Couples Counseling Therapists in 58102

Photo of Heather Guttormson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 58102, ND
Heather Guttormson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
Do you know that 80% of counselors report working with couples, but only 12% have any specialized training related to couples? I am a Licensed Marriage Therapist & Certified Discernment Counselor.
If you or your partner are considering divorce, Discernment Counseling is designed for you. It is a chance to slow down, take a breath, and look at the options for your marriage. We won't fix the issues in your marriage, we will figure out what those issues are and if they are solvable. The goal is for you to gain clarity and confidence about a direction, based on a deeper understanding of your relationship and its possibilities for the future. There are no good guys or bad guys. You will come in as a couple but the most important work occurs in the one-to-one conversations with me.
Do you know that 80% of counselors report working with couples, but only 12% have any specialized training related to couples? I am a Licensed Marriage Therapist & Certified Discernment Counselor.
If you or your partner are considering divorce, Discernment Counseling is designed for you. It is a chance to slow down, take a breath, and look at the options for your marriage. We won't fix the issues in your marriage, we will figure out what those issues are and if they are solvable. The goal is for you to gain clarity and confidence about a direction, based on a deeper understanding of your relationship and its possibilities for the future. There are no good guys or bad guys. You will come in as a couple but the most important work occurs in the one-to-one conversations with me.
(701) 436-1801 View (701) 436-1801
Photo of Nadine Ann Hillesheim, Counselor in 58102, ND
Nadine Ann Hillesheim
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
I have 25 years of experience seeing individuals and couples. I love my work as it allows me to follow my passion of helping people find meaning and master whatever challenges they face with care and compassion. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotional eating, and self-worth. I offer groups for mindfulness, emotional overeating, and anxiety/depression. I have found mindfulness to be an important life skill for people. It is particularly helpful in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. With this skill we can all learn to quiet our busy minds and handle emotions more effectively.
I have 25 years of experience seeing individuals and couples. I love my work as it allows me to follow my passion of helping people find meaning and master whatever challenges they face with care and compassion. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotional eating, and self-worth. I offer groups for mindfulness, emotional overeating, and anxiety/depression. I have found mindfulness to be an important life skill for people. It is particularly helpful in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. With this skill we can all learn to quiet our busy minds and handle emotions more effectively.
(701) 660-1104 View (701) 660-1104
Photo of Jennifer Levart, Counselor in 58102, ND
Jennifer Levart
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
I specialize in working with high achievers struggling with anxiety or relationship issues.
Are you overwhelmed? Tired? Frustrated? Hurt? Do you feel like you've tried everything but life/emotions are still hard to manage? When life feels this way, it's difficult to know where to turn. There is HOPE. It IS possible to learn how to manage your feelings, heal from your pain, connect to others, and grow into the person you wish to be.
I specialize in working with high achievers struggling with anxiety or relationship issues.
Are you overwhelmed? Tired? Frustrated? Hurt? Do you feel like you've tried everything but life/emotions are still hard to manage? When life feels this way, it's difficult to know where to turn. There is HOPE. It IS possible to learn how to manage your feelings, heal from your pain, connect to others, and grow into the person you wish to be.
(701) 203-5945 View (701) 203-5945
Photo of Tracey Werner-Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 58102, ND
Tracey Werner-Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
Maintaining a healthy relationship with yourself or others can be hard and confusing and yet so important.
Individuals who call me say they are exhausted, discouraged, and dissatisfied with life. Old thoughts and behaviors continue to negatively impact who they are, what they want to accomplish, and their relationships. They have lost the meaning and magic of life. Couples who call me say they've drifted apart, feel more like roommates, and affection has stopped. Ineffective patterns of communication prevent them from reaching to each other. The magic in their relationship has died and the dance has ended. Healthy relationships, whether with yourself or others, are key to a happy, satisfying, life and keeping the magic going.
Maintaining a healthy relationship with yourself or others can be hard and confusing and yet so important.
Individuals who call me say they are exhausted, discouraged, and dissatisfied with life. Old thoughts and behaviors continue to negatively impact who they are, what they want to accomplish, and their relationships. They have lost the meaning and magic of life. Couples who call me say they've drifted apart, feel more like roommates, and affection has stopped. Ineffective patterns of communication prevent them from reaching to each other. The magic in their relationship has died and the dance has ended. Healthy relationships, whether with yourself or others, are key to a happy, satisfying, life and keeping the magic going.
(701) 695-4782 View (701) 695-4782
Photo of Theresa M Knudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 58102, ND
Theresa M Knudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
I also have advanced training in trauma issues, grief, relationship difficulties, those who struggle with codependent behaviors, and those interested in addressing their struggles through their spiritual beliefs.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in North Dakota (LPCC 767-12-15-13-274). I feel extremely privileged to do the work I do. I admire your willingness to be open and vulnerable in order to heal. My goal is to create a space for you to explore and nurture your heart in order to find meaning in your unique experiences. I believe that our individual pain provides an opportunity for deeper self-awareness, and therefore collective empathy. I look forward to assisting you in leading a life you enjoy while we create a space for self-compassion, growth, and inner peace.
I also have advanced training in trauma issues, grief, relationship difficulties, those who struggle with codependent behaviors, and those interested in addressing their struggles through their spiritual beliefs.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in North Dakota (LPCC 767-12-15-13-274). I feel extremely privileged to do the work I do. I admire your willingness to be open and vulnerable in order to heal. My goal is to create a space for you to explore and nurture your heart in order to find meaning in your unique experiences. I believe that our individual pain provides an opportunity for deeper self-awareness, and therefore collective empathy. I look forward to assisting you in leading a life you enjoy while we create a space for self-compassion, growth, and inner peace.
(701) 402-5571 View (701) 402-5571
Photo of Kelly Bishop-Diaz, Psychologist in 58102, ND
Kelly Bishop-Diaz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
Areas of specialization include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQ, codependency and other relationship issues.
Hello! I would be honored to meet with you. Often, clients come to find healthy ways of coping with stress, anxiety, depression & to process thoughts & feelings in a supportive environment. They are frequently interested in improving relationships, leaving abusive partners, experiencing more happiness and fulfillment in life, & attaining meaningful goals. As each person is an individual, therapy is tailored to your unique needs and wants. I provide therapy to individuals & couples. Clients often say I'm easy to talk to, compassionate, and accepting. I hope you will agree. My office is in my home which offers comfort and privacy.
Areas of specialization include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQ, codependency and other relationship issues.
Hello! I would be honored to meet with you. Often, clients come to find healthy ways of coping with stress, anxiety, depression & to process thoughts & feelings in a supportive environment. They are frequently interested in improving relationships, leaving abusive partners, experiencing more happiness and fulfillment in life, & attaining meaningful goals. As each person is an individual, therapy is tailored to your unique needs and wants. I provide therapy to individuals & couples. Clients often say I'm easy to talk to, compassionate, and accepting. I hope you will agree. My office is in my home which offers comfort and privacy.
(701) 214-6506 View (701) 214-6506
Photo of Shirley J Rader, Psychologist in 58102, ND
Shirley J Rader
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
I have been in private practice for 23 years in Detroit Lakes, MN, and Fargo, ND. I have worked in the human service field for 35+ years, and I currently have my office ONLY in Detroit Lakes, MN. I specialize in stress/anxiety/depression related issues, incl. PTSD and sexual abuse. I also specialize in the integration of psychology and Christian spiritual values. I am licensed in MN. I accept most insurance plans. I enjoy working with people of different ages (age six and older), individuals, couples, families and groups, as well as public speaking, workshops, etc. NOTE: I no longer see clients in Fargo.
I have been in private practice for 23 years in Detroit Lakes, MN, and Fargo, ND. I have worked in the human service field for 35+ years, and I currently have my office ONLY in Detroit Lakes, MN. I specialize in stress/anxiety/depression related issues, incl. PTSD and sexual abuse. I also specialize in the integration of psychology and Christian spiritual values. I am licensed in MN. I accept most insurance plans. I enjoy working with people of different ages (age six and older), individuals, couples, families and groups, as well as public speaking, workshops, etc. NOTE: I no longer see clients in Fargo.
(218) 656-0905 View (218) 656-0905
Photo of Mystal Axtman, Counselor in 58102, ND
Mystal Axtman
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
My goal is to create a supportive environment where my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I offer counseling sessions during daytime and evening hours for individuals and couples for topics of concern including Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Codependency, Anxiety/Stress, Communication issues, Trust issues, Loneliness, Emotional intimacy, Trauma/PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury and Self-esteem issues. I would like the opportunity to help you heal any experiences that impact your life and to join you on your journey to becoming a better you.
My goal is to create a supportive environment where my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I offer counseling sessions during daytime and evening hours for individuals and couples for topics of concern including Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Codependency, Anxiety/Stress, Communication issues, Trust issues, Loneliness, Emotional intimacy, Trauma/PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury and Self-esteem issues. I would like the opportunity to help you heal any experiences that impact your life and to join you on your journey to becoming a better you.
(701) 484-0712 View (701) 484-0712
Photo of Tina M Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 58102, ND
Tina M Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
Making the decision to go beyond your present stress or challenge is the first step. Finding the right support is the next. I believe we all have great potentials that stress can derail. When this happens, we experience symptoms. Trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions and physical reactions to stress are common concerns for many. I will work with you to develop the best strategies and create your own toolbox to live your best life; to go beyond the challenges in your life, find new paths and transform old patterns.
Making the decision to go beyond your present stress or challenge is the first step. Finding the right support is the next. I believe we all have great potentials that stress can derail. When this happens, we experience symptoms. Trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions and physical reactions to stress are common concerns for many. I will work with you to develop the best strategies and create your own toolbox to live your best life; to go beyond the challenges in your life, find new paths and transform old patterns.
(928) 918-8627 View (928) 918-8627
Photo of Ashley Mauch, Marriage & Family Therapist in 58102, ND
Ashley Mauch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
I provide couples therapy. The relationship is my client. I work hard to understand each partners perspectives and map out negative cycles that are interfering with connection. We may have similar struggles, but we all experience these struggles differently. My therapy services are structured around each relationships unique needs. I'm passionate about helping people create a more fulfilling life within each partner and their relationships. I have been helping couples, families, and individuals since 2007. My focus is to help you enrich your life and the lives around you in a judgment free setting at 360 Therapy Associates.
I provide couples therapy. The relationship is my client. I work hard to understand each partners perspectives and map out negative cycles that are interfering with connection. We may have similar struggles, but we all experience these struggles differently. My therapy services are structured around each relationships unique needs. I'm passionate about helping people create a more fulfilling life within each partner and their relationships. I have been helping couples, families, and individuals since 2007. My focus is to help you enrich your life and the lives around you in a judgment free setting at 360 Therapy Associates.
(701) 401-2189 View (701) 401-2189
Photo of Dr. Amber R Bach Gorman, Counselor in 58102, ND
Dr. Amber R Bach Gorman
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
My clinical scope of practice includes treating anxiety, depression, grief, eating concerns, relationship issues, trauma, and more.
I believe that all individuals have tremendous capacity for change and are naturally driven to strive towards a purposeful life. Yet, to reach these goals many of us need to have a safe, empowering space to explore our inner thoughts, insecurities and fears that often prevent us from making valuable change in our lives. My sole focus during our time together is to create a safe, confidential and collaborative space where you will feel empowered to explore your goals, dreams and barriers you may be experiencing while we work together to help you reach your clinical goals.
My clinical scope of practice includes treating anxiety, depression, grief, eating concerns, relationship issues, trauma, and more.
I believe that all individuals have tremendous capacity for change and are naturally driven to strive towards a purposeful life. Yet, to reach these goals many of us need to have a safe, empowering space to explore our inner thoughts, insecurities and fears that often prevent us from making valuable change in our lives. My sole focus during our time together is to create a safe, confidential and collaborative space where you will feel empowered to explore your goals, dreams and barriers you may be experiencing while we work together to help you reach your clinical goals.
(701) 394-3811 View (701) 394-3811
Photo of Joleena Abrams in 58102, ND
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(307) 275-7868 View (307) 275-7868
Photo of Maranda Jacobsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 58102, ND
Maranda Jacobsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102  (Online Only)
Ready to change your relationship with anxiety and watch epic stuff happen?! Check out my website to schedule a free consultation.
Are you a highly driven person with a plate that’s always overloaded? If you answered…“all the freakin’ time.” Then you’re in the right place, Welcome! To those around you, you appear very much together. Meanwhile, on the inside, you feel like you’re having multiple silent panic attacks. Anxiety pops up over everyday things, mistakes you’ve made, circumstances that don’t go according to plan, or an unexpected event that adds more to your plate. You’re dodging anxiety bombs of varying sizes and when they do go off, it leaves you feeling an overstimulated mess.
Ready to change your relationship with anxiety and watch epic stuff happen?! Check out my website to schedule a free consultation.
Are you a highly driven person with a plate that’s always overloaded? If you answered…“all the freakin’ time.” Then you’re in the right place, Welcome! To those around you, you appear very much together. Meanwhile, on the inside, you feel like you’re having multiple silent panic attacks. Anxiety pops up over everyday things, mistakes you’ve made, circumstances that don’t go according to plan, or an unexpected event that adds more to your plate. You’re dodging anxiety bombs of varying sizes and when they do go off, it leaves you feeling an overstimulated mess.
(701) 409-2788 View (701) 409-2788
Photo of Dr. Jenna Therapy, PLLC, Counselor in 58102, ND
Dr. Jenna Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, my name is Jenna. My approach to counseling is primarily relational and trauma-informed with a specialization in addressing relationship issues, attachment, childhood trauma, PTSD, and related challenges.
Hello, my name is Jenna. My approach to counseling is primarily relational and trauma-informed with a specialization in addressing relationship issues, attachment, childhood trauma, PTSD, and related challenges.
(701) 581-1596 View (701) 581-1596
Photo of Joleena Abrams in 58102, ND
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(307) 275-7327 View (307) 275-7327
Photo of Paul Afanasi Polanski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 58102, ND
Paul Afanasi Polanski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFRC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102
Trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems can amplify everyday stress.
I want you to imagine leaving your home in the morning, navigating the busy roads to work. You’re tired, barely focused and dreading the day ahead. You pull into the parking lot of your employer, taking a deep breath. You grab your work things and walk towards the office. You stop, frozen in the sea of mental waves, a thousand thoughts crashing into one another, unable to organize them. Everything stops for a moment, a beacon of clarity forms in the distance and you’re able to hear one calm thought. You ask yourself “am I on the right path?”
Trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems can amplify everyday stress.
I want you to imagine leaving your home in the morning, navigating the busy roads to work. You’re tired, barely focused and dreading the day ahead. You pull into the parking lot of your employer, taking a deep breath. You grab your work things and walk towards the office. You stop, frozen in the sea of mental waves, a thousand thoughts crashing into one another, unable to organize them. Everything stops for a moment, a beacon of clarity forms in the distance and you’re able to hear one calm thought. You ask yourself “am I on the right path?”
(701) 291-7950 View (701) 291-7950
Photo of Y-Knot Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 58102, ND
Y-Knot Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Rev. Steven R. Giddens is a Lacanian Psychoanalyst who holds an LPC in ND and is an Ordained Minister in the United Church of Christ (UCC). Rev. Giddens is a Psychoanalyst Member of The School of Psychoanalysis of the Forums of the Lacanian Field (SPFLF). A member of the Colorado Analytic Forum of the Lacanian Field and member of the Clinical College of Colorado in Denver, CO.
Rev. Steven R. Giddens is a Lacanian Psychoanalyst who holds an LPC in ND and is an Ordained Minister in the United Church of Christ (UCC). Rev. Giddens is a Psychoanalyst Member of The School of Psychoanalysis of the Forums of the Lacanian Field (SPFLF). A member of the Colorado Analytic Forum of the Lacanian Field and member of the Clinical College of Colorado in Denver, CO.
(701) 929-7581 View (701) 929-7581
Photo of Jessica Danielson, Counselor in 58102, ND
Jessica Danielson
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in ND. I have been a licensed counselor since 2015 with inpatient, community agency, and college campus clinical experiences. I have worked with individuals and families across the lifespan with a variety of presenting concerns. I specialize in relational growth, self-concept, identity development, and life transitions. You can expect a combination of empathy, support, challenge, and accountability from me. Together, we will embrace discomfort, engage in perspective-taking, and explore options to create a life worth living to you.
I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in ND. I have been a licensed counselor since 2015 with inpatient, community agency, and college campus clinical experiences. I have worked with individuals and families across the lifespan with a variety of presenting concerns. I specialize in relational growth, self-concept, identity development, and life transitions. You can expect a combination of empathy, support, challenge, and accountability from me. Together, we will embrace discomfort, engage in perspective-taking, and explore options to create a life worth living to you.
(701) 695-4342 View (701) 695-4342
Photo of Sarah Huffstetler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 58102, ND
Sarah Huffstetler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fargo, ND 58102
Do you find it difficult to muster the energy to start your day? Are you feeling crushed beneath the weight of stress or anxiety? Have you experienced loss or trauma that continues to impact your life and relationships? Many individuals experience these obstacles, and it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times. But imagine a life where each day feels like an opportunity rather than a challenge. It may seem daunting, but countless people have found their joy again, and you can too. I am passionate about helping others find their path to a meaningful and balanced life.
Do you find it difficult to muster the energy to start your day? Are you feeling crushed beneath the weight of stress or anxiety? Have you experienced loss or trauma that continues to impact your life and relationships? Many individuals experience these obstacles, and it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times. But imagine a life where each day feels like an opportunity rather than a challenge. It may seem daunting, but countless people have found their joy again, and you can too. I am passionate about helping others find their path to a meaningful and balanced life.
(651) 661-4337 View (651) 661-4337
Photo of Sarah Rose Edwards, Psychologist in 58102, ND
Sarah Rose Edwards
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fargo, ND 58102  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma or verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse in their families or close relationships. Particularly when abuse happens earlier in life or over a long period, those suffering may develop various symptoms including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, self harm, substance use, and anger issues. I view symptoms as ways of coping that have helped you survive so far. We collaborate in therapy to help you find new ways to relate to yourself and others, and create a more meaningful and satisfying life, however that might look for you.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma or verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse in their families or close relationships. Particularly when abuse happens earlier in life or over a long period, those suffering may develop various symptoms including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, self harm, substance use, and anger issues. I view symptoms as ways of coping that have helped you survive so far. We collaborate in therapy to help you find new ways to relate to yourself and others, and create a more meaningful and satisfying life, however that might look for you.
(701) 380-5916 View (701) 380-5916

See more therapy options for 58102

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.