Couples Counseling Therapists in Burns, WY

Photo of Heidi McCarty, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burns, WY
Heidi McCarty
Pre-Licensed Professional, PPC
Verified Verified
Burns, WY 82053
I specialize in serving various populations including individuals struggling with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, complicated emotions, grief, trauma and relationship difficulties.
I believe that there is good in all of us and even though it may seem lost at times, we just need a little help to rediscover that good and use it to help us through life. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place for you to discuss your difficulties and find your good and the answers to help you through your life. Education: Bellevue University Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling University of Phoenix Master's Degree in School Counseling Brigham Young University Bachelor's Degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development
I specialize in serving various populations including individuals struggling with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, complicated emotions, grief, trauma and relationship difficulties.
I believe that there is good in all of us and even though it may seem lost at times, we just need a little help to rediscover that good and use it to help us through life. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place for you to discuss your difficulties and find your good and the answers to help you through your life. Education: Bellevue University Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling University of Phoenix Master's Degree in School Counseling Brigham Young University Bachelor's Degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development
(307) 209-9013 View (307) 209-9013

Online Therapists

Photo of Teresa Maria Klatka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Teresa Maria Klatka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82070
I am a licensed professional counselor who has been practicing for over 13 years. My clients have covered the lifespan, ranging from age 5 through late adulthood. They have come to me seeking support with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, transition, loss, relapse prevention and trauma. I am invested in working with couples and families on needs such as parenting, communication, emotional intimacy and attachment. I apply primarily person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment, Family Systems, and play therapies, as well as creative arts and mindfulness approaches, in my work.
I am a licensed professional counselor who has been practicing for over 13 years. My clients have covered the lifespan, ranging from age 5 through late adulthood. They have come to me seeking support with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, transition, loss, relapse prevention and trauma. I am invested in working with couples and families on needs such as parenting, communication, emotional intimacy and attachment. I apply primarily person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment, Family Systems, and play therapies, as well as creative arts and mindfulness approaches, in my work.
(307) 284-3834 View (307) 284-3834
Photo of Andrea Begin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Andrea Begin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82072
Counseling is a journey and admitting that you need help is one of the hardest and most rewarding things you will do. This is an active journey that we will take together. Often we feel that activity and movement will help us to feel better, but underneath that unrest is a range of psychological processes such as depression, overwhelming stress, perfectionism, and anxiety. Choosing to ignore your issues tends to make life more difficult and places a strain on your relationships. Through our counseling relationship we will create goals, set the pace and find your path of healing.
Counseling is a journey and admitting that you need help is one of the hardest and most rewarding things you will do. This is an active journey that we will take together. Often we feel that activity and movement will help us to feel better, but underneath that unrest is a range of psychological processes such as depression, overwhelming stress, perfectionism, and anxiety. Choosing to ignore your issues tends to make life more difficult and places a strain on your relationships. Through our counseling relationship we will create goals, set the pace and find your path of healing.
(720) 408-3642 View (720) 408-3642
Photo of Joleena Abrams in Burns, WY
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(307) 275-7327 View (307) 275-7327
Photo of Stephanie Kettl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Stephanie Kettl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Areas of Treatment: Adults and Adolescents, Trauma and Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Communication and Relationship Skills, Anger Management, and Gender Specific Challenges.
Stephanie Kettl was born and raised in Casper, WY. She attended the University of Wyoming and graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education/Social Studies and a Minor in Sociology and then in 2005 she earned a Master of Science Degree in Counselor Education. She moved to Aurora, where she was a Treatment Coordinator at Excelsior Youth Center, treating severely at risk adolescent females from around the country. While at Excelsior, she facilitated individual, group, family therapy, along with canine and equine therapy groups. She has also completed Level I and Level II EMDR training.
Areas of Treatment: Adults and Adolescents, Trauma and Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Communication and Relationship Skills, Anger Management, and Gender Specific Challenges.
Stephanie Kettl was born and raised in Casper, WY. She attended the University of Wyoming and graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education/Social Studies and a Minor in Sociology and then in 2005 she earned a Master of Science Degree in Counselor Education. She moved to Aurora, where she was a Treatment Coordinator at Excelsior Youth Center, treating severely at risk adolescent females from around the country. While at Excelsior, she facilitated individual, group, family therapy, along with canine and equine therapy groups. She has also completed Level I and Level II EMDR training.
(307) 224-7386 View (307) 224-7386
Photo of Chelsea Jo Olson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Chelsea Jo Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheatland, WY 82201
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional I work with clients who are coping with relationship issues, addictions, interpersonal issues, grief, adolescent dynamics, anxiety and general struggles feelings on inadequacy. Change is a choice – your choice! A struggle for most entails walking the walk of life in “comfortable shoes.” We have this vision of the life we are supposed to live – maybe because that is what is socially acceptable, or maybe because of the standards we have for ourselves. Life has a way of giving us a different version and that is where I can help!
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional I work with clients who are coping with relationship issues, addictions, interpersonal issues, grief, adolescent dynamics, anxiety and general struggles feelings on inadequacy. Change is a choice – your choice! A struggle for most entails walking the walk of life in “comfortable shoes.” We have this vision of the life we are supposed to live – maybe because that is what is socially acceptable, or maybe because of the standards we have for ourselves. Life has a way of giving us a different version and that is where I can help!
(307) 689-6361 View (307) 689-6361
Photo of Alexander K Andersen, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Alexander K Andersen, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82070
Serving Wyoming and Colorado, my practice aims to provide healing for the mind, body, and spirit. With the use of evidence based practices and over a decade of experience, we can pursue the positive life changes you are looking for. My approach to counseling includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. Together we will create a treatment plan that is client centered, efficient and solution focused. Previous populations served include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, residentially placed, adjudicated, and cognitively impaired.
Serving Wyoming and Colorado, my practice aims to provide healing for the mind, body, and spirit. With the use of evidence based practices and over a decade of experience, we can pursue the positive life changes you are looking for. My approach to counseling includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. Together we will create a treatment plan that is client centered, efficient and solution focused. Previous populations served include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, residentially placed, adjudicated, and cognitively impaired.
(480) 630-5162 View (480) 630-5162
Photo of Joyce L Graham, MS,LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Joyce L Graham, MS,LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82009
Are you looking to find more Joy in your life? Need help with relationship issues? Over 20 years of dedicated serivice helping both women and men find answers and solutions. Clients express they enjoy my warm and empathic approach to counseling. I create a safe and non-judgemental space in my office or online. I enjoy working with relationship issues, stress, life transitions, trauma and more. As an experienced counselor I offer inspiration and insight to help identify the obstacles that prevent my clients from living their best lives. I encorporate a wide range of the latest techniques.
Are you looking to find more Joy in your life? Need help with relationship issues? Over 20 years of dedicated serivice helping both women and men find answers and solutions. Clients express they enjoy my warm and empathic approach to counseling. I create a safe and non-judgemental space in my office or online. I enjoy working with relationship issues, stress, life transitions, trauma and more. As an experienced counselor I offer inspiration and insight to help identify the obstacles that prevent my clients from living their best lives. I encorporate a wide range of the latest techniques.
(307) 466-1206 View (307) 466-1206
Photo of Roberta Harper-McIntosh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Roberta Harper-McIntosh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laramie, WY 82070
I use Imago Relationship Therapy to help couples achieve safety and relationship re-visioning.
Wholeness is the natural state of every person. We live in an age that demands extensive coping skills, and also offers so many opportunities for healing. I'm honored every day to see the unique brilliance of each person I work with, and to offer some valuable new tools, experiences, and lenses to bring your own wisdom into focus.
I use Imago Relationship Therapy to help couples achieve safety and relationship re-visioning.
Wholeness is the natural state of every person. We live in an age that demands extensive coping skills, and also offers so many opportunities for healing. I'm honored every day to see the unique brilliance of each person I work with, and to offer some valuable new tools, experiences, and lenses to bring your own wisdom into focus.
(307) 317-4519 View (307) 317-4519
Photo of Laura Kietell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burns, WY
Laura Kietell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples. A sample of issues I am experienced in working with include but are not limited to: anxiety, relationships, self esteem, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief and loss. I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma. I also work with pet loss. I am here to help others see their value, fulfill their authentic selves and live life as they see fit. I am also a DQCS for those in need of clinical supervision.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples. A sample of issues I am experienced in working with include but are not limited to: anxiety, relationships, self esteem, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief and loss. I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma. I also work with pet loss. I am here to help others see their value, fulfill their authentic selves and live life as they see fit. I am also a DQCS for those in need of clinical supervision.
(307) 240-2703 View (307) 240-2703
Photo of Susan Schilt, Counselor in Burns, WY
Susan Schilt
Counselor, PPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Our relationship is the most significant aspect of therapy, and I strive to ensure you feel known, accepted, heard, and challenged.
Life is not fair. Many of us have learned this in very difficult or traumatic ways. Many of us bear the wounds and scars of broken marriages, families, or abuse; feel overwhelmed and alone; believe we are unloved or rejected; have thoughts we can not control; or can not seem to stop behaviors we know hurt us and those we love. We also know deep down this is not how it is supposed to be. Life is meant to be lived with abundant joy, peace, deep and fulfilling relationships, and acceptance and celebration of who we were created to be. Those who seek help through therapy are the most courageous people I know.
Our relationship is the most significant aspect of therapy, and I strive to ensure you feel known, accepted, heard, and challenged.
Life is not fair. Many of us have learned this in very difficult or traumatic ways. Many of us bear the wounds and scars of broken marriages, families, or abuse; feel overwhelmed and alone; believe we are unloved or rejected; have thoughts we can not control; or can not seem to stop behaviors we know hurt us and those we love. We also know deep down this is not how it is supposed to be. Life is meant to be lived with abundant joy, peace, deep and fulfilling relationships, and acceptance and celebration of who we were created to be. Those who seek help through therapy are the most courageous people I know.
(307) 632-7771 View (307) 632-7771
Photo of Kimberly Maffei, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burns, WY
Kimberly Maffei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82070
It is essential that a client and their therapist are a good fit, as the therapeutic relationship is the base for comfort, trust, and ability to progress toward and achieve your goals.
Therapy should be a comfortable and safe place for you to explore and learn about yourself while practicing to take control of your world. Everyone has different experiences and your therapy should be guided by how you see the world and what you want in your life. I work with individuals, couples, parents, and families around issues related to depression, anxiety, child & adolescent behavior problems, relationships, and parenting. My mission is to help clients alleviate emotional pain, improve relationships, and to reach their highest potential based on their own values, beliefs, and dreams.
It is essential that a client and their therapist are a good fit, as the therapeutic relationship is the base for comfort, trust, and ability to progress toward and achieve your goals.
Therapy should be a comfortable and safe place for you to explore and learn about yourself while practicing to take control of your world. Everyone has different experiences and your therapy should be guided by how you see the world and what you want in your life. I work with individuals, couples, parents, and families around issues related to depression, anxiety, child & adolescent behavior problems, relationships, and parenting. My mission is to help clients alleviate emotional pain, improve relationships, and to reach their highest potential based on their own values, beliefs, and dreams.
(307) 206-0621 View (307) 206-0621
Photo of Carly Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burns, WY
Carly Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Waitlist for new clients
Hi my name is Carly Lee and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My clinical experience includes working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I value the importance of family systems and strengths. I strongly believe that everyone exists within a larger system; that system being a family, environment or society. I also believes that it is crucial to recognize these influences when making changes in one’s life. Acknowledging individual differences and strengths, processing emotions in an effective manner, and building insight are essential for a successful therapeutic experience.
Hi my name is Carly Lee and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My clinical experience includes working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I value the importance of family systems and strengths. I strongly believe that everyone exists within a larger system; that system being a family, environment or society. I also believes that it is crucial to recognize these influences when making changes in one’s life. Acknowledging individual differences and strengths, processing emotions in an effective manner, and building insight are essential for a successful therapeutic experience.
(307) 323-2139 View (307) 323-2139
Photo of Chuck Junkin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Chuck Junkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82002  (Online Only)
I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over twenty years.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor who can do virtual counseling with anyone who resides in the states of Wyoming and Ohio. I like to work with clients who want a real change in their lives. Sometimes we know we need a change, but have no idea where to start. Counseling can help us find a path to reach our goals to improve our lives, our relationships, and our responses to the stresses in the world. Change only comes when you put the work in to create that change, so it is beneficial to correctly identify the right things to work on. Together, we will develop a clear path to reaching your goals.
I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over twenty years.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor who can do virtual counseling with anyone who resides in the states of Wyoming and Ohio. I like to work with clients who want a real change in their lives. Sometimes we know we need a change, but have no idea where to start. Counseling can help us find a path to reach our goals to improve our lives, our relationships, and our responses to the stresses in the world. Change only comes when you put the work in to create that change, so it is beneficial to correctly identify the right things to work on. Together, we will develop a clear path to reaching your goals.
(307) 448-6228 View (307) 448-6228
Photo of Kathy Nash, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Kathy Nash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82070
For couples and relationships, I use varying approaches.
It's been said that people come to therapy when their house is on fire! It may feel that way if your efforts leave you discouraged, bewildered, frustrated. You may be hoping to find ways to deal more effectively with painful or self-destructive thoughts, behaviors, interactions, and emotions, and develop and better achieve goals that now seem unreachable. i can help you do these things in a safe, relaxed space, working together toward enhanced coping, confidence, fulfilling relationships, and peacefulness. My focuses are relationships of all kinds: couples work-- marriage, pre-marriage, divorce, infidelity-- and anxiety, depression, and trauma.
For couples and relationships, I use varying approaches.
It's been said that people come to therapy when their house is on fire! It may feel that way if your efforts leave you discouraged, bewildered, frustrated. You may be hoping to find ways to deal more effectively with painful or self-destructive thoughts, behaviors, interactions, and emotions, and develop and better achieve goals that now seem unreachable. i can help you do these things in a safe, relaxed space, working together toward enhanced coping, confidence, fulfilling relationships, and peacefulness. My focuses are relationships of all kinds: couples work-- marriage, pre-marriage, divorce, infidelity-- and anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(307) 466-0248 View (307) 466-0248
Photo of Dr. Royce Fitts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burns, WY
Dr. Royce Fitts
Marriage & Family Therapist, D Min, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82072  (Online Only)
Holistic & Spiritual Counseling & Dream Work. Relationship conflicts and pain? Grief and sorrow in your heart? Disturbing, crazy, scary dreams? Anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma? You don't have to go it alone! You may be emotionally/spiritually exhausted, wounded by rigid religion and fundamentalism. You may carry anguish about your inner self, the awful voices of shame, guilt, helplessness. Our outer world of war, violence, racism, homophobia, environmental destruction is often despairing! Let's work together for your courageous authenticity, to heal your inner and outer worlds, a life filled with healing, meaning and joy.
Holistic & Spiritual Counseling & Dream Work. Relationship conflicts and pain? Grief and sorrow in your heart? Disturbing, crazy, scary dreams? Anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma? You don't have to go it alone! You may be emotionally/spiritually exhausted, wounded by rigid religion and fundamentalism. You may carry anguish about your inner self, the awful voices of shame, guilt, helplessness. Our outer world of war, violence, racism, homophobia, environmental destruction is often despairing! Let's work together for your courageous authenticity, to heal your inner and outer worlds, a life filled with healing, meaning and joy.
(720) 702-4463 View (720) 702-4463
Photo of Sonjia Serda - BreakThrough Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burns, WY
Sonjia Serda - BreakThrough Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-WY, LMHP-NE
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Life is challenging, difficult, often times downright sad. It may seem too overwhelming and impossible to handle, most if not all have experienced life in these dark places. Competent and caring counselors can help you figure out how to get out of those places. What's your biggest challenge? Need help with coping skills, communication, relationship problems that can benefit from being less reactive and more responsive, decision-making, parenting skills like Circle of Security, resolution of situations that have haunted you too long that EMDR can help with, anxiety that seems to control your life, loss of someone or something?...
Life is challenging, difficult, often times downright sad. It may seem too overwhelming and impossible to handle, most if not all have experienced life in these dark places. Competent and caring counselors can help you figure out how to get out of those places. What's your biggest challenge? Need help with coping skills, communication, relationship problems that can benefit from being less reactive and more responsive, decision-making, parenting skills like Circle of Security, resolution of situations that have haunted you too long that EMDR can help with, anxiety that seems to control your life, loss of someone or something?...
(833) 465-0303 View (833) 465-0303
Photo of Stephanie Hanson, Counselor in Burns, WY
Stephanie Hanson
Counselor, MS, LPC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82070
Hello! I'm so glad you're seeking support. You deserve help, healing, and the good life you imagine for yourself. I'm Steph, and I have been in private practice since 2013. I integrate Internal Family Systems Therapy and other body-based healing practices to treat a variety of mental health challenges: attachment and relationship issues, healing from perfectionism and shame, relationship with food and body including eating disorder recovery, anxiety, depression, and both chronic and complex trauma. I am dedicated to my own continued healing work, and the dismantling of systems of oppression.
Hello! I'm so glad you're seeking support. You deserve help, healing, and the good life you imagine for yourself. I'm Steph, and I have been in private practice since 2013. I integrate Internal Family Systems Therapy and other body-based healing practices to treat a variety of mental health challenges: attachment and relationship issues, healing from perfectionism and shame, relationship with food and body including eating disorder recovery, anxiety, depression, and both chronic and complex trauma. I am dedicated to my own continued healing work, and the dismantling of systems of oppression.
(307) 312-2967 View (307) 312-2967
Photo of Anca Niculae, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burns, WY
Anca Niculae
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Aside from my own life experience and practices, I'm trained in The Nurtured Heart Approach, EMDR, Brainspotting, Gottman's Couples Therapy and Mindfulness Meditation.
In our lifetime, we find ourselves at many crossroads, and we can feel stuck or at a loss for direction. Whether you're trying to figure out if you're in the best relationship, which career path to take, how to manage difficult family or work relationships, or how to finally make that one big change you've been wanting to make, you're not alone. Life is challenging, the options can feel overwhelming, and it's easy to feel lost and lonely; we've all been there, many times. You don't have to wander and struggle alone; I'm here to guide and support you, and provide ideas, skills, and even scientific research to help you decide.
Aside from my own life experience and practices, I'm trained in The Nurtured Heart Approach, EMDR, Brainspotting, Gottman's Couples Therapy and Mindfulness Meditation.
In our lifetime, we find ourselves at many crossroads, and we can feel stuck or at a loss for direction. Whether you're trying to figure out if you're in the best relationship, which career path to take, how to manage difficult family or work relationships, or how to finally make that one big change you've been wanting to make, you're not alone. Life is challenging, the options can feel overwhelming, and it's easy to feel lost and lonely; we've all been there, many times. You don't have to wander and struggle alone; I'm here to guide and support you, and provide ideas, skills, and even scientific research to help you decide.
(970) 344-6154 View (970) 344-6154
Photo of Laramie Family Counseling LLC, Counselor in Burns, WY
Laramie Family Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Laramie, WY 82070
Waitlist for new clients
Our goal at Laramie Family Counseling LLC is to put all of out clients at ease with the counseling process. We believe in creating a therapeutic relationship that allows us to work together to help our clients achieve progress on their counseling goals and that counseling is most effective when you find a counselor that is the best fit for you and your family.
Our goal at Laramie Family Counseling LLC is to put all of out clients at ease with the counseling process. We believe in creating a therapeutic relationship that allows us to work together to help our clients achieve progress on their counseling goals and that counseling is most effective when you find a counselor that is the best fit for you and your family.
(307) 222-1666 View (307) 222-1666
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.