Initial stage /Background
An applicant approached the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) with significant concerns. Her husband had been out of the house for 15 days following a recent incarceration. She expressed a pressing need for her husband to cease his abusive behavior and improve his conduct, requesting that he be called in for counseling. Both parties were summoned, and a legal notice was issued to ensure the respondent’s participation in the counseling process.

Intervention
The initial counseling session revealed that the applicant had taken a proactive step by starting a job at a hospital to stay occupied and regain her independence. Individual counseling sessions were conducted with the respondent and applicant to address his personal issues.

Couple counseling followed, where both parties confronted their marital issues. They were educated about each other’s roles and responsibilities and discussed the positive and negative aspects of their marriage. Topics such as adjustment, conflict resolution, and the need for mutual care and protection were thoroughly explored.

The applicant expressed additional concern about their inability to conceive after many years of marriage and her husband’s reluctance to seek medical treatment. The couple decided to live at Rent’s house to avoid conflict and focus on improving their relationship.

Progress
During the next session, the respondent experienced an accident, leading to a brief delay in counseling. Despite this setback, communication between the applicant and respondent continued. The counselor followed up on the progress, focusing on the respondent’s health and well-being, and used empathy and effective communication skills to facilitate further progress.

Family planning was discussed extensively, and both parties decided to consult a doctor and continue living together. The applicant was optimistic about the future, and they agreed to plan for reconciliation after the Rakshabandhan festival.

Resolution
By the end of the eighth counseling session, significant improvements were evident. Both parties had agreed to live together and work on their relationship. The applicant informed the counselor that her husband was ready to take her home, and she felt ready and happy to move forward.

The case was successfully resolved, with both parties expressing their readiness to end the proceedings. The counseling process had facilitated a positive transformation in their relationship, allowing them to address their issues and work towards a harmonious life together.

Outcome
The successful resolution of this case highlights the effectiveness of structured counseling in addressing marital conflicts and fostering reconciliation. The DLSA’s intervention helped both parties improve their communication, address personal and marital issues, and commit to a more respectful and caring relationship.