Photo of Kids and Family Counseling PLLC., Counselor in Redmond, WA
Kids and Family Counseling PLLC.
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC, BCBA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
(425) 549-9710 View (425) 549-9710
Photo of Ata U. Karim, Psychologist in Redmond, WA
Ata U. Karim
Psychologist, PhD, MSIO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Execs, managers, busy professionals struggling with Stress. Anxiety, Burnout, unhappy with your life and or feeling stuck in your relationships or career. High demands taking their toll? You’re used to being at the top of your game in your career, but confronted by these challenges you never anticipated. If you are a professional of color, international or recent immigrant you face additional challenges of bias, prejudice and microaggressions in the workplace. Reclaim your happiness, energy and empowerment? Be your best self in your personal & professional life.
Execs, managers, busy professionals struggling with Stress. Anxiety, Burnout, unhappy with your life and or feeling stuck in your relationships or career. High demands taking their toll? You’re used to being at the top of your game in your career, but confronted by these challenges you never anticipated. If you are a professional of color, international or recent immigrant you face additional challenges of bias, prejudice and microaggressions in the workplace. Reclaim your happiness, energy and empowerment? Be your best self in your personal & professional life.
(206) 489-3126 View (206) 489-3126
Photo of Hemlata Mistry, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Hemlata Mistry
Counselor, MEd, RN, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
(206) 466-3534 View (206) 466-3534
Photo of Sheila Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Redmond, WA
Sheila Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSWAIC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I'm a retired professor with over 15+ years of teaching & research experience exploring the relationship between one's identities & lived experiences.
Have you experienced being in a space where there isn’t anyone who looks or feels like you? You felt different and unwelcomed somehow... Did you experience difference in a way that made small paper cuts in your heart? Using a trauma-informed integrative approach to self-discovery and healing, I invite you on a journey to explore how your lived experiences shaped your perception of yourself and the world around you, your pattern of communication, and the relationship that you have with yourself and others. Key questions driving our work together: (1) Who are you? (2) How did you get here? (3) Where would you like to go from here?
I'm a retired professor with over 15+ years of teaching & research experience exploring the relationship between one's identities & lived experiences.
Have you experienced being in a space where there isn’t anyone who looks or feels like you? You felt different and unwelcomed somehow... Did you experience difference in a way that made small paper cuts in your heart? Using a trauma-informed integrative approach to self-discovery and healing, I invite you on a journey to explore how your lived experiences shaped your perception of yourself and the world around you, your pattern of communication, and the relationship that you have with yourself and others. Key questions driving our work together: (1) Who are you? (2) How did you get here? (3) Where would you like to go from here?
(425) 517-2472 View (425) 517-2472
Photo of Galit Arad-Trutner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Redmond, WA
Galit Arad-Trutner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Not accepting new clients
I collaborate with individuals, families and couples to invite self awareness and ease into their daily lives, and to the conflicts that inevitably arise internally and in relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do relationships in your life feel challenging? We all need a little help sometimes with what life serves us. sometimes parts of us are working really hard to keep going, while other parts seem to be in the way. All parts of you are truly welcomed here, and through the lens of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and its tools you will get a chance to get to know and love yourself from the inside out. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment as we explore these parts of you, and find a path to your goals and a happier more fulfilling life.
I collaborate with individuals, families and couples to invite self awareness and ease into their daily lives, and to the conflicts that inevitably arise internally and in relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do relationships in your life feel challenging? We all need a little help sometimes with what life serves us. sometimes parts of us are working really hard to keep going, while other parts seem to be in the way. All parts of you are truly welcomed here, and through the lens of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and its tools you will get a chance to get to know and love yourself from the inside out. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment as we explore these parts of you, and find a path to your goals and a happier more fulfilling life.
(425) 610-8952 View (425) 610-8952
Photo of Gerri Tay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Redmond, WA
Gerri Tay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
I offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for individuals and Bader's Developmental Model for couples.
Something does not feel right, you are having a hard time. You’re stuck, conflicted, and can't decide what to do. Or maybe a part of you thinks one way and another part feels differently. You feel disconnected and alone. Others have tried to help, but you feel like they don't really get you and want you to "just get over it". Shame and frustration set in. Maybe you have a sense that some trauma from your past is blocking you from living the life that you want. You want to get unstuck, have a clear roadmap to know what to do next and how to go about healing. You want to experience real joy and connection again.
I offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for individuals and Bader's Developmental Model for couples.
Something does not feel right, you are having a hard time. You’re stuck, conflicted, and can't decide what to do. Or maybe a part of you thinks one way and another part feels differently. You feel disconnected and alone. Others have tried to help, but you feel like they don't really get you and want you to "just get over it". Shame and frustration set in. Maybe you have a sense that some trauma from your past is blocking you from living the life that you want. You want to get unstuck, have a clear roadmap to know what to do next and how to go about healing. You want to experience real joy and connection again.
(425) 448-4614 View (425) 448-4614
Photo of Felicia Molano, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Felicia Molano
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98074  (Online Only)
Is sex a problem for you or your relationship? Are you tired of arguing about sex & avoiding intimacy? Has infidelity or sexual trauma hurt your ability to feel safe and connect? If you're tired of trying to fix things on your own, it's probably time to get support from a specialist. I help individuals & couples work though sexual struggles, heal from trauma, and rebuild intimacy. Together, we can create a plan to help you experience a deeper and fulfilling relationship. I build upon your strengths, while healing wounds that fuel suffering and keep us stuck. I'll walk alongside you as we work together on your goals set at your pace.
Is sex a problem for you or your relationship? Are you tired of arguing about sex & avoiding intimacy? Has infidelity or sexual trauma hurt your ability to feel safe and connect? If you're tired of trying to fix things on your own, it's probably time to get support from a specialist. I help individuals & couples work though sexual struggles, heal from trauma, and rebuild intimacy. Together, we can create a plan to help you experience a deeper and fulfilling relationship. I build upon your strengths, while healing wounds that fuel suffering and keep us stuck. I'll walk alongside you as we work together on your goals set at your pace.
(855) 941-5117 View (855) 941-5117
Photo of Lucinda Bennewith-Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Redmond, WA
Lucinda Bennewith-Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, and more. I work with children 6-12 years old, with a parent/primary care-giver. I am passionate about working with those navigating the mental load of motherhood, IVF/fertility issues, multicultural identity, and internalized oppression. I enjoy working systemically with families, to help gain a better understanding of how their "operating system" may contribute to the presenting issue and ways to shift it. I incorporate body awareness techniques with all my clients to improve the mind body connection.
I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, and more. I work with children 6-12 years old, with a parent/primary care-giver. I am passionate about working with those navigating the mental load of motherhood, IVF/fertility issues, multicultural identity, and internalized oppression. I enjoy working systemically with families, to help gain a better understanding of how their "operating system" may contribute to the presenting issue and ways to shift it. I incorporate body awareness techniques with all my clients to improve the mind body connection.
(425) 537-4134 View (425) 537-4134
Photo of Sara Mortaheb, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Redmond, WA
Sara Mortaheb
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
I have had the privilege of providing services to individuals, couples, and families facing a wide range of challenges including depression, loneliness, life transitions, perfectionism, relationship challenges, family conflicts, anxiety, body image, stress, trauma, identity concerns, and LGBTQIA+ issues. It is my role to meet you where you are in your life right now, support you during challenging times, and help you to know yourself better.
I have had the privilege of providing services to individuals, couples, and families facing a wide range of challenges including depression, loneliness, life transitions, perfectionism, relationship challenges, family conflicts, anxiety, body image, stress, trauma, identity concerns, and LGBTQIA+ issues. It is my role to meet you where you are in your life right now, support you during challenging times, and help you to know yourself better.
(425) 414-3428 View (425) 414-3428
Photo of Dr. Priyal Ranasinghe, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Dr. Priyal Ranasinghe
Counselor, PsyD, MBA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Do you and your partner struggle to understand each other? Does your ADHD lead to forgetfulness and arguments? Has infidelity or sexual addiction caused a rupture in trust with your relationship? I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the unique challenges of neurodivergent relationships, as well as breaches of trust from betrayal. I can help you connect on a deeper level by leveraging your strengths and addressing emotional barriers making it hard to communicate and express empathy. Together, you can build a stronger, more supportive relationship and create the connection and intimacy you both want.
Do you and your partner struggle to understand each other? Does your ADHD lead to forgetfulness and arguments? Has infidelity or sexual addiction caused a rupture in trust with your relationship? I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the unique challenges of neurodivergent relationships, as well as breaches of trust from betrayal. I can help you connect on a deeper level by leveraging your strengths and addressing emotional barriers making it hard to communicate and express empathy. Together, you can build a stronger, more supportive relationship and create the connection and intimacy you both want.
(425) 437-2386 View (425) 437-2386
Photo of Amisha Gandhi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Redmond, WA
Amisha Gandhi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Have you ever wanted to come to therapy but do not know where to begin? Sometimes, taking the first step may be scary, especially if this is your first time or you have had a bad experience. I have a passion not only for helping but also for listening to individuals, couples, and families. However, I am incredibly passionate about helping women of color, adolescents (12+), families, and adults of all ages address life's challenges, such as anxiety, depression, school issues, divorce, relationships, families, and work-life balance.
Have you ever wanted to come to therapy but do not know where to begin? Sometimes, taking the first step may be scary, especially if this is your first time or you have had a bad experience. I have a passion not only for helping but also for listening to individuals, couples, and families. However, I am incredibly passionate about helping women of color, adolescents (12+), families, and adults of all ages address life's challenges, such as anxiety, depression, school issues, divorce, relationships, families, and work-life balance.
(425) 399-5891 View (425) 399-5891
Photo of Angela R. Schellenberg, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Angela R. Schellenberg
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, K-8 cer
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I work with couples, families to help them with communication and relationships.
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
I work with couples, families to help them with communication and relationships.
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
(206) 278-3407 View (206) 278-3407
Photo of Dr. Alison Batchelder, Psychologist in Redmond, WA
Dr. Alison Batchelder
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C, PsyPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
As human beings, we frequently subject ourselves to harsh self-judgment. While self-criticism has its merits on occasion, it often engenders emotional turmoil. Research into self-compassion has unveiled its extraordinary ability to diminish anxiety, depression, and stress while elevating motivation, confidence, and overall performance. Yet, the practical application of self-compassion is often more challenging than mere words suggest.
As human beings, we frequently subject ourselves to harsh self-judgment. While self-criticism has its merits on occasion, it often engenders emotional turmoil. Research into self-compassion has unveiled its extraordinary ability to diminish anxiety, depression, and stress while elevating motivation, confidence, and overall performance. Yet, the practical application of self-compassion is often more challenging than mere words suggest.
(425) 414-8155 View (425) 414-8155
Photo of Kelly Egan, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Kelly Egan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Kelly, a mental health therapist. My specialty is working with ADHD in adolescents and adults, as well as recently diagnosed adults. ADHD can have a crippling effect upon self esteem and general life functioning. I think ADHD is a gift and can allow us to operate and think in ways that can be very insightful. I have spent the last 4 years working in middle school, high schools and working with high level engineers and executives from major Seattle based companies with ADHD symptoms. ADHD comes in many packages, please allow me to assist in helping you to create a positive platform to launch from.
Hello! I am Kelly, a mental health therapist. My specialty is working with ADHD in adolescents and adults, as well as recently diagnosed adults. ADHD can have a crippling effect upon self esteem and general life functioning. I think ADHD is a gift and can allow us to operate and think in ways that can be very insightful. I have spent the last 4 years working in middle school, high schools and working with high level engineers and executives from major Seattle based companies with ADHD symptoms. ADHD comes in many packages, please allow me to assist in helping you to create a positive platform to launch from.
(206) 984-2093 View (206) 984-2093
Photo of Hailey Clum, Pre-Licensed Professional in Redmond, WA
Hailey Clum
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Please note: I am not accepting new clients, as my caseload is full, but will have spots in Summer 2024. Therapy can be a challenging and fulfilling experience that caters to each person’s needs. Knowing that there may be a variety of influences and obstacles you are navigating, it is my hope and aspiration to collaborate with you. I intend to provide a brave space that fosters a supportive and welcoming environment for you to share experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Leading with empathy, affirmation, and earnest listening are my goals when working with clients. My hope is you walk away feeling understood and encouraged.
Please note: I am not accepting new clients, as my caseload is full, but will have spots in Summer 2024. Therapy can be a challenging and fulfilling experience that caters to each person’s needs. Knowing that there may be a variety of influences and obstacles you are navigating, it is my hope and aspiration to collaborate with you. I intend to provide a brave space that fosters a supportive and welcoming environment for you to share experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Leading with empathy, affirmation, and earnest listening are my goals when working with clients. My hope is you walk away feeling understood and encouraged.
(206) 758-5435 View (206) 758-5435
Photo of April Jones- Marriage And Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Redmond, WA
April Jones- Marriage And Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist that helps individuals and couples navigate the challenges of modern life. We explore how roles in family, relational, social, and cultural networks influence the whole person. The client is the expert on their story and my role is to help translate that narrative through our combined knowledge. Clients I work with often feel they have all the outside elements for a happy life, but still struggle with stress, relational problems, self-esteem, and work issues. Something is missing or preventing fulfillment and it is our collaborative efforts that help us discover and remove those barriers.
I am a marriage and family therapist that helps individuals and couples navigate the challenges of modern life. We explore how roles in family, relational, social, and cultural networks influence the whole person. The client is the expert on their story and my role is to help translate that narrative through our combined knowledge. Clients I work with often feel they have all the outside elements for a happy life, but still struggle with stress, relational problems, self-esteem, and work issues. Something is missing or preventing fulfillment and it is our collaborative efforts that help us discover and remove those barriers.
(425) 541-1231 View (425) 541-1231
Photo of Georgia Faye Grammer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Redmond, WA
Georgia Faye Grammer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I'm a Certified IFS Therapist (Level 2), trained in IFIO (Intimacy from the Inside Out- IFS for couples), Treating Internalized Oppression, Psychodynamic-Relational, attachment-focused & neurodiversity affirmative therapies.
Accepting clients. To survive in a traumatized, ego-centric culture filled with counterfeit images, we pay a steep price - trauma & pain in our disconnected bodies, loneliness & broken-heartedness in our relationships, an unmet longing for passionate, meaningful engagement with the world. Crisis, illness, pain, suffering & despair become the catalyst for change, awakening our yearning for a more courageous, authentic, embodied life. Speaking to us through symptoms, grief, images, longings, dreams- the soul calls- beckoning us into the unknown, asking us to surrender what no longer serves us. I help people navigate this wilderness.
I'm a Certified IFS Therapist (Level 2), trained in IFIO (Intimacy from the Inside Out- IFS for couples), Treating Internalized Oppression, Psychodynamic-Relational, attachment-focused & neurodiversity affirmative therapies.
Accepting clients. To survive in a traumatized, ego-centric culture filled with counterfeit images, we pay a steep price - trauma & pain in our disconnected bodies, loneliness & broken-heartedness in our relationships, an unmet longing for passionate, meaningful engagement with the world. Crisis, illness, pain, suffering & despair become the catalyst for change, awakening our yearning for a more courageous, authentic, embodied life. Speaking to us through symptoms, grief, images, longings, dreams- the soul calls- beckoning us into the unknown, asking us to surrender what no longer serves us. I help people navigate this wilderness.
(425) 906-3976 View (425) 906-3976
Photo of Zainab Akef, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Zainab Akef
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
If you are a person who is willing to put the work in, ready to be vulnerable in the process, and wants a therapeutic relationship that is collaborative, I am here for you. I have experience in dealing with depression, anxiety, and multicultural issues. I also have experience with teenagers and young adults dealing with different life transitions and acculturative stress. I am bilingual in English and Arabic, and want to help you express yourself in the language you feel most comfortable in.
If you are a person who is willing to put the work in, ready to be vulnerable in the process, and wants a therapeutic relationship that is collaborative, I am here for you. I have experience in dealing with depression, anxiety, and multicultural issues. I also have experience with teenagers and young adults dealing with different life transitions and acculturative stress. I am bilingual in English and Arabic, and want to help you express yourself in the language you feel most comfortable in.
(425) 372-7843 View (425) 372-7843
Photo of Tomomi Ito, Counselor in Redmond, WA
Tomomi Ito
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98053
Not accepting new clients
Everyone experiences troubles and stress in life. We all search for meaning, especially in difficult times. My role is to help you navigate through that journey and provide appropriate tools for facing life's difficulties. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental and positive environment so that we can explore options, build upon your natural strengths, evaluate directions and help you achieve success in your life goals. I see people as being unique and the key to your healing process is within you. My goal is to become your guide and witness to your journey.
Everyone experiences troubles and stress in life. We all search for meaning, especially in difficult times. My role is to help you navigate through that journey and provide appropriate tools for facing life's difficulties. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental and positive environment so that we can explore options, build upon your natural strengths, evaluate directions and help you achieve success in your life goals. I see people as being unique and the key to your healing process is within you. My goal is to become your guide and witness to your journey.
(425) 970-9711 View (425) 970-9711
Photo of Wen-Yu Cheng, Jungian Analyst, Neuropsychologist, Psychologist in Redmond, WA
Wen-Yu Cheng, Jungian Analyst, Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Welcome to what may well be a journey of transformation. As a psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Jungian analyst, I am dedicated to facilitating your psychotherapy or neurorehabilitation. My background in neuropsychology, mindfulness, Jungian/depth psychology, and multicultural perspectives enables me to tailor our work, guiding you through your inner struggles, relationship issues, and brain health challenges (e.g., stress, anxiety/depression/grief, trauma, racial identities, LGBTQ+, life transitions, aging, chronic illness, brain injury/TBI/Alzheimer's). Together, we can arrive at a path of growth that makes sense to you.
Welcome to what may well be a journey of transformation. As a psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Jungian analyst, I am dedicated to facilitating your psychotherapy or neurorehabilitation. My background in neuropsychology, mindfulness, Jungian/depth psychology, and multicultural perspectives enables me to tailor our work, guiding you through your inner struggles, relationship issues, and brain health challenges (e.g., stress, anxiety/depression/grief, trauma, racial identities, LGBTQ+, life transitions, aging, chronic illness, brain injury/TBI/Alzheimer's). Together, we can arrive at a path of growth that makes sense to you.
(206) 208-8451 View (206) 208-8451
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.