Couples Counseling Therapists in Gardner, KS

Photo of Angela Stevens Mediator And Certified Trauma Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Angela Stevens Mediator And Certified Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, ADR, CPTSD, PAS, EFT, Trauma
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030  (Online Only)
Angela is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II). Highly trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), her passion is centered on relationships, and helping families move forward in a healthy, productive way with a solution-focus. Angela's goal is to help clients explore the complex dramas that occur during and after their relationship to help them identify and transform negative processes and interaction patterns that are preventing progress whatever the desired direction. Angela believes this is where we start in making sure any child(ren) involved are best served.
Angela is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II). Highly trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), her passion is centered on relationships, and helping families move forward in a healthy, productive way with a solution-focus. Angela's goal is to help clients explore the complex dramas that occur during and after their relationship to help them identify and transform negative processes and interaction patterns that are preventing progress whatever the desired direction. Angela believes this is where we start in making sure any child(ren) involved are best served.
(913) 347-8419 View (913) 347-8419
Photo of Dawning of a New Day Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gardner, KS
Dawning of a New Day Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, CCP, CCTP, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gardner, KS 66030
Are you thriving, or barely surviving? Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or out-of-control? is your relationship in a downward spiral? Is financial distress ruining your life? I know exactly what you're feeling - like the walls are closing in & You Need Help Now! Help is here & hope is on the way! I have advanced clinical training to help you manage your challenges & I look forward to teaching you tools to take your life back. Online or in-person, your choice! Together, we will figure out what's really going on & shed light on your discontent so that you don't have to feel like a failure any more.
Are you thriving, or barely surviving? Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or out-of-control? is your relationship in a downward spiral? Is financial distress ruining your life? I know exactly what you're feeling - like the walls are closing in & You Need Help Now! Help is here & hope is on the way! I have advanced clinical training to help you manage your challenges & I look forward to teaching you tools to take your life back. Online or in-person, your choice! Together, we will figure out what's really going on & shed light on your discontent so that you don't have to feel like a failure any more.
(913) 347-4298 View (913) 347-4298
Photo of Dennis Smith, Counselor in Gardner, KS
Dennis Smith
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
I work extensively with couples to create marriages and relationships that thrive.
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I treat individuals and couples for a variety of issues. I am passionate about people, marriage, and families. My number one goal is helping you achieve your stated counseling goals. I believe your goals can be met providing you are willing to honestly address your concerns and take necessary steps to resolve them. I will walk with you through this process, and I am actively involved in your therapy process.
I work extensively with couples to create marriages and relationships that thrive.
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I treat individuals and couples for a variety of issues. I am passionate about people, marriage, and families. My number one goal is helping you achieve your stated counseling goals. I believe your goals can be met providing you are willing to honestly address your concerns and take necessary steps to resolve them. I will walk with you through this process, and I am actively involved in your therapy process.
(913) 686-6196 View (913) 686-6196
Photo of Subrena S Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
Subrena S Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
Love in Gray Counseling Services is about finding the strength, hope, and love for yourself or loved ones in the midst of a storm. Everyone's situation looks different, and today you are one step closer to discovering positive growth, and well-being. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. I work with a variety of clients such as individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. My treatment approach to therapy is Experiential, and Attachment based. To learn more about this approach visit my website.
Love in Gray Counseling Services is about finding the strength, hope, and love for yourself or loved ones in the midst of a storm. Everyone's situation looks different, and today you are one step closer to discovering positive growth, and well-being. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. I work with a variety of clients such as individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. My treatment approach to therapy is Experiential, and Attachment based. To learn more about this approach visit my website.
(913) 305-4420 View (913) 305-4420
Photo of Diane D Sinclair-Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Diane D Sinclair-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
I recognize the power of healing that occurs within an emotionally safe therapeutic relationship and pursue healing through a holistic approach.
Are you an adult looking for help with Affair or Divorce Recovery, anxiety, career questions, or depression? Does your marriage need help recovering from infidelity? I offer daytime and evening hours. Do you have parenting issues that are frustrating you and just need some direction? Are you looking for pre-marital preparation or inner healing of past trauma? I also provide equine-assisted psychotherapy (therapy done by interacting with horses). Equine therapy is done offsite at a nearby location.
I recognize the power of healing that occurs within an emotionally safe therapeutic relationship and pursue healing through a holistic approach.
Are you an adult looking for help with Affair or Divorce Recovery, anxiety, career questions, or depression? Does your marriage need help recovering from infidelity? I offer daytime and evening hours. Do you have parenting issues that are frustrating you and just need some direction? Are you looking for pre-marital preparation or inner healing of past trauma? I also provide equine-assisted psychotherapy (therapy done by interacting with horses). Equine therapy is done offsite at a nearby location.
(913) 276-0859 View (913) 276-0859
Photo of Dorathy Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Dorathy Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
I see individuals, couples, and families from 14 years and older.
Are you struggling with relational issues, chronic illness, work/life stress, a mental illness, infertility, divorce, anxiety, depression? Life, always seems to have a lot more in store than we want or feel we can handle at any given time, it seems. Navigating all of the curves some times roadblocks can be overwhelming and you may find that you need help processing and maneuvering what's coming at you. The need for a safe space to be yourself, ugly cry, and be emotionally vulnerable. Everyone and every place is not always equipped to handle what our needs are in those moments, but I hope to provide that space for you.
I see individuals, couples, and families from 14 years and older.
Are you struggling with relational issues, chronic illness, work/life stress, a mental illness, infertility, divorce, anxiety, depression? Life, always seems to have a lot more in store than we want or feel we can handle at any given time, it seems. Navigating all of the curves some times roadblocks can be overwhelming and you may find that you need help processing and maneuvering what's coming at you. The need for a safe space to be yourself, ugly cry, and be emotionally vulnerable. Everyone and every place is not always equipped to handle what our needs are in those moments, but I hope to provide that space for you.
(913) 392-5647 View (913) 392-5647
Photo of J. Craig Waddle, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
J. Craig Waddle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
(913) 624-1251 View (913) 624-1251
Photo of Jeff Tadokoro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gardner, KS
Jeff Tadokoro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
My goal in counseling is for you to be empowered to make positive changes so that your life can flourish. I work with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Families using brief and long term therapy. I work with a variety of issues including: Depression Stress/Anxiety, Marriage/Family issues, School issues with Children and Adolescents, Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief and Loss, Anger Control. If you have been thinking about making a change, this is an exciting time in your life, take the next step and contact me. I will be here to assist, empower, and advocate for you.
My goal in counseling is for you to be empowered to make positive changes so that your life can flourish. I work with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Families using brief and long term therapy. I work with a variety of issues including: Depression Stress/Anxiety, Marriage/Family issues, School issues with Children and Adolescents, Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief and Loss, Anger Control. If you have been thinking about making a change, this is an exciting time in your life, take the next step and contact me. I will be here to assist, empower, and advocate for you.
(913) 701-3557 View (913) 701-3557

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Josh Madden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
Josh Madden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66061
I specialize in working with adults, teenagers, and families through the pain of depression, anxiety, grief, and concerns regarding religious trauma, relationship/marital conflict, and trauma.
In the words of Walt Whitman, via Ted Lasso, "Be curious, not judgemental." These words are great advice as we interact with others in our life, but even more true when we are addressing our inner world. To accomplish this, I strive to curate an empathic and safe environment to discover the confusing and painful parts of your life. I will provide a collaborative experience toward self-reflection and self-understanding. We will venture into the power of self-compassion by facing those places where we feel like we are not enough.
I specialize in working with adults, teenagers, and families through the pain of depression, anxiety, grief, and concerns regarding religious trauma, relationship/marital conflict, and trauma.
In the words of Walt Whitman, via Ted Lasso, "Be curious, not judgemental." These words are great advice as we interact with others in our life, but even more true when we are addressing our inner world. To accomplish this, I strive to curate an empathic and safe environment to discover the confusing and painful parts of your life. I will provide a collaborative experience toward self-reflection and self-understanding. We will venture into the power of self-compassion by facing those places where we feel like we are not enough.
(913) 361-5589 View (913) 361-5589
Photo of Alan D Banwart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gardner, KS
Alan D Banwart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, KS 66083
Waitlist for new clients
Thankfully there are ways to help our brains improve and heal from trauma, addictions, and relationship problems.
Are you a struggling biological, adoptive, or foster parent? Do you have a biological, adopted, or foster child or adolescent in your home struggling with their emotions and/or behaviors? Are you or others in your home having difficulty connecting/attaching with people and building strong relationships? Are you or others in your home coping with life's complications in ways that are unhealthy or causing more problems? Have you or others in your home experienced trauma? Would you like help in working through these challenges, creating stronger relationships, and finding positive methods to manage and eliminate your suffering?
Thankfully there are ways to help our brains improve and heal from trauma, addictions, and relationship problems.
Are you a struggling biological, adoptive, or foster parent? Do you have a biological, adopted, or foster child or adolescent in your home struggling with their emotions and/or behaviors? Are you or others in your home having difficulty connecting/attaching with people and building strong relationships? Are you or others in your home coping with life's complications in ways that are unhealthy or causing more problems? Have you or others in your home experienced trauma? Would you like help in working through these challenges, creating stronger relationships, and finding positive methods to manage and eliminate your suffering?
(913) 380-0784 View (913) 380-0784
Photo of Stan Archie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
Stan Archie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, SATP-C, ThD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66062
Stan Archie is a Christian centered supervisor and counselor whose primary focus is to use principles of the behavioral sciences to support individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations in realizing their passion and potential according to their desired outcome.
As a therapist and supervisor, Stan works through an Attachment Theory lens. He values working with a treatment team, and utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, highly valuing each individual for his/her own uniqueness. He believes in a holistic approach to counseling through exploration of psychological, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of one's life. Therapy modalities that will be utilized in treatment include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals while through the healing process while reaching their goals.
Stan Archie is a Christian centered supervisor and counselor whose primary focus is to use principles of the behavioral sciences to support individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations in realizing their passion and potential according to their desired outcome.
As a therapist and supervisor, Stan works through an Attachment Theory lens. He values working with a treatment team, and utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, highly valuing each individual for his/her own uniqueness. He believes in a holistic approach to counseling through exploration of psychological, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of one's life. Therapy modalities that will be utilized in treatment include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals while through the healing process while reaching their goals.
(913) 747-4132 View (913) 747-4132
Photo of Megan Dippold, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Megan Dippold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
I have experience working with individuals and couples and am passionate about working with issues of identity exploration, intimacy, grief, trauma, and infidelity.
I think we are all wired for and worthy of love and connection. Whether that is connection to ourselves or to others, I believe the desire to belong lives inside each of us. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, though. There can be so many places where shame, doubt, old wounds, and miscommunication disorient and disconnect us. As a therapist, I consider it a great privilege to be invited into your world and to get to partner with you as we collaboratively work through some of the things that might be keeping you stuck.
I have experience working with individuals and couples and am passionate about working with issues of identity exploration, intimacy, grief, trauma, and infidelity.
I think we are all wired for and worthy of love and connection. Whether that is connection to ourselves or to others, I believe the desire to belong lives inside each of us. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, though. There can be so many places where shame, doubt, old wounds, and miscommunication disorient and disconnect us. As a therapist, I consider it a great privilege to be invited into your world and to get to partner with you as we collaboratively work through some of the things that might be keeping you stuck.
(816) 209-1434 View (816) 209-1434
Photo of Grace Meikenhous, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Grace Meikenhous
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenexa, KS 66062
I also have experience treating survivors of abuse/neglect, PTSD, domestic violence, anxiety, and provide relationship/pre-marital/marriage counseling.
Accepting NEW Clients - We all experience challenging seasons in life and need someone to help us make sense of our circumstances. We all go through transitions and loss. Sometimes unexpectedly, our life changes, or we've been struggling with something for too long in isolation, and you've been afraid to ask for help. I gently invite you, when you are ready, to contact me so I may help you heal. When we heal ourselves, we begin to attract other healthy people into our lives.
I also have experience treating survivors of abuse/neglect, PTSD, domestic violence, anxiety, and provide relationship/pre-marital/marriage counseling.
Accepting NEW Clients - We all experience challenging seasons in life and need someone to help us make sense of our circumstances. We all go through transitions and loss. Sometimes unexpectedly, our life changes, or we've been struggling with something for too long in isolation, and you've been afraid to ask for help. I gently invite you, when you are ready, to contact me so I may help you heal. When we heal ourselves, we begin to attract other healthy people into our lives.
(913) 349-6408 View (913) 349-6408
Photo of Jennifer Head, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
Jennifer Head
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship is an essential foundation to build throughout the entire process.
I serve the states of: Colorado, Montana, and Kansas. When struggling with anxiety or stress small tasks, feel like mountains. Activities that used to bring you joy have become similar to your list of chores. A strong support system is crucial, people that care about your well-being and want to see you reach your goals. Therapy can be a powerful addition to your life. It provides a safe space for conversations to flow, in turn promoting validation, skill-building, goal-realization, and emotional-processing. Therapy has the ability to open the door for countless interpersonal and intrapersonal growth opportunities.
The therapeutic relationship is an essential foundation to build throughout the entire process.
I serve the states of: Colorado, Montana, and Kansas. When struggling with anxiety or stress small tasks, feel like mountains. Activities that used to bring you joy have become similar to your list of chores. A strong support system is crucial, people that care about your well-being and want to see you reach your goals. Therapy can be a powerful addition to your life. It provides a safe space for conversations to flow, in turn promoting validation, skill-building, goal-realization, and emotional-processing. Therapy has the ability to open the door for countless interpersonal and intrapersonal growth opportunities.
(720) 702-4945 View (720) 702-4945
Photo of A. Elissa Hilyard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
A. Elissa Hilyard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66061
Everyone faces challenges and struggles in life. Sometimes talking with a professional in confidence is beneficial and necessary for personal growth and overall health and wellness. You are not alone! You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help and support. I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and have over 20 years in providing therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families. Call me for a free phone consultation. If I can't help or if I'm not the right fit, I can help you find the right therapist for you.
Everyone faces challenges and struggles in life. Sometimes talking with a professional in confidence is beneficial and necessary for personal growth and overall health and wellness. You are not alone! You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help and support. I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and have over 20 years in providing therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families. Call me for a free phone consultation. If I can't help or if I'm not the right fit, I can help you find the right therapist for you.
(785) 371-2055 View (785) 371-2055
Photo of Laura Wheeler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Laura Wheeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66061
Does life feel overwhelming? Do you go to bed at night feeling lonely, resentful, or angry? Do you let the past control you? If you answered yes to any of these questions-you are in the right place. I can offer help. If you have "had enough" and are ready for healing, change, recovery or reconnection - reach out to me- don't keep ignoring the voice inside telling you to get help. I am located in Lenexa, Kansas and currently offer couples therapy, premarital and marriage counseling, and individual therapy utilizing EMDR to assist in healing past trauma. Allow me to join you on your journey towards transformation and joy.
Does life feel overwhelming? Do you go to bed at night feeling lonely, resentful, or angry? Do you let the past control you? If you answered yes to any of these questions-you are in the right place. I can offer help. If you have "had enough" and are ready for healing, change, recovery or reconnection - reach out to me- don't keep ignoring the voice inside telling you to get help. I am located in Lenexa, Kansas and currently offer couples therapy, premarital and marriage counseling, and individual therapy utilizing EMDR to assist in healing past trauma. Allow me to join you on your journey towards transformation and joy.
(913) 392-6423 View (913) 392-6423
Photo of Natalie Renee Spencer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
Natalie Renee Spencer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
I know you parents love your children with everything inside of you and it hurts to see them struggle. Are you and/or your child struggling with life transitions? Or maybe you are struggling to co-parent with your ex spouse. Sometimes teenagers are really struggling and need someone to talk to and navigate the challenges of growing up. Often parents need advice on how to talk to their children. Life brings on challenges and I am here to help!
I know you parents love your children with everything inside of you and it hurts to see them struggle. Are you and/or your child struggling with life transitions? Or maybe you are struggling to co-parent with your ex spouse. Sometimes teenagers are really struggling and need someone to talk to and navigate the challenges of growing up. Often parents need advice on how to talk to their children. Life brings on challenges and I am here to help!
(913) 538-4473 View (913) 538-4473
Photo of Stacey Danielle Nicholson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gardner, KS
Stacey Danielle Nicholson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66062
Couples are my specialty and I believe that if you both want your relationship to be fulfilling, there are ways we can get you there. Even if you think it’s impossible, I have faith in you, and will carry that faith until you can believe in yourselves again. Even if you are recovering from an affair or other infidelity, I believe you can rebuild the relationship, and I will help. I have been a Licensed Family and Marriage therapist since 2013, with much of my experience coming as part of a group practice that specializes in the issues of couples.I get it, relationships are not easy.
Couples are my specialty and I believe that if you both want your relationship to be fulfilling, there are ways we can get you there. Even if you think it’s impossible, I have faith in you, and will carry that faith until you can believe in yourselves again. Even if you are recovering from an affair or other infidelity, I believe you can rebuild the relationship, and I will help. I have been a Licensed Family and Marriage therapist since 2013, with much of my experience coming as part of a group practice that specializes in the issues of couples.I get it, relationships are not easy.
(913) 786-4279 View (913) 786-4279
Photo of Amber Baumgarden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gardner, KS
Amber Baumgarden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
Hi! My name is Amber Baumgarden. I'm a private practice EMDR Therapist and LMSW who is here to provide a person-centered approach to counseling and therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Some of my focuses are supporting Polyamory people, LGBTQIA+ members, Transgender and gender questioning people, members of the kink community, and people practicing other forms of non-monogamy including swinging. I have formal training in trauma therapy and working with those with Substance Use Disorders, clients battling Weight Stigmas, clients with Attachment trauma, and religious Trauma.
Hi! My name is Amber Baumgarden. I'm a private practice EMDR Therapist and LMSW who is here to provide a person-centered approach to counseling and therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Some of my focuses are supporting Polyamory people, LGBTQIA+ members, Transgender and gender questioning people, members of the kink community, and people practicing other forms of non-monogamy including swinging. I have formal training in trauma therapy and working with those with Substance Use Disorders, clients battling Weight Stigmas, clients with Attachment trauma, and religious Trauma.
(913) 347-5166 View (913) 347-5166
Photo of Katrena Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gardner, KS
Katrena Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66062
Vessels of Change Counseling Services is a faith based, culturally responsive, safe space to gain victory over traumas, anxieties, life changes, and relationship challenges. Each relationship dynamic and each person is unique and will require a unique approach. My forward focused, direct style is tailored to meet the needs of each client and delivered with empathy.
Vessels of Change Counseling Services is a faith based, culturally responsive, safe space to gain victory over traumas, anxieties, life changes, and relationship challenges. Each relationship dynamic and each person is unique and will require a unique approach. My forward focused, direct style is tailored to meet the needs of each client and delivered with empathy.
(913) 521-8229 View (913) 521-8229

See more therapy options for Gardner

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.