Couples Counseling Therapists in 29206

Photo of Carlton A Andrews, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
Carlton A Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, NCAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
Therapy has the potential to be tremendously helpful. I have over 25 years of experience working in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an NCAC. Through my career, I have primarily focused on all types of addictions as well as worked with couples and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. I will help to recognize, face, and overcome the stuck points often felt when having personal difficulties. I use varied counseling methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness.
Therapy has the potential to be tremendously helpful. I have over 25 years of experience working in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an NCAC. Through my career, I have primarily focused on all types of addictions as well as worked with couples and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. I will help to recognize, face, and overcome the stuck points often felt when having personal difficulties. I use varied counseling methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness.
(803) 302-3907 View (803) 302-3907
Photo of Devorah Marrus, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in 29206, SC
Devorah Marrus
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , EdS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
I view my time and relationship with my clients as sacred work.
One of my favorite quotes is "There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." It is often through our struggles and life challenges that we are given the power and opportunity to find our deepest strength, courage, growth and purpose in life. If you are struggling with anxious thoughts, feeling depressed or feeling alone, I want you to know there is help for you. I can provide evidence-based counseling, emotional support & guidance and psychotherapy services to help you identify and work through your challenges. Call me so we can begin this journey towards your healing today!
I view my time and relationship with my clients as sacred work.
One of my favorite quotes is "There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." It is often through our struggles and life challenges that we are given the power and opportunity to find our deepest strength, courage, growth and purpose in life. If you are struggling with anxious thoughts, feeling depressed or feeling alone, I want you to know there is help for you. I can provide evidence-based counseling, emotional support & guidance and psychotherapy services to help you identify and work through your challenges. Call me so we can begin this journey towards your healing today!
(803) 590-9615 View (803) 590-9615
Photo of Norah Grimball, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
Norah Grimball
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, NCACI, LAC, ADC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
I specialize in addictions, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, relationship issues, codependency, emotional manipulation & Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome, mood disorders, transitions, self-harm, self-esteem, & wellness.
Are you looking for a safe place to grow into your best self? As a Licensed & Certified Professional Therapist, I am here to help. I provide individualized treatment in a safe, non-judgmental & compassionate environment utilizing a holistic approach to wellness that allows for deeply personal healing of the mind, body, & spirit. In this way, you are able to explore & reconnect with yourself, overcome challenges, develop resiliency, & greatly improve your quality of life. Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy & counseling services to diverse populations in a variety of settings & I welcome diversities in life.
I specialize in addictions, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, relationship issues, codependency, emotional manipulation & Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome, mood disorders, transitions, self-harm, self-esteem, & wellness.
Are you looking for a safe place to grow into your best self? As a Licensed & Certified Professional Therapist, I am here to help. I provide individualized treatment in a safe, non-judgmental & compassionate environment utilizing a holistic approach to wellness that allows for deeply personal healing of the mind, body, & spirit. In this way, you are able to explore & reconnect with yourself, overcome challenges, develop resiliency, & greatly improve your quality of life. Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy & counseling services to diverse populations in a variety of settings & I welcome diversities in life.
(803) 274-5854 View (803) 274-5854
Photo of Kaye Randall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 29206, SC
Kaye Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Kathleen Randall, MSW, LISW, a clinical therapist specializing in transformative strategies. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or simply seeking personal growth in all areas of your life. I am here to provide support and guide you through solution focused strategies. Our discussions will be grounded in empathy, understanding and empowerment. I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. I love helping people discover their innate strengths while sharing new strategies in order to implement and sustain lasting positive change.
Hi! My name is Kathleen Randall, MSW, LISW, a clinical therapist specializing in transformative strategies. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or simply seeking personal growth in all areas of your life. I am here to provide support and guide you through solution focused strategies. Our discussions will be grounded in empathy, understanding and empowerment. I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. I love helping people discover their innate strengths while sharing new strategies in order to implement and sustain lasting positive change.
(803) 674-5732 View (803) 674-5732
Photo of flow. holistic psychotherapy for adults., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 29206, SC
flow. holistic psychotherapy for adults.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
I specialize in helping women overcome the issues that are keeping them stuck: gender identity and expression, relationship dynamics, body image and self esteem, trauma and abuse, reproductive health issues, societal expectations, depression, anxiety, work/life balance, disappointing or inadequate experiences navigating medical care.
As a feminist therapist, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that embraces equality, empowerment, and inclusivity. Women residing in this area face unique challenges: pay gaps, discrimination, gender based violence, inequitable medical care, bias, gender role related expectations. It is my personal mission to help women navigate these structural hurdles in order to live fulfilling and joyous lives. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where individuals of all genders feel valued, respected, and heard.
I specialize in helping women overcome the issues that are keeping them stuck: gender identity and expression, relationship dynamics, body image and self esteem, trauma and abuse, reproductive health issues, societal expectations, depression, anxiety, work/life balance, disappointing or inadequate experiences navigating medical care.
As a feminist therapist, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that embraces equality, empowerment, and inclusivity. Women residing in this area face unique challenges: pay gaps, discrimination, gender based violence, inequitable medical care, bias, gender role related expectations. It is my personal mission to help women navigate these structural hurdles in order to live fulfilling and joyous lives. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where individuals of all genders feel valued, respected, and heard.
(803) 918-6968 View (803) 918-6968
Pansy Lavonne Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhDABD, MEd, LPC, MS, LBSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Come see me for individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling , mental health counseling for adult and adolescent, depression related to abuse, employment related counseling, alcohol and drug counseling, and general anxiety disorders.
There are times when talking with your best friend about your problems is not enough. Because friends are just friends they are not professionally trained in helping you to identify deep rooted issues. If, you're experiencing self-defeating thoughts, low self-esteem, feeling worthless, dealing with a sick love one, employment issues and substance abuse issues. That is robbing you of your inner peace making it difficult for you to establish and maintain healthy relationships with your family, friends and work relationships. Give me a call.
Come see me for individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling , mental health counseling for adult and adolescent, depression related to abuse, employment related counseling, alcohol and drug counseling, and general anxiety disorders.
There are times when talking with your best friend about your problems is not enough. Because friends are just friends they are not professionally trained in helping you to identify deep rooted issues. If, you're experiencing self-defeating thoughts, low self-esteem, feeling worthless, dealing with a sick love one, employment issues and substance abuse issues. That is robbing you of your inner peace making it difficult for you to establish and maintain healthy relationships with your family, friends and work relationships. Give me a call.
(803) 274-6775 View (803) 274-6775
Photo of Psychology Services Center, Psychologist in 29206, SC
Psychology Services Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
The Psychology Services Center (PSC) provides comprehensive quality mental health care including assessment and therapy services for adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples. We have a history of helping clients learn to cope with stress, depression, or anxiety, address their children's behavioral or learning difficulties, or improve communication and trust in their relationships. Across all of these treatment areas, our center values providing quality, outcome-oriented services that are based on the latest science, offered within a caring and collaborative atmosphere.
The Psychology Services Center (PSC) provides comprehensive quality mental health care including assessment and therapy services for adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples. We have a history of helping clients learn to cope with stress, depression, or anxiety, address their children's behavioral or learning difficulties, or improve communication and trust in their relationships. Across all of these treatment areas, our center values providing quality, outcome-oriented services that are based on the latest science, offered within a caring and collaborative atmosphere.
(803) 932-1458 View (803) 932-1458
Photo of Nicholas Natale, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
Nicholas Natale
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC/S, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
I believe that everyone deserves a satisfying and fulfilling sex life. My role as a therapist and personal consultant is to guide individuals and couples to their sexual best. I approach each situation through a positive, strength-based approach that addresses all areas of relationships, intimacy, and sexuality. My desire is for you to flourish. My work is informed by leading research, cultural trends, and a spiritual perspective.
I believe that everyone deserves a satisfying and fulfilling sex life. My role as a therapist and personal consultant is to guide individuals and couples to their sexual best. I approach each situation through a positive, strength-based approach that addresses all areas of relationships, intimacy, and sexuality. My desire is for you to flourish. My work is informed by leading research, cultural trends, and a spiritual perspective.
(803) 610-2943 View (803) 610-2943
Photo of The Ultimate Choice Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
The Ultimate Choice Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BSW, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
Life is filled with countless choices, and at times, these choices can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. However, fear not, for we are here to guide you in making wise decisions and navigating through the choices that have been presented to you. Our mission is to assist individuals we have a diverse background in treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly, couples and families in embracing change and finding solutions to life's most challenging dilemmas.
Life is filled with countless choices, and at times, these choices can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. However, fear not, for we are here to guide you in making wise decisions and navigating through the choices that have been presented to you. Our mission is to assist individuals we have a diverse background in treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly, couples and families in embracing change and finding solutions to life's most challenging dilemmas.
(803) 636-8940 View (803) 636-8940
Photo of All Seasons Counseling Mediation Family Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
All Seasons Counseling Mediation Family Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , LPCS-C, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
Our office focuses on guiding clients through life issues, whether it's workplace issues, relationship issues, divorce/custody (mediation/parenting coordination/supervised visitation), probate issues, testing/evaluation services, life adjustment issues, ADHD, & mood disorders.
Our office is accepting therapy & court cases! In office & virtual sessions are offered (SC & NC)! Family court mediation services (divorce, alimony, child support, custody, parenting agreements) probate court services are offered in SC. If your marriage, relationship, or overall life needs to be revitalized, we're here to help. Specialties- parenting coordination, mediation, court mandated therapy, supervised visitation/exchanges, psychological evaluations, CALOCUS, family counseling, marriage counseling, pre-marital counseling, individual counseling, ADHD diagnosis, relationship issues, workplace issues, & life adjustment issues.
Our office focuses on guiding clients through life issues, whether it's workplace issues, relationship issues, divorce/custody (mediation/parenting coordination/supervised visitation), probate issues, testing/evaluation services, life adjustment issues, ADHD, & mood disorders.
Our office is accepting therapy & court cases! In office & virtual sessions are offered (SC & NC)! Family court mediation services (divorce, alimony, child support, custody, parenting agreements) probate court services are offered in SC. If your marriage, relationship, or overall life needs to be revitalized, we're here to help. Specialties- parenting coordination, mediation, court mandated therapy, supervised visitation/exchanges, psychological evaluations, CALOCUS, family counseling, marriage counseling, pre-marital counseling, individual counseling, ADHD diagnosis, relationship issues, workplace issues, & life adjustment issues.
(803) 653-3898 View (803) 653-3898
Photo of Jonathan Pritchard, Licensed Master Social Worker in 29206, SC
Jonathan Pritchard
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Believe it or not, guys are coming to therapy. And the most shocking part is they wind up liking it and coming back. Let's face it, most men aren't taught how to figure out what we are thinking and feeling. Therapy can help raise your emotional intelligence in a pretty painless way. These days we are all recognizing that a solid grasp on emotional understanding goes a long way towards creating happiness. I am trained in couples therapy and really enjoy working with couples, too.
Believe it or not, guys are coming to therapy. And the most shocking part is they wind up liking it and coming back. Let's face it, most men aren't taught how to figure out what we are thinking and feeling. Therapy can help raise your emotional intelligence in a pretty painless way. These days we are all recognizing that a solid grasp on emotional understanding goes a long way towards creating happiness. I am trained in couples therapy and really enjoy working with couples, too.
(803) 805-1486 View (803) 805-1486
Photo of Mark Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 29206, SC
Mark Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EdS, MS
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
My practice focus includea relationship/couples counseling, blended families, negotiation within relationships, lost connection, and sexual compatibility.
Relationship struggles are my focus, though these may be considered alone or together. We can work to help you navigate high-stakes situations to strengthen your most intimate, important attachments. We all need to feel understood, and deserve to feel loved. Through a relational, systemic approach, we can explore and strengthen your connecting bonds and your place within them. Life is as much about how we tell our stories as it is the content of these narratives. Attachment is a key part of my work with romantic / sexual partners and families. Being newly seen and heard in more complete ways can be transformative and hope-inducing.
My practice focus includea relationship/couples counseling, blended families, negotiation within relationships, lost connection, and sexual compatibility.
Relationship struggles are my focus, though these may be considered alone or together. We can work to help you navigate high-stakes situations to strengthen your most intimate, important attachments. We all need to feel understood, and deserve to feel loved. Through a relational, systemic approach, we can explore and strengthen your connecting bonds and your place within them. Life is as much about how we tell our stories as it is the content of these narratives. Attachment is a key part of my work with romantic / sexual partners and families. Being newly seen and heard in more complete ways can be transformative and hope-inducing.
(803) 991-4197 View (803) 991-4197
Photo of Violeta Lucas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 29206, SC
Violeta Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
For that reason, in our work together, I place a high value on the relationship we develop together.
Trauma and difficult life experiences can shatter our world. It can leave us feeling angry, alone, broken, defeated, and sometimes even ashamed. When was the last time you felt like yourself? As a person-centered systemic therapist, I take a non-pathologizing approach when working with my clients. I will not see you as "sick" or "crazy," but explore the systems/environment you are part of and how it contributes to the formation of the problem. I focus on your strengths, internal and external resources, values, and principles.
For that reason, in our work together, I place a high value on the relationship we develop together.
Trauma and difficult life experiences can shatter our world. It can leave us feeling angry, alone, broken, defeated, and sometimes even ashamed. When was the last time you felt like yourself? As a person-centered systemic therapist, I take a non-pathologizing approach when working with my clients. I will not see you as "sick" or "crazy," but explore the systems/environment you are part of and how it contributes to the formation of the problem. I focus on your strengths, internal and external resources, values, and principles.
(864) 735-1423 View (864) 735-1423
Photo of Leah Doberne-Schor, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in 29206, SC
Leah Doberne-Schor
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, EdS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
I earned an EdS in Marriage, Couples & Family Counseling from the Univ.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am an LPC-a trained in marriage, couples & family counseling. I work with couples (of all kinds), parents, individuals & teens, including families raising children with disabilities (like autism). I can help you and your spouse/partner rekindle the spark, communicate effectively, & support each other. I can help parents (especially moms) feel supported, including with depression, anxiety, ADHD and stress, so that you can be there for your kids. I can help individuals & teens find your inner spark, be a friend to yourself, manage stress, and work through depression, anxiety, loss, ADHD & other challenges.
I earned an EdS in Marriage, Couples & Family Counseling from the Univ.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am an LPC-a trained in marriage, couples & family counseling. I work with couples (of all kinds), parents, individuals & teens, including families raising children with disabilities (like autism). I can help you and your spouse/partner rekindle the spark, communicate effectively, & support each other. I can help parents (especially moms) feel supported, including with depression, anxiety, ADHD and stress, so that you can be there for your kids. I can help individuals & teens find your inner spark, be a friend to yourself, manage stress, and work through depression, anxiety, loss, ADHD & other challenges.
(803) 653-6696 View (803) 653-6696
Photo of Clear Vision Counseling, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
Clear Vision Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-SC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Vision is the capability of thinking or planning a path to one’s future using wisdom and positive imagination. Our vision is often clouded by many things. It can be clouded by memories of traumatic experiences, depressive negative cognitions/thoughts, the loss of loved ones or unexpected life changes. It can also be clouded by uncontrolled worry about the future we imagine for ourselves. Here at Clear Vision Counseling, LLC. Our primary goal is to help our client’s build their vision, which requires healing parts of the past, while using wisdom to change behaviors and thoughts about the future.
Vision is the capability of thinking or planning a path to one’s future using wisdom and positive imagination. Our vision is often clouded by many things. It can be clouded by memories of traumatic experiences, depressive negative cognitions/thoughts, the loss of loved ones or unexpected life changes. It can also be clouded by uncontrolled worry about the future we imagine for ourselves. Here at Clear Vision Counseling, LLC. Our primary goal is to help our client’s build their vision, which requires healing parts of the past, while using wisdom to change behaviors and thoughts about the future.
(803) 636-8952 View (803) 636-8952
Photo of Deana Tucker, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
Deana Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
Deana Tucker is a native of South Carolina and has worked in human services/helping profession for over 15 years. Deana is a Clinical Counselor, a Certified Addictions Counselor II for the state of South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and well as a Grief Recovery Specialist. Deana has experience with providing services in outpatient, home, and residential settings. She has helped individuals work vital life issues that include of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, decision making, grief, anger / behavioral / and crisis management. Qualified in addictions and experience with Trauma Focused CBT, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
Deana Tucker is a native of South Carolina and has worked in human services/helping profession for over 15 years. Deana is a Clinical Counselor, a Certified Addictions Counselor II for the state of South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and well as a Grief Recovery Specialist. Deana has experience with providing services in outpatient, home, and residential settings. She has helped individuals work vital life issues that include of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, decision making, grief, anger / behavioral / and crisis management. Qualified in addictions and experience with Trauma Focused CBT, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
(803) 599-3302 View (803) 599-3302
Photo of Odyssey Counseling in 29206, SC
Odyssey Counseling
MA, LPCA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
You deserve to live a life you love.
You deserve to live a life you love.
(803) 921-0289 View (803) 921-0289
Photo of Dr. Joseph Boland & Associates, Psychologist in 29206, SC
Dr. Joseph Boland & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Dr. Boland has a general psychotherapy practice treating children, adolescents and adults . He has been in private practice since 1988 and specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Family Psychotherapy. Dr. Boland graduated Summa Cum Laude (top 2%) from the University of Northern Colorado in 1981 and received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Carolina in 1987. He completed his psychology internship at the Medical College of Georgia and his postdoctoral supervision at G. Werber Bryan Psychiatric Hospital in Columbia, SC. He is licensed in South Carolina as a clinical psychologist.
Dr. Boland has a general psychotherapy practice treating children, adolescents and adults . He has been in private practice since 1988 and specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Behavioral Family Psychotherapy. Dr. Boland graduated Summa Cum Laude (top 2%) from the University of Northern Colorado in 1981 and received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Carolina in 1987. He completed his psychology internship at the Medical College of Georgia and his postdoctoral supervision at G. Werber Bryan Psychiatric Hospital in Columbia, SC. He is licensed in South Carolina as a clinical psychologist.
(803) 393-9939 View (803) 393-9939
Photo of New Beginnings Counseling & Consulting Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
New Beginnings Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provide virtual and in-person therapy for people who live in the state of South Carolina. Most of my clients enjoy virtual because of the flexibility it offers. I do offer in-person appointments for clients if that is your preference. Both options are effective. I believe that therapy is a collective journey in which my goal is to provide you with the tools to gain insight and self-awareness that foster personal growth and positive change in your life. I have worked in the human services field for over 24 years with children and adults of diverse backgrounds with a wide range of concerns.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provide virtual and in-person therapy for people who live in the state of South Carolina. Most of my clients enjoy virtual because of the flexibility it offers. I do offer in-person appointments for clients if that is your preference. Both options are effective. I believe that therapy is a collective journey in which my goal is to provide you with the tools to gain insight and self-awareness that foster personal growth and positive change in your life. I have worked in the human services field for over 24 years with children and adults of diverse backgrounds with a wide range of concerns.
(864) 532-5657 View (864) 532-5657
Photo of Angels Mental Health Counseling Services ,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 29206, SC
Angels Mental Health Counseling Services ,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BA, C-ASDCS, CAIP, C-IMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
I am a License Professional Counselor. My background consists of developmental-behavioral mod in autism spectrum disorder and other related disorders. I am a seasoned 24 year specialist trained and experience in counseling with a specialty in mental health, developmental disabilities and family therapy. I am a member of Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professionals. I am an appointed member of the S.C. Notary Public. I offer tele-mental health services.My aim is to foster the understanding of healthy living with a healthy mindset. My counseling approach is research evidence based using a modality of eclectic therapies.
I am a License Professional Counselor. My background consists of developmental-behavioral mod in autism spectrum disorder and other related disorders. I am a seasoned 24 year specialist trained and experience in counseling with a specialty in mental health, developmental disabilities and family therapy. I am a member of Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professionals. I am an appointed member of the S.C. Notary Public. I offer tele-mental health services.My aim is to foster the understanding of healthy living with a healthy mindset. My counseling approach is research evidence based using a modality of eclectic therapies.
(803) 741-5354 View (803) 741-5354
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.