Photo of Kimberlin Shepard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kimberlin Shepard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
My passion lies in helping individuals better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through the use of evidence- based therapy, my goal is to help my clients gain clarity in who they are and help support them in getting to where they want to be. My specialty is working with those struggling with anxiety, confidence, relationship & dating stress, career issues, and life transitions. In addition, I work with couples around infidelity, pre-marital & marital counseling, sex related topics - such as low sexual esteem, sexual dysfunction, mismatched sexual desire between partners, and communication about sex and intimacy.
My passion lies in helping individuals better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through the use of evidence- based therapy, my goal is to help my clients gain clarity in who they are and help support them in getting to where they want to be. My specialty is working with those struggling with anxiety, confidence, relationship & dating stress, career issues, and life transitions. In addition, I work with couples around infidelity, pre-marital & marital counseling, sex related topics - such as low sexual esteem, sexual dysfunction, mismatched sexual desire between partners, and communication about sex and intimacy.
(929) 429-4036 View (929) 429-4036
Photo of Ciara McLaughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Ciara McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
If you or your child are dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, school problems, life transitions, adoption or attachment related issues, impacts of trauma, or depression, I'm listening. There is hope and a way forward. I offer a safe, supportive space to deepen self-awareness, build empowerment, and identify and alleviate sources of distress or pain to create positive, lasting change. I welcome and work with clients from all backgrounds and enjoy working with students, adults, creative types, and people of color. I also specialize in working with adoptees and their families as I am personally connected to adoption.
If you or your child are dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, school problems, life transitions, adoption or attachment related issues, impacts of trauma, or depression, I'm listening. There is hope and a way forward. I offer a safe, supportive space to deepen self-awareness, build empowerment, and identify and alleviate sources of distress or pain to create positive, lasting change. I welcome and work with clients from all backgrounds and enjoy working with students, adults, creative types, and people of color. I also specialize in working with adoptees and their families as I am personally connected to adoption.
(646) 762-9014 View (646) 762-9014
Photo of Jason Duncan, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
Beyond treating individuals, I provide couples and family therapy.
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
Beyond treating individuals, I provide couples and family therapy.
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
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Photo of Tara Antoinette Birkett-Bramble in New York, NY
Tara Antoinette Birkett-Bramble
MA, LMHC, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10029
Tara’s practice spans the scope of family, adolescent, Individual, and relationship counseling, exploring factors that influence their behavior by capturing irrational mindsets, and contradicting beliefs that inhibit mental, an.
Dr. Tara A. B-Bramble is a Professional Mental Health Counselor serving New York City for over twenty years. Tara earned her MA in Mental Health Counseling from Alliance Graduate School of Counseling. Dr. Tara Bramble is LP provider at Destined Horizons PLLC.
Tara’s practice spans the scope of family, adolescent, Individual, and relationship counseling, exploring factors that influence their behavior by capturing irrational mindsets, and contradicting beliefs that inhibit mental, an.
Dr. Tara A. B-Bramble is a Professional Mental Health Counselor serving New York City for over twenty years. Tara earned her MA in Mental Health Counseling from Alliance Graduate School of Counseling. Dr. Tara Bramble is LP provider at Destined Horizons PLLC.
(646) 736-4957 View (646) 736-4957
Photo of Jeffrey Nevid, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jeffrey Nevid
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
In my Psychology Today blog, The Minute Therapist, I focus on how changing our thoughts and deeper, underlying beliefs can help us control troubling emotions and lead more effective lives. Many people are burdened by anxiety, phobias, stress, relationship problems, depression, insomnia, anger-related issues, and sexual dysfunctions. In cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), we directly address these problems to help people develop more adaptive behaviors and ways of thinking. CBT is a time-limited treatment and the most well-documented method of therapy in use today.
In my Psychology Today blog, The Minute Therapist, I focus on how changing our thoughts and deeper, underlying beliefs can help us control troubling emotions and lead more effective lives. Many people are burdened by anxiety, phobias, stress, relationship problems, depression, insomnia, anger-related issues, and sexual dysfunctions. In cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), we directly address these problems to help people develop more adaptive behaviors and ways of thinking. CBT is a time-limited treatment and the most well-documented method of therapy in use today.
(551) 272-8126 View (551) 272-8126
Photo of Sarah Gundle, Psychologist in New York, NY
Sarah Gundle
Psychologist, PsyD, MIA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I believe in collaboration and in change. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy methods with stress reduction, mindfulness, and problem-solving approaches. Psychotherapy is ultimately about living a fuller, more meaningful life and I believe I can help you achieve this. There are many triggers we all face: relationship and identity issues, loss or trauma, perfectionism, and life transitions. I am interactive and direct in challenging dysfunctional patterns that are getting in the way of leading the life you want. I will work collaboratively with you to develop a plan of action, building on strengths, to bring balance, meaning, and ease into your life.
I believe in collaboration and in change. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy methods with stress reduction, mindfulness, and problem-solving approaches. Psychotherapy is ultimately about living a fuller, more meaningful life and I believe I can help you achieve this. There are many triggers we all face: relationship and identity issues, loss or trauma, perfectionism, and life transitions. I am interactive and direct in challenging dysfunctional patterns that are getting in the way of leading the life you want. I will work collaboratively with you to develop a plan of action, building on strengths, to bring balance, meaning, and ease into your life.
(646) 797-3341 View (646) 797-3341
Photo of Nicole Evry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Nicole Evry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I focus on adult clients struggling with eating disorders, body image issues and other addictive behaviors. I utilize a psychodynamic and solution-focused approach. In addition to eating disorders, I work with all ages around relationship and commitment issues, intimacy, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, and depression. I am eager to participate in your personal transformation at the pace that feels right for you. I am continuously working to be a white ally to BIPOC as an on-going process in awareness. I have in person availability and if you prefer meeting remote, I am able to provide HIPAA compliant and confidential teletherapy.
I focus on adult clients struggling with eating disorders, body image issues and other addictive behaviors. I utilize a psychodynamic and solution-focused approach. In addition to eating disorders, I work with all ages around relationship and commitment issues, intimacy, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, and depression. I am eager to participate in your personal transformation at the pace that feels right for you. I am continuously working to be a white ally to BIPOC as an on-going process in awareness. I have in person availability and if you prefer meeting remote, I am able to provide HIPAA compliant and confidential teletherapy.
(646) 791-3071 View (646) 791-3071
Photo of Sagiv Ashkenazi, Psychologist in New York, NY
Sagiv Ashkenazi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
, psychodynamic, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy) and I work with individuals and couples collaboratively in addressing their therapy goals.
Thank you for viewing my profile. Whether this is the first time you are seeking therapy or you are thinking about returning after a long hiatus, the idea of finding a therapist can be daunting. The experience of therapy is highly personal and it is important to find someone who feels like a good fit. I value the importance of creating a safe and warm environment that fosters growth through exploration. I attempt to meet individuals where they are at, assisting each to examine their particular issues and and come up with ways to make practical life changes when indicated.
, psychodynamic, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy) and I work with individuals and couples collaboratively in addressing their therapy goals.
Thank you for viewing my profile. Whether this is the first time you are seeking therapy or you are thinking about returning after a long hiatus, the idea of finding a therapist can be daunting. The experience of therapy is highly personal and it is important to find someone who feels like a good fit. I value the importance of creating a safe and warm environment that fosters growth through exploration. I attempt to meet individuals where they are at, assisting each to examine their particular issues and and come up with ways to make practical life changes when indicated.
(718) 865-2463 View (718) 865-2463
Photo of Alyssa Zakaryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Alyssa Zakaryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10004  (Online Only)
We will partner on your self-actualization journey by integrating contemporary therapeutic modalities with spiritually attuned and body-centered philosophies, including CBT; Mindfulness; HAES; Motivational Interviewing; Career Coaching; Organizational Coaching for ADHD; Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy; Internal Family Systems; DBT.
As a holistically-oriented mind-body psychotherapist, I provide a warm and affirming therapy experience dedicated to your healing and happiness. We will work together to help you get unstuck by addressing internal & external obstacles. This is your time to go beyond survival to thriving with a life that you love. I work with adults on issues such as procrastination, anxiety, sadness, depression, life transitions, boundary-setting, OCD, trauma, PTSD, abuse, feeling stuck - as well as managing ongoing stress stemming from work, housing, relationships, & family.
We will partner on your self-actualization journey by integrating contemporary therapeutic modalities with spiritually attuned and body-centered philosophies, including CBT; Mindfulness; HAES; Motivational Interviewing; Career Coaching; Organizational Coaching for ADHD; Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy; Internal Family Systems; DBT.
As a holistically-oriented mind-body psychotherapist, I provide a warm and affirming therapy experience dedicated to your healing and happiness. We will work together to help you get unstuck by addressing internal & external obstacles. This is your time to go beyond survival to thriving with a life that you love. I work with adults on issues such as procrastination, anxiety, sadness, depression, life transitions, boundary-setting, OCD, trauma, PTSD, abuse, feeling stuck - as well as managing ongoing stress stemming from work, housing, relationships, & family.
(646) 461-7533 View (646) 461-7533
Photo of Adam Johnson, Psychologist in New York, NY
Adam Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish), LGBTQ-affirmative, trauma-informed, sex-positive therapist. My expertise has ranged from international human rights projects to domestic work in medical centers, hospitals, community mental health, and college counseling centers. I welcome individuals of diverse backgrounds struggling with loss, health concerns, sexuality, career stress, life transitions, and relational stress. I view my role as a therapist as a relationship of change: a place where you can express yourself without judgment, receive constructive feedback, explore difficult topics, and make changes to live a more fulfilling life.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish), LGBTQ-affirmative, trauma-informed, sex-positive therapist. My expertise has ranged from international human rights projects to domestic work in medical centers, hospitals, community mental health, and college counseling centers. I welcome individuals of diverse backgrounds struggling with loss, health concerns, sexuality, career stress, life transitions, and relational stress. I view my role as a therapist as a relationship of change: a place where you can express yourself without judgment, receive constructive feedback, explore difficult topics, and make changes to live a more fulfilling life.
(646) 846-7367 View (646) 846-7367
Photo of Katie Moran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Katie Moran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have significant interest and experience working with LGBTQ+ populations, recent college graduates and young professionals navigating life transitions and identity exploration, and individuals and couples working towards greater relationship satisfaction and intimacy.
My approach is supportive, collaborative, and interactive. After an initial assessment, I may start by providing information about different therapy techniques and why they may be helpful for your concerns. I also start from a place of strength — though you may begin therapy feeling low or nervous, I aim to remind you of the resilience and skills you already possess, while helping you discover new ways to look at and tackle obstacles. I’m a fan of handouts and worksheets, and may encourage you to do practice exercises between sessions to work on the skills you’re learning.
I have significant interest and experience working with LGBTQ+ populations, recent college graduates and young professionals navigating life transitions and identity exploration, and individuals and couples working towards greater relationship satisfaction and intimacy.
My approach is supportive, collaborative, and interactive. After an initial assessment, I may start by providing information about different therapy techniques and why they may be helpful for your concerns. I also start from a place of strength — though you may begin therapy feeling low or nervous, I aim to remind you of the resilience and skills you already possess, while helping you discover new ways to look at and tackle obstacles. I’m a fan of handouts and worksheets, and may encourage you to do practice exercises between sessions to work on the skills you’re learning.
(646) 863-5458 View (646) 863-5458
Photo of Hong Cui, Counselor in New York, NY
Hong Cui
Counselor, EdM, MA, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
Are you unhappy with your current situation, stuck in a career, a relationship, going through major changes in life, suffering from trauma or PTSD? I am here for you on the remarkable journey of recovery toward serenity, free from being ruled by negativity. I believe each individual is unique and has the capacity to use his/her inner resource to maximize strengths. I have worked with individuals of all ages from different backgrounds coping with depression, anxiety/phobia, identity issues, marital /relationship conflicts, addictions (including internet/video game addictions), career decisions, parenting, school or job related stress, cross-cultural and generational issues, etc.
Are you unhappy with your current situation, stuck in a career, a relationship, going through major changes in life, suffering from trauma or PTSD? I am here for you on the remarkable journey of recovery toward serenity, free from being ruled by negativity. I believe each individual is unique and has the capacity to use his/her inner resource to maximize strengths. I have worked with individuals of all ages from different backgrounds coping with depression, anxiety/phobia, identity issues, marital /relationship conflicts, addictions (including internet/video game addictions), career decisions, parenting, school or job related stress, cross-cultural and generational issues, etc.
(917) 725-3088 View (917) 725-3088
Photo of Kimball Jones, Counselor in New York, NY
Kimball Jones
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
I work well with LGBT clients and with inter-faith and inter-racial couples and with individuals and couples of all ethnic and religious backgrounds.
In the current atmosphere of political and social chaos many people are feeling angry, disenchanted, lost. As a spiritually oriented psychotherapist, I use mindfulness techniques as well as integrated therapy in working with the anxiety and depression that result from the current climate.
I work well with LGBT clients and with inter-faith and inter-racial couples and with individuals and couples of all ethnic and religious backgrounds.
In the current atmosphere of political and social chaos many people are feeling angry, disenchanted, lost. As a spiritually oriented psychotherapist, I use mindfulness techniques as well as integrated therapy in working with the anxiety and depression that result from the current climate.
(646) 553-5811 View (646) 553-5811
Photo of Loren Soeiro, Psychologist in New York, NY
Loren Soeiro
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Therapy works best when you can forge a relationship with someone you trust.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or unhappy? My job is to help you find the strength and serenity to thrive. I have years of experience helping people overcome problems in stressful careers or difficult relationships, or facing important choices or unexpected events. I work well with people who feel depressed or anxious, who feel like their lives haven't gone in the right direction, or who have trouble believing in themselves. I see people from diverse backgrounds and multiple careers, like physicians, bankers, drivers, diplomats, designers, social workers, and technology professionals.
Therapy works best when you can forge a relationship with someone you trust.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or unhappy? My job is to help you find the strength and serenity to thrive. I have years of experience helping people overcome problems in stressful careers or difficult relationships, or facing important choices or unexpected events. I work well with people who feel depressed or anxious, who feel like their lives haven't gone in the right direction, or who have trouble believing in themselves. I see people from diverse backgrounds and multiple careers, like physicians, bankers, drivers, diplomats, designers, social workers, and technology professionals.
(646) 350-0616 View (646) 350-0616
Photo of Michael Snipe Jr, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in New York, NY
Michael Snipe Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I work with minority individuals, couples and families, at-risk youth, BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ communities.
As a person of intersecting marginalized communities, I understand the need for a safe space to process life’s ups and downs. That' s why creating a therapeutic alliance with you to feel seen, heard and understood is of utmost importance to me. I'm here to accompany you on this journey to help you better deal with any stressors or trauma. We'll work together to overcome the seen and unseen obstacles in your life and find a more balanced way of living.
I work with minority individuals, couples and families, at-risk youth, BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ communities.
As a person of intersecting marginalized communities, I understand the need for a safe space to process life’s ups and downs. That' s why creating a therapeutic alliance with you to feel seen, heard and understood is of utmost importance to me. I'm here to accompany you on this journey to help you better deal with any stressors or trauma. We'll work together to overcome the seen and unseen obstacles in your life and find a more balanced way of living.
(332) 239-1419 View (332) 239-1419
Photo of Michael DiNitto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Michael DiNitto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
HI, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of NY. I have over 10 years’ experience in the field and have worked with patients from early adolescents to late adulthood. I have worked with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, anger management and family issues, to name a few. My personal approach is time structured. I do not believe in keeping patients longer than needed. We will focus on therapeutic strategies that will help to develop an insight into your experience and provide you with the necessary strategies to help you regain control over your life resulting in a healthier lifestyle.
HI, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of NY. I have over 10 years’ experience in the field and have worked with patients from early adolescents to late adulthood. I have worked with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, anger management and family issues, to name a few. My personal approach is time structured. I do not believe in keeping patients longer than needed. We will focus on therapeutic strategies that will help to develop an insight into your experience and provide you with the necessary strategies to help you regain control over your life resulting in a healthier lifestyle.
(646) 825-6713 View (646) 825-6713
Photo of Melissa Pennica, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Melissa Pennica
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I specialize in working with relationships with both individuals and couples.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, as well as Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Sociology. I strive to provide clients with the space to explore life's obstacles in a nonjudgmental environment. Whether it is relational hardships, family concerns, or individual stressors, I believe that everyone can benefit from the space that therapy can provide to work through these issues. I work with clients to explore issues from all angles, while providing a listening ear and the helpful tools to work through the issues they are grappling with.
I specialize in working with relationships with both individuals and couples.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies, as well as Bachelor's Degrees in both Psychology and Sociology. I strive to provide clients with the space to explore life's obstacles in a nonjudgmental environment. Whether it is relational hardships, family concerns, or individual stressors, I believe that everyone can benefit from the space that therapy can provide to work through these issues. I work with clients to explore issues from all angles, while providing a listening ear and the helpful tools to work through the issues they are grappling with.
(347) 647-2140 View (347) 647-2140
Photo of Judith Zackson, Psychologist in New York, NY
Judith Zackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
You may have wondered whether therapy could be helpful to you. I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. You can talk to me about anything; nothing you tell me will shock or surprise me. I can help you work through your difficulties and also help you become your own therapist by learning how to better deal with challenges that come up in life. I work well with clients struggling with anxiety, OCD, panic, depression, relationship, eating and body image, and addiction issues. Clients often see reduction in symptoms and improved well being early on in therapy.
You may have wondered whether therapy could be helpful to you. I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. You can talk to me about anything; nothing you tell me will shock or surprise me. I can help you work through your difficulties and also help you become your own therapist by learning how to better deal with challenges that come up in life. I work well with clients struggling with anxiety, OCD, panic, depression, relationship, eating and body image, and addiction issues. Clients often see reduction in symptoms and improved well being early on in therapy.
(347) 657-5142 View (347) 657-5142
Photo of Suhadee (Su) Henriquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Suhadee (Su) Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
My diverse background has allowed me to help individuals around the world to reach their personal goals and guide them, step-by-step, to achieve higher levels of success. I am a psychotherapist specialized in helping those struggling with daily stressors, depression/anxiety, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, and problems associated (e.g. career, college) eating issues, substance abuse, as well as suicidal and non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors. I have particular expertise in working with individuals from a multicultural perspective, including but not limited to, LGBT populations and providing psychotherapy in Spanish"
My diverse background has allowed me to help individuals around the world to reach their personal goals and guide them, step-by-step, to achieve higher levels of success. I am a psychotherapist specialized in helping those struggling with daily stressors, depression/anxiety, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, and problems associated (e.g. career, college) eating issues, substance abuse, as well as suicidal and non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors. I have particular expertise in working with individuals from a multicultural perspective, including but not limited to, LGBT populations and providing psychotherapy in Spanish"
(332) 249-8411 View (332) 249-8411
Photo of Aaron Agne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Aaron Agne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist for individuals and couples. In my time with you, our intention is to change the way your life looks and feels. We will be curious about your thoughts, feelings, environment, and history. We will uncover the conscious and unconscious motivations that shape the choices you make. The aim is increased self-awareness, more comfort with emotions, a better understanding of your relational patterns, a greater sense of ease, and more access to joy. These changes will allow you to expand your sense of what is possible and free you to pursue it.
I am a psychoanalytic psychotherapist for individuals and couples. In my time with you, our intention is to change the way your life looks and feels. We will be curious about your thoughts, feelings, environment, and history. We will uncover the conscious and unconscious motivations that shape the choices you make. The aim is increased self-awareness, more comfort with emotions, a better understanding of your relational patterns, a greater sense of ease, and more access to joy. These changes will allow you to expand your sense of what is possible and free you to pursue it.
(646) 681-1539 View (646) 681-1539
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.