Photo of BrightSpire Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaverton, OR
BrightSpire Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
BrightSpire Health is a comprehensive in-person (Beaverton) and telehealth-based outpatient behavioral health practice with immediate availability. BSH offers therapy services for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We understand the urgency felt when ready to begin the therapy journey and are committed to connecting you with a therapist same week of your call if requested. We offer a warm and welcoming space in which clients can feel safe to discuss what is most important to them. We look forward to hearing from you!
BrightSpire Health is a comprehensive in-person (Beaverton) and telehealth-based outpatient behavioral health practice with immediate availability. BSH offers therapy services for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We understand the urgency felt when ready to begin the therapy journey and are committed to connecting you with a therapist same week of your call if requested. We offer a warm and welcoming space in which clients can feel safe to discuss what is most important to them. We look forward to hearing from you!
(971) 229-4009 View (971) 229-4009
Photo of Diana Groener, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaverton, OR
Diana Groener
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Note: Please don't use the phone number provided by Psychology Today, I never get those messages. Email me instead or call 503-626-6226 ext 104 to leave a private voicemail. These last few years have been hard on everyone, changing relationships, priorities, and perspectives. I am honored to be your guide to building greater connection and meaning in your life. I work with individuals and couples on issues of sexuality, intimacy, and emotional expression. I also work with issues of vicarious trauma and burnout. I can help you reduce the conflict and stress in your life, developing greater resilience in the process.
Note: Please don't use the phone number provided by Psychology Today, I never get those messages. Email me instead or call 503-626-6226 ext 104 to leave a private voicemail. These last few years have been hard on everyone, changing relationships, priorities, and perspectives. I am honored to be your guide to building greater connection and meaning in your life. I work with individuals and couples on issues of sexuality, intimacy, and emotional expression. I also work with issues of vicarious trauma and burnout. I can help you reduce the conflict and stress in your life, developing greater resilience in the process.
(971) 273-5187 x104 View (971) 273-5187 x104
Jessilyn Barron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
I'm a licensed clinical social worker in the Beaverton area offering counseling services to individuals, couples and families. My therapeutic style is direct and interactive as I help clients overcome difficulties they may be experiencing in life and relationships.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker in the Beaverton area offering counseling services to individuals, couples and families. My therapeutic style is direct and interactive as I help clients overcome difficulties they may be experiencing in life and relationships.
(503) 883-8662 View (503) 883-8662
Photo of Matthew Boylan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaverton, OR
Matthew Boylan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I have expertise in Gottman Couples therapy with years of experience and I have been successful in helping couples in many challenging situations.
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of different emotions. Feelings often range from fear and anxiety to relief and excitement. I am excited with you as you begin this journey and I am proud of you for prioritizing caring for yourself and the relationships that are important in your life. I am here to meet you wherever you are in the process of healing and growth. I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are teenage and older.
I have expertise in Gottman Couples therapy with years of experience and I have been successful in helping couples in many challenging situations.
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of different emotions. Feelings often range from fear and anxiety to relief and excitement. I am excited with you as you begin this journey and I am proud of you for prioritizing caring for yourself and the relationships that are important in your life. I am here to meet you wherever you are in the process of healing and growth. I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are teenage and older.
(971) 205-5427 View (971) 205-5427
Photo of Nick Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Nick Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCIII, MAC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97078  (Online Only)
I provide alcohol and drug counseling for individuals, couples, and families grappling with substance abuse.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” Victor Frankl. In this world of chaos I provide compassion, care and strategies for managing the confusion of today’s culture.
I provide alcohol and drug counseling for individuals, couples, and families grappling with substance abuse.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” Victor Frankl. In this world of chaos I provide compassion, care and strategies for managing the confusion of today’s culture.
(971) 251-2215 View (971) 251-2215
Photo of Jaxon Shaffer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Jaxon Shaffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of self-doubt and negative self-talk? Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Are you seeking a safe space to process past traumas and heal emotional wounds? Not even sure where to start? I would be glad to meet with you and understand more about what you are seeking and needing in therapy. I support clients existing within the margins of society, facing unique challenges and societal pressures that exacerbate mental health struggles; I work with gender-diverse youth and adults, queer couples, and those with insecure attachments, social anxiety, and neurodivergence.
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of self-doubt and negative self-talk? Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Are you seeking a safe space to process past traumas and heal emotional wounds? Not even sure where to start? I would be glad to meet with you and understand more about what you are seeking and needing in therapy. I support clients existing within the margins of society, facing unique challenges and societal pressures that exacerbate mental health struggles; I work with gender-diverse youth and adults, queer couples, and those with insecure attachments, social anxiety, and neurodivergence.
(503) 660-3639 View (503) 660-3639
Photo of Don W Swan, Psychologist in Beaverton, OR
Don W Swan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
a relationship that allows feelings to be understood and old pains to be safely felt and transformed.
Thank you for considering my services. I have helped people understand themselves and their significant others for 30 years. My approach is based on Christian and Psychoanalytic understandings of our humanity, our relationships and our trauma histories. Your emotional experiences and desires are key. I contribute a variety of skills and frameworks - but what makes therapy unique is the activation of a special kind of relationship...
a relationship that allows feelings to be understood and old pains to be safely felt and transformed.
Thank you for considering my services. I have helped people understand themselves and their significant others for 30 years. My approach is based on Christian and Psychoanalytic understandings of our humanity, our relationships and our trauma histories. Your emotional experiences and desires are key. I contribute a variety of skills and frameworks - but what makes therapy unique is the activation of a special kind of relationship...
(503) 641-4546 View (503) 641-4546
Photo of George Poliszuk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaverton, OR
George Poliszuk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
My clinical experience and specialization includes Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples, Gottman Therapy, Trauma informed therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Family Systems Theory, and Attachment Theory.
I am currently meeting with clients virtually and in-person at a location near downtown Beaverton. When therapy is conducted in a warm and non-judgmental environment, and an individual, couple, or a family feels safe and understood, it can be incredibly powerful in providing healing and growth from life's difficult past experiences as well as current challenges. As a strengths-based and client-centered LMFT, I work to create a safe place where a client's existing internal strengths are explored and they are able to create goals that build towards healing, growth, awareness, and positive change.
My clinical experience and specialization includes Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples, Gottman Therapy, Trauma informed therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Family Systems Theory, and Attachment Theory.
I am currently meeting with clients virtually and in-person at a location near downtown Beaverton. When therapy is conducted in a warm and non-judgmental environment, and an individual, couple, or a family feels safe and understood, it can be incredibly powerful in providing healing and growth from life's difficult past experiences as well as current challenges. As a strengths-based and client-centered LMFT, I work to create a safe place where a client's existing internal strengths are explored and they are able to create goals that build towards healing, growth, awareness, and positive change.
(971) 260-4305 View (971) 260-4305
Photo of Tracy Lindstrom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Tracy Lindstrom, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Do you feel stuck? Stuck in an unhealthy relationship? Stuck in the same emotional state - anxious, fearful, depressed, numb? As Sheryl Sandberg says, "We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change." I work with clients to explore their mental health needs and develop healthier coping skills, thought processes and lifestyles. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my practice to address the unique needs of each individual.
Do you feel stuck? Stuck in an unhealthy relationship? Stuck in the same emotional state - anxious, fearful, depressed, numb? As Sheryl Sandberg says, "We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change." I work with clients to explore their mental health needs and develop healthier coping skills, thought processes and lifestyles. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my practice to address the unique needs of each individual.
(971) 701-2207 View (971) 701-2207
Photo of Barcelona Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaverton, OR
Barcelona Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We have experience working with individuals, couples, and families from different backgrounds and needs. We use different and personalized techniques/strategies to help you get to the root of the problem, make conscious change to find stability, growth, problem resolution, and emotional relief. NEUROFEEDBACK and EMDR modalities to address many issues. Please visit our webpage at www.barcelonacounseling.org
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We have experience working with individuals, couples, and families from different backgrounds and needs. We use different and personalized techniques/strategies to help you get to the root of the problem, make conscious change to find stability, growth, problem resolution, and emotional relief. NEUROFEEDBACK and EMDR modalities to address many issues. Please visit our webpage at www.barcelonacounseling.org
(503) 308-7483 View (503) 308-7483
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Wara-Goss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Dr. Rebecca Wara-Goss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, MA, CTRI, ESMHL
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006  (Online Only)
(Currently, I am accepting new patients) As a psychotherapist, I enjoy working with a variety of individuals and couples. My approach is to create a safe and supportive environment, in addition to creating a therapeutic space where potential for healing, growth and self-transformations are possible through acceptance, warmth, respect, and collaborative participation with your treatment goals.
(Currently, I am accepting new patients) As a psychotherapist, I enjoy working with a variety of individuals and couples. My approach is to create a safe and supportive environment, in addition to creating a therapeutic space where potential for healing, growth and self-transformations are possible through acceptance, warmth, respect, and collaborative participation with your treatment goals.
(971) 302-2349 View (971) 302-2349
Photo of Black Therapist & Company. LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Black Therapist & Company. LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialization & Interest: Social and Racial Justice, Intergenerational Trauma, Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, other POC specific issues, Relationship issues, Depression, Anxiety, Health issues, Grief/loss, Intimate Partner Violence, Sexual Trauma, Stress Management and Life Changes.
Black Therapist & Company LLC was founded by Dr. Rosemarie Hemmings who has over 30 years of clinical social work experience and is also a public health practitioner. She identifies as Black and brings her lived experiences as a Black woman to all that she does. Her lived experiences and 30 years of expertise is reflected both in the service population that she prioritizes and her approach. When working with our clients, we take an intersectional approach that honors their lived experiences without judgment and we partner with our clients in co-developing services/goals in alignment with their personal values and cultural practices
Areas of Specialization & Interest: Social and Racial Justice, Intergenerational Trauma, Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, other POC specific issues, Relationship issues, Depression, Anxiety, Health issues, Grief/loss, Intimate Partner Violence, Sexual Trauma, Stress Management and Life Changes.
Black Therapist & Company LLC was founded by Dr. Rosemarie Hemmings who has over 30 years of clinical social work experience and is also a public health practitioner. She identifies as Black and brings her lived experiences as a Black woman to all that she does. Her lived experiences and 30 years of expertise is reflected both in the service population that she prioritizes and her approach. When working with our clients, we take an intersectional approach that honors their lived experiences without judgment and we partner with our clients in co-developing services/goals in alignment with their personal values and cultural practices
(503) 563-2952 View (503) 563-2952
Photo of Kimberly Stout, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beaverton, OR
Kimberly Stout
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFCC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
I specialize in: anything prenatal, postpartum depression, couples, family therapy, teens, ADD, trauma, financial emotional/verbal abuse, complicated divorces involving court appearances, manipulation, controlling ex spouse, parenting children, women reinventing themselves.
Now Accepting New Telehealth Clients. Let me ask you a question. If you were to wake up in the morning living the life you truly want: What would that look like? Who would be in it? What would you be doing? What if I told you that creating that life and living that life is not only possible but attainable? l am your helper in helping you navigate towards those goals with concentrating on what is working in your life with the strengths you already possess.
I specialize in: anything prenatal, postpartum depression, couples, family therapy, teens, ADD, trauma, financial emotional/verbal abuse, complicated divorces involving court appearances, manipulation, controlling ex spouse, parenting children, women reinventing themselves.
Now Accepting New Telehealth Clients. Let me ask you a question. If you were to wake up in the morning living the life you truly want: What would that look like? Who would be in it? What would you be doing? What if I told you that creating that life and living that life is not only possible but attainable? l am your helper in helping you navigate towards those goals with concentrating on what is working in your life with the strengths you already possess.
(971) 316-4727 View (971) 316-4727
Photo of Mary J DiOrio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Mary J DiOrio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Modalities I draw from include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples and Individual Therapy and Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
I am currently accepting new clients. Helping people achieve a higher quality life with more joy never gets old. Working with full spectrum eating disorders, ranging from people who are grappling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, compulsive/emotional eating, to orthorexia. I address body image concerns by helping clients gain insight in order to develop effective coping mechanisms. My practice includes working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, feeling "stuck" or seeking a higher quality of life, social phobias, and obsessive compulsive issues.
Modalities I draw from include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples and Individual Therapy and Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
I am currently accepting new clients. Helping people achieve a higher quality life with more joy never gets old. Working with full spectrum eating disorders, ranging from people who are grappling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, compulsive/emotional eating, to orthorexia. I address body image concerns by helping clients gain insight in order to develop effective coping mechanisms. My practice includes working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, feeling "stuck" or seeking a higher quality of life, social phobias, and obsessive compulsive issues.
(971) 832-9986 View (971) 832-9986
Photo of Willamette Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaverton, OR
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007  (Online Only)
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
Photo of Tracey L Jones- Agency Has No Waiting List!, Pre-Licensed Professional in Beaverton, OR
Tracey L Jones- Agency Has No Waiting List!
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT, MABS, MIOP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
I have experience working with families/couples, individuals, teens/adolescents (9+) that have experienced family conflicts, relational issues, anxiety, self-harming, narcissistic abuse, grief, behavior issues, and various forms of mental/psychological issues.
Everyone deserves the best quality of care, and I am here to help address your needs/concerns. Whatever your issues and concerns are, I am here to help. I am Accepting New Clients Immediately! There've been so many drastic changes in life and economy, many due to the major impact of COVID-19; In which you may have been trying to find stability in every area of your life. You don't have to do it alone! It's okay to reach out to obtain the tools you need to get you through this uncomfortable segment in your life. I'm honored and delighted to take this journey with you to witness your successful victory! Because you matter!
I have experience working with families/couples, individuals, teens/adolescents (9+) that have experienced family conflicts, relational issues, anxiety, self-harming, narcissistic abuse, grief, behavior issues, and various forms of mental/psychological issues.
Everyone deserves the best quality of care, and I am here to help address your needs/concerns. Whatever your issues and concerns are, I am here to help. I am Accepting New Clients Immediately! There've been so many drastic changes in life and economy, many due to the major impact of COVID-19; In which you may have been trying to find stability in every area of your life. You don't have to do it alone! It's okay to reach out to obtain the tools you need to get you through this uncomfortable segment in your life. I'm honored and delighted to take this journey with you to witness your successful victory! Because you matter!
(971) 306-5521 View (971) 306-5521
Photo of Patrick Bartos, Psychologist in Beaverton, OR
Patrick Bartos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
My aim is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your problems without being judged. Once we have established a working relationship built on mutual trust, honesty, and respect, my goals are to help you better understand your problems, identify obstacles that have inhibited your capacity for growth, and support you in the process of making positive and often times difficult life changes. With the right therapist you should expect to feel more alive and authentic, be able to seek out and sustain more fulfilling relationships, and gain increased levels of self-acceptance and confidence.
My aim is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your problems without being judged. Once we have established a working relationship built on mutual trust, honesty, and respect, my goals are to help you better understand your problems, identify obstacles that have inhibited your capacity for growth, and support you in the process of making positive and often times difficult life changes. With the right therapist you should expect to feel more alive and authentic, be able to seek out and sustain more fulfilling relationships, and gain increased levels of self-acceptance and confidence.
(971) 233-6275 View (971) 233-6275
Photo of Wendy Reimann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beaverton, OR
Wendy Reimann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you feel there are roadblocks in your relationships? The journey of life can become bumpy. I offer a safe place to walk alongside you while facing distress, anxiety, heartbreak, or other disappointments life can bring. I will help to guide you toward healthier relationships. I address parental relationships with children, couples relationships (both premarital and couples counseling). I also work with individuals in gaining insight into interpersonal conflicts. I work with parents and children struggling with finding the joy in raising kids including families facing the challenge of disabilities.
Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you feel there are roadblocks in your relationships? The journey of life can become bumpy. I offer a safe place to walk alongside you while facing distress, anxiety, heartbreak, or other disappointments life can bring. I will help to guide you toward healthier relationships. I address parental relationships with children, couples relationships (both premarital and couples counseling). I also work with individuals in gaining insight into interpersonal conflicts. I work with parents and children struggling with finding the joy in raising kids including families facing the challenge of disabilities.
(503) 360-9388 View (503) 360-9388
Photo of Darci L Walker, Psychologist in Beaverton, OR
Darci L Walker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
Depression, anxiety, conflict or life transitions can leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Therapy can, and should, be a safe and collaborative relationship where we work through the complications of life and relationships to find a more hopeful, rewarding and loving experience of the world. I want you to feel active in your therapy as we work toward gentle healing and personal growth. In addition to working with individuals, couples and families, I offer retreats, groups and am the co-creator of Her Table Wealth and Wellness which combines therapy with financial coaching to help women truly level up.
Depression, anxiety, conflict or life transitions can leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Therapy can, and should, be a safe and collaborative relationship where we work through the complications of life and relationships to find a more hopeful, rewarding and loving experience of the world. I want you to feel active in your therapy as we work toward gentle healing and personal growth. In addition to working with individuals, couples and families, I offer retreats, groups and am the co-creator of Her Table Wealth and Wellness which combines therapy with financial coaching to help women truly level up.
(503) 822-0964 View (503) 822-0964
Photo of The Mustard Seed for Counseling, LPC Intern in Beaverton, OR
The Mustard Seed for Counseling
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
By visiting this website, you most likely are facing transitions in your life and are aware that you need help. By doing so, you have walked half the way for healing. If you are feeling depressed and stuck, living with anxiety, phobias, traumas, or trapped in addiction to substance or behavior, or living in a turbulent relationship, please, do not be discouraged. Step forward and call for help. Your current situation is not all that you have in your life and you have a lot in your toolbox that you haven't utilized yet. Here I am; ready to help.
By visiting this website, you most likely are facing transitions in your life and are aware that you need help. By doing so, you have walked half the way for healing. If you are feeling depressed and stuck, living with anxiety, phobias, traumas, or trapped in addiction to substance or behavior, or living in a turbulent relationship, please, do not be discouraged. Step forward and call for help. Your current situation is not all that you have in your life and you have a lot in your toolbox that you haven't utilized yet. Here I am; ready to help.
(503) 854-0111 View (503) 854-0111
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.