feeling the tension and emotional strain between his parents. The counsellor emphasized the importance of mutual communication and encouraged Applicant’s husband to reconnect with their son, suggesting he listen to his son’s experiences to foster better understanding and cooperation.

Therapeutic Progress:
As the sessions progressed, the family dynamics shifted. They engaged in more open dialogues, allowing each member to express their thoughts and feelings. Applicant began to articulate her need for independence and the desire for a peaceful environment for her son. Meanwhile, her husband started to acknowledge his role and responsibilities.

In a significant session, Applicant’s family members were invited to participate. This expanded support system helped illuminate additional layers of concern. The counsellor focused on promoting positive communication and collaboration among family members, urging them to navigate conflicts together.

Recognizing underlying mental health issues, the counsellor suggested professional psychiatric support for applicant, which was crucial in addressing her feelings of paranoia.

Resolution:
After extensive counselling and commitment from both parties, a mutually agreeable plan emerged.
Applicant expressed her desire to secure a rented home for herself and her son, while her husband agreed to take financial responsibility for their child’s needs. They came to understand that living apart would serve both their interests while allowing their son to maintain a stable relationship with both parents.

In one of the final sessions, Applicant joyfully reported that she had started living with her husband again, choosing to foster reconciliation for the sake of their family. With newfound clarity about her and her husband’s roles, she felt empowered to nurture her familial bonds more positively.

Key Takeaways:
Open Communication: The counselling process reinforced the importance of constructive communication within families.

Mental Health Awareness: Recognizing mental health issues played a critical role in addressing underlying problems and encouraging self-care.

Empowerment through Choice: Applicant’s journey is a testament to the power of choice and personal agency in navigating difficult family dynamics.