Photo of Michele Goldman, Psychologist in New York, NY
Michele Goldman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10027  (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative, trauma informed, sex therapist, who works with both individuals and couples. My approach to the work is relational and interpersonal. Therapy is a place where you can be your truest self, without judgement. It is also a place to explore difficult and sometimes painful topics. I work with individuals and couples who want to feel more comfortable with their sexuality, improve sexual functioning, and have more intimacy in relationships overall. We will explore many aspects of life and relationships that might be impacting sexual functioning including culture, upbringing, religion, biology, and more.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative, trauma informed, sex therapist, who works with both individuals and couples. My approach to the work is relational and interpersonal. Therapy is a place where you can be your truest self, without judgement. It is also a place to explore difficult and sometimes painful topics. I work with individuals and couples who want to feel more comfortable with their sexuality, improve sexual functioning, and have more intimacy in relationships overall. We will explore many aspects of life and relationships that might be impacting sexual functioning including culture, upbringing, religion, biology, and more.
(914) 529-6249 View (914) 529-6249
Photo of Margaret Sallick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Margaret Sallick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I am an individual, couples and family therapist practicing in NYC for over 20 years. I supervise and teach family therapy at Ackerman Institute. My approach is collaborative, active, and empathic. I use a systemic approach that decreases blame and helps people move from overwhelming feelings of despair, anger, anxiety, and jealousy to the possibility of experiencing the love and compassion that they long for in their lives. I bring years of personal and professional experience to my practice.
I am an individual, couples and family therapist practicing in NYC for over 20 years. I supervise and teach family therapy at Ackerman Institute. My approach is collaborative, active, and empathic. I use a systemic approach that decreases blame and helps people move from overwhelming feelings of despair, anger, anxiety, and jealousy to the possibility of experiencing the love and compassion that they long for in their lives. I bring years of personal and professional experience to my practice.
(347) 732-1004 View (347) 732-1004
Photo of The Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center (G&STC), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
The Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center (G&STC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
The Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center (G&STC) is a psychotherapy group focusing on providing LGBTQ+, kink, and poly competent therapy. We offer therapy to individuals, couples, multi-partner relationships and families. Our goal is to offer a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering therapeutic space to the individuals and communities who often lack access to services, and are met with stigma, discrimination and micro-aggressions, even while in therapy.
The Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center (G&STC) is a psychotherapy group focusing on providing LGBTQ+, kink, and poly competent therapy. We offer therapy to individuals, couples, multi-partner relationships and families. Our goal is to offer a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering therapeutic space to the individuals and communities who often lack access to services, and are met with stigma, discrimination and micro-aggressions, even while in therapy.
(646) 652-8184 View (646) 652-8184
Photo of Jordana Jacobs, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jordana Jacobs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
I am of the mindset that a strong relationship between patient and therapist is fundamental if change is to occur.
My goal as a clinician is to help you feel free. In treatment, I will invite you to bring your whole self into the room, as you are. Together, we will work to identify the ways in which you feel stuck and shift unhealthy patterns that keep you from moving forward. Whether it be for an acute issue or chronic stress, for symptom management or general exploration, I will help you both accept your authentic self and also courageously change that which no longer serves you. Through this process, I believe you will begin to better know who you are, identify what you want, and live a richer, more meaningful life.
I am of the mindset that a strong relationship between patient and therapist is fundamental if change is to occur.
My goal as a clinician is to help you feel free. In treatment, I will invite you to bring your whole self into the room, as you are. Together, we will work to identify the ways in which you feel stuck and shift unhealthy patterns that keep you from moving forward. Whether it be for an acute issue or chronic stress, for symptom management or general exploration, I will help you both accept your authentic self and also courageously change that which no longer serves you. Through this process, I believe you will begin to better know who you are, identify what you want, and live a richer, more meaningful life.
(855) 529-0730 View (855) 529-0730
Photo of Barbara Hanna, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Barbara Hanna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am trained to think systemically and work with individuals, couples and families. My expertise, however, is working with couples and parents. Over the years, I have helped many couples overcome their relationship issues, including: communication issues, infidelity, sexual issues, etc. I have also worked with many families, helping parents overcome issues with their children, both young children and adults. I have also extensively explored issues related to working with couples where one partner is experiencing chronic pain.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am trained to think systemically and work with individuals, couples and families. My expertise, however, is working with couples and parents. Over the years, I have helped many couples overcome their relationship issues, including: communication issues, infidelity, sexual issues, etc. I have also worked with many families, helping parents overcome issues with their children, both young children and adults. I have also extensively explored issues related to working with couples where one partner is experiencing chronic pain.
(332) 241-5467 View (332) 241-5467
Photo of Haruna Miyamoto-Borg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Haruna Miyamoto-Borg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
My aim as a psychotherapist is to help individuals and couples stop repeating destructive and self-defeating patterns of behavior. I do so by helping people gain deeper understanding of their issues and the complex factors that underlie such patterns. We humans cling to familiar way of coping, even if we know that our behavior is no longer serving us, or is even hurting us. Understanding why we do what we do in the present will not only help us understand ourselves but will also help us let go of the familiar but dysfunctional way of coping with life events.
My aim as a psychotherapist is to help individuals and couples stop repeating destructive and self-defeating patterns of behavior. I do so by helping people gain deeper understanding of their issues and the complex factors that underlie such patterns. We humans cling to familiar way of coping, even if we know that our behavior is no longer serving us, or is even hurting us. Understanding why we do what we do in the present will not only help us understand ourselves but will also help us let go of the familiar but dysfunctional way of coping with life events.
(646) 663-4467 View (646) 663-4467
Photo of Jacqueline Caso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jacqueline Caso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I work with adults experiencing a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, BFRBs, and issues related to attachment, as well as those seeking to explore their sexuality, gender identity, and relationship structures. I am especially dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space for members of the poly/CNM, kink, and sex worker communities, and I am an aspiring ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I have had specialized training in working with survivors of various forms of violence, including IPV and SA. I also see couples and those in other intimate relationship configurations.
I work with adults experiencing a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, BFRBs, and issues related to attachment, as well as those seeking to explore their sexuality, gender identity, and relationship structures. I am especially dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space for members of the poly/CNM, kink, and sex worker communities, and I am an aspiring ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I have had specialized training in working with survivors of various forms of violence, including IPV and SA. I also see couples and those in other intimate relationship configurations.
(347) 429-8964 View (347) 429-8964
Photo of Jan C. Niemira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jan C. Niemira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in the treatment of gay men's intimacy and relationship issues, identity concerns, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and LGBT issues.
When your inner world feels out of balance, it's time to talk. Sometimes sadness or worry sends up a red flag and lets you know when you need support. Other times you might feel lonely or disconnected and not certain how to make things right. These are great opportunities to get to know yourself better. My therapeutic approach emphasizes 'true self experience' and aims to peel back the layers of compromise that come to feel so heavy, ill-fitting, or inauthentic over time. Feeling more alive and a renewed sense of discovery are the benefits of this deeply personal process.
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in the treatment of gay men's intimacy and relationship issues, identity concerns, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and LGBT issues.
When your inner world feels out of balance, it's time to talk. Sometimes sadness or worry sends up a red flag and lets you know when you need support. Other times you might feel lonely or disconnected and not certain how to make things right. These are great opportunities to get to know yourself better. My therapeutic approach emphasizes 'true self experience' and aims to peel back the layers of compromise that come to feel so heavy, ill-fitting, or inauthentic over time. Feeling more alive and a renewed sense of discovery are the benefits of this deeply personal process.
(646) 583-3935 View (646) 583-3935
Photo of Sandi Kaufman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Sandi Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Do you find yourself in bed with your partner yet at a loss as to how to bridge the gap between you? For way too many of us, sex causes stress, disconnection, and even physical pain. The silence and misunderstandings that accompany this spiral into heartache, loneliness, and shame. If you are feeling frustrated and don’t know what else to do, trust that working with me may actually get you the results you’ve been unable to achieve on your own. My practice as an AASECT certified sex therapist is to motivate couples and individuals with hope and positive action. The style of my work is non-judgmental, and solution-focused.
Do you find yourself in bed with your partner yet at a loss as to how to bridge the gap between you? For way too many of us, sex causes stress, disconnection, and even physical pain. The silence and misunderstandings that accompany this spiral into heartache, loneliness, and shame. If you are feeling frustrated and don’t know what else to do, trust that working with me may actually get you the results you’ve been unable to achieve on your own. My practice as an AASECT certified sex therapist is to motivate couples and individuals with hope and positive action. The style of my work is non-judgmental, and solution-focused.
(347) 846-0159 View (347) 846-0159
Photo of Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
(646) 362-8705 View (646) 362-8705
Photo of Nicolina Bolognese, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Nicolina Bolognese
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I have experience working with a wide range of clients, specializing in couples, individuals, and group therapy. My practice focuses primarily on clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD, with a particular emphasis on trauma. My therapeutic modality is characterized by a combination of trauma-focused, strength-focused, narrative therapy, and solution-focused approaches. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space that allows clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgment. I believe in the power of creating an empowering dynamic where clients are encouraged to be their true selves.
As a therapist, I have experience working with a wide range of clients, specializing in couples, individuals, and group therapy. My practice focuses primarily on clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD, with a particular emphasis on trauma. My therapeutic modality is characterized by a combination of trauma-focused, strength-focused, narrative therapy, and solution-focused approaches. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space that allows clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgment. I believe in the power of creating an empowering dynamic where clients are encouraged to be their true selves.
(929) 205-6543 View (929) 205-6543
Photo of Jeffrey Seibel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jeffrey Seibel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
In addition to offering individual psychotherapy, I am an experienced couples therapist.
I view therapy as a collaborative effort to understand problems and conflicts, identify realistic goals and take advantage of strengths and strategies that promote change. While the focus is often on current issues, understanding the influence of past experiences and relationships is an important part of the process. I have many years of experience working with individuals and couples of all ages and genders, including college students, recent graduates, faculty members and people involved in business and the arts. I often work with people in transition on issues related to work, relationships and the impact of change or loss.
In addition to offering individual psychotherapy, I am an experienced couples therapist.
I view therapy as a collaborative effort to understand problems and conflicts, identify realistic goals and take advantage of strengths and strategies that promote change. While the focus is often on current issues, understanding the influence of past experiences and relationships is an important part of the process. I have many years of experience working with individuals and couples of all ages and genders, including college students, recent graduates, faculty members and people involved in business and the arts. I often work with people in transition on issues related to work, relationships and the impact of change or loss.
(646) 386-2248 View (646) 386-2248
Photo of Rachel Pancake, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Rachel Pancake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Whether it's family, relationship or intimacy issues, an eating disorder or the difficulty of managing life's hardships, I believe a supportive space to explore yourself honestly can create long lasting and fulfilling change.
I am constantly inspired by the knowledge and depth people can reach when they are eager to explore themselves. I am always honored to help clients consider both their light and dark sides on their adventure into growth. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing via telemedicine. I earned my Masters with an emphasis in sexuality and relationships from California State University, Northridge. I have specialized in treating Eating Disorders through my rewarding work with Monte Nido. My international work helping communities in conflict and poverty led to an invaluable empathy and understanding for cultural diversity.
Whether it's family, relationship or intimacy issues, an eating disorder or the difficulty of managing life's hardships, I believe a supportive space to explore yourself honestly can create long lasting and fulfilling change.
I am constantly inspired by the knowledge and depth people can reach when they are eager to explore themselves. I am always honored to help clients consider both their light and dark sides on their adventure into growth. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing via telemedicine. I earned my Masters with an emphasis in sexuality and relationships from California State University, Northridge. I have specialized in treating Eating Disorders through my rewarding work with Monte Nido. My international work helping communities in conflict and poverty led to an invaluable empathy and understanding for cultural diversity.
(805) 549-4229 View (805) 549-4229
Photo of Helene Greece, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Helene Greece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I offer a holistic, integrative approach to psychotherapy and tailor it to the emotional, physical, and creative needs of each client. I bring a wealth of life experience to my practice to complement my clinical expertise. I am an active and empathetic listener and understand that developing a strong therapeutic relationship depends on establishing safety and trust. I try to respond to each person in a curious, collaborative, and direct way. Together we try to find a common language, in words and through the body, that opens the path for each person to express what they need to express.
I offer a holistic, integrative approach to psychotherapy and tailor it to the emotional, physical, and creative needs of each client. I bring a wealth of life experience to my practice to complement my clinical expertise. I am an active and empathetic listener and understand that developing a strong therapeutic relationship depends on establishing safety and trust. I try to respond to each person in a curious, collaborative, and direct way. Together we try to find a common language, in words and through the body, that opens the path for each person to express what they need to express.
(929) 470-3104 View (929) 470-3104
Photo of Christopher Wolter, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Christopher Wolter
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I also offer more targeted psychoanalytic psychotherapy which aims to dislodge painful symptoms like anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and sexual frustrations.
I specialize in working with passionate and driven individuals who want more out of life, but know something is wrong. Maybe you have a question you’ve lived your whole life with, or maybe you’ve always wondered where you might find one. Maybe you've discovered that somehow the same painful thing seems to find you wherever you go looking - and you'd like to find a way out. Maybe you're a very curious person - you already know that there's more to this life than meets the eye, and you want to know more.
I also offer more targeted psychoanalytic psychotherapy which aims to dislodge painful symptoms like anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and sexual frustrations.
I specialize in working with passionate and driven individuals who want more out of life, but know something is wrong. Maybe you have a question you’ve lived your whole life with, or maybe you’ve always wondered where you might find one. Maybe you've discovered that somehow the same painful thing seems to find you wherever you go looking - and you'd like to find a way out. Maybe you're a very curious person - you already know that there's more to this life than meets the eye, and you want to know more.
(929) 362-5908 View (929) 362-5908
Photo of Megan P Fleming, Psychologist in New York, NY
Megan P Fleming
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Are you troubled by relationships, intimacy, or sex; has something changed that has left you unhappy, frustrated, or confused? Do you want to feel more comfortable with yourself or your partner. I create an environment for you to express yourself and help you implement practical approaches to address your concerns. I have 10+ years experience as a clinical psychologist and certified sex therapist in NYC. My practice specializes in treating men and women of all sexual orientations with their sexual health and relationship concerns, including all sexual dysfunctions, difficulties with sexual expression, and mismatched levels of desire.
Are you troubled by relationships, intimacy, or sex; has something changed that has left you unhappy, frustrated, or confused? Do you want to feel more comfortable with yourself or your partner. I create an environment for you to express yourself and help you implement practical approaches to address your concerns. I have 10+ years experience as a clinical psychologist and certified sex therapist in NYC. My practice specializes in treating men and women of all sexual orientations with their sexual health and relationship concerns, including all sexual dysfunctions, difficulties with sexual expression, and mismatched levels of desire.
(646) 600-5133 View (646) 600-5133
Photo of Lalita Salins, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Lalita Salins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Many of us struggle with the wish to be close to a lover/partner/spouse while simultaneously feeling fearful of risking vulnerability. Past hurts, traumas in childhood or adolescence, negative family messages about sexuality, body image issues, present-day stresses, betrayals of trust, and experiences of loss, may all contribute to this hesitancy. As an AASECT Certified couples and sex therapist, I will work with you individually and/or in couples' sessions to develop a better understanding of what holds you back from experiencing the deeper physical and emotional intimacy you desire.
Many of us struggle with the wish to be close to a lover/partner/spouse while simultaneously feeling fearful of risking vulnerability. Past hurts, traumas in childhood or adolescence, negative family messages about sexuality, body image issues, present-day stresses, betrayals of trust, and experiences of loss, may all contribute to this hesitancy. As an AASECT Certified couples and sex therapist, I will work with you individually and/or in couples' sessions to develop a better understanding of what holds you back from experiencing the deeper physical and emotional intimacy you desire.
(201) 580-3994 View (201) 580-3994
Photo of Lukas K Prokes. Psychologist Art Therapist, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Lukas K Prokes. Psychologist Art Therapist
Art Therapist, PsyD, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Are you experiencing frustration and disagreement in your relationship? Feeling defensive, shut down, or overwhelmed? Feeling like you are beating your head against the wall hoping for a different outcome? Do you feel stuck and crave more in your relationship? Do you feel lonely, taken for granted, and unappreciated? Do you carry the burden of the responsibilities in your home? Do you struggle to change your partner’s mind about divorce, rebuild trust, forgive and be forgiven, or save a marriage after an affair? Do you want to rekindle your love and passion, and most importantly understand how much you love your lives together?
Are you experiencing frustration and disagreement in your relationship? Feeling defensive, shut down, or overwhelmed? Feeling like you are beating your head against the wall hoping for a different outcome? Do you feel stuck and crave more in your relationship? Do you feel lonely, taken for granted, and unappreciated? Do you carry the burden of the responsibilities in your home? Do you struggle to change your partner’s mind about divorce, rebuild trust, forgive and be forgiven, or save a marriage after an affair? Do you want to rekindle your love and passion, and most importantly understand how much you love your lives together?
(646) 798-7838 View (646) 798-7838
Photo of Marcia Satin Lavipour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Marcia Satin Lavipour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I work with artists, couples, people with chronic illness, and young adults with separation and intimacy issues, seeking to find who they are. We consider how "old issues" sometimes interfere in our moving forward. I help individuals pick good partners and feel safe letting someone get close to them. I also help them to set appropriate boundaries with their parents and others. I reduce my fees to what is affordable for the client. I enjoy working with couples and understand cultural differences, having a Ph.D. In Russian, and lived in Russia and France, and worked with Asians, Latinos, Russians, Mormons, and Orthodox Jews.
I work with artists, couples, people with chronic illness, and young adults with separation and intimacy issues, seeking to find who they are. We consider how "old issues" sometimes interfere in our moving forward. I help individuals pick good partners and feel safe letting someone get close to them. I also help them to set appropriate boundaries with their parents and others. I reduce my fees to what is affordable for the client. I enjoy working with couples and understand cultural differences, having a Ph.D. In Russian, and lived in Russia and France, and worked with Asians, Latinos, Russians, Mormons, and Orthodox Jews.
(646) 606-2662 View (646) 606-2662
Photo of Rebecca Szymborski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rebecca Szymborski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I work primarily in individual therapy with LGBTQ individuals, neurodivergent folks, folks in the kink and non-monogamous/polyamorous communities, disabled folks, and sex workers. I offer relationship therapy as well (Non-monogamy and polyamory) I am queer, non-binary, non-monogamous, kinky, and neurodiverse (ADHD). I'm a chronically ill, disabled, former sex worker and a leftist. I believe that therapists can hold safe boundaries for clients, while also encouraging transparency and authenticity of self.
I work primarily in individual therapy with LGBTQ individuals, neurodivergent folks, folks in the kink and non-monogamous/polyamorous communities, disabled folks, and sex workers. I offer relationship therapy as well (Non-monogamy and polyamory) I am queer, non-binary, non-monogamous, kinky, and neurodiverse (ADHD). I'm a chronically ill, disabled, former sex worker and a leftist. I believe that therapists can hold safe boundaries for clients, while also encouraging transparency and authenticity of self.
(646) 916-5526 View (646) 916-5526
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.