Marital Separation

One frequently asked question from couples coming in for counseling is: Libia, should we separate?
Well, it all depends on what is happening in the relationship. If a couple is having issues,disagreements I would say work the issues out in counseling while living together.I ask them what the purpose of the separation is?What are their individual thoughts and plans. What do they want for their marriage? Separation is going to bring distance in the relationship that may aggravate the situation. Marital separation is recommended where there is the potential for abuse and/or violence. If that is happening any professional is going to tell you to separate and one of the parties needs to find a place to stay. I would also recommend finding legal advice since there is the question of whether that person "abandoned" the home. Although my understanding is ( and I am not an attorney, and not qualified to say) but leaving the home( in Florida at least) does not mean you lose rights.
If you are in an abusive and or potentially violent situation get out. If you don't have a place to go, call the Police and they can take you to a shelter.
So, do you separate? If you want to seriously work on the relationship? No. Unless you are in a potentially dangerous situation then get out and get help! The only other reason would be if you are planning to split up or divorce.