Therapists in Gaston County, NC

Photo of Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gaston County, NC
Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cramerton, NC 28032
Wilkie is a seasoned mental health counselor and a couple and family therapist who specializes in relationship therapy, couple conflict, grief and loss, men and women's issues, adult development & aging, pre-marital, remarital, and marriage counseling, divorce mediation, infidelity, and counselor supervision.
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in private practice. Dr. Wilkie earned her doctoral degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple and Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her private practice full-time in the Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia area.
Wilkie is a seasoned mental health counselor and a couple and family therapist who specializes in relationship therapy, couple conflict, grief and loss, men and women's issues, adult development & aging, pre-marital, remarital, and marriage counseling, divorce mediation, infidelity, and counselor supervision.
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in private practice. Dr. Wilkie earned her doctoral degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple and Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her private practice full-time in the Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia area.
(704) 327-6674 View (704) 327-6674
Photo of Sara E Savino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Sara E Savino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I have a desire to assist couples and individuals to overcome trauma and grief/loss as well as assist people with developing healthier communication skills and stronger relationships.
I was formerly with Southpoint Counseling and now can be found at Remedy Sense Counseling. My focus is on helping couples and individuals overcome obstacles from their past or present in a manner that allows them to become successful in life now. I strive to assist people in finding their inner strength and develop a stronger sense of self-confidence. My "ideal client" is the individual who desires to no longer be held captive by the events of their past and is ready and motivated to create their best possible life! I believe that there is hope for the hurting and counseling can assist with this.
I have a desire to assist couples and individuals to overcome trauma and grief/loss as well as assist people with developing healthier communication skills and stronger relationships.
I was formerly with Southpoint Counseling and now can be found at Remedy Sense Counseling. My focus is on helping couples and individuals overcome obstacles from their past or present in a manner that allows them to become successful in life now. I strive to assist people in finding their inner strength and develop a stronger sense of self-confidence. My "ideal client" is the individual who desires to no longer be held captive by the events of their past and is ready and motivated to create their best possible life! I believe that there is hope for the hurting and counseling can assist with this.
(704) 461-1347 View (704) 461-1347
Photo of Amber Gibson, Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Amber Gibson
Counselor, LCMHC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cramerton, NC 28032
I offer a Biblically based approach to teens, young adults, adults and couples.
I have extensive experience in Christian counseling, including religious trauma. I offer support with depression, anxiety, self-harm, bi-polar disorder, grief and loss, self-esteem, communication, and relationship issues. I also specialize with clients with ADHD and ASD related issues. I complete assessments for ADHD through private pay, as needed. Using an emotionally focused couples therapy approach, I help find fulfillment in marriage through effective communication, boundaries and overcoming obstacle and applying Christian principles.
I offer a Biblically based approach to teens, young adults, adults and couples.
I have extensive experience in Christian counseling, including religious trauma. I offer support with depression, anxiety, self-harm, bi-polar disorder, grief and loss, self-esteem, communication, and relationship issues. I also specialize with clients with ADHD and ASD related issues. I complete assessments for ADHD through private pay, as needed. Using an emotionally focused couples therapy approach, I help find fulfillment in marriage through effective communication, boundaries and overcoming obstacle and applying Christian principles.
(704) 452-4644 View (704) 452-4644
Photo of Jerry Wayne Guy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Jerry Wayne Guy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
Whether you are facing struggles in your marriage, dealing with anxiety, depression, divorce or want to learn how to communicate more effectively. Together we will help you grow and overcome the issues and barriers that are holding you back from the life you want. I specialize in working with couples and adults to identify and create solutions for the obstacles you face. At the Groves Counseling Center, we focus on providing a space for you to explore the life you have and work towards the life you want. I look forward to partnering with you and your loved ones to help you thrive, not just survive.
Whether you are facing struggles in your marriage, dealing with anxiety, depression, divorce or want to learn how to communicate more effectively. Together we will help you grow and overcome the issues and barriers that are holding you back from the life you want. I specialize in working with couples and adults to identify and create solutions for the obstacles you face. At the Groves Counseling Center, we focus on providing a space for you to explore the life you have and work towards the life you want. I look forward to partnering with you and your loved ones to help you thrive, not just survive.
(980) 434-0019 View (980) 434-0019
Photo of Montcross Counseling Center, Pastoral Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Montcross Counseling Center
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, FBPPCA
Verified Verified
Belmont, NC 28012  (Online Only)
Therapy works best when it rests in a relationship of trust and mutuality between you and your therapist.
Living and enjoying your life with greater degrees of wholeness, love, freedom and creativity is possible. But you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of relating to yourself and others. Maybe a traumatic event or life history keeps you frozen in time and in distress. Perhaps your sense of wonder and awe at being alive is diminished and you long for meaning. Maybe you find that you're living through a maze of symptoms like depression and anxiety. You wonder if it's safe enough to talk to someone and be heard in a non-judgmental way.
Therapy works best when it rests in a relationship of trust and mutuality between you and your therapist.
Living and enjoying your life with greater degrees of wholeness, love, freedom and creativity is possible. But you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of relating to yourself and others. Maybe a traumatic event or life history keeps you frozen in time and in distress. Perhaps your sense of wonder and awe at being alive is diminished and you long for meaning. Maybe you find that you're living through a maze of symptoms like depression and anxiety. You wonder if it's safe enough to talk to someone and be heard in a non-judgmental way.
(704) 327-3827 View (704) 327-3827
Photo of Quincy Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Quincy Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054  (Online Only)
Just imagine being eager and happy to come home every day to see your spouse.
Next-day appointments available! Another day of arguments, misunderstandings, and frustration. Feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated. It feels like you are just going through the motions in your marriage and not finding true fulfillment. You are finding that your time at work is more enjoyable than your time at home. These experiences lead you to ask yourself questions like, “Do I still want this relationship? Did I choose the wrong person?” Just thinking about spending the rest of your life in a horrible or mediocre marriage makes you sick to your stomach and causes dread. All you want is to feel loved, heard, and appreciated.
Just imagine being eager and happy to come home every day to see your spouse.
Next-day appointments available! Another day of arguments, misunderstandings, and frustration. Feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated. It feels like you are just going through the motions in your marriage and not finding true fulfillment. You are finding that your time at work is more enjoyable than your time at home. These experiences lead you to ask yourself questions like, “Do I still want this relationship? Did I choose the wrong person?” Just thinking about spending the rest of your life in a horrible or mediocre marriage makes you sick to your stomach and causes dread. All you want is to feel loved, heard, and appreciated.
(910) 557-9546 View (910) 557-9546
Photo of Leah Watts, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gaston County, NC
Leah Watts
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
My passion is working with couples confronting issues of infidelity, communication, sexual issues, & other areas of discord. I also have a specialty interest of working with individuals with trauma. To address these concerns my work comes from an attachment lens using Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy, Narrative Therapy, & other systemic therapies that may differ upon your individual needs. I look forward to being able to walk along side you in your journey of reclaiming your story and reconnecting to the important relationships in your life.
My passion is working with couples confronting issues of infidelity, communication, sexual issues, & other areas of discord. I also have a specialty interest of working with individuals with trauma. To address these concerns my work comes from an attachment lens using Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy, Narrative Therapy, & other systemic therapies that may differ upon your individual needs. I look forward to being able to walk along side you in your journey of reclaiming your story and reconnecting to the important relationships in your life.
(704) 457-2004 View (704) 457-2004
Photo of Kerri B Morris, Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Kerri B Morris
Counselor, MAEdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052
I am a Christian Counselor with a deep genuine desire and compassion to meet people where they are and to walk alongside them through struggles or challenges they may be facing. I enjoy working with families, kids, teenagers, parents, adults, and couples: specifically, pre-marital and marital counseling. Some other interests include: healing from a traumatic past or stressful childhood, setting healthy boundaries in one's own life and in relationships, working with parents to set consistent boundaries or adjusting to life with a baby/child, spiritual growth and development, fear/anxiety, depression, stress, self-confidence, and lack of motivation.
I am a Christian Counselor with a deep genuine desire and compassion to meet people where they are and to walk alongside them through struggles or challenges they may be facing. I enjoy working with families, kids, teenagers, parents, adults, and couples: specifically, pre-marital and marital counseling. Some other interests include: healing from a traumatic past or stressful childhood, setting healthy boundaries in one's own life and in relationships, working with parents to set consistent boundaries or adjusting to life with a baby/child, spiritual growth and development, fear/anxiety, depression, stress, self-confidence, and lack of motivation.
(704) 826-7348 View (704) 826-7348
Photo of Dr. Scott Hammontree, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Dr. Scott Hammontree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
Dr. Scott Hammontree has been a clinical counselor, administrator, business consultant/coach, and clinician training supervisor for 30 years. He has spent his entire career helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families lead more fulfilling and happier lives. Dr. Hammontree has trained numerous mental health professionals to be more effective therapists, and he has consulted and coached many businesses to be more productive and more profitable. He provides intensive treatment and is consistently rated as an extremely effective therapist and consultant.
Dr. Scott Hammontree has been a clinical counselor, administrator, business consultant/coach, and clinician training supervisor for 30 years. He has spent his entire career helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families lead more fulfilling and happier lives. Dr. Hammontree has trained numerous mental health professionals to be more effective therapists, and he has consulted and coached many businesses to be more productive and more profitable. He provides intensive treatment and is consistently rated as an extremely effective therapist and consultant.
(704) 538-4963 View (704) 538-4963
Photo of Edward Blevins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gaston County, NC
Edward Blevins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , LCAS , CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28056  (Online Only)
My specialties include marital and premarital, family, relationship issues, addiction treatment, I also provide substance abuse assessments and Christian based counseling upon request.
Life can bring both positive and negative experiences as we navigate through time. The negative experiences can change the course of one’s life. Journey to Better Living Counseling and Consultation is here to help individuals readjust their life’s journey and become better at living. My name is Edward Blevins and I’m the owner and lead therapist of Journey to Better Living. I recognize the significant role the family system plays in the development of the individual and emphasize understanding clients through the lens of their family interactions. I help clients obtain greater awareness and develop skills to live life better. It
My specialties include marital and premarital, family, relationship issues, addiction treatment, I also provide substance abuse assessments and Christian based counseling upon request.
Life can bring both positive and negative experiences as we navigate through time. The negative experiences can change the course of one’s life. Journey to Better Living Counseling and Consultation is here to help individuals readjust their life’s journey and become better at living. My name is Edward Blevins and I’m the owner and lead therapist of Journey to Better Living. I recognize the significant role the family system plays in the development of the individual and emphasize understanding clients through the lens of their family interactions. I help clients obtain greater awareness and develop skills to live life better. It
(704) 800-0856 View (704) 800-0856
Photo of Michelle M Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gaston County, NC
Michelle M Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
When life presents challenges that can feel overwhelming, counseling can help to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental place where hope and healing can begin. Whether you are faced with an addiction, marital crisis, family issues, anxiety, depression, or even just day to day stress, I am here to help you through. I am a marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical addictions specialist. Since 2009, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from all different walks of life. I enjoy helping my clients to improve their lives.
When life presents challenges that can feel overwhelming, counseling can help to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental place where hope and healing can begin. Whether you are faced with an addiction, marital crisis, family issues, anxiety, depression, or even just day to day stress, I am here to help you through. I am a marriage and family therapist and a licensed clinical addictions specialist. Since 2009, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from all different walks of life. I enjoy helping my clients to improve their lives.
(980) 223-3204 View (980) 223-3204
Photo of Kim Antoinette Gray, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Kim Antoinette Gray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28056  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I enjoy working with individuals, ages 3 and up, couples and families. I have a master's degree in Conflict Studies and Dispute Resolution and am also a trained mediator, which aids in my passion for helping others reach their goals. Are you struggling to set and consistently meet your goals? Are you re-entering society, from the military or prison? Do you have periods of anxiety or sadness? Are you frustrated with your mate, family or other relationships? Let's chat about your specific needs and see how we can work together.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I enjoy working with individuals, ages 3 and up, couples and families. I have a master's degree in Conflict Studies and Dispute Resolution and am also a trained mediator, which aids in my passion for helping others reach their goals. Are you struggling to set and consistently meet your goals? Are you re-entering society, from the military or prison? Do you have periods of anxiety or sadness? Are you frustrated with your mate, family or other relationships? Let's chat about your specific needs and see how we can work together.
(704) 610-7236 View (704) 610-7236
Photo of Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions want to be your trusted partner in health.
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions (CBHS) offers mental health counseling for individuals, families, and groups of various ages and backgrounds. CBHS assist individuals and families with learning to better manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), and anger management. Our team is adept at working with diverse families and individuals to help them develop strategies and techniques to manage life's transitions. CBHS is committed to work to assist individuals and families to uncover healthy solutions to life challenges.
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions want to be your trusted partner in health.
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions (CBHS) offers mental health counseling for individuals, families, and groups of various ages and backgrounds. CBHS assist individuals and families with learning to better manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), and anger management. Our team is adept at working with diverse families and individuals to help them develop strategies and techniques to manage life's transitions. CBHS is committed to work to assist individuals and families to uncover healthy solutions to life challenges.
(704) 459-2218 View (704) 459-2218
Photo of Essential Journey Counseling P.L.L.C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaston County, NC
Essential Journey Counseling P.L.L.C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Are you feeling like you lack motivation? Do you feel sad or angry most of the time? Do you sometimes feel a lack of purpose or your life has been interrupted? If so, you are not alone. We, at Essential Journey understand and are here to support you as you begin your healing. The journey may not be easy, but it will be insightful and life changing. Isn't it time to let the pain go and start your healing? Come on, let's get started! I have extensive experience working with couples, single parents, blended families, divorce, interracial relationships, and emotional trauma.
Are you feeling like you lack motivation? Do you feel sad or angry most of the time? Do you sometimes feel a lack of purpose or your life has been interrupted? If so, you are not alone. We, at Essential Journey understand and are here to support you as you begin your healing. The journey may not be easy, but it will be insightful and life changing. Isn't it time to let the pain go and start your healing? Come on, let's get started! I have extensive experience working with couples, single parents, blended families, divorce, interracial relationships, and emotional trauma.
(704) 908-0740 View (704) 908-0740
Photo of Kisha L Bowser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Kisha L Bowser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
My passion is helping those who have been impacted by interpersonal trauma to begin the healing process towards recovery & wholeness. Those who have been personally affected by traumatic events know all too well the sense of grief & loss, shame, embarrassment, & even judgment these issues often bring. I believe that unresolved negative life experiences from past trauma are the primary source of issues such as depression & other mood disorders, anxiety, relationship challenges, interpersonal conflict, identity issues, & self-esteem challenges.
My passion is helping those who have been impacted by interpersonal trauma to begin the healing process towards recovery & wholeness. Those who have been personally affected by traumatic events know all too well the sense of grief & loss, shame, embarrassment, & even judgment these issues often bring. I believe that unresolved negative life experiences from past trauma are the primary source of issues such as depression & other mood disorders, anxiety, relationship challenges, interpersonal conflict, identity issues, & self-esteem challenges.
(704) 631-9302 View (704) 631-9302
Photo of New Hope Counseling and Wellness, Counselor in Gaston County, NC
New Hope Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
At New Hope Counseling and Wellness, we offer a professional approach for individuals, couples, and families who are looking for lasting results. Whether you are an adult or youth struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or have found yourself in a difficult situation and feel lost, you are in the right place.
At New Hope Counseling and Wellness, we offer a professional approach for individuals, couples, and families who are looking for lasting results. Whether you are an adult or youth struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or have found yourself in a difficult situation and feel lost, you are in the right place.
(704) 912-1429 x2 View (704) 912-1429 x2
Photo of Laura Gundel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Laura Gundel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
My interests in therapy include: * Adult individual/couples counseling, * Relationship and parenting concerns, * Grief and loss, * Transitions, * Depression and Anxiety, * Questions about spirituality and religion.
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
My interests in therapy include: * Adult individual/couples counseling, * Relationship and parenting concerns, * Grief and loss, * Transitions, * Depression and Anxiety, * Questions about spirituality and religion.
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
(980) 243-4149 x2 View (980) 243-4149 x2
Photo of Kelly L Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaston County, NC
Kelly L Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NC 28120
In my work with individuals, couples and families I focus on identifying each persons strengths and using these as tools to make changes.
Often we know that we want to make changes in our lives but don't know how or where to start. As a therapist I try to take the intimidation out of therapy by creating a trusting and mutually respectful relationship. I feel that the therapist client relationship is a partnership and my goal it to help you become empowered to navigate the challenges in life. I work with you to identify the issues, set specific goals and develop coping mechanisms to help you improve your life.
In my work with individuals, couples and families I focus on identifying each persons strengths and using these as tools to make changes.
Often we know that we want to make changes in our lives but don't know how or where to start. As a therapist I try to take the intimidation out of therapy by creating a trusting and mutually respectful relationship. I feel that the therapist client relationship is a partnership and my goal it to help you become empowered to navigate the challenges in life. I work with you to identify the issues, set specific goals and develop coping mechanisms to help you improve your life.
(980) 277-3499 View (980) 277-3499
Photo of Jennifer Reed, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Gaston County, NC
Jennifer Reed
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCQS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer City, NC 28016
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of situations such as grief, anxiety, depression, relational issues and trauma.
The events that happen are not intended to be permanent, but instead are part of our journey. It is our story being written and we have the ability to choose the next chapter. The path of life can have difficult times, often with unexpected twists and turns. When this occurs, it can be beneficial to have someone walk with you through the challenging times. My clients are motivated to write their own story, to have someone support them but to work towards empowerment, self-confidence, internal peace, and ultimate healing. My clients know their past does not define them but instead empower them to be the best they can be!
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of situations such as grief, anxiety, depression, relational issues and trauma.
The events that happen are not intended to be permanent, but instead are part of our journey. It is our story being written and we have the ability to choose the next chapter. The path of life can have difficult times, often with unexpected twists and turns. When this occurs, it can be beneficial to have someone walk with you through the challenging times. My clients are motivated to write their own story, to have someone support them but to work towards empowerment, self-confidence, internal peace, and ultimate healing. My clients know their past does not define them but instead empower them to be the best they can be!
(980) 389-8282 View (980) 389-8282
Photo of Whitney Jennings in Gaston County, NC
Whitney Jennings
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
Feel stagnant in your relationship? Can't stop fighting with your partner? Want to strengthen your connection? Maybe you've tried traditional couple's therapy services, either with little success or have hit a wall in progress. Or maybe you feel lost and disconnected from self. You've hit rock bottom and don't know what else to do.
Feel stagnant in your relationship? Can't stop fighting with your partner? Want to strengthen your connection? Maybe you've tried traditional couple's therapy services, either with little success or have hit a wall in progress. Or maybe you feel lost and disconnected from self. You've hit rock bottom and don't know what else to do.
(980) 270-1501 View (980) 270-1501

See more therapy options for Gaston County

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.