Photo of Melissa Chamberlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Corvallis, OR
Melissa Chamberlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330
The therapeutic relationship must respect orientation / preference, race, ethnicity, culture, values, beliefs, practices, & intentions.
I AM Accepting NEW - CLIENTS. I use an Integrated Holistic Mind-Body Approach: Neurocounseling, Positive Psychology, Somatic Psychotherapy, Neurotherapy bio-feedback, CBT, etc. I work with clients to develop individualized treatment action plans to resolve difficulties, address challenges, & focus on achieving goals. I specialize in Anxiety / Stress / Trauma; Relationship Dynamics & Communication Skills; Life & Career Direction; Transition Management; Depression; Grief & Loss. I assist in gaining knowledge & answers, forming new behaviors, overcoming barriers, support healing & development, & in creating positive relationships.
The therapeutic relationship must respect orientation / preference, race, ethnicity, culture, values, beliefs, practices, & intentions.
I AM Accepting NEW - CLIENTS. I use an Integrated Holistic Mind-Body Approach: Neurocounseling, Positive Psychology, Somatic Psychotherapy, Neurotherapy bio-feedback, CBT, etc. I work with clients to develop individualized treatment action plans to resolve difficulties, address challenges, & focus on achieving goals. I specialize in Anxiety / Stress / Trauma; Relationship Dynamics & Communication Skills; Life & Career Direction; Transition Management; Depression; Grief & Loss. I assist in gaining knowledge & answers, forming new behaviors, overcoming barriers, support healing & development, & in creating positive relationships.
(541) 705-3175 View (541) 705-3175
Photo of Stephanie Shippen, Psychologist in Corvallis, OR
Stephanie Shippen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. I use my expertise to help you gain new perspective, identify and overcome barriers, cope with life transitions, cultivate self-compassion, and develop skills to create a life worth living. Together, we will find your strengths and bolster resilience. Providing warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative support is at the core of my practice. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, adjusting to parenthood, relationship concerns, trauma, identity exploration, and multicultural concerns. I have extensive experience working with young adults.
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. I use my expertise to help you gain new perspective, identify and overcome barriers, cope with life transitions, cultivate self-compassion, and develop skills to create a life worth living. Together, we will find your strengths and bolster resilience. Providing warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative support is at the core of my practice. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, adjusting to parenthood, relationship concerns, trauma, identity exploration, and multicultural concerns. I have extensive experience working with young adults.
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Photo of Transformative Health and Wellness in Corvallis, OR
Transformative Health and Wellness
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330
We offer specialties such as sex therapy, dance therapy, somatic interventions, family therapy and couples therapy, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, massage, and general wellness services.
When you walk through the doors of Transformative Health and Wellness you will find yourself in a center that is focused on whole-person care. We are here as unique and passionate clinicians to help you feel at ease about your healing process, create an individualized plan for your transformation experience, and collaborate to support you in changing your life. This is the place you come when you are ready for a more meaningful healing experience. We integrate the best techniques in mental health, physical wellness and psychedelic medicine to support healing and growth. If you are interested in working closely with a team, and feeling empowered in your own growth process, you’ve come to the right place. Transformative Health and Wellness is not solely here for those seeking ketamine assisted psychotherapy, we offer an array of services to myriad clients.
We offer specialties such as sex therapy, dance therapy, somatic interventions, family therapy and couples therapy, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, massage, and general wellness services.
When you walk through the doors of Transformative Health and Wellness you will find yourself in a center that is focused on whole-person care. We are here as unique and passionate clinicians to help you feel at ease about your healing process, create an individualized plan for your transformation experience, and collaborate to support you in changing your life. This is the place you come when you are ready for a more meaningful healing experience. We integrate the best techniques in mental health, physical wellness and psychedelic medicine to support healing and growth. If you are interested in working closely with a team, and feeling empowered in your own growth process, you’ve come to the right place. Transformative Health and Wellness is not solely here for those seeking ketamine assisted psychotherapy, we offer an array of services to myriad clients.
(541) 845-3150 View (541) 845-3150
Photo of Zarasun Murphy, Clinical Social Work Associate in Corvallis, OR
Zarasun Murphy
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA, BS
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97339
I work primarily with children, adolescents, young adults (under 60 years), couples, and families.
We each have within us a spark, though it may become dimmed or buried deeply through life's trials and trauma. Fortunately, with proper guidance and support, everyone has insight and wisdom within to grow and ignite their innate radiance, to embrace healing and growth. As a spiritually-based holistic wellbeing practitioner, I offer a dynamic approach to healing for each individual, by drawing on my two decades of experience working in the fields of health, wellness, balance, and healing.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, young adults (under 60 years), couples, and families.
We each have within us a spark, though it may become dimmed or buried deeply through life's trials and trauma. Fortunately, with proper guidance and support, everyone has insight and wisdom within to grow and ignite their innate radiance, to embrace healing and growth. As a spiritually-based holistic wellbeing practitioner, I offer a dynamic approach to healing for each individual, by drawing on my two decades of experience working in the fields of health, wellness, balance, and healing.
(541) 502-2919 View (541) 502-2919
Photo of Lisa Carlson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corvallis, OR
Lisa Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NCTTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330  (Online Only)
Do you have a hard time saying "no"? Are platonic or intimate relationships difficult? Are you highly critical of yourself? Do you have a lot of guilt? Do you at times feel resentful or think that you are being taken advantage of? These are a few of the many topics I cover in session. In therapy I attend to areas such as: depression/anxiety, relationship problems, LGBTQIA needs, chronic health issues, neurodiversity, the impact of systemic oppression, eating disorders and relationship with food and body, tobacco and addiction treatment, trauma, connection with emotions and body, and more.
Do you have a hard time saying "no"? Are platonic or intimate relationships difficult? Are you highly critical of yourself? Do you have a lot of guilt? Do you at times feel resentful or think that you are being taken advantage of? These are a few of the many topics I cover in session. In therapy I attend to areas such as: depression/anxiety, relationship problems, LGBTQIA needs, chronic health issues, neurodiversity, the impact of systemic oppression, eating disorders and relationship with food and body, tobacco and addiction treatment, trauma, connection with emotions and body, and more.
(541) 507-0139 View (541) 507-0139
Photo of Ira Winograd, Professional Counselor Associate in Corvallis, OR
Ira Winograd
Professional Counselor Associate , MA
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330
I am passionate about coming into the Here and Now with clients and believe in the healing power of being witnessed with presence and loving kindness. Using mindfulness based practices I focus on supporting clients in addressing issues of depression, anxiety, and identity issues. In session I emphasize bringing the client’s attention out of thoughts/stories and into their present moment bodily experience with the understanding that more immediate change can occur this way. I enjoy experiencing the client and counselor relationship as a microcosm of the client’s greater relational life, and an opportunity to do deep healing.
I am passionate about coming into the Here and Now with clients and believe in the healing power of being witnessed with presence and loving kindness. Using mindfulness based practices I focus on supporting clients in addressing issues of depression, anxiety, and identity issues. In session I emphasize bringing the client’s attention out of thoughts/stories and into their present moment bodily experience with the understanding that more immediate change can occur this way. I enjoy experiencing the client and counselor relationship as a microcosm of the client’s greater relational life, and an opportunity to do deep healing.
(541) 329-7283 View (541) 329-7283
Photo of Rosa Elena Plascencia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corvallis, OR
Rosa Elena Plascencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97333
Are you feeling overwhelmed or facing a difficult transition in your life? I provide counseling to individuals and couples. I specialize in working on couple’s relationship issues and individuals wanting to bring harmony and stability into their lives. I am a licensed social worker with more than 10 years of experience working with couples and families. Con mucho gusto atiendo a las familias que hablan español.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or facing a difficult transition in your life? I provide counseling to individuals and couples. I specialize in working on couple’s relationship issues and individuals wanting to bring harmony and stability into their lives. I am a licensed social worker with more than 10 years of experience working with couples and families. Con mucho gusto atiendo a las familias que hablan español.
(458) 218-7626 View (458) 218-7626
Photo of Laura M. Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Corvallis, OR
Laura M. Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330
Welcome! All of us come to a time in our lives where we want to talk to someone. In a safe place to process our thoughts and feelings, while using self-compassion and nonjudgment. To come to a deeper understanding of our behaviors, emotions, and ideas, or what the root may be. We then develop our sense of clarity and pleasures in life. We cooperatively define the direction of your counseling session and goals. We are all unique in our humanity, as our situations and experiences are all different yet the same. And at the beginning of each day, we can all conclude "I am enough".
Welcome! All of us come to a time in our lives where we want to talk to someone. In a safe place to process our thoughts and feelings, while using self-compassion and nonjudgment. To come to a deeper understanding of our behaviors, emotions, and ideas, or what the root may be. We then develop our sense of clarity and pleasures in life. We cooperatively define the direction of your counseling session and goals. We are all unique in our humanity, as our situations and experiences are all different yet the same. And at the beginning of each day, we can all conclude "I am enough".
(458) 213-4350 View (458) 213-4350
Photo of Christa Bhagat Smith, LPC Intern in Corvallis, OR
Christa Bhagat Smith
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330
I welcome clients from all walks of life, and love to help them work through their issues in a collaborative manner. I welcome those who are struggling with their identity, whether that is sexual, gender, racial, or other identities.
I welcome clients from all walks of life, and love to help them work through their issues in a collaborative manner. I welcome those who are struggling with their identity, whether that is sexual, gender, racial, or other identities.
(541) 243-7399 View (541) 243-7399
Photo of Farrah Dalal, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corvallis, OR
Farrah Dalal, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97333  (Online Only)
Finding a deeper connection to self, others, and life events is part of the work we will do together. Coming into an awareness of your own thoughts and developing compassionate understanding of yourself fosters a loving kindness practice that can go with you into any situation. It also will help you create ease in your body and mind that begins to put a pause on past or future thinking. And as we begin to learn how to drop into the present moment with what is we begin to bring the wonderment of life back into our realty.
Finding a deeper connection to self, others, and life events is part of the work we will do together. Coming into an awareness of your own thoughts and developing compassionate understanding of yourself fosters a loving kindness practice that can go with you into any situation. It also will help you create ease in your body and mind that begins to put a pause on past or future thinking. And as we begin to learn how to drop into the present moment with what is we begin to bring the wonderment of life back into our realty.
(510) 674-1102 View (510) 674-1102
Photo of Keisha Janney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Corvallis, OR
Keisha Janney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe that we are capable of many things. We have resources within ourselves to move through the difficulties that come with life. I view my approach to therapy as client-centered, strengths-based, intersectional feminist, neurodivergent-affirming, and fat liberationist. As a client-centered therapist, I will focus on your therapeutic goals and the best way to achieve them using your strengths. I view my work as walking beside you on your journey rather than leading the way.
As a therapist, I believe that we are capable of many things. We have resources within ourselves to move through the difficulties that come with life. I view my approach to therapy as client-centered, strengths-based, intersectional feminist, neurodivergent-affirming, and fat liberationist. As a client-centered therapist, I will focus on your therapeutic goals and the best way to achieve them using your strengths. I view my work as walking beside you on your journey rather than leading the way.
(541) 378-6799 View (541) 378-6799
Photo of Michele D Ribeiro, Psychologist in Corvallis, OR
Michele D Ribeiro
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP, CGP, AGPA-F
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330
Not accepting new clients
My training incorporates mindfulness and yoga based interventions, interpersonal therapy, modern analytic, group psychotherapy, multicultural, couples and sex therapy.
Therapy is an opportunity for one to learn new skills, manage specific struggles or a mental illness, and build upon strengths that lead toward a more satisfying and meaningful life. My therapy style is interpersonal in nature which means I rely on building a strong relationship with my clients as the main avenue of change. My areas of expertise include working with clients facing any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, relationship distress, eating/body image, sexual, career uncertainty, and identity (race, nationality, sexual orientation, (trans)gender, age, religion/spirituality).
My training incorporates mindfulness and yoga based interventions, interpersonal therapy, modern analytic, group psychotherapy, multicultural, couples and sex therapy.
Therapy is an opportunity for one to learn new skills, manage specific struggles or a mental illness, and build upon strengths that lead toward a more satisfying and meaningful life. My therapy style is interpersonal in nature which means I rely on building a strong relationship with my clients as the main avenue of change. My areas of expertise include working with clients facing any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, relationship distress, eating/body image, sexual, career uncertainty, and identity (race, nationality, sexual orientation, (trans)gender, age, religion/spirituality).
(541) 293-1436 View (541) 293-1436

Online Therapists

Photo of Frankie Lemmons Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Corvallis, OR
Frankie Lemmons Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, LMHC, MFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keizer, OR 97303  (Online Only)
This also allows me to focus on building the therapeutic relationship while also collaborating on what you need to achieve your goals.
Accepting New Clients in Oregon and Washington State- As a bi-racial female (Black presenting) who spent most of their life feeling as though half of themselves was never understood, I seek to provide a space where your voice will not be silenced or diminished. It is importance to have safe spaces and relationships that support us in our journey, non-judgmentally.
This also allows me to focus on building the therapeutic relationship while also collaborating on what you need to achieve your goals.
Accepting New Clients in Oregon and Washington State- As a bi-racial female (Black presenting) who spent most of their life feeling as though half of themselves was never understood, I seek to provide a space where your voice will not be silenced or diminished. It is importance to have safe spaces and relationships that support us in our journey, non-judgmentally.
(971) 224-7892 View (971) 224-7892
Photo of Sakura Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Corvallis, OR
Sakura Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-A, LCSW, QMHP-R, Intern
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
As a group practice, we have the ability to provide therapy for most issues with specialized areas of Trauma, Social Justice, Multi-cultural concerns, Anxiety, Suicide, Grief and Loss, Domestic Violence, Couples Relationship Repair.
At Sakura Counseling, we aspire to create an environment that is all inclusive and provides a safe space for diversity in all forms to untangle the challenges that have been holding you back from being authentically you. We are collaborative in our approach, holding high regard for your experience in your environment, paying close attention to the many systems of our society that play a part in perpetuating oppression.
As a group practice, we have the ability to provide therapy for most issues with specialized areas of Trauma, Social Justice, Multi-cultural concerns, Anxiety, Suicide, Grief and Loss, Domestic Violence, Couples Relationship Repair.
At Sakura Counseling, we aspire to create an environment that is all inclusive and provides a safe space for diversity in all forms to untangle the challenges that have been holding you back from being authentically you. We are collaborative in our approach, holding high regard for your experience in your environment, paying close attention to the many systems of our society that play a part in perpetuating oppression.
(971) 206-6273 View (971) 206-6273
Photo of Paula Emerick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corvallis, OR
Paula Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with youth, couples and poly folx, and families for over 15 years and the most profound work has been done because we felt connected and safe.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
I have worked with youth, couples and poly folx, and families for over 15 years and the most profound work has been done because we felt connected and safe.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
(971) 260-4121 View (971) 260-4121
Photo of Simone Isadora Levine, Pre-Licensed Professional in Corvallis, OR
Simone Isadora Levine
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
Imagine finally feeling like your true self, no longer overwhelmed or caught in a cycle of frustration from life's relentless challenges. Envision a space where supportive guidance gently unravels the burdens you've carried—be it relationship issues, stress, anxiety, the depths of depression, grief, or the shadows of past trauma—revealing the essence of who you are. I've been there too, caught in the same exhausting cycles that hold us back from truly living, and I understand the courage it takes to seek change. With a trauma-informed lens, I am deeply committed to guiding you through breaking free from life's overwhelming cycles.
Imagine finally feeling like your true self, no longer overwhelmed or caught in a cycle of frustration from life's relentless challenges. Envision a space where supportive guidance gently unravels the burdens you've carried—be it relationship issues, stress, anxiety, the depths of depression, grief, or the shadows of past trauma—revealing the essence of who you are. I've been there too, caught in the same exhausting cycles that hold us back from truly living, and I understand the courage it takes to seek change. With a trauma-informed lens, I am deeply committed to guiding you through breaking free from life's overwhelming cycles.
(971) 265-8403 View (971) 265-8403
Photo of Chui-Tan Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corvallis, OR
Chui-Tan Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
I work with young adults, adults, couples, and their families.
As a former professional musician and teacher for 25 years, I have witnessed the increasing stress that people face in our hyper-competitive society. As an immigrant, I have also experienced the adjustment stress of being in a new culture, and being in a biracial marriage, I understand the challenges of bringing 2 cultures together. My aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore with clients their challenges in life. The theoretical approaches I use in therapy are Attachment Therapy, Bowen family systems theory, and other client-centered modalities.
I work with young adults, adults, couples, and their families.
As a former professional musician and teacher for 25 years, I have witnessed the increasing stress that people face in our hyper-competitive society. As an immigrant, I have also experienced the adjustment stress of being in a new culture, and being in a biracial marriage, I understand the challenges of bringing 2 cultures together. My aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore with clients their challenges in life. The theoretical approaches I use in therapy are Attachment Therapy, Bowen family systems theory, and other client-centered modalities.
(503) 433-8257 View (503) 433-8257
Photo of Stacie Elkins, LPC Intern in Corvallis, OR
Stacie Elkins
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples ages 18+ who are seeking support related to trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, racial identity, communication, depression, and relationship difficulties.
Do you find yourself stuck, anxious, and unable to navigate life? Recognizing this is one of the first step towards healing. My main goal is to provide an affirming, safe space for marginalized communities to express themselves and feel heard. Thoughts, emotions, perceptions and environmental factors can interfere with our ability to reach our full potential. I view our work together as a shared journey toward your ideal self. You are the architect of what is possible in therapy. Together, we can create a path towards a journey of greater fulfillment and possibilities. Change can be scary, but you're already taking the first step.
I work with adults and couples ages 18+ who are seeking support related to trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, racial identity, communication, depression, and relationship difficulties.
Do you find yourself stuck, anxious, and unable to navigate life? Recognizing this is one of the first step towards healing. My main goal is to provide an affirming, safe space for marginalized communities to express themselves and feel heard. Thoughts, emotions, perceptions and environmental factors can interfere with our ability to reach our full potential. I view our work together as a shared journey toward your ideal self. You are the architect of what is possible in therapy. Together, we can create a path towards a journey of greater fulfillment and possibilities. Change can be scary, but you're already taking the first step.
(503) 308-7783 View (503) 308-7783
Photo of Melika Biglarpour-Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corvallis, OR
Melika Biglarpour-Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilsonville, OR 97070  (Online Only)
I am licensed in CA, OR, & HI, offering individual & couples therapy, as well as breathwork coaching.
Are you grappling with anxiety, life transitions, adversities, or grief? Are you navigating challenges related to sexuality, sexual issues, relational issues, or difficulties in communication? Do you find yourself feeling stuck, lost, or discouraged due to experiences of trauma or family-related issues? Whether you're an individual or part of a couple, I provide support to adults from all backgrounds. I work collaboratively with you, meeting you where you are at & drawing upon tools from my training. I create a safe, judgment-free space to foster connection & growth.
I am licensed in CA, OR, & HI, offering individual & couples therapy, as well as breathwork coaching.
Are you grappling with anxiety, life transitions, adversities, or grief? Are you navigating challenges related to sexuality, sexual issues, relational issues, or difficulties in communication? Do you find yourself feeling stuck, lost, or discouraged due to experiences of trauma or family-related issues? Whether you're an individual or part of a couple, I provide support to adults from all backgrounds. I work collaboratively with you, meeting you where you are at & drawing upon tools from my training. I create a safe, judgment-free space to foster connection & growth.
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Photo of Sarah Mustafa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corvallis, OR
Sarah Mustafa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am delighted that you found the courage to consider what could be your first brave step to seeing a different perspective for change in your life. I love working with a wide range of people, including depression & anxiety, sex & relationship challenges, trauma, racial idenitiy, family conflict, and stress management. I like for potential clients to know that therapy will be challenging but hopefully rewarding. I hope to co-create an inviting space for you to freely express yourself & explore the depths of your emotions. My motto as your therapist is to be your co-pilot to help support you achieve the life goals you desire.
I am delighted that you found the courage to consider what could be your first brave step to seeing a different perspective for change in your life. I love working with a wide range of people, including depression & anxiety, sex & relationship challenges, trauma, racial idenitiy, family conflict, and stress management. I like for potential clients to know that therapy will be challenging but hopefully rewarding. I hope to co-create an inviting space for you to freely express yourself & explore the depths of your emotions. My motto as your therapist is to be your co-pilot to help support you achieve the life goals you desire.
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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.