Photo of Marni Kamins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Marni Kamins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
In my practice I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families, and mother/daughter relationships.
Are you sick of self-sabotage? Do you want more confidence only to find that you are your own worst critic? Is your relationship with yourself frustrating you? I provide a safe, warm space for you to build self-esteem, and become un-stuck. I am passionate and committed to supporting you to achieve greater self-awareness, self-confidence and happiness in life. "Disordered" eating, Quarter-life-crisis, social anxiety, creative-blocks, Relational Trauma, depression, fear and anxiety are my specialties. I am also a fully licensed MFT in the great state of Texas!
In my practice I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families, and mother/daughter relationships.
Are you sick of self-sabotage? Do you want more confidence only to find that you are your own worst critic? Is your relationship with yourself frustrating you? I provide a safe, warm space for you to build self-esteem, and become un-stuck. I am passionate and committed to supporting you to achieve greater self-awareness, self-confidence and happiness in life. "Disordered" eating, Quarter-life-crisis, social anxiety, creative-blocks, Relational Trauma, depression, fear and anxiety are my specialties. I am also a fully licensed MFT in the great state of Texas!
(424) 327-9175 View (424) 327-9175
Photo of Barbara Lampert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Barbara Lampert
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I believe that the better you feel about yourself, the clearer your judgment will be, and the more effectively you'll be able to address your issues. So I work to provide you with a safe, energizing environment. Which means I listen carefully to what you have to say - that's key. I put myself in your place. I reflect back to you what I've seen and heard. And I let you know what I think, so you don't have to guess. I have a Marriage and Family Therapist license, a Ph.D., and two master's degrees.
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I believe that the better you feel about yourself, the clearer your judgment will be, and the more effectively you'll be able to address your issues. So I work to provide you with a safe, energizing environment. Which means I listen carefully to what you have to say - that's key. I put myself in your place. I reflect back to you what I've seen and heard. And I let you know what I think, so you don't have to guess. I have a Marriage and Family Therapist license, a Ph.D., and two master's degrees.
(310) 905-8291 View (310) 905-8291
Photo of Moriah Stapf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Malibu, CA
Moriah Stapf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Reach out for more information on my offerings – ranging from individual and couples therapy, to retreats, psychedelic preparation and integration sessions, and groups (see the flyer attached!).
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
Reach out for more information on my offerings – ranging from individual and couples therapy, to retreats, psychedelic preparation and integration sessions, and groups (see the flyer attached!).
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
(310) 361-1312 View (310) 361-1312
Photo of Dr. Carey Incledon, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Dr. Carey Incledon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I specialize in providing compassionate and scientifically supported individual psychotherapy and am a Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist.
I consider it a privilege to do the work I do—in fact, helping others heal, grow, and thrive every day brings great meaning to my life. I know from personal experience how life can sometimes feel unbearable. I also know from personal experience what it is like to work closely with a gifted psychologist to create a new perspective and a new life that are even better than before. I am passionate about providing the highest-quality mental health services to each of my clients and would love the opportunity to support you through this time.
I specialize in providing compassionate and scientifically supported individual psychotherapy and am a Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist.
I consider it a privilege to do the work I do—in fact, helping others heal, grow, and thrive every day brings great meaning to my life. I know from personal experience how life can sometimes feel unbearable. I also know from personal experience what it is like to work closely with a gifted psychologist to create a new perspective and a new life that are even better than before. I am passionate about providing the highest-quality mental health services to each of my clients and would love the opportunity to support you through this time.
(510) 726-8555 View (510) 726-8555
Photo of Tricia Doud, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Tricia Doud
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering a new therapeutic relationship. These are unique times that have brought many different stressors to an already chaotic world. Please value your self-care at this time and feel free to reach out if you need psychological support or guidance. My clients typically include those who are seeking a long-term therapeutic relationship, as well as those who are hoping to address a specific issue in a limited time. I utilize an integrated, tailored approach. Always kind, supportive and non-judgmental, I will also provide direct feedback needed to facilitate change.
Thank you for considering a new therapeutic relationship. These are unique times that have brought many different stressors to an already chaotic world. Please value your self-care at this time and feel free to reach out if you need psychological support or guidance. My clients typically include those who are seeking a long-term therapeutic relationship, as well as those who are hoping to address a specific issue in a limited time. I utilize an integrated, tailored approach. Always kind, supportive and non-judgmental, I will also provide direct feedback needed to facilitate change.
(424) 209-8190 View (424) 209-8190
Photo of Sandra Anne Fischbein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Sandra Anne Fischbein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I am dedicated to helping my clients become empowered, find their voices, develop their passions, recognize their strengths, and overcome any obstacles they may be facing, as well as relationship concerns.
Sometimes we find ourselves seeking help and support when life hands us a path we aren't prepared to deal with. I believe that understanding and exploring the authentic self is essential in overcoming many complex struggles. I work to help uncover what my clients basic truth is, and in doing so work with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, parenting, pregnancy, and family dynamics.
I am dedicated to helping my clients become empowered, find their voices, develop their passions, recognize their strengths, and overcome any obstacles they may be facing, as well as relationship concerns.
Sometimes we find ourselves seeking help and support when life hands us a path we aren't prepared to deal with. I believe that understanding and exploring the authentic self is essential in overcoming many complex struggles. I work to help uncover what my clients basic truth is, and in doing so work with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, parenting, pregnancy, and family dynamics.
(310) 504-1286 View (310) 504-1286
Photo of Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
(424) 329-1123 View (424) 329-1123
Photo of Anahita Kia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Anahita Kia
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Have you been feeling heightened levels of stress, sadness, or general dissatisfaction with your life? Are you engaging in unhealthy patterns of behavior, abusing substances, or staying in unhappy relationships out of complacency or fear? I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional and relational issues, including separation and divorce, codependency, addiction, panic, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, and women's health issues. Together, we will work to identify and understand the issues at hand, reduce your distress, and help you live a life that feels more productive and fulfilling.
Have you been feeling heightened levels of stress, sadness, or general dissatisfaction with your life? Are you engaging in unhealthy patterns of behavior, abusing substances, or staying in unhappy relationships out of complacency or fear? I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional and relational issues, including separation and divorce, codependency, addiction, panic, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, and women's health issues. Together, we will work to identify and understand the issues at hand, reduce your distress, and help you live a life that feels more productive and fulfilling.
(747) 318-5635 View (747) 318-5635
Photo of KD Farris, Pastoral Counselor in Malibu, CA
KD Farris
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
My roots as a therapist and healer have seeded over the past thirty-five years, bringing substance and depth to my one-on-one sessions with couples and individuals. During this time, I have maintained a private practice, which has always consisted of process-oriented consciousness work -- a means by which to enter safely and deeply into the inner landscape of the psyche for positive and real world change. My results-oriented approach to psychology is derived from the commitment to a conscious process and the intrapsychic relationship one can access when choosing to turn toward--and look at--oneself.
(310) 889-0677 View (310) 889-0677
Photo of James Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
James Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, DAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
When I begin a session with a new client, I want to present myself as a real person. I want to create a situation where the client feels comfortable being him/herself and communicating whatever is going on. I will observe closely, being as present as possible. I will listen carefully and respond when appropriate. I may ask questions or make interpretations about what we talk about, but most importantly I want the client to feel free to say whatever is on his/her mind. I want to establish a trusting relationship so we can begin to work on this person’s issues.
When I begin a session with a new client, I want to present myself as a real person. I want to create a situation where the client feels comfortable being him/herself and communicating whatever is going on. I will observe closely, being as present as possible. I will listen carefully and respond when appropriate. I may ask questions or make interpretations about what we talk about, but most importantly I want the client to feel free to say whatever is on his/her mind. I want to establish a trusting relationship so we can begin to work on this person’s issues.
(424) 236-6209 View (424) 236-6209
Photo of Marina Edelman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Marina Edelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90264
I have helped numerous couples, individuals & families find happiness, harmony, and coping strategies to life challenges. I use John Gottman's (research based) approach and EFT to help couples understand their strengths & areas that need improvement. By taking an online assessment couples save time & money & I can quickly assess areas of focus & recomend interventions. To help clients with anxiety/depression I challenge distorted beliefs and maladaptive behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach along with other interventions encourages clients to go out of their comfort zone & reduce problamatic symptoms.
I have helped numerous couples, individuals & families find happiness, harmony, and coping strategies to life challenges. I use John Gottman's (research based) approach and EFT to help couples understand their strengths & areas that need improvement. By taking an online assessment couples save time & money & I can quickly assess areas of focus & recomend interventions. To help clients with anxiety/depression I challenge distorted beliefs and maladaptive behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach along with other interventions encourages clients to go out of their comfort zone & reduce problamatic symptoms.
(818) 253-9910 View (818) 253-9910
Photo of Catherine McDonagh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Catherine McDonagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
I provide individual and couples therapy to high-achieving professionals in business, tech, medicine, law and life.
I provide support to develop healthier relationships, manage and reduce stress and anxiety, and improve self-esteem by connecting more deeply with your true nature. When life experiences and relationships seem complicated, or more difficult than you would like them to be, I can work with you to gain clarity and connection with what's most true for you. The work involves being present with and understanding the feelings, beliefs, thoughts, and bodily sensations that influence your experience and perspectives. I'll guide you to be curious, look within and be with your truth.
I provide individual and couples therapy to high-achieving professionals in business, tech, medicine, law and life.
I provide support to develop healthier relationships, manage and reduce stress and anxiety, and improve self-esteem by connecting more deeply with your true nature. When life experiences and relationships seem complicated, or more difficult than you would like them to be, I can work with you to gain clarity and connection with what's most true for you. The work involves being present with and understanding the feelings, beliefs, thoughts, and bodily sensations that influence your experience and perspectives. I'll guide you to be curious, look within and be with your truth.
(805) 244-5340 View (805) 244-5340
Photo of Layla Ashley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Layla Ashley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCH, CPLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Yes, I am accepting new clients and available for TELEHEALTH! Have you lost your passion and creativity? Do you feel stuck in your job or career path? Are you highly sensitive, feel overwhelmed or burned-out? Are your relationships suffering? I can help you transform your pain into feeling empowered, and use your gifts to fuel your relationships. I help you revive, focus, and succeed to bring your life and relationships to the highest potential. I bring 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist, specializing in treating couples, anxiety, PTSD, relationships/break-ups, life-purpose, creativity, grief/loss, and self-esteem building.
Yes, I am accepting new clients and available for TELEHEALTH! Have you lost your passion and creativity? Do you feel stuck in your job or career path? Are you highly sensitive, feel overwhelmed or burned-out? Are your relationships suffering? I can help you transform your pain into feeling empowered, and use your gifts to fuel your relationships. I help you revive, focus, and succeed to bring your life and relationships to the highest potential. I bring 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist, specializing in treating couples, anxiety, PTSD, relationships/break-ups, life-purpose, creativity, grief/loss, and self-esteem building.
(424) 326-0127 View (424) 326-0127
Photo of Dr. Ray Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Dr. Ray Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is the EXPERT of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. Many times therapists tend to talk about their ideal client...this seems backwards to me...why does it matter about the therapists' needs? Clients should be empowered to seek out their ideal therapist and what the therapist has to offer them individually, their family, spouse, partner, children, etc.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is the EXPERT of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. Many times therapists tend to talk about their ideal client...this seems backwards to me...why does it matter about the therapists' needs? Clients should be empowered to seek out their ideal therapist and what the therapist has to offer them individually, their family, spouse, partner, children, etc.
(818) 485-2998 View (818) 485-2998
Photo of Alan Richard Valdes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Alan Richard Valdes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90263  (Online Only)
One who is experiencing any type of relationship issue, that is wanting to work on themselves and continue to strengthen either themselves or their relationship by working through the challenges that have exposed areas of growth in the individual.
One who is experiencing any type of relationship issue, that is wanting to work on themselves and continue to strengthen either themselves or their relationship by working through the challenges that have exposed areas of growth in the individual.
(805) 429-8637 View (805) 429-8637
Photo of Penny Jacobs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Penny Jacobs
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, drug or alcohol abuse, additive behaviors, relationship issues, I provide an inviting environment to begin your journey of discovery.
My goal is to help my patient’s navigate their journey of life. Having traveled through many personal challenges, I bring much of my life's experiences into the therapeutic realm. I believe in growth and acceptance of one's place in the present. I have found the way in which we move through the world is usually the path of what is familiar to us, but too often this way no longer serves us. Shifting our way of thinking can stimulate an alternative pathway of moving through the world and achieving the peace of mind we seek.
Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, drug or alcohol abuse, additive behaviors, relationship issues, I provide an inviting environment to begin your journey of discovery.
My goal is to help my patient’s navigate their journey of life. Having traveled through many personal challenges, I bring much of my life's experiences into the therapeutic realm. I believe in growth and acceptance of one's place in the present. I have found the way in which we move through the world is usually the path of what is familiar to us, but too often this way no longer serves us. Shifting our way of thinking can stimulate an alternative pathway of moving through the world and achieving the peace of mind we seek.
(424) 343-2265 View (424) 343-2265
Photo of Molly Binenfeld, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Malibu, CA
Molly Binenfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
I create a space for you to bring your authentic self into the room without feeling like you have to show up in the "right" way. My approach is direct, compassionate, practical, and personalized towards your values, goals, and experience. My lived and professional experience allows me to help you create a more fulfilling and congruent life while supporting you in coping with daily stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face in today's society, including diet culture, body image, social media pressure, and unrealistic beauty standards.
I create a space for you to bring your authentic self into the room without feeling like you have to show up in the "right" way. My approach is direct, compassionate, practical, and personalized towards your values, goals, and experience. My lived and professional experience allows me to help you create a more fulfilling and congruent life while supporting you in coping with daily stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face in today's society, including diet culture, body image, social media pressure, and unrealistic beauty standards.
(310) 861-7350 View (310) 861-7350
Photo of Renée Glick in Malibu, CA
Renée Glick
MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
) rather than fear them, then I am ready and committed to helping you get there! Individual and Couples Counseling, Walk/Talk Therapy and Executive Cognitive Behavioral Coaching are available.
Feeling stuck? Whether you’ve worked with a therapist or two, or have never been to therapy before, if things don’t seem to be working well, it may be time to do something different. Do feel 'seen'? Or have you felt lost or further isolated by disconnected, generic or rushed sessions? Are you looking for someone to help you gain practical, actionable insight/knowledge/skills to become more self-aligned, grounded, empowered, and consistently supported with sessions tailored to YOU and your unique journey? Then take THIS opportunity toward positive change! Let this be your time, your season of new beginnings… Give me a call.
) rather than fear them, then I am ready and committed to helping you get there! Individual and Couples Counseling, Walk/Talk Therapy and Executive Cognitive Behavioral Coaching are available.
Feeling stuck? Whether you’ve worked with a therapist or two, or have never been to therapy before, if things don’t seem to be working well, it may be time to do something different. Do feel 'seen'? Or have you felt lost or further isolated by disconnected, generic or rushed sessions? Are you looking for someone to help you gain practical, actionable insight/knowledge/skills to become more self-aligned, grounded, empowered, and consistently supported with sessions tailored to YOU and your unique journey? Then take THIS opportunity toward positive change! Let this be your time, your season of new beginnings… Give me a call.
(818) 369-3379 View (818) 369-3379
Photo of Jennifer Gustafson: Couples, Teens, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Malibu, CA
Jennifer Gustafson: Couples, Teens, EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263  (Online Only)
I work with culturally/gender diverse populations in managing anxiety, depression, anger management, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, parenting, major life transitions, grief/loss, terminal illness, and end-of-life.
Most mental health issues are rooted in trauma. Trauma can be any experience that negatively impacts the way you feel or think about yourself, others. or the world. I can help you process trauma and to find a more positive path forward. I believe that therapy should be tailored to fit each individual client within a safe, trusting, empathetic, nonjudgmental, and collaborative relationship. Life is complicated and unpredictable and we all need support sometimes to help us navigate its challenges.
I work with culturally/gender diverse populations in managing anxiety, depression, anger management, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, parenting, major life transitions, grief/loss, terminal illness, and end-of-life.
Most mental health issues are rooted in trauma. Trauma can be any experience that negatively impacts the way you feel or think about yourself, others. or the world. I can help you process trauma and to find a more positive path forward. I believe that therapy should be tailored to fit each individual client within a safe, trusting, empathetic, nonjudgmental, and collaborative relationship. Life is complicated and unpredictable and we all need support sometimes to help us navigate its challenges.
(323) 498-3645 View (323) 498-3645
Photo of Dr. Ashley Ebbert, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Dr. Ashley Ebbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have successfully helped individuals and couples across the lifespan with diverse backgrounds and unique histories struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity confusion, life transitions, and finding meaning and purpose.
Do you feel stuck? Unfulfilled? Disconnected from yourself or others? Or generally unhappy with life? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress? Or find it difficult to manage your emotions? If so, I want to help you get unstuck, increase your self-worth, build healthy relationships, and find meaning and purpose in your life. Drawing from a wealth of clinical experience, having completed my BA from Cornell University, PhD from Arizona State University, and clinical residency and postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Southern California, I will help you expand your experience, unlock your potential, and transform your life.
Throughout my career, I have successfully helped individuals and couples across the lifespan with diverse backgrounds and unique histories struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity confusion, life transitions, and finding meaning and purpose.
Do you feel stuck? Unfulfilled? Disconnected from yourself or others? Or generally unhappy with life? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress? Or find it difficult to manage your emotions? If so, I want to help you get unstuck, increase your self-worth, build healthy relationships, and find meaning and purpose in your life. Drawing from a wealth of clinical experience, having completed my BA from Cornell University, PhD from Arizona State University, and clinical residency and postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Southern California, I will help you expand your experience, unlock your potential, and transform your life.
(323) 709-8740 View (323) 709-8740
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.