It's a courageous step to seek help. Things aren't working and perhaps you are looking for a new way, new strategies and perspective. You need relief from this angst. The surprise here is that your pain, frustration or relationship conflict can also be an asset. I am not suggesting minimizing your emotional suffering nor the importance of us finding immediate relief. My experience is that in facing your difficulties we can move towards enduring change. How does change happen in therapy? In my work with clients we identify some of the stories you have been telling yourself.
Many stories and thoughts are limiting, repetitive and have questionable truth. Some examples may be that we are inept, things will never change, if only we had a different partner, or that we are forever imprisoned by fears and addictions. We share this narrative and examine it without judgment.
In fleshing out the ritualized stories we learn of their origins. While insight is important, we've got to use it to craft different actions and ways of thinking. Over time we develop a different relationship with ourselves and the people in our life.