Therapists in Niagara County, NY

Photo of Jennifer E Fritton, Counselor in Niagara County, NY
Jennifer E Fritton
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gasport, NY 14067
Congratulations! If you are reading this, you have found the courage to take an important step towards taking care of yourself. Perhaps counseling is something you have been putting off for a long time believing that others would judge you as weak, or that other needs in your life were more important. We have all experienced various degrees of trauma in our lives. Sometimes we find it difficult to move forward because of overwhelming emotions and self-limiting beliefs. Obtaining counseling is in fact a strong and wise decision. I would consider it a privilege to join you on your journey of discovery and healing.
Congratulations! If you are reading this, you have found the courage to take an important step towards taking care of yourself. Perhaps counseling is something you have been putting off for a long time believing that others would judge you as weak, or that other needs in your life were more important. We have all experienced various degrees of trauma in our lives. Sometimes we find it difficult to move forward because of overwhelming emotions and self-limiting beliefs. Obtaining counseling is in fact a strong and wise decision. I would consider it a privilege to join you on your journey of discovery and healing.
(716) 772-9517 View (716) 772-9517
Photo of Heart's Desire Hypnosis in Niagara County, NY
Heart's Desire Hypnosis
CH, CHC
Verified Verified
I have named my practice Heart's Desire Hypnosis because I love to help people fulfill their hearts' desires and see their lives transform for the better. I use hypnosis and other modalities (Sound, EFT, NLP, Hypno-waving, guided visualization and mindfulness meditation, Qigong) to help my clients overcome obstacles to their health and happiness. The most common hypnotic applications are smoking cessation, physical and emotional weight release, stress management, meditation instruction, healing from grief and trauma, and intentional living coaching.
I have named my practice Heart's Desire Hypnosis because I love to help people fulfill their hearts' desires and see their lives transform for the better. I use hypnosis and other modalities (Sound, EFT, NLP, Hypno-waving, guided visualization and mindfulness meditation, Qigong) to help my clients overcome obstacles to their health and happiness. The most common hypnotic applications are smoking cessation, physical and emotional weight release, stress management, meditation instruction, healing from grief and trauma, and intentional living coaching.
(716) 312-4999 View (716) 312-4999
Photo of Nicole D. Morley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Niagara County, NY
Nicole D. Morley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Lockport, NY 14094
Not accepting new clients
Throughout my career I have worked with DV, at risk youth, mentally ill, substance abuse, forensic mental health, court mandated clients in residential settings, OPMH clinics, treatment courts, NYS prisons & state operated psychiatric centers. I also have supervised the service delivery of several community based programs (SPOA, AOT, Hospital Diversion, Forensic Case Management, Crisis Services Coordination, Youth in Probation, Raise the Age & partnered w/ DSS to provide Behavioral Health/Recovery services to jointly served CPS clients). No matter the client, setting or issue I treat everyone with the the respect they deserve.
Throughout my career I have worked with DV, at risk youth, mentally ill, substance abuse, forensic mental health, court mandated clients in residential settings, OPMH clinics, treatment courts, NYS prisons & state operated psychiatric centers. I also have supervised the service delivery of several community based programs (SPOA, AOT, Hospital Diversion, Forensic Case Management, Crisis Services Coordination, Youth in Probation, Raise the Age & partnered w/ DSS to provide Behavioral Health/Recovery services to jointly served CPS clients). No matter the client, setting or issue I treat everyone with the the respect they deserve.
(716) 222-7527 View (716) 222-7527

Online Therapists

Photo of Ashera DeRosa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Niagara County, NY
Ashera DeRosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14213
I have extensive experience working with couples with mismatched libidos, sexual dysfunction, sexual trauma, affairs, and Out of Control Sexual Behavior.
When it pertains to your intimate life, you deserve nothing less than outstanding, compassionate care. It is an incredibly vulnerable act to open up about your struggles with sexuality. Whether your issues stem from trauma, dysfunction, or secrets, I see you and I hold space for you. Healing is possible, even in the spiciest of circumstances. I am a Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy provider and Brainspotting Therapist. I am honored to accompany people in their trauma recovery and am happy to swim in the deep end with you.
I have extensive experience working with couples with mismatched libidos, sexual dysfunction, sexual trauma, affairs, and Out of Control Sexual Behavior.
When it pertains to your intimate life, you deserve nothing less than outstanding, compassionate care. It is an incredibly vulnerable act to open up about your struggles with sexuality. Whether your issues stem from trauma, dysfunction, or secrets, I see you and I hold space for you. Healing is possible, even in the spiciest of circumstances. I am a Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy provider and Brainspotting Therapist. I am honored to accompany people in their trauma recovery and am happy to swim in the deep end with you.
(716) 466-5509 View (716) 466-5509
Photo of Megan Syfrett, Counselor in Niagara County, NY
Megan Syfrett
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Giving you the space for reflection and introspection is important for you to feel empowered, improve the relationship you have with yourself and others, identify solutions that work, and boost your confidence.
Do you want to feel more in control of your thoughts? Are you wanting to move more towards the people, places, and things that are important to you? Change can be scary. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. It can make us feel less interested in our favorite activities, like we will never be happy or fulfilled, or that there will never be a solution to what you are going through. Our anxious thoughts can get in the way of being present with ourselves and our family/friends. We all just want to feel grounded in the present moment, like we belong and are prepared to face anything that comes our way.
Giving you the space for reflection and introspection is important for you to feel empowered, improve the relationship you have with yourself and others, identify solutions that work, and boost your confidence.
Do you want to feel more in control of your thoughts? Are you wanting to move more towards the people, places, and things that are important to you? Change can be scary. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. It can make us feel less interested in our favorite activities, like we will never be happy or fulfilled, or that there will never be a solution to what you are going through. Our anxious thoughts can get in the way of being present with ourselves and our family/friends. We all just want to feel grounded in the present moment, like we belong and are prepared to face anything that comes our way.
(585) 302-4539 View (585) 302-4539
Photo of Lisa K. Willis, Psychologist in Niagara County, NY
Lisa K. Willis
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14623
Attachment & relationship concerns are a focus of my work as are identity questions: sexuality, gender, career, family roles; sexual dysfunction ; codependency, trauma/abuse.
The basis of any good counseling relationship is finding someone you connect with & who seems to "get you". I strive to provide an environment that facilitates trust, respect, compassion & understanding for your uniqueness. I work in a proactive, collaborative, flexible & transparent way. I am direct & open, offer honest feedback & insightful challenges. I help you search for maladaptive patterns & work with you on trying intentional new approaches. I believe everyone has core strengths that with the right support & guidance will serve as a foundation for more self-confidence, healthier relationships & increased self-fulfillment.
Attachment & relationship concerns are a focus of my work as are identity questions: sexuality, gender, career, family roles; sexual dysfunction ; codependency, trauma/abuse.
The basis of any good counseling relationship is finding someone you connect with & who seems to "get you". I strive to provide an environment that facilitates trust, respect, compassion & understanding for your uniqueness. I work in a proactive, collaborative, flexible & transparent way. I am direct & open, offer honest feedback & insightful challenges. I help you search for maladaptive patterns & work with you on trying intentional new approaches. I believe everyone has core strengths that with the right support & guidance will serve as a foundation for more self-confidence, healthier relationships & increased self-fulfillment.
(585) 412-8272 View (585) 412-8272
Photo of Maureen Ryan in Niagara County, NY
Maureen Ryan
DNP, AHNP, CSC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
As a Nurse Practitioner, sex therapist and intimacy counselor, I believe love and connection are central to human happiness. Through discreet virtual sessions, I help individuals and couples overcome obstacles to intimacy – opening the door to deeper connections, with increased love and affection. Difficulties with intimacy can arise at different points across the lifespan. Childbirth, stress of work/life balance, menopause, cancer treatments, and aging can all create or intensify barriers to sexual fulfillment.
As a Nurse Practitioner, sex therapist and intimacy counselor, I believe love and connection are central to human happiness. Through discreet virtual sessions, I help individuals and couples overcome obstacles to intimacy – opening the door to deeper connections, with increased love and affection. Difficulties with intimacy can arise at different points across the lifespan. Childbirth, stress of work/life balance, menopause, cancer treatments, and aging can all create or intensify barriers to sexual fulfillment.
(716) 508-3690 View (716) 508-3690
Photo of Eastside Mental Health Counseling Services, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor in Niagara County, NY
Eastside Mental Health Counseling Services, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, NCC, CGP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
In addition to individual, couples, family, and group therapy, we offer individual and group clinical supervision/consultation.
Welcome and thank you for considering our practice in your journey toward wellness. Choosing to start therapy is an important step, and we believe that finding the right therapist for you is essential in this process. Our hope is that you feel welcomed, valued, and safe to explore yourself in our calm and nurturing environment.
In addition to individual, couples, family, and group therapy, we offer individual and group clinical supervision/consultation.
Welcome and thank you for considering our practice in your journey toward wellness. Choosing to start therapy is an important step, and we believe that finding the right therapist for you is essential in this process. Our hope is that you feel welcomed, valued, and safe to explore yourself in our calm and nurturing environment.
(585) 699-1830 View (585) 699-1830
Photo of Lindsay Cray in Niagara County, NY
Lindsay Cray
MS , MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14620
Welcoming individuals, couples, and families in my practice, I offer sessions in office, via telehealth or outside walking in local parks.
It's more common than we recognize to feel depleted or lost. Sometimes life has a way of challenging us, pushing our limits or asking us to expand even when we're not sure we can. To navigate these uncertainties, including the possibility of failure, we need support in this journey of self-discovery; to be authentically seen and accepted for who we are without judgement. Though it may be uncomfortable, having your experiences validated can ultimately be liberating, and I am committed to helping you go there. Whether it be past or present, how to get started or what the solution looks like, we will figure it out, together.
Welcoming individuals, couples, and families in my practice, I offer sessions in office, via telehealth or outside walking in local parks.
It's more common than we recognize to feel depleted or lost. Sometimes life has a way of challenging us, pushing our limits or asking us to expand even when we're not sure we can. To navigate these uncertainties, including the possibility of failure, we need support in this journey of self-discovery; to be authentically seen and accepted for who we are without judgement. Though it may be uncomfortable, having your experiences validated can ultimately be liberating, and I am committed to helping you go there. Whether it be past or present, how to get started or what the solution looks like, we will figure it out, together.
(585) 206-2618 View (585) 206-2618
Photo of Isaac Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Niagara County, NY
Isaac Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Isaac is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Rochester, NY. Isaac is a Trauma-Informed therapist, Yoga Teacher (200-Hr), and Master Level Reiki Practitioner. Isaac is an experienced clinician with several years of clinical experience and knowledge. Isaac specializes in working with teens (ages 16+), emerging adults, and adults who may these challenges: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship + Family problems, Religious + Spiritual Abuse/Trauma, and Difficult Life Transitions. Isaac is also a LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapist.
Isaac is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Rochester, NY. Isaac is a Trauma-Informed therapist, Yoga Teacher (200-Hr), and Master Level Reiki Practitioner. Isaac is an experienced clinician with several years of clinical experience and knowledge. Isaac specializes in working with teens (ages 16+), emerging adults, and adults who may these challenges: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship + Family problems, Religious + Spiritual Abuse/Trauma, and Difficult Life Transitions. Isaac is also a LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapist.
(585) 672-6678 View (585) 672-6678
Photo of WNY Life Coaching Center in Niagara County, NY
WNY Life Coaching Center
C-MI, CRYT, CLC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
Coaching is a growth promoting process for assisitng clients to achieve a higher level of well-being. Coaching will help clients build a better future. Whether you are on your own or together with your partner, you will recieve kind and caring support. I understand that you are not one dimensional and may be at certain points in your life and relationship experience. I will help you to create a satisfying and healthy life given where you are and where you desire to be. You will have the opportunity to acquire new knowledge and skills to cultivate a healthy relationship with self and others.
Coaching is a growth promoting process for assisitng clients to achieve a higher level of well-being. Coaching will help clients build a better future. Whether you are on your own or together with your partner, you will recieve kind and caring support. I understand that you are not one dimensional and may be at certain points in your life and relationship experience. I will help you to create a satisfying and healthy life given where you are and where you desire to be. You will have the opportunity to acquire new knowledge and skills to cultivate a healthy relationship with self and others.
(716) 312-4647 View (716) 312-4647
Photo of Change InSight Mental Health Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Niagara County, NY
Change InSight Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, NCC, LCSW, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Batavia, NY 14020
Waitlist for new clients
Other areas include general mental health, depression, occupational/educational problems, ID/DD, and relationship issues.
Our providers are here to help you through this difficult time. We have years of experience treating a variety of concerns in various settings. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, or unsure let us connect you with a provider who can help. From the moment you reach out you will be provided with individualized, patient-centered care in a judgment-free zone. Our goal is for you to meet your goals and we will provide all of the tools necessary to help you identify and achieve them.
Other areas include general mental health, depression, occupational/educational problems, ID/DD, and relationship issues.
Our providers are here to help you through this difficult time. We have years of experience treating a variety of concerns in various settings. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, or unsure let us connect you with a provider who can help. From the moment you reach out you will be provided with individualized, patient-centered care in a judgment-free zone. Our goal is for you to meet your goals and we will provide all of the tools necessary to help you identify and achieve them.
(585) 536-1404 x1 View (585) 536-1404 x1
Photo of Scott LaForce Coaching LLC in Niagara County, NY
Scott LaForce Coaching LLC
MA, MFA, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14615
I am currently accepting clients along the spectrum of issues revolving around relationships, intimacy, sexuality, and sexual identity. This includes individuals seeking a more full, balanced, and healthy relationship to self; as well as anyone seeking better relationships to others, including monogamous or polyamorous relationships, and communities.
I am currently accepting clients along the spectrum of issues revolving around relationships, intimacy, sexuality, and sexual identity. This includes individuals seeking a more full, balanced, and healthy relationship to self; as well as anyone seeking better relationships to others, including monogamous or polyamorous relationships, and communities.
(503) 714-7843 View (503) 714-7843
Photo of Robert Meadows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Niagara County, NY
Robert Meadows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14607
At Kavod, we have an extensive and thorough program to help people and couples with problematic sexual behavior, relationship addictions, infidelity, pornography, and difficulties with intimacy.
You're troubled and don't know the way out. The strategies you may have tried--addictions, ruminating, blaming others or yourself, and secrecy--don't hold the answers and increase your suffering. I would be happy to talk with you about your situation and explore how therapy could help you find the way out. I understand about addiction, trauma, and the difficulty of feeling safe and learning to trust again. I can help you take charge of your life and solve problems so that you can cultivate happiness from within and create a better life for yourself.
At Kavod, we have an extensive and thorough program to help people and couples with problematic sexual behavior, relationship addictions, infidelity, pornography, and difficulties with intimacy.
You're troubled and don't know the way out. The strategies you may have tried--addictions, ruminating, blaming others or yourself, and secrecy--don't hold the answers and increase your suffering. I would be happy to talk with you about your situation and explore how therapy could help you find the way out. I understand about addiction, trauma, and the difficulty of feeling safe and learning to trust again. I can help you take charge of your life and solve problems so that you can cultivate happiness from within and create a better life for yourself.
(585) 735-0062 x3 View (585) 735-0062 x3
Photo of Lisa Marie McClary in Niagara County, NY
Lisa Marie McClary
Lisa, McClary, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14614
I implement a variety of therapeutic techniques used to address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, relationship challenges and life transitions.
A Licensed Social Worker with 13 years of experience in mental health counseling, crisis management and mental health assessments. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health and School Social Work. I use a generalist practice approach, while incorporating solution focused therapy, client-centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and spiritual therapy. I believe, at least for most people, a deep-seated sense of meaning and purpose in life, together with a sense of belonging, is of foundational importance to psychological well-being and wholeness.
I implement a variety of therapeutic techniques used to address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, relationship challenges and life transitions.
A Licensed Social Worker with 13 years of experience in mental health counseling, crisis management and mental health assessments. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health and School Social Work. I use a generalist practice approach, while incorporating solution focused therapy, client-centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and spiritual therapy. I believe, at least for most people, a deep-seated sense of meaning and purpose in life, together with a sense of belonging, is of foundational importance to psychological well-being and wholeness.
(585) 326-9872 View (585) 326-9872
Photo of Amy Normann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Niagara County, NY
Amy Normann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14625
Whether you are anxious, depressed, experiencing a loss, having relationship difficulties, problems with eating, or are in a difficult life transition, you can benefit from the safe space of therapy. My therapeutic approach honors suffering and difference, while placing importance on the development of a trusting relationship. Through a trusting relationship new insights may emerge as curiosity, compassion, humor, and warmth open a path for creative collaboration. Together, we’ll work to increase your self-awareness and develop a greater capacity to trust yourself to make intentional decisions about who and where you want to be.
Whether you are anxious, depressed, experiencing a loss, having relationship difficulties, problems with eating, or are in a difficult life transition, you can benefit from the safe space of therapy. My therapeutic approach honors suffering and difference, while placing importance on the development of a trusting relationship. Through a trusting relationship new insights may emerge as curiosity, compassion, humor, and warmth open a path for creative collaboration. Together, we’ll work to increase your self-awareness and develop a greater capacity to trust yourself to make intentional decisions about who and where you want to be.
(585) 300-4184 View (585) 300-4184
Photo of The Queer Wellness Center: Channyn Quinn in Niagara County, NY
The Queer Wellness Center: Channyn Quinn
LMHC
Verified Verified
Fairport, NY 14450
I specialize in treating LGBTQIA persons, therapy for mental health professionals, trauma/PTSD, relationship, shame, & self-esteem issues.
My name is Channyn (pronounced Shannon). Congratulations for starting (or restarting) your journey in taking care of yourself. My goal is to assist you with self-discovery, change, and improving your quality of life. I help my clients cope with the psychological and emotional difficulties that underlie unhealthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. I am anti-racist & committed to working with people regardless of gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation. My therapy style is warm, supportive, empowering, interactive, sometimes funny, and focused on assisting clients in developing mindful awareness.
I specialize in treating LGBTQIA persons, therapy for mental health professionals, trauma/PTSD, relationship, shame, & self-esteem issues.
My name is Channyn (pronounced Shannon). Congratulations for starting (or restarting) your journey in taking care of yourself. My goal is to assist you with self-discovery, change, and improving your quality of life. I help my clients cope with the psychological and emotional difficulties that underlie unhealthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. I am anti-racist & committed to working with people regardless of gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation. My therapy style is warm, supportive, empowering, interactive, sometimes funny, and focused on assisting clients in developing mindful awareness.
View
Photo of Laurie Krupski in Niagara County, NY
Laurie Krupski
MHC-LP, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairport, NY 14450  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with relationship issues and transitions? Feeling like life's demands can be so overwhelming that it's keeping you at a standstill? My approach works well if you are motivated to explore, curious to discover, and willing to take risks to get there. As an experiential counselor, I'm very hands-on. I utilize play, mindfulness, art, music, improvisation and movement. It is my goal to create a safe space where you can explore your limits and possibilities as we are all capable of re-inventing ourselves. I take an existential approach to help you cultivate your potential and deepen your connections in life.
Are you struggling with relationship issues and transitions? Feeling like life's demands can be so overwhelming that it's keeping you at a standstill? My approach works well if you are motivated to explore, curious to discover, and willing to take risks to get there. As an experiential counselor, I'm very hands-on. I utilize play, mindfulness, art, music, improvisation and movement. It is my goal to create a safe space where you can explore your limits and possibilities as we are all capable of re-inventing ourselves. I take an existential approach to help you cultivate your potential and deepen your connections in life.
(332) 455-1704 View (332) 455-1704
Photo of Nancy Ann Suda in Niagara County, NY
Nancy Ann Suda
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Depew, NY 14043
Through use of compassion, empathy, relationship building, coping skills, healthy lifestyle changes, mindfulness, changing thought patterns, and other therapeutic strategies you can be your best you.
Change is waiting! Have the past couple years made you question your path? It is never too late to shift gears. Whether it’s time to pick up the pace or slow down, I’ll help you figure that out. Are you exhausted just trying to exist? Why just exist when you can truly LIVE! I am here to help, and want you to know there is hope and success awaiting you. Life’s challenges and demands can overwhelm who we are or who we desire to be.
Through use of compassion, empathy, relationship building, coping skills, healthy lifestyle changes, mindfulness, changing thought patterns, and other therapeutic strategies you can be your best you.
Change is waiting! Have the past couple years made you question your path? It is never too late to shift gears. Whether it’s time to pick up the pace or slow down, I’ll help you figure that out. Are you exhausted just trying to exist? Why just exist when you can truly LIVE! I am here to help, and want you to know there is hope and success awaiting you. Life’s challenges and demands can overwhelm who we are or who we desire to be.
(716) 601-6220 View (716) 601-6220
Photo of Kaitlin Carrozza, Psychologist in Niagara County, NY
Kaitlin Carrozza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14607
As a clinical psychologist specializing in relationship difficulties, I have worked with many individuals who struggle with conflict in their intimate relationships, experience fears about closeness or intimacy, feel anxiety about relating to others, and those who have trouble feeling generally satisfied in their relationships. I believe that dissatisfying relationships contribute to emotional stress and pain, and that promoting stronger, healthier relationships can lead to people experiencing happier and more productive lives. I work with individuals to explore these struggles and develop understanding or insight about their patterns in relationships, with the ultimate goal of helping people have a different experience in their current relationships.
As a clinical psychologist specializing in relationship difficulties, I have worked with many individuals who struggle with conflict in their intimate relationships, experience fears about closeness or intimacy, feel anxiety about relating to others, and those who have trouble feeling generally satisfied in their relationships. I believe that dissatisfying relationships contribute to emotional stress and pain, and that promoting stronger, healthier relationships can lead to people experiencing happier and more productive lives. I work with individuals to explore these struggles and develop understanding or insight about their patterns in relationships, with the ultimate goal of helping people have a different experience in their current relationships.
(585) 445-7114 View (585) 445-7114

See more therapy options for Niagara 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.