Couples Counseling Therapists in 78703

Photo of Tori Olds Phd, Psychologist in 78703, TX
Tori Olds Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I also specialize in working with couples and lead a group for young adults (age 20-35).
I am honored by the opportunity to help individuals find greater peace, strength, and fulfillment. Our lives are so busy, there is very little opportunity to stop and discover where support is needed. Taking this time for oneself, whether to reflect on one's relationships, to work through difficult emotions, or to gain awareness as to one's self-perceptions, can be transformative. Because self-compassion is key to healing, I try to template compassion through my own emotional engagement and respect for the client and his/her experience. Videos I made can be found on my website.
I also specialize in working with couples and lead a group for young adults (age 20-35).
I am honored by the opportunity to help individuals find greater peace, strength, and fulfillment. Our lives are so busy, there is very little opportunity to stop and discover where support is needed. Taking this time for oneself, whether to reflect on one's relationships, to work through difficult emotions, or to gain awareness as to one's self-perceptions, can be transformative. Because self-compassion is key to healing, I try to template compassion through my own emotional engagement and respect for the client and his/her experience. Videos I made can be found on my website.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Ellen Pace, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Ellen Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I have worked with hundreds of clients and have seen each individual, couple or family grow and heal in the security of our therapeutic relationship.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or difficulty in relationships? Have you tried therapy, but not gotten the results you desire? The cause could be unresolved trauma that is blocking your ability to move forward. Our past can contaminate the present, which causes our future to replicate our past, leaving one stuck. Do you and your partner struggle discussing issues, feel disconnected, or are drifting apart? The failure to communicate is the greatest cause of marital problems. Using Gottman Couples Therapy, I will help you learn effective skills to manage conflict and find new meaning in your relationships.
I have worked with hundreds of clients and have seen each individual, couple or family grow and heal in the security of our therapeutic relationship.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or difficulty in relationships? Have you tried therapy, but not gotten the results you desire? The cause could be unresolved trauma that is blocking your ability to move forward. Our past can contaminate the present, which causes our future to replicate our past, leaving one stuck. Do you and your partner struggle discussing issues, feel disconnected, or are drifting apart? The failure to communicate is the greatest cause of marital problems. Using Gottman Couples Therapy, I will help you learn effective skills to manage conflict and find new meaning in your relationships.
(737) 210-4084 View (737) 210-4084
Photo of Karen Thompson, Ph.D., Psychologist in 78703, TX
Karen Thompson, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I work mainly with adults as individuals, as couples and in groups.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with clients. My work is based upon my belief that human beings are inherently good and yet all too often adopt limiting belief systems and habitual behavioral patterns which keep us from realizing our true nature. I work with clients who wish to regain their balance and integrity and assist them in learning how to live the lives they intuitively know they are meant to live. Clients often present with depression, anxiety and/or relationship difficulties and seek to feel better and sustain more on-going joy, love, and harmony in their lives.
I work mainly with adults as individuals, as couples and in groups.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with clients. My work is based upon my belief that human beings are inherently good and yet all too often adopt limiting belief systems and habitual behavioral patterns which keep us from realizing our true nature. I work with clients who wish to regain their balance and integrity and assist them in learning how to live the lives they intuitively know they are meant to live. Clients often present with depression, anxiety and/or relationship difficulties and seek to feel better and sustain more on-going joy, love, and harmony in their lives.
(512) 391-0426 View (512) 391-0426
Photo of Jackie Trevino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78703, TX
Jackie Trevino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I specialize in supporting teens & young adults experiencing complicated grief, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
Have you experienced a loss that has left you grieving more than just the loss itself? You might be grieving a person you thought you knew or a future you always imagined. Grief might feel numb—staying as busy as possible to avoid confronting the pain. Or it might feel crushing—like you can’t do anything without being reminded of what you’ve lost. Maybe you’re a young adult who’s trying to figure out who you actually want to be in life. You’re noticing patterns in your relationships that leave you feeling like something is wrong with you. You’re wondering what’s missing, and you want to get to the bottom of it.
I specialize in supporting teens & young adults experiencing complicated grief, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
Have you experienced a loss that has left you grieving more than just the loss itself? You might be grieving a person you thought you knew or a future you always imagined. Grief might feel numb—staying as busy as possible to avoid confronting the pain. Or it might feel crushing—like you can’t do anything without being reminded of what you’ve lost. Maybe you’re a young adult who’s trying to figure out who you actually want to be in life. You’re noticing patterns in your relationships that leave you feeling like something is wrong with you. You’re wondering what’s missing, and you want to get to the bottom of it.
(512) 877-3061 View (512) 877-3061
Photo of Thanusha Neelapareddy, Psychologist in 78703, TX
Thanusha Neelapareddy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Dr. Neelapareddy specializes in working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and couples who are facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship or adjustment issues, as well as chronic illness or pain. With her compassionate approach and extensive experience in the field, she strives to provide personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Her evidence-based clinical approaches include DBT, CBT, ACT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Dr. Neelapareddy specializes in working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and couples who are facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship or adjustment issues, as well as chronic illness or pain. With her compassionate approach and extensive experience in the field, she strives to provide personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Her evidence-based clinical approaches include DBT, CBT, ACT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(512) 714-8913 View (512) 714-8913
Photo of Dena Roberts, Counselor in 78703, TX
Dena Roberts
Counselor, PhD, LCP-S, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Hi, I'm the clinical director at Austin Integrative Counseling and Training Center. You can learn about me and the group through our website at: inaustincounseling.com. In short, I've been practicing for more than 26 years and I am as dedicated to the art of therapy as when I started. Relationships are the foundation of good health and sense of well-being -- whether the relationship is with others or with yourself. Sometimes we need to start with the relationship with ourselves, sometimes we can go straight to the relationships with others. Either way, I'm here to help you find your way to what your are wanting in life
Hi, I'm the clinical director at Austin Integrative Counseling and Training Center. You can learn about me and the group through our website at: inaustincounseling.com. In short, I've been practicing for more than 26 years and I am as dedicated to the art of therapy as when I started. Relationships are the foundation of good health and sense of well-being -- whether the relationship is with others or with yourself. Sometimes we need to start with the relationship with ourselves, sometimes we can go straight to the relationships with others. Either way, I'm here to help you find your way to what your are wanting in life
(361) 444-0921 View (361) 444-0921
Photo of Thad Martin Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Thad Martin Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
With 9 years of doctoral-level training and years experience providing individual, couples, and family services for a diverse range of presenting life issues, I endeavor to create the optimal therapeutic space to assist my clients in confronting the interpersonal challenges and inevitable confrontations with self that life, at times, presents.
Whether one seeks relief from anxiety, trauma, relational impasses, or life disillusionment, therapy can help. It is unfortunate that insufficiently engaged approaches to therapy, prohibitive rates, and the unconscionable reluctance of most clinicians to accept insurance fail so many clients, who in good faith seek to discover a healing of heart and mind. As a psychodynamic therapist, I view my role as an empathic change agent employed to help bring about a fuller knowledge of self and a more liberated experience of life and relationship. I also supervise highly promising interns from NWU available for as low as $15-30 per session.
With 9 years of doctoral-level training and years experience providing individual, couples, and family services for a diverse range of presenting life issues, I endeavor to create the optimal therapeutic space to assist my clients in confronting the interpersonal challenges and inevitable confrontations with self that life, at times, presents.
Whether one seeks relief from anxiety, trauma, relational impasses, or life disillusionment, therapy can help. It is unfortunate that insufficiently engaged approaches to therapy, prohibitive rates, and the unconscionable reluctance of most clinicians to accept insurance fail so many clients, who in good faith seek to discover a healing of heart and mind. As a psychodynamic therapist, I view my role as an empathic change agent employed to help bring about a fuller knowledge of self and a more liberated experience of life and relationship. I also supervise highly promising interns from NWU available for as low as $15-30 per session.
Photo of Deep Eddy Psychotherapy, Psychologist in 78703, TX
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, LCSW, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Trauma, and more.
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Trauma, and more.
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
(512) 861-8779 View (512) 861-8779
Photo of Penni Patterson, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78703, TX
Penni Patterson, LCSW, MBA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
As a therapist with 25 years of experience and extensive training, I understand the complexities of suffering and the healing process. Professional peers have described me as "exceptionally attuned," "warmly down to earth" and "to the point." I offer a compassionate, accepting, and wise presence to the therapy relationship. Because this relationship is paramount to your therapy experience, I offer a free initial consultation so that we can meet. I believe that human beings have an amazing ability to gain insight and create change in their lives and am dedicated to this process for clients, myself and all beings.
As a therapist with 25 years of experience and extensive training, I understand the complexities of suffering and the healing process. Professional peers have described me as "exceptionally attuned," "warmly down to earth" and "to the point." I offer a compassionate, accepting, and wise presence to the therapy relationship. Because this relationship is paramount to your therapy experience, I offer a free initial consultation so that we can meet. I believe that human beings have an amazing ability to gain insight and create change in their lives and am dedicated to this process for clients, myself and all beings.
(512) 960-3245 View (512) 960-3245
Photo of Deena Graham, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78703, TX
Deena Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
"Why is this so hard? We love each other, but we can't stop fighting." I understand the hopelessness of living in a cycle of conflict. I became a couples therapist because I believe deeply in the importance of having a supportive and loving relationship--with yourself and with your partner. I will help you learn how to stop when anger, fear and hurt cause you to react in defensive and aggressive ways toward your partner. By slowing down and taking care of yourself first, you will gradually learn how to connect from a more vulnerable and honest place, creating a more satisfying and peaceful relationship together.
"Why is this so hard? We love each other, but we can't stop fighting." I understand the hopelessness of living in a cycle of conflict. I became a couples therapist because I believe deeply in the importance of having a supportive and loving relationship--with yourself and with your partner. I will help you learn how to stop when anger, fear and hurt cause you to react in defensive and aggressive ways toward your partner. By slowing down and taking care of yourself first, you will gradually learn how to connect from a more vulnerable and honest place, creating a more satisfying and peaceful relationship together.
(512) 942-2172 View (512) 942-2172
Photo of Joanne Terry Swanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78703, TX
Joanne Terry Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individual adults of all ages and couples struggling with a variety of mental health issues and challenging life events and transitions.
Are you navigating a difficult life transition, struggling with depression and anxiety, experiencing grief over a significant loss? Do you sometimes experience overwhelming thoughts and emotions that seem to get in the way? Are you feeling disconnected within significant relationships? Do you wish to experience more joy and gain confidence in your ability to face the often-painful challenges that life as a human being can bring? Therapy can provide a quiet, collaborative space where you will gain insight, clarify your unique goals and values, and discover new ways to cope that foster healing yourself and your relationships.
I work with individual adults of all ages and couples struggling with a variety of mental health issues and challenging life events and transitions.
Are you navigating a difficult life transition, struggling with depression and anxiety, experiencing grief over a significant loss? Do you sometimes experience overwhelming thoughts and emotions that seem to get in the way? Are you feeling disconnected within significant relationships? Do you wish to experience more joy and gain confidence in your ability to face the often-painful challenges that life as a human being can bring? Therapy can provide a quiet, collaborative space where you will gain insight, clarify your unique goals and values, and discover new ways to cope that foster healing yourself and your relationships.
(512) 886-8460 View (512) 886-8460
Photo of Rikki Treesh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78703, TX
Rikki Treesh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
Meaningful healing, growth, and change often take place in the context of a relationship.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Texas. I have 8+ years of experience working with individuals coming from a range of circumstances and backgrounds. My formative work primarily involved working with adolescents, families, and couples dealing with crises in a social service setting. Through that experience, I found that my true passion lies within a few specialties: couples & family counseling, adolescents & young adults, LGBTQI+, EMDR, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Meaningful healing, growth, and change often take place in the context of a relationship.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Texas. I have 8+ years of experience working with individuals coming from a range of circumstances and backgrounds. My formative work primarily involved working with adolescents, families, and couples dealing with crises in a social service setting. Through that experience, I found that my true passion lies within a few specialties: couples & family counseling, adolescents & young adults, LGBTQI+, EMDR, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Brooke Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 78703, TX
Brooke Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
As a relational therapist, I believe subconscious beliefs and programming are responsible for many of our self-sabotaging behaviors. These impact our relationships and are typically inherited during our upbringing. I choose to work with clients who are struggling with the same patterns that have plagued them for far too long, and who are looking to make a serious change in their lives. I also work with clients who are simply feeling lost and looking for guidance in finding themselves. My ideal client is anyone looking to empower themselves and care for themselves, or their relationship mind, body, and soul.
As a relational therapist, I believe subconscious beliefs and programming are responsible for many of our self-sabotaging behaviors. These impact our relationships and are typically inherited during our upbringing. I choose to work with clients who are struggling with the same patterns that have plagued them for far too long, and who are looking to make a serious change in their lives. I also work with clients who are simply feeling lost and looking for guidance in finding themselves. My ideal client is anyone looking to empower themselves and care for themselves, or their relationship mind, body, and soul.
(512) 543-2790 View (512) 543-2790
Photo of Patti Kay McCullar, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Patti Kay McCullar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I particularly enjoy helping divorced individuals work through issues with their ex-spouse in order to raise well adjusted children.
I work with individuals and families who are struggling with difficult issues such as depression, divorce, or mental illness. Conflicts, within and between people, lie at the core of emotional distress. Divorce, depression, substance abuse make setting healthy boundaries difficult, and before the individual knows it, he or she is living in a state of compromise. I focus on people who are wanting to get out of a compromised state and build healthy relationships that protect personal space and are conducive to reciprocity.
I particularly enjoy helping divorced individuals work through issues with their ex-spouse in order to raise well adjusted children.
I work with individuals and families who are struggling with difficult issues such as depression, divorce, or mental illness. Conflicts, within and between people, lie at the core of emotional distress. Divorce, depression, substance abuse make setting healthy boundaries difficult, and before the individual knows it, he or she is living in a state of compromise. I focus on people who are wanting to get out of a compromised state and build healthy relationships that protect personal space and are conducive to reciprocity.
(512) 540-5906 View (512) 540-5906
Photo of Couples Therapy With Dylan Davies, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78703, TX
Couples Therapy With Dylan Davies
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with couples because so much change is possible. I will work with you to identify and work through the painful and stuck places in your relationship, and will support you in creating a different experience of one another that honors each partner. You will find my style direct, yet compassionate; challenging, yet supportive. The change I aim for is not a superficial one, but one that transforms the relationship. My mission is to help couples create more vitality in their relationship and live with a greater sense of ease, freedom and harmony together. RLT (Relational Life Couple Therapy) & Sex Therapy Trained.
I love working with couples because so much change is possible. I will work with you to identify and work through the painful and stuck places in your relationship, and will support you in creating a different experience of one another that honors each partner. You will find my style direct, yet compassionate; challenging, yet supportive. The change I aim for is not a superficial one, but one that transforms the relationship. My mission is to help couples create more vitality in their relationship and live with a greater sense of ease, freedom and harmony together. RLT (Relational Life Couple Therapy) & Sex Therapy Trained.
(512) 817-3781 View (512) 817-3781
Photo of Micki O'Brien, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Micki O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For help with alleviating anxiety and depression, promoting personal growth and increasing your well-being, I incorporate cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and family systems approaches. I offer a support/challenge style to encourage self-exploration of your present life and past history in order to overcome emotional pain and trauma, develop self-acceptance, and increase empowerment in your life. Practicing internal kindness, communication skills and mindfulness techniques are a focus of my counseling sessions because I believe they have a positive impact on your self-worth and relationships. I enjoy working with women and men, as well as couples and groups.
For help with alleviating anxiety and depression, promoting personal growth and increasing your well-being, I incorporate cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and family systems approaches. I offer a support/challenge style to encourage self-exploration of your present life and past history in order to overcome emotional pain and trauma, develop self-acceptance, and increase empowerment in your life. Practicing internal kindness, communication skills and mindfulness techniques are a focus of my counseling sessions because I believe they have a positive impact on your self-worth and relationships. I enjoy working with women and men, as well as couples and groups.
(512) 865-4677 View (512) 865-4677
Photo of Deep Eddy Doctoral Practicum Therapists Master's Graduate Interns, Pre-Licensed Professional in 78703, TX
Deep Eddy Doctoral Practicum Therapists Master's Graduate Interns
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, or personal growth, rest assured that our team is well-equipped to guide you toward healing and self-discovery.
Meet the talented and compassionate Master's Graduate Interns and Doctoral Practicum Therapists at Deep Eddy Psychotherapy! Leah McMahon, Hedwig Gavino, Louann Fang Lucas, Daniel Williamson, and Justine Hughes are committed to providing high-quality therapy to creating meaningful, lasting change. Rooted in our mission to enhance mental and emotional health within our community, our interns bring a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and expertise to our practice.
Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, or personal growth, rest assured that our team is well-equipped to guide you toward healing and self-discovery.
Meet the talented and compassionate Master's Graduate Interns and Doctoral Practicum Therapists at Deep Eddy Psychotherapy! Leah McMahon, Hedwig Gavino, Louann Fang Lucas, Daniel Williamson, and Justine Hughes are committed to providing high-quality therapy to creating meaningful, lasting change. Rooted in our mission to enhance mental and emotional health within our community, our interns bring a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and expertise to our practice.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Derek Leighton, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Derek Leighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT-S, LPC-S, CST, EMDR
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My practice also includes a weekly psychotherapy group for men dealing with sexual and relationship health.
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist available to help you experience relationships and sexuality in self-defined, healthy ways. Are you looking for more satisfaction in life? Or maybe struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors? I believe it's important that you find a therapist that is the right fit for you. I offer counseling services to Couples, Individuals, and Families. After spending 23 years in high tech, my passion for helping others develop their careers and seek personal growth led to a natural transition to working as a psychotherapist.
My practice also includes a weekly psychotherapy group for men dealing with sexual and relationship health.
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist available to help you experience relationships and sexuality in self-defined, healthy ways. Are you looking for more satisfaction in life? Or maybe struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors? I believe it's important that you find a therapist that is the right fit for you. I offer counseling services to Couples, Individuals, and Families. After spending 23 years in high tech, my passion for helping others develop their careers and seek personal growth led to a natural transition to working as a psychotherapist.
(512) 649-0216 View (512) 649-0216
Photo of Bethel Moges, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Bethel Moges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
With a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling, I believe in the work of this field. Whether this includes group therapy, addiction psychoeducation, or pre-marital counseling, it is my honor to walk with you as you seek to recover or grow. Life can be heavy and emotions difficult to regulate. Throughout your journey, I recognize that it can be life-changing to add a non-judgmental support with tools to your team as you work to reach your goals by using your own strengths. Just as hurt and betrayal often take place in relationship, so do healing and change. In a session with me, you matter and you are safe.
With a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling, I believe in the work of this field. Whether this includes group therapy, addiction psychoeducation, or pre-marital counseling, it is my honor to walk with you as you seek to recover or grow. Life can be heavy and emotions difficult to regulate. Throughout your journey, I recognize that it can be life-changing to add a non-judgmental support with tools to your team as you work to reach your goals by using your own strengths. Just as hurt and betrayal often take place in relationship, so do healing and change. In a session with me, you matter and you are safe.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Hellen Pennell, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78703, TX
Hellen Pennell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I help people free themselves from the wrath of a harsh inner critic, get unstuck from unhealthy situations, and start living instead of just surviving. If you are living with anxiety, depression, unproductive anger, the impact of trauma, or relationship struggles--including parenting neurodiverse or gender-questioning children, I welcome you. I provide a safe, compassionate, emotionally attuned space so you can feel supported as we explore what brings you into therapy. Whatever your struggle, I believe it is possible to navigate pain, gain strength, and experience greater fulfillment through the therapeutic relationship we create.
I help people free themselves from the wrath of a harsh inner critic, get unstuck from unhealthy situations, and start living instead of just surviving. If you are living with anxiety, depression, unproductive anger, the impact of trauma, or relationship struggles--including parenting neurodiverse or gender-questioning children, I welcome you. I provide a safe, compassionate, emotionally attuned space so you can feel supported as we explore what brings you into therapy. Whatever your struggle, I believe it is possible to navigate pain, gain strength, and experience greater fulfillment through the therapeutic relationship we create.
(512) 764-1221 View (512) 764-1221
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.