Couples Counseling Therapists in Newport Beach, CA

Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(949) 229-4818 View (949) 229-4818
Photo of Patrick J. Manion, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Patrick J. Manion
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
First of all, you're not “broken” and you don’t need to be “fixed.” You just need help finding answers to your concerns; answers that you already possess but just can't access. You need a person, with both personal and professional experience who understands your concerns to help you to sort through and address them . That’s where I can help. If you want an emotionally distant therapist who uses psychobabble and views you as a project, I won't be a good fit for you. Rather, if you want a confidant and partner who believes therapy should be personal, non-threatening and understandable, please keep reading.
First of all, you're not “broken” and you don’t need to be “fixed.” You just need help finding answers to your concerns; answers that you already possess but just can't access. You need a person, with both personal and professional experience who understands your concerns to help you to sort through and address them . That’s where I can help. If you want an emotionally distant therapist who uses psychobabble and views you as a project, I won't be a good fit for you. Rather, if you want a confidant and partner who believes therapy should be personal, non-threatening and understandable, please keep reading.
(949) 229-4875 View (949) 229-4875
Photo of Sara Asadifar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sara Asadifar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Do feelings always feel intense and raw? Do these feelings take over and get in the way of your relationship or closeness with others? These are patterns that scream a need to survive and to protect. I am here to help you appreciate the way your body has tried to keep you safe for years while also learning how and why it shows up, whether it be in or out of the bedroom. We need to feel heard and seen in our pain and that is what I value providing in our sessions. Together, we will identify your needs and goals in order to feel balanced and connected to others.
Do feelings always feel intense and raw? Do these feelings take over and get in the way of your relationship or closeness with others? These are patterns that scream a need to survive and to protect. I am here to help you appreciate the way your body has tried to keep you safe for years while also learning how and why it shows up, whether it be in or out of the bedroom. We need to feel heard and seen in our pain and that is what I value providing in our sessions. Together, we will identify your needs and goals in order to feel balanced and connected to others.
(714) 766-0227 View (714) 766-0227
Photo of Kendal Hurd, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Kendal Hurd
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I also enjoy working with adolescents, young children and couples.
Are you feeling out of sorts, uncertain about what path to take? Are you stuck in a routine that leaves you feeling irritable or discouraged or questioning your own reactions? Do you want more self awareness and peace? I have spent nearly two decades working directly with families and individuals in crisis and uncertainty. With empathy and directness, I seek to bring attention to your strengths and develop your flexibility and capacity for life's complications. I teach clients to explore their inner world with curiosity and practice self compassion to confidently exist. I am committed to your needs and goals for healing.
I also enjoy working with adolescents, young children and couples.
Are you feeling out of sorts, uncertain about what path to take? Are you stuck in a routine that leaves you feeling irritable or discouraged or questioning your own reactions? Do you want more self awareness and peace? I have spent nearly two decades working directly with families and individuals in crisis and uncertainty. With empathy and directness, I seek to bring attention to your strengths and develop your flexibility and capacity for life's complications. I teach clients to explore their inner world with curiosity and practice self compassion to confidently exist. I am committed to your needs and goals for healing.
(949) 828-3900 View (949) 828-3900
Photo of Carol Eddy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Carol Eddy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you struggling to recover from a painful loss? Feeling down, stressed, or overwhelmed? Maybe you find yourself lying awake worrying about your relationship, family, money, or life in general. Being strong all the time can be exhausting. We are all just doing the best we can every day, and it's easy to feel alone. Therapy can be a great place to slow down, to think carefully about your life, and get support. Maybe you just need someone to talk to, who will listen, without judgment. With over 20 years of experience I can also give constructive feedback, and help you find new approaches to old problems.
Are you struggling to recover from a painful loss? Feeling down, stressed, or overwhelmed? Maybe you find yourself lying awake worrying about your relationship, family, money, or life in general. Being strong all the time can be exhausting. We are all just doing the best we can every day, and it's easy to feel alone. Therapy can be a great place to slow down, to think carefully about your life, and get support. Maybe you just need someone to talk to, who will listen, without judgment. With over 20 years of experience I can also give constructive feedback, and help you find new approaches to old problems.
(949) 799-1353 View (949) 799-1353
Photo of David Welch Ph.d. in Newport Beach, CA
David Welch Ph.d.
PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
We have a number of licensed therapist, certified chemical dependency counselors and life coaches available to see people either individually or as couples/family for private therapy.
Wel-Mor Psychology Group is dedicated to helping people help themselves to improve the quality of their lives and their relationships. We aim to assist people in exploring the root cause of their struggles and finding alternative and healthier ways to cope. We provide a variety of outpatient therapy and counseling options including private individual, couples or family therapy, and group counseling at a number of locations throughout Orange County, California.
We have a number of licensed therapist, certified chemical dependency counselors and life coaches available to see people either individually or as couples/family for private therapy.
Wel-Mor Psychology Group is dedicated to helping people help themselves to improve the quality of their lives and their relationships. We aim to assist people in exploring the root cause of their struggles and finding alternative and healthier ways to cope. We provide a variety of outpatient therapy and counseling options including private individual, couples or family therapy, and group counseling at a number of locations throughout Orange County, California.
(657) 242-2734 View (657) 242-2734
Photo of Ken Ribotsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Ken Ribotsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMSII
Verified Verified
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) 383-4496 View (949) 383-4496
Photo of Shavvonne Walls, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Shavvonne Walls
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT, PsyDc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Welcome! Are you a high achiever? Perfectionist? Highly anxious? Relationship issues? Struggle with Addiction? Everyone thinks you have it all together but deep down you’re drowning. You struggle with imposter syndrome, never feeling good enough, and feeling disconnected. These are some of the common symptoms associated with trauma. As a trauma specialist, I utilize evidence based methods to enable individuals and couples overcome the impact of painful life experiences or trauma. Imagine if your symptoms no longer controlled you. You feel safe and confident that you can face life challenges. You can create strong relationships.
Welcome! Are you a high achiever? Perfectionist? Highly anxious? Relationship issues? Struggle with Addiction? Everyone thinks you have it all together but deep down you’re drowning. You struggle with imposter syndrome, never feeling good enough, and feeling disconnected. These are some of the common symptoms associated with trauma. As a trauma specialist, I utilize evidence based methods to enable individuals and couples overcome the impact of painful life experiences or trauma. Imagine if your symptoms no longer controlled you. You feel safe and confident that you can face life challenges. You can create strong relationships.
(949) 996-9803 View (949) 996-9803
Photo of Elizabeth Urbano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Elizabeth Urbano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For the last 12 years of my clinical work, I have provided psychotherapy for a wide range of issues such as trauma, grief, abuse, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Urbano. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in the state of California. I would like to tell you a little about myself that may help you decide if I would be a good fit for you. Let me begin by saying that one of my goals in therapy is to create a safe space where you feel respected and comfortable to explore any challenging issues that may be affecting you. And, through therapeutic work explored with compassion, help you gain insight and learn new skills that will help improve your well-being.
For the last 12 years of my clinical work, I have provided psychotherapy for a wide range of issues such as trauma, grief, abuse, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Urbano. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in the state of California. I would like to tell you a little about myself that may help you decide if I would be a good fit for you. Let me begin by saying that one of my goals in therapy is to create a safe space where you feel respected and comfortable to explore any challenging issues that may be affecting you. And, through therapeutic work explored with compassion, help you gain insight and learn new skills that will help improve your well-being.
(949) 749-6893 View (949) 749-6893
Photo of Daishea Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Daishea Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I specialize in anxiety and depression due to challenges related to relationship difficulties, life transition, existential crises, and/or identity issues.
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
I specialize in anxiety and depression due to challenges related to relationship difficulties, life transition, existential crises, and/or identity issues.
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
(949) 229-4593 View (949) 229-4593
Photo of Cindy May, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Cindy May
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
May specializes in the evaluation and treatment of adolescents, adults and couples experiencing emotional, behavioral, and relationship difficulties.
Dr. May has over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist, researcher, educator, and supervisor in the field of mental health. She has had the privilege of training at UCLA with leading experts in the field of psychiatry and psychology and conducted clinical research at the UCLA Medical Center for several years. Dr. May has helped countless adolescents, adults, families, and couples overcome their personal obstacles to live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
May specializes in the evaluation and treatment of adolescents, adults and couples experiencing emotional, behavioral, and relationship difficulties.
Dr. May has over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist, researcher, educator, and supervisor in the field of mental health. She has had the privilege of training at UCLA with leading experts in the field of psychiatry and psychology and conducted clinical research at the UCLA Medical Center for several years. Dr. May has helped countless adolescents, adults, families, and couples overcome their personal obstacles to live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
(949) 531-7247 View (949) 531-7247
Photo of Dr. Richard Gilbert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Dr. Richard Gilbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
Dr. Richard Gilbert has over 35 years of experience working with individuals and couples and is an integrative behavioral couple therapy (IBCT) expert. He is Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles where he taught courses in Clinical and Developmental Psychology, served as Director of the Graduate Program in Marriage and Family Therapy and Associate Chair of the Psychology Department, and founded The Psychology and New Technology Lab, a research program that studied the personal and cultural impact of leading-edge digital technologies such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence.
Dr. Richard Gilbert has over 35 years of experience working with individuals and couples and is an integrative behavioral couple therapy (IBCT) expert. He is Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles where he taught courses in Clinical and Developmental Psychology, served as Director of the Graduate Program in Marriage and Family Therapy and Associate Chair of the Psychology Department, and founded The Psychology and New Technology Lab, a research program that studied the personal and cultural impact of leading-edge digital technologies such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence.
(949) 876-4915 View (949) 876-4915
Photo of Tony Fiore, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Tony Fiore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I start with discernment counseling which help couples decide with greater clarity and confidence which path they want to take regarding the future of their relationship.
I have had an active clinical practice for over 30 years, specializing in marital and sexual therapy, anger and stress management. Clients see me as a competent professional and a person they feel comfortable with. I like to see couples who are motivated to improve their relationship and learn skills to be better partners. I am seen as quit balanced in my approach and ''down the middle" in terms of seeing things from both gender points of view. Because of this, many husbands participate in couples therapy with me that might otherwise not feel comfortable in therapy.
I start with discernment counseling which help couples decide with greater clarity and confidence which path they want to take regarding the future of their relationship.
I have had an active clinical practice for over 30 years, specializing in marital and sexual therapy, anger and stress management. Clients see me as a competent professional and a person they feel comfortable with. I like to see couples who are motivated to improve their relationship and learn skills to be better partners. I am seen as quit balanced in my approach and ''down the middle" in terms of seeing things from both gender points of view. Because of this, many husbands participate in couples therapy with me that might otherwise not feel comfortable in therapy.
(714) 252-7157 View (714) 252-7157
Photo of Rebecca Segars Washington, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Rebecca Segars Washington
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you feel overwhelmed by what it means to live up to someone else’s standards? Do you hope that life can feel more fulfilling? Now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about finding their place in life, managing difficult family dynamics, and overcoming anxiety. I believe that it shouldn’t be so hard to feel calm and connected. I offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families who are looking to feel more secure and understood.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you feel overwhelmed by what it means to live up to someone else’s standards? Do you hope that life can feel more fulfilling? Now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about finding their place in life, managing difficult family dynamics, and overcoming anxiety. I believe that it shouldn’t be so hard to feel calm and connected. I offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families who are looking to feel more secure and understood.
(949) 619-6855 View (949) 619-6855
Photo of Deborah Hendlin, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Deborah Hendlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I TREAT AFFAIRS- I invite you to pause and pay close attention to your inner voice. You have managed to avoid your concerns yet know at some level you are not satisfied. Do you sense your partner is cheating? Are you? Does your relationship lack intimacy and passion and feel alone when together? Sexual problems? Can't stop compulsive shopping or cybersex behavior? Emotionally exhausted from pointless dating? Lonely and disconnected? Missing"Hygge" in your home? When you look in the mirror are you dissatisfied? Life racing by leaving you feeling old and defeated? Longing to age gracefully? Can't sleep? Feeling bored professionally?
I TREAT AFFAIRS- I invite you to pause and pay close attention to your inner voice. You have managed to avoid your concerns yet know at some level you are not satisfied. Do you sense your partner is cheating? Are you? Does your relationship lack intimacy and passion and feel alone when together? Sexual problems? Can't stop compulsive shopping or cybersex behavior? Emotionally exhausted from pointless dating? Lonely and disconnected? Missing"Hygge" in your home? When you look in the mirror are you dissatisfied? Life racing by leaving you feeling old and defeated? Longing to age gracefully? Can't sleep? Feeling bored professionally?
(949) 505-9798 View (949) 505-9798
Photo of Sandi Fontana, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sandi Fontana
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a seasoned therapist, I specialize in helping couples find a deeper connection, repair rupture, and define meaningful and realistic goals for their relationship. I also specialize in collaborating with individuals to achieve desired outcomes. I am an expert in my field and not an expert in your life. Therefore, I will work hard to help you understand your intuitive self and guide you to a path of healing on your own journey.
As a seasoned therapist, I specialize in helping couples find a deeper connection, repair rupture, and define meaningful and realistic goals for their relationship. I also specialize in collaborating with individuals to achieve desired outcomes. I am an expert in my field and not an expert in your life. Therefore, I will work hard to help you understand your intuitive self and guide you to a path of healing on your own journey.
(949) 244-7171 View (949) 244-7171
Photo of Jamie Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Jamie Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
(949) 426-7349 View (949) 426-7349
Photo of Jenny Marshall, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Jenny Marshall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Dr. Jenny Marshall, Ph.D., stands out as a clinical psychologist in Newport and Laguna Beach, with experience supporting individuals through a wide range of mental health concerns. With a practice grounded in empathy and evidence-based methodologies, Dr. Marshall offers a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to explore and overcome their challenges. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, or more complex psychological conditions, Dr. Marshall applies a holistic approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Dr. Jenny Marshall, Ph.D., stands out as a clinical psychologist in Newport and Laguna Beach, with experience supporting individuals through a wide range of mental health concerns. With a practice grounded in empathy and evidence-based methodologies, Dr. Marshall offers a safe space for individuals, couples, and families to explore and overcome their challenges. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, or more complex psychological conditions, Dr. Marshall applies a holistic approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
(949) 546-6763 View (949) 546-6763
Photo of Sunshine Golson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Sunshine Golson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
When working with couples the self doubt that "if-then" statements create can creep into that relationship.
Have you said to yourself "IF" I make enough money, lose weight, etc., "THEN" I will be happy, content, or joyous, only to find that you are left feeling incomplete or unaccomplished? Have you gotten to a point in your life where the "if-then" statements you make to yourself have left you feeling unworthy and critical of yourself? Do you ever find yourself fixated on your worth as a person, parent, or loved one? Using an eclectic approach I work with clients to find their worth, ease their critical voice, and create a joyous life through self-acceptance.
When working with couples the self doubt that "if-then" statements create can creep into that relationship.
Have you said to yourself "IF" I make enough money, lose weight, etc., "THEN" I will be happy, content, or joyous, only to find that you are left feeling incomplete or unaccomplished? Have you gotten to a point in your life where the "if-then" statements you make to yourself have left you feeling unworthy and critical of yourself? Do you ever find yourself fixated on your worth as a person, parent, or loved one? Using an eclectic approach I work with clients to find their worth, ease their critical voice, and create a joyous life through self-acceptance.
(714) 845-7882 View (714) 845-7882

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.