Photo of Elizabeth Kovacevich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Elizabeth Kovacevich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I support my clients in developing long lasting and practical solutions to the personal, relationship and professional problems in their lives.
For over 30 years I have been helping my clients to discover new ways to deal with their problems and to begin thriving rather than merely surviving in their lives. My greatest strength is moving people from crisis to change. My openness and forthright style with clients provide them the opportunity for understanding, personal growth, and change. I view therapy as an educational as well as therapeutic experience. My style is primarily interactive. I am supportive, caring and process oriented. I have extensive experience with mental health, hospitals and schools. I love working with people in all stages and ages of their lives!
I support my clients in developing long lasting and practical solutions to the personal, relationship and professional problems in their lives.
For over 30 years I have been helping my clients to discover new ways to deal with their problems and to begin thriving rather than merely surviving in their lives. My greatest strength is moving people from crisis to change. My openness and forthright style with clients provide them the opportunity for understanding, personal growth, and change. I view therapy as an educational as well as therapeutic experience. My style is primarily interactive. I am supportive, caring and process oriented. I have extensive experience with mental health, hospitals and schools. I love working with people in all stages and ages of their lives!
(831) 272-4983 View (831) 272-4983
Photo of Andie Hollowell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Andie Hollowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Pretending everything is fine is exhausting. Coping with everything life throws at you, juggling different roles, and trying to be all things to all people. You feel guilty and inadequate and worry that someday all those plates you're spinning will come crashing down. Maybe you're an amazing "somebody" who often feels like an invisible and overwhelmed "nobody." Or maybe if they see you, they will know that you're not enough. Your body is not enough. Your relationship is not enough. You're incapable of fixing everything yourself. You feel lost and alone, living in silent despair.
Pretending everything is fine is exhausting. Coping with everything life throws at you, juggling different roles, and trying to be all things to all people. You feel guilty and inadequate and worry that someday all those plates you're spinning will come crashing down. Maybe you're an amazing "somebody" who often feels like an invisible and overwhelmed "nobody." Or maybe if they see you, they will know that you're not enough. Your body is not enough. Your relationship is not enough. You're incapable of fixing everything yourself. You feel lost and alone, living in silent despair.
(626) 465-7708 View (626) 465-7708
Photo of Colleen Marie Saldana, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Colleen Marie Saldana
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Whether you are dealing with relationship difficulties, family struggles, poor boundary setting, low self worth, disordered eating, trauma, couples concerns, obsessive compulsive, sadness/depression, and/or excessive worry, I am here to help. My goal is to assist clients develop healthy boundaries, increase insight, increase self esteem, gain new perspectives, and learn positive ways to re frame negative thoughts. It is very important to me that I help you reach your goals & acquire the healing you seek, while assisting you along the way.
Whether you are dealing with relationship difficulties, family struggles, poor boundary setting, low self worth, disordered eating, trauma, couples concerns, obsessive compulsive, sadness/depression, and/or excessive worry, I am here to help. My goal is to assist clients develop healthy boundaries, increase insight, increase self esteem, gain new perspectives, and learn positive ways to re frame negative thoughts. It is very important to me that I help you reach your goals & acquire the healing you seek, while assisting you along the way.
(949) 229-4969 View (949) 229-4969
Photo of Maria Yepez Palomo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Maria Yepez Palomo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PCC, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92658
My services are available for families as a unit, couples, children, teens, singles and humans in general.
Early on in life we learn, we grow, we become and continue evolving. Are you feeling stuck in the process? It doesn't matter where in life you may be, solutions are obtainable with the correct guidance. Give yourself and your loved ones the opportunity to gain empowerment to develop a path in your life of your choice. Together we can uncover underlying reasons for symptomatic behaviors and how they lead to somatic symptoms. The main goal is to build awareness of emotions while addressing unproductive behaviors, removing obstacles or barriers to develop a healthier lifestyle.
My services are available for families as a unit, couples, children, teens, singles and humans in general.
Early on in life we learn, we grow, we become and continue evolving. Are you feeling stuck in the process? It doesn't matter where in life you may be, solutions are obtainable with the correct guidance. Give yourself and your loved ones the opportunity to gain empowerment to develop a path in your life of your choice. Together we can uncover underlying reasons for symptomatic behaviors and how they lead to somatic symptoms. The main goal is to build awareness of emotions while addressing unproductive behaviors, removing obstacles or barriers to develop a healthier lifestyle.
(714) 364-9419 View (714) 364-9419
Photo of Sonja S. Peverieri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sonja S. Peverieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For 10 years, I have specialized in working with individuals, couples, and families in treating depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and attachment between parent and child.
Accepting New Clients for In-Person or Telehealth Therapy! Have you been feeling stuck? Or have you been grieving a recent loss? Are you feeling challenged in your partnership? Or maybe concerns in your attachment with your child? I specialize in providing psychotherapy to children, young adults, couples and families. There are significant challenges in which one faces in the stages of life, and I am focused in supporting you in taking the next important step in your journey through life. Through the seasons, I intend to assist you in managing feelings of depression and anxiety.
For 10 years, I have specialized in working with individuals, couples, and families in treating depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and attachment between parent and child.
Accepting New Clients for In-Person or Telehealth Therapy! Have you been feeling stuck? Or have you been grieving a recent loss? Are you feeling challenged in your partnership? Or maybe concerns in your attachment with your child? I specialize in providing psychotherapy to children, young adults, couples and families. There are significant challenges in which one faces in the stages of life, and I am focused in supporting you in taking the next important step in your journey through life. Through the seasons, I intend to assist you in managing feelings of depression and anxiety.
(949) 989-5357 View (949) 989-5357
Photo of Shamim Bahrani-Madi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Shamim Bahrani-Madi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Completing my Doctorate in Couples and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This can be achieved by providing a neutral safe environment and customizing an individualized treatment plan that best fits our lives' challenges and difficulties. Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Overcoming these symptoms can be possible by collaborating with you through the process of grief and healing and help you recover the motivation, perspective, and joy.
Completing my Doctorate in Couples and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This can be achieved by providing a neutral safe environment and customizing an individualized treatment plan that best fits our lives' challenges and difficulties. Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Overcoming these symptoms can be possible by collaborating with you through the process of grief and healing and help you recover the motivation, perspective, and joy.
(949) 390-6312 View (949) 390-6312
Photo of Raeika 'ray' Ganji, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Raeika 'ray' Ganji
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Welcome! I am eager to join you on a transformative path towards personal well-being and self-discovery.I believe that truly listening to clients is the foundation of effective therapy but it is not enough to simply hear their words; it is crucial for clients to genuinely feel heard and validated. Through empathic listening, I aim to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship that fosters trust, authenticity, and mutual respect. My goal is to empower you and helping you discover strengths, build healthier patterns, and lead fulfilling lives.
Welcome! I am eager to join you on a transformative path towards personal well-being and self-discovery.I believe that truly listening to clients is the foundation of effective therapy but it is not enough to simply hear their words; it is crucial for clients to genuinely feel heard and validated. Through empathic listening, I aim to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship that fosters trust, authenticity, and mutual respect. My goal is to empower you and helping you discover strengths, build healthier patterns, and lead fulfilling lives.
(949) 353-6195 View (949) 353-6195
Photo of Monica Stephens, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Monica Stephens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Do you feel like you keep getting into the same kind of relationship? Do you have emotional reactions that are bigger than the situation? Our past experiences shape the negative messages we have about ourselves and the world. We can work to reveal and rewrite those messages so that you can move forward toward the life you want.
Do you feel like you keep getting into the same kind of relationship? Do you have emotional reactions that are bigger than the situation? Our past experiences shape the negative messages we have about ourselves and the world. We can work to reveal and rewrite those messages so that you can move forward toward the life you want.
(714) 844-1672 View (714) 844-1672
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1303 View (562) 268-1303
Photo of Tacha Kasper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Tacha Kasper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
If you or a loved one has CHRONIC PAIN / ILLNESS, CANCER OR TRAUMA, I would like to be part of your HEALING TEAM and help you combat the EMOTIONAL IMPACT, such as: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, intimacy, self-esteem, isolation, work/financial strain, caretaker strain & family tension, and more.
Are you TIRED of pretending to be 'FINE' when you're really in terrible pain? Do you want to PUNCH the next person who says, "At least you look good"? I get it! PAIN & ILLNESS is hard & most people don't understand how it challenges every aspect of your life. As someone who has battled chronic pain & cancer, I have a unique combination of first-hand knowledge & professional experience. I work as a catalyst to help you build hope, promote healing & inspire growth so that you can live a 'chronically' fulfilling life.
If you or a loved one has CHRONIC PAIN / ILLNESS, CANCER OR TRAUMA, I would like to be part of your HEALING TEAM and help you combat the EMOTIONAL IMPACT, such as: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, intimacy, self-esteem, isolation, work/financial strain, caretaker strain & family tension, and more.
Are you TIRED of pretending to be 'FINE' when you're really in terrible pain? Do you want to PUNCH the next person who says, "At least you look good"? I get it! PAIN & ILLNESS is hard & most people don't understand how it challenges every aspect of your life. As someone who has battled chronic pain & cancer, I have a unique combination of first-hand knowledge & professional experience. I work as a catalyst to help you build hope, promote healing & inspire growth so that you can live a 'chronically' fulfilling life.
(949) 656-4542 View (949) 656-4542
Photo of Marina Braff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Marina Braff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
In addition to my perinatal certification, I also work with teens and young adults, as well as couples.
Since becoming a mother my passion has evolved to support women as they go through one the most profound evolutions in their lifetime. While the postpartum period can be filled with cozy moments and lots of love, simultaneously mothers- and their partners- are experiencing sleepless nights and a complete shift in what their new normal is. From changes in work, expectations with your partner and managing your own thoughts and feelings about what motherhood "should," look like, I am here to walk you through all of it.
In addition to my perinatal certification, I also work with teens and young adults, as well as couples.
Since becoming a mother my passion has evolved to support women as they go through one the most profound evolutions in their lifetime. While the postpartum period can be filled with cozy moments and lots of love, simultaneously mothers- and their partners- are experiencing sleepless nights and a complete shift in what their new normal is. From changes in work, expectations with your partner and managing your own thoughts and feelings about what motherhood "should," look like, I am here to walk you through all of it.
(951) 639-8291 View (951) 639-8291
Photo of Tanya Ward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Tanya Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
At Restoration Therapy Group, we're Christian therapists specializing in EMDR, couples in crisis, and parent-child relationships.
Welcome to Restoration Therapy Group: a haven where faith and healing converge. Our Christian-centered therapists, specializing in EMDR therapy, are dedicated to guiding motivated individuals and families through trauma's depths, including couples in crisis and parent-child relationships. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves, dig in, and do the hard work to rewrite your story and step into a future brimming with potential, you're our ideal client. Take your first step today with a free consultation. Your journey towards transformation begins here.
At Restoration Therapy Group, we're Christian therapists specializing in EMDR, couples in crisis, and parent-child relationships.
Welcome to Restoration Therapy Group: a haven where faith and healing converge. Our Christian-centered therapists, specializing in EMDR therapy, are dedicated to guiding motivated individuals and families through trauma's depths, including couples in crisis and parent-child relationships. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves, dig in, and do the hard work to rewrite your story and step into a future brimming with potential, you're our ideal client. Take your first step today with a free consultation. Your journey towards transformation begins here.
(714) 203-6189 View (714) 203-6189
Photo of Ken Ribotsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Ken Ribotsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMSII
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Over the years, I’ve helped guide scores of individuals, couples, and families towards a path of healing from pain and trauma – helping them to achieve improved well-being, greater life fulfillment, healthy relationships, and emotional resilience.
No one is born with a playbook for life, but you have the power to write your own. Some people I work with recognize that they feel anxious, depressed, possibly reliving trauma, or are generally unfulfilled, while others are not sure why they are unhappy, nervous, not enjoying life. I’m here to help you get more out of life. More love, more joy, more peace. Change isn’t always easy. I offer a space where you can explore your emotions, fears, anger, and experience new-found hope, plus get real solutions, and thrive!
Over the years, I’ve helped guide scores of individuals, couples, and families towards a path of healing from pain and trauma – helping them to achieve improved well-being, greater life fulfillment, healthy relationships, and emotional resilience.
No one is born with a playbook for life, but you have the power to write your own. Some people I work with recognize that they feel anxious, depressed, possibly reliving trauma, or are generally unfulfilled, while others are not sure why they are unhappy, nervous, not enjoying life. I’m here to help you get more out of life. More love, more joy, more peace. Change isn’t always easy. I offer a space where you can explore your emotions, fears, anger, and experience new-found hope, plus get real solutions, and thrive!
(949) 353-6654 View (949) 353-6654
Photo of Netta Halpern, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Netta Halpern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I served clients from all walks of life dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, and relationship.
The last few years have been especially challenging: COVID, changes in social structure, inflation and other unsettling issues. Do you find yourself with unsettling intrusive thoughts, confused and/or anxious? Do you feel stuck in life? Are depression and anxiety blocking you from living your life? Don't give up. You don't have to do it alone. We can do it together. There is significant strength in seeking support and guidance when you need it.
I served clients from all walks of life dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, and relationship.
The last few years have been especially challenging: COVID, changes in social structure, inflation and other unsettling issues. Do you find yourself with unsettling intrusive thoughts, confused and/or anxious? Do you feel stuck in life? Are depression and anxiety blocking you from living your life? Don't give up. You don't have to do it alone. We can do it together. There is significant strength in seeking support and guidance when you need it.
(714) 867-1405 View (714) 867-1405
Photo of Linh Dang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Linh Dang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Gottman couples therapy that's been proven effective in building relationships, working through trust issues, or just getting "unstuck.
You deserve to have a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental, supportive space to heal and grow with someone you trust to truly listen to you, understand you, and be there for you. You may be going through a difficult life transition, experiencing hurt or conflict with someone significant in your life, or struggling alone too long with anxiety or depression or trauma and you don't know what to do anymore. You want to do something different to feel better and function better.
I have specialized training in Gottman couples therapy that's been proven effective in building relationships, working through trust issues, or just getting "unstuck.
You deserve to have a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental, supportive space to heal and grow with someone you trust to truly listen to you, understand you, and be there for you. You may be going through a difficult life transition, experiencing hurt or conflict with someone significant in your life, or struggling alone too long with anxiety or depression or trauma and you don't know what to do anymore. You want to do something different to feel better and function better.
(949) 393-5937 View (949) 393-5937
Photo of Mary E Lama, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Mary E Lama
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Waitlist for new clients
- I have over two decades working closely with individuals, couples and families, learning, supporting, teaching and guiding.
We are all on our own journey in life, filled with experiences big and small that have shaped our present. At times we all have our own work to do to feel mentally healthy and balanced in our relationship with ourselves and others. Therapy is a courageous and powerful step for your journey, helping you grow and/or heal to reach the goals you desire. By meeting you where you are at emotionally/mentally we work for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, discover patterns in your life and learn skills for you to reach your goals.
- I have over two decades working closely with individuals, couples and families, learning, supporting, teaching and guiding.
We are all on our own journey in life, filled with experiences big and small that have shaped our present. At times we all have our own work to do to feel mentally healthy and balanced in our relationship with ourselves and others. Therapy is a courageous and powerful step for your journey, helping you grow and/or heal to reach the goals you desire. By meeting you where you are at emotionally/mentally we work for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, discover patterns in your life and learn skills for you to reach your goals.
(925) 275-5216 View (925) 275-5216
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Jake Stowell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Jake Stowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
My name is Jake Stowell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Costa Mesa, California at Journeys Counseling Ministry. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. Much of my experience has been with minors and adult men who struggle with issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, divorce, grief, and trauma. Counseling takes many forms, as it is important to tailor treatment to each person or family's needs. When working with children, I strongly believe in incorporating caregivers as much as possible, as this helps ensure lasting health and wellness.
My name is Jake Stowell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Costa Mesa, California at Journeys Counseling Ministry. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. Much of my experience has been with minors and adult men who struggle with issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, divorce, grief, and trauma. Counseling takes many forms, as it is important to tailor treatment to each person or family's needs. When working with children, I strongly believe in incorporating caregivers as much as possible, as this helps ensure lasting health and wellness.
(714) 361-1941 View (714) 361-1941
Photo of Alicia Delgado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Alicia Delgado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have worked in the mental health field for 20 plus years specializing with children, adolescents, families, adults and couples.
We all have times in our lives that are challenging and difficult but with some help we can navigate through them. In my opinion, therapy should be collaborative, compassionate, comfortable and safe. I would like for us to work together to revolve whatever issue/goal you may have. One of the most courageous decisions you’ll ever make is to finally let go of what is hurting your heart and soul.
I have worked in the mental health field for 20 plus years specializing with children, adolescents, families, adults and couples.
We all have times in our lives that are challenging and difficult but with some help we can navigate through them. In my opinion, therapy should be collaborative, compassionate, comfortable and safe. I would like for us to work together to revolve whatever issue/goal you may have. One of the most courageous decisions you’ll ever make is to finally let go of what is hurting your heart and soul.
(949) 569-7161 View (949) 569-7161
Photo of Paul Kramer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92657
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(925) 320-0698 View (925) 320-0698

See more therapy options for Newport Beach

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.