Photo of Nancy Travers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Nancy Travers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you feeling frustrated with your relationship? Do you feel alone even when you are with your partner? Do you feel like you fight more with no positive results? Do you feel like roommates instead of lovers? Has your marriage been hurt by an affair or inappropriate behavior?.
Hi. I'm Nancy Travers and I am a Licensed Orange County Therapist. My 20 years of experience includes work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, sexuality, addictions, grief, and trauma. In August of 2004, I opened a clinical private practice in Irvine to serve the greater Orange County area. This practice specializes in couples therapy and marriage counseling. NancysCounselingCorner.com. If your answer to any of the following questions is yes, we can help:
Are you feeling frustrated with your relationship? Do you feel alone even when you are with your partner? Do you feel like you fight more with no positive results? Do you feel like roommates instead of lovers? Has your marriage been hurt by an affair or inappropriate behavior?.
Hi. I'm Nancy Travers and I am a Licensed Orange County Therapist. My 20 years of experience includes work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, sexuality, addictions, grief, and trauma. In August of 2004, I opened a clinical private practice in Irvine to serve the greater Orange County area. This practice specializes in couples therapy and marriage counseling. NancysCounselingCorner.com. If your answer to any of the following questions is yes, we can help:
(949) 391-1885 View (949) 391-1885
Photo of Dr. Silvana Cristina Charison, Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Dr. Silvana Cristina Charison
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I especialize in treating Individuals, couples, marital and relationships.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth. When we work together my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I have extensive knowledge on treating couples and individuals. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I especialize in treating Individuals, couples, marital and relationships.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth. When we work together my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I have extensive knowledge on treating couples and individuals. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(949) 298-3845 View (949) 298-3845
Photo of Heather Lohmiller, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Heather Lohmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA , AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My journey of over 25 years as a mentor, counselor, and coach—alongside personal roles as a military spouse and mother—have deeply informed my understanding of the challenges faced by those who give and care too much.
You have an irresistible urge to help or rescue others. In our increasingly demanding world, it is easy to extend your care and compassion so far and freely that you lose sight of your needs. You feel frustrated, helpless, and sad; even hopeless. Juggling too many responsibilities leads to an imbalance that not only affects your well-being but also diminishes the effectiveness of your caregiving. You feel resentful, bitter, defensive, insecure, tired, and powerless. I'm here to help you cultivate a healthier approach to caring by establishing balanced emotional and physical boundaries.
My journey of over 25 years as a mentor, counselor, and coach—alongside personal roles as a military spouse and mother—have deeply informed my understanding of the challenges faced by those who give and care too much.
You have an irresistible urge to help or rescue others. In our increasingly demanding world, it is easy to extend your care and compassion so far and freely that you lose sight of your needs. You feel frustrated, helpless, and sad; even hopeless. Juggling too many responsibilities leads to an imbalance that not only affects your well-being but also diminishes the effectiveness of your caregiving. You feel resentful, bitter, defensive, insecure, tired, and powerless. I'm here to help you cultivate a healthier approach to caring by establishing balanced emotional and physical boundaries.
(949) 776-2447 View (949) 776-2447
Photo of Gloria Ashby Dahlquist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Gloria Ashby Dahlquist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have worked with hundreds of individuals and couples over the past 20 years, helping them have more intimate and flourishing relationships.
I welcome and support the Highly Sensitive Person. Take just a moment. Allow yourself to recall what it feels like to be calm, confident, enthusiastic, loved and loving. Hold on to those warm thoughts for a bit. You deserve them. Don't slide back into the swamp of negativity. Stay on the healthy path. Feeling good is not only possible, it's the mark of the responsible person who holds themselves and others in loving regard.
I have worked with hundreds of individuals and couples over the past 20 years, helping them have more intimate and flourishing relationships.
I welcome and support the Highly Sensitive Person. Take just a moment. Allow yourself to recall what it feels like to be calm, confident, enthusiastic, loved and loving. Hold on to those warm thoughts for a bit. You deserve them. Don't slide back into the swamp of negativity. Stay on the healthy path. Feeling good is not only possible, it's the mark of the responsible person who holds themselves and others in loving regard.
(949) 829-4487 View (949) 829-4487
Photo of Flatirons Counseling Center , Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Flatirons Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSMFT, CSAT, MDiv, IITAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I am, first and foremost, a highly trained Christian Therapist. I love to work with couples, individuals and families helping to put an anchor back into their lives. For 3 decades I have sat front row and center in thousands of peoples lives. I have found that this is a most privileged position. My goal is to give my clients proven tools to learn to have healthy intimate relationships with those individuals who are most important to them.
I am, first and foremost, a highly trained Christian Therapist. I love to work with couples, individuals and families helping to put an anchor back into their lives. For 3 decades I have sat front row and center in thousands of peoples lives. I have found that this is a most privileged position. My goal is to give my clients proven tools to learn to have healthy intimate relationships with those individuals who are most important to them.
(562) 573-8944 View (562) 573-8944
Photo of Karianne Chen, M.S., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Karianne Chen, M.S., LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you struggling with relationship problems, parenting, mood or anxiety disorders? Are you in a place where you are finding yourself overwhelmed with many aspects of your current life? Have you experienced a traumatic event or loss? Are you dealing with chronic health issues or medical trauma resulting from an accident, or illness? Are you experiencing high amounts of work related stress?
Are you struggling with relationship problems, parenting, mood or anxiety disorders? Are you in a place where you are finding yourself overwhelmed with many aspects of your current life? Have you experienced a traumatic event or loss? Are you dealing with chronic health issues or medical trauma resulting from an accident, or illness? Are you experiencing high amounts of work related stress?
(949) 614-5997 View (949) 614-5997
Photo of Janet Lee Whitney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Janet Lee Whitney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I specialize and have successfully treated individuals with anxiety,depression,bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress, sexual issues, relationship challenges, and goal setting and personal coaching.
As the author of the book, Facing Your Fears, Following Your Dreams and Finding Success, I have watched 100's of clients change their lives to be more fulfilling and successful. I work individually, in groups or over the phone to help coach clients towards accomplishing their dreams. Most people realize that we are our own worst enemies. By changing negative and fearful thoughts into positive and goal directed thinking, minor miracles start to occur. With 30 years of experience I have worked with clients to find more happiness in their relationships, and improve the quality of their lives.
I specialize and have successfully treated individuals with anxiety,depression,bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress, sexual issues, relationship challenges, and goal setting and personal coaching.
As the author of the book, Facing Your Fears, Following Your Dreams and Finding Success, I have watched 100's of clients change their lives to be more fulfilling and successful. I work individually, in groups or over the phone to help coach clients towards accomplishing their dreams. Most people realize that we are our own worst enemies. By changing negative and fearful thoughts into positive and goal directed thinking, minor miracles start to occur. With 30 years of experience I have worked with clients to find more happiness in their relationships, and improve the quality of their lives.
(949) 229-3195 View (949) 229-3195
Photo of Firas Bdaiwi, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Firas Bdaiwi
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I value the relationship you and I have as therapist and client.
If you’re navigating a difficult chapter of life, the idea of going to therapy might feel both promising and daunting. I want you to know that you don’t have to have it “all together” when you show up here. Maybe you’re in the middle of a big life change such as a divorce or breakup, grief, or transitioning to college and find yourself stressing about the unknown and wondering what’s next. You might be noticing the way that experiences from your past are impacting your life or relationships in the present. Or, you might not even know how to describe what’s brought you here. You just know you need some support.
I value the relationship you and I have as therapist and client.
If you’re navigating a difficult chapter of life, the idea of going to therapy might feel both promising and daunting. I want you to know that you don’t have to have it “all together” when you show up here. Maybe you’re in the middle of a big life change such as a divorce or breakup, grief, or transitioning to college and find yourself stressing about the unknown and wondering what’s next. You might be noticing the way that experiences from your past are impacting your life or relationships in the present. Or, you might not even know how to describe what’s brought you here. You just know you need some support.
(949) 989-6782 View (949) 989-6782
Photo of Nadine Durbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Nadine Durbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My specialty is working with individuals and couples who are experiencing difficulty, stress, and ineffective communication.
A bridge uncrossed is like a life never lived; a door never opened; a gift never given; a love never shared. Do your challenges paralyze you from moving forward? Working with me will enable you to identify your innate strengths and coping skills to take steps forward. With support and new found insight, you will cross your own bridge to enhanced wellbeing, effective communication, more meaningful and satisfying relationships and work, and ultimately, a more purposeful life.
My specialty is working with individuals and couples who are experiencing difficulty, stress, and ineffective communication.
A bridge uncrossed is like a life never lived; a door never opened; a gift never given; a love never shared. Do your challenges paralyze you from moving forward? Working with me will enable you to identify your innate strengths and coping skills to take steps forward. With support and new found insight, you will cross your own bridge to enhanced wellbeing, effective communication, more meaningful and satisfying relationships and work, and ultimately, a more purposeful life.
(949) 523-1182 View (949) 523-1182
Photo of David Welch Ph.d. in Newport Beach, CA
David Welch Ph.d.
PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
We have a number of licensed therapist, certified chemical dependency counselors and life coaches available to see people either individually or as couples/family for private therapy.
Wel-Mor Psychology Group is dedicated to helping people help themselves to improve the quality of their lives and their relationships. We aim to assist people in exploring the root cause of their struggles and finding alternative and healthier ways to cope. We provide a variety of outpatient therapy and counseling options including private individual, couples or family therapy, and group counseling at a number of locations throughout Orange County, California.
We have a number of licensed therapist, certified chemical dependency counselors and life coaches available to see people either individually or as couples/family for private therapy.
Wel-Mor Psychology Group is dedicated to helping people help themselves to improve the quality of their lives and their relationships. We aim to assist people in exploring the root cause of their struggles and finding alternative and healthier ways to cope. We provide a variety of outpatient therapy and counseling options including private individual, couples or family therapy, and group counseling at a number of locations throughout Orange County, California.
(657) 242-2734 View (657) 242-2734
Photo of Elizabeth Urbano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Elizabeth Urbano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For the last 12 years of my clinical work, I have provided psychotherapy for a wide range of issues such as trauma, grief, abuse, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Urbano. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in the state of California. I would like to tell you a little about myself that may help you decide if I would be a good fit for you. Let me begin by saying that one of my goals in therapy is to create a safe space where you feel respected and comfortable to explore any challenging issues that may be affecting you. And, through therapeutic work explored with compassion, help you gain insight and learn new skills that will help improve your well-being.
For the last 12 years of my clinical work, I have provided psychotherapy for a wide range of issues such as trauma, grief, abuse, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Urbano. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in the state of California. I would like to tell you a little about myself that may help you decide if I would be a good fit for you. Let me begin by saying that one of my goals in therapy is to create a safe space where you feel respected and comfortable to explore any challenging issues that may be affecting you. And, through therapeutic work explored with compassion, help you gain insight and learn new skills that will help improve your well-being.
(949) 749-6893 View (949) 749-6893
Photo of Southern California Family Wellness , Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Southern California Family Wellness
Psychologist, PhD, BCC
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you overwhelmed/stressful due to a new situation in life? Are you struggling finding a right psychologist for you? Are you a busy, successful professional who has many things going on in your life but feeling empty inside and lack of purpose/direction in life? Have you been struggling with some of life issues/mental health issues for a while? Have you been thinking of working on these issues to achieve a well-balance life? Have your untreated mental health issues made a huge impact on your work or family life? Let's connect to work on ways to improve your health. I would like to partner with you on this journey.
Are you overwhelmed/stressful due to a new situation in life? Are you struggling finding a right psychologist for you? Are you a busy, successful professional who has many things going on in your life but feeling empty inside and lack of purpose/direction in life? Have you been struggling with some of life issues/mental health issues for a while? Have you been thinking of working on these issues to achieve a well-balance life? Have your untreated mental health issues made a huge impact on your work or family life? Let's connect to work on ways to improve your health. I would like to partner with you on this journey.
(949) 806-4489 View (949) 806-4489
Photo of Ken Ribotsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Ken Ribotsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMSII
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Over the years, I’ve helped guide scores of individuals, couples, and families towards a path of healing from pain and trauma – helping them to achieve improved well-being, greater life fulfillment, healthy relationships, and emotional resilience.
No one is born with a playbook for life, but you have the power to write your own. Some people I work with recognize that they feel anxious, depressed, possibly reliving trauma, or are generally unfulfilled, while others are not sure why they are unhappy, nervous, not enjoying life. I’m here to help you get more out of life. More love, more joy, more peace. Change isn’t always easy. I offer a space where you can explore your emotions, fears, anger, and experience new-found hope, plus get real solutions, and thrive!
Over the years, I’ve helped guide scores of individuals, couples, and families towards a path of healing from pain and trauma – helping them to achieve improved well-being, greater life fulfillment, healthy relationships, and emotional resilience.
No one is born with a playbook for life, but you have the power to write your own. Some people I work with recognize that they feel anxious, depressed, possibly reliving trauma, or are generally unfulfilled, while others are not sure why they are unhappy, nervous, not enjoying life. I’m here to help you get more out of life. More love, more joy, more peace. Change isn’t always easy. I offer a space where you can explore your emotions, fears, anger, and experience new-found hope, plus get real solutions, and thrive!
(949) 383-4496 View (949) 383-4496
Photo of Misa Butsuhara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Misa Butsuhara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, and relationship problems.
I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, and couples. Have you already tried "talk therapy" and found it unhelpful? I do a lot more than just listen. I help you identify your goals for treatment and collaborate with you every step of the way. I utilize methods and techniques, tailored to your diagnosis and needs, that have been proven to work. I am always grateful to be a part of my clients' lives, to help change and growth occur in wonderful, empowering ways.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, and relationship problems.
I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, and couples. Have you already tried "talk therapy" and found it unhelpful? I do a lot more than just listen. I help you identify your goals for treatment and collaborate with you every step of the way. I utilize methods and techniques, tailored to your diagnosis and needs, that have been proven to work. I am always grateful to be a part of my clients' lives, to help change and growth occur in wonderful, empowering ways.
(800) 317-8010 View (800) 317-8010
Photo of Allyson Pelletier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Allyson Pelletier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I also work with couples using Dr.
Has a horrible event happened to you? Or maybe don't even remember, but your body doesn't feel the same? Do you feel at times like you are floating through life? Then it may be time to seek professional help. Trauma for children or even adults is devastating and impacts many different areas of our lives, such as relationships, jobs, work, and family. I specialize in working with young adults who have encountered childhood trauma, sexual trauma and/or situational trauma. Or do you and your partner seem to struggle to communicate at times, feel criticized ,feel iced out and struggling to understand each other ?
I also work with couples using Dr.
Has a horrible event happened to you? Or maybe don't even remember, but your body doesn't feel the same? Do you feel at times like you are floating through life? Then it may be time to seek professional help. Trauma for children or even adults is devastating and impacts many different areas of our lives, such as relationships, jobs, work, and family. I specialize in working with young adults who have encountered childhood trauma, sexual trauma and/or situational trauma. Or do you and your partner seem to struggle to communicate at times, feel criticized ,feel iced out and struggling to understand each other ?
(949) 806-4972 View (949) 806-4972
Photo of Samira Vafadar, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Samira Vafadar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My training includes children, teenagers, adults, elderly, couples in the areas of chronic pain, addictions, depression, anxiety & cultural/ethnic.
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
My training includes children, teenagers, adults, elderly, couples in the areas of chronic pain, addictions, depression, anxiety & cultural/ethnic.
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
(949) 835-4916 View (949) 835-4916
Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Haley Martel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Haley Martel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My name is Haley Martel and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing telehealth services, based in Santa Barbara, California. I have a diverse background working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, especially young adults. I am deeply committed to providing a supportive, compassionate, and tailored therapeutic experience to promote emotional well-being and interpersonal growth for all my clients.
My name is Haley Martel and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing telehealth services, based in Santa Barbara, California. I have a diverse background working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, especially young adults. I am deeply committed to providing a supportive, compassionate, and tailored therapeutic experience to promote emotional well-being and interpersonal growth for all my clients.
(949) 776-3850 View (949) 776-3850
Photo of Jeremy Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Jeremy Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
The third group is individuals, families, and couples dealing with addictive behaviors.
A main focus of my therapy is joining clients in what they are going through. Therapeutic workbooks are great, but there is a big difference between opening up to a workbook versus opening up to a human being. When we open up to another person we make ourselves vulnerable. That is when true growth begins. I set out to try and help people deal with the core issues, as well as enhance their core strengths. When there is a recovery in the core, the symptoms can be dealt with. Our problematic situations and behaviors are but a symptom. Website: jeremyharveymftcom
The third group is individuals, families, and couples dealing with addictive behaviors.
A main focus of my therapy is joining clients in what they are going through. Therapeutic workbooks are great, but there is a big difference between opening up to a workbook versus opening up to a human being. When we open up to another person we make ourselves vulnerable. That is when true growth begins. I set out to try and help people deal with the core issues, as well as enhance their core strengths. When there is a recovery in the core, the symptoms can be dealt with. Our problematic situations and behaviors are but a symptom. Website: jeremyharveymftcom
(949) 647-4233 View (949) 647-4233
Photo of Teje Aliberti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Teje Aliberti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of personal and relationship issues.
Effective Talk Therapy for Individuals & Couples. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of our lives and yet they can be so problematic, stressful and confusing. Whether you are struggling with a partner, spouse, family member, child, parent or co-worker, it can be helpful to speak with a relationship specialist. Therapy Where You Need it. When You Need It. Dually Licensed and honored to be Serving all California and Hawaii Residents. Easy scheduling and reliable effective support. For quick online scheduling and additional information, please visit: www.TejeCounseling.com
I work with individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of personal and relationship issues.
Effective Talk Therapy for Individuals & Couples. Relationships are one of the most important aspects of our lives and yet they can be so problematic, stressful and confusing. Whether you are struggling with a partner, spouse, family member, child, parent or co-worker, it can be helpful to speak with a relationship specialist. Therapy Where You Need it. When You Need It. Dually Licensed and honored to be Serving all California and Hawaii Residents. Easy scheduling and reliable effective support. For quick online scheduling and additional information, please visit: www.TejeCounseling.com
(949) 234-6576 View (949) 234-6576

See more therapy options for Newport Beach

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.