Couples Counseling Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Muriel Vinson in Roanoke, VA
Muriel Vinson
MA, AMFT, QMHP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
You are not a lost cause, and I am happy to serve as a source of support and hope for teens, individual adults, couples and families.
We are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we are not good enough, we are the problem, or we're not doing enough. This leads many feeling anxious, defeated, worthless and burnt out. I'm here to remind and show you that you are worthy of care, you are worthy of feeling seen and heard, and you are worthy of feeling understood. During therapy, I facilitate a deeper understanding of self, allowing you to identify behavioral and decision-making patterns that contribute to dis-ease and dis-function in your life. You can't hit a target you don't have. Let's identify opportunities for positive change for wellbeing and freedom.
You are not a lost cause, and I am happy to serve as a source of support and hope for teens, individual adults, couples and families.
We are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we are not good enough, we are the problem, or we're not doing enough. This leads many feeling anxious, defeated, worthless and burnt out. I'm here to remind and show you that you are worthy of care, you are worthy of feeling seen and heard, and you are worthy of feeling understood. During therapy, I facilitate a deeper understanding of self, allowing you to identify behavioral and decision-making patterns that contribute to dis-ease and dis-function in your life. You can't hit a target you don't have. Let's identify opportunities for positive change for wellbeing and freedom.
(540) 502-3950 View (540) 502-3950
Photo of Heidi Ann Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Heidi Ann Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
It is my belief that growth and healing happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship.
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
It is my belief that growth and healing happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship.
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
(540) 253-1479 View (540) 253-1479
Photo of Bailey Ratliff, Resident in Counseling in Roanoke, VA
Bailey Ratliff
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
I have a clinical focus in trauma (EMDR), life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling (Gottman level 1), and premarital counseling (SYMBIS).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
I have a clinical focus in trauma (EMDR), life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling (Gottman level 1), and premarital counseling (SYMBIS).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
(540) 453-8278 View (540) 453-8278
Photo of Regina Rivera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Regina Rivera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
I offer individual or couples counseling.
You deserve a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment to share, explore and make progress. As your counselor, I will work diligently to meet you exactly where you are, help you feel comfortable and have a non-judgmental counseling space. You should feel validated, supported and empowered during your journey in counseling and I want to provide you with individualized treatment and care. Our collaborative relationship is of the utmost importance to me, and it is at the very foundation of our work together. I am committed to helping you feel empowered to work toward meeting your individual goals and increasing happiness.
I offer individual or couples counseling.
You deserve a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment to share, explore and make progress. As your counselor, I will work diligently to meet you exactly where you are, help you feel comfortable and have a non-judgmental counseling space. You should feel validated, supported and empowered during your journey in counseling and I want to provide you with individualized treatment and care. Our collaborative relationship is of the utmost importance to me, and it is at the very foundation of our work together. I am committed to helping you feel empowered to work toward meeting your individual goals and increasing happiness.
(540) 583-3744 View (540) 583-3744
Photo of Kelley Ott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Kelley Ott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
It is my honor to give therapy and counsel to people who carry a heavy load, especially to individuals with trauma and couples.
What would life be like if you could spend more time doing what really matters instead of just making it through the day and surviving? Have you experienced hard things in your past that still affect you today, and you wish that would change? Do you feel that sharp twinge in your chest when you think about just how far away you are from the relationships you want? If you have ever struggled with motivation, meaning, a difficult childhood, or a relationship that has lost its fire and hope, you understand how painful and gray the world can be when life isn't working.
It is my honor to give therapy and counsel to people who carry a heavy load, especially to individuals with trauma and couples.
What would life be like if you could spend more time doing what really matters instead of just making it through the day and surviving? Have you experienced hard things in your past that still affect you today, and you wish that would change? Do you feel that sharp twinge in your chest when you think about just how far away you are from the relationships you want? If you have ever struggled with motivation, meaning, a difficult childhood, or a relationship that has lost its fire and hope, you understand how painful and gray the world can be when life isn't working.
(540) 210-1529 View (540) 210-1529
Photo of Chanelle Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Chanelle Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Chanelle Henderson, a licensed professional counselor specializing in compassionate support for all those along life's journey. When you step into my office, I see that you are letting me into sacred ground. ​ As a counselor, my role is to provide a place so you can be brave enough to heal and grow. I will support you with cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices so you can strengthen a deeper relationship with yourself and those closest to you. I specialize in working with those affected by traumatic experiences such as the immigration process, childhood abuse, and perinatal recovery.
Welcome! I'm Chanelle Henderson, a licensed professional counselor specializing in compassionate support for all those along life's journey. When you step into my office, I see that you are letting me into sacred ground. ​ As a counselor, my role is to provide a place so you can be brave enough to heal and grow. I will support you with cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices so you can strengthen a deeper relationship with yourself and those closest to you. I specialize in working with those affected by traumatic experiences such as the immigration process, childhood abuse, and perinatal recovery.
(540) 253-4779 View (540) 253-4779
Photo of Zach Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Zach Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24019
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal and occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in the community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal and occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in the community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
(540) 390-1780 View (540) 390-1780
Photo of Impact Living Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Impact Living Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
We offer individual and family therapy to various populations, including adults, teens, children, families and couples.
Are you tired of trying to handle the stresses of life alone? Do you feel like there is something holding you back from helping you reach your full potential? We believe that everyone can benefit from counseling with a skilled and caring professional. We want to help you make meaningful and extraordinary advances in your life, career, relationships, and happiness. We offer EMDR in Fairfax, Harrisonburg, and Lynchburg.
We offer individual and family therapy to various populations, including adults, teens, children, families and couples.
Are you tired of trying to handle the stresses of life alone? Do you feel like there is something holding you back from helping you reach your full potential? We believe that everyone can benefit from counseling with a skilled and caring professional. We want to help you make meaningful and extraordinary advances in your life, career, relationships, and happiness. We offer EMDR in Fairfax, Harrisonburg, and Lynchburg.
(434) 280-3093 View (434) 280-3093
Photo of Megan Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Megan Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LSATP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the problems in your life? Or dealing with an issue that is bigger than what you can handle on your own? You have made a great choice today in reaching out for help. Enduring the difficult times in life can be daunting unless we have the right people surrounding us. You may be experiencing a COVID related problem such as grief and loss, relationship issues, increased anxiety level, or changes in your mood and energy level. Whatever the issue or stress in your life right now, I want you to know that you don't have to go it alone. You are taking the right step in reaching out for help!
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the problems in your life? Or dealing with an issue that is bigger than what you can handle on your own? You have made a great choice today in reaching out for help. Enduring the difficult times in life can be daunting unless we have the right people surrounding us. You may be experiencing a COVID related problem such as grief and loss, relationship issues, increased anxiety level, or changes in your mood and energy level. Whatever the issue or stress in your life right now, I want you to know that you don't have to go it alone. You are taking the right step in reaching out for help!
(540) 258-4065 View (540) 258-4065
Photo of Susan Witt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Susan Witt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
I love hearing my client's stories and have a desire to help them towards emotional wellness, have healthy relationships, instill a sense of hope that things will get better for them, and build resiliency to tackle life's challenges. I have many years of experience in providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. As the mom to adult children, I understand the challenges of raising children in today's world. I have a special interest in working with children/teens and adults going thru the painful process of separation and divorce and in providing gender affirming care to individuals and their families.
I love hearing my client's stories and have a desire to help them towards emotional wellness, have healthy relationships, instill a sense of hope that things will get better for them, and build resiliency to tackle life's challenges. I have many years of experience in providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. As the mom to adult children, I understand the challenges of raising children in today's world. I have a special interest in working with children/teens and adults going thru the painful process of separation and divorce and in providing gender affirming care to individuals and their families.
(540) 516-4878 x224 View (540) 516-4878 x224
Photo of Sheri Meixner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Sheri Meixner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
I believe the therapeutic process is a powerful tool for clients to grow and become healthier individuals and/or couples. My clinical experience settings include private practice, mental/behavioral health agencies, community college and medical social work services. Areas of experience include crisis work, substance use dependence, depression & anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic illness, autism, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, client centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution focused, insight oriented, trauma informed and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
I believe the therapeutic process is a powerful tool for clients to grow and become healthier individuals and/or couples. My clinical experience settings include private practice, mental/behavioral health agencies, community college and medical social work services. Areas of experience include crisis work, substance use dependence, depression & anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic illness, autism, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, client centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution focused, insight oriented, trauma informed and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
(540) 870-0554 View (540) 870-0554
Photo of Ginny Puckett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Ginny Puckett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
You’re here because you’ve been struggling in the most vulnerable parts of your life, and it's chipping away at your relationship, your confidence, and your sense of self. Maybe you’ve had insight to what’s wrong for a while, but you’ve tried everything you can think of and you keep getting stuck at the same points. Sexuality is a core component of your being; experiencing sexual challenges can disrupt the harmony in other areas of your life. My job is to help you restore that balance and unlock the potential of your sexual wellness. A better sex life is not out of your reach.
You’re here because you’ve been struggling in the most vulnerable parts of your life, and it's chipping away at your relationship, your confidence, and your sense of self. Maybe you’ve had insight to what’s wrong for a while, but you’ve tried everything you can think of and you keep getting stuck at the same points. Sexuality is a core component of your being; experiencing sexual challenges can disrupt the harmony in other areas of your life. My job is to help you restore that balance and unlock the potential of your sexual wellness. A better sex life is not out of your reach.
(540) 242-1625 View (540) 242-1625
Photo of Bobbie-jo Hurt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Bobbie-jo Hurt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
I work with people who want more for their lives-whether that's more happiness, more peace, more self-confidence, more enjoyable relationships, etc. I'm a laidback person who prefers cozy sweaters over suits. I love to laugh and connect. When you come to my office, I want you feel comfortable and cared about. You're not "another client" to me; this is a passion, not "just" a career. Logistics: In counseling field for 15+ years, working with adults/teens; providing couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy and individual therapy. Many speciality trainings: DBT, Anxiety/Phobias, Families/Adoption, Domestic Violence, Trauma, etc.
I work with people who want more for their lives-whether that's more happiness, more peace, more self-confidence, more enjoyable relationships, etc. I'm a laidback person who prefers cozy sweaters over suits. I love to laugh and connect. When you come to my office, I want you feel comfortable and cared about. You're not "another client" to me; this is a passion, not "just" a career. Logistics: In counseling field for 15+ years, working with adults/teens; providing couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy and individual therapy. Many speciality trainings: DBT, Anxiety/Phobias, Families/Adoption, Domestic Violence, Trauma, etc.
(540) 696-5574 View (540) 696-5574
Photo of Cynthia C Lissau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Cynthia C Lissau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
(540) 986-4135 View (540) 986-4135
Photo of Althea Dent, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Althea Dent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting and develop with my clients a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck, overwhelmed or paralyzed while helping clients to move toward a more effective and rewarding life. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral, brief and solution focused therapies and techniques among other tools to develop an integrative approach that is tailored to each client individually. I also do work with engaged, dating and married couples using as customized couples assessment.
I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting and develop with my clients a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck, overwhelmed or paralyzed while helping clients to move toward a more effective and rewarding life. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral, brief and solution focused therapies and techniques among other tools to develop an integrative approach that is tailored to each client individually. I also do work with engaged, dating and married couples using as customized couples assessment.
(540) 361-6591 View (540) 361-6591
Photo of Richard Villa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Richard Villa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
My work is client centered so that the therapeutic relationship is productive and developmental.
Hi there, I'm Richard, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and certified in the areas of substance abuse and mental health. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral issues, coping skills, and more. Most recently, I have been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor in Japan. My approach focuses on motivational interviewing, client centered therapy and positive psychology.
My work is client centered so that the therapeutic relationship is productive and developmental.
Hi there, I'm Richard, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and certified in the areas of substance abuse and mental health. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral issues, coping skills, and more. Most recently, I have been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor in Japan. My approach focuses on motivational interviewing, client centered therapy and positive psychology.
(540) 889-3455 View (540) 889-3455
Photo of Susan Boyes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Susan Boyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I focus on three key levels of expertise: transformational counseling, lifestyle counseling, and relationship counseling.
I will help you to improve communication skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, lift depression, relieve anxiety, reduce an overload of accumulating stress, and eliminate self-sabotaging habits. I will encourage you to embrace a quality of life that includes joy, health, abundance and a LOVE for life. Individuals who acquire the skills necessary to experience personal transformation are catalysts of change for their family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and community. I will be your therapist, teacher, and inspirational guide. I provide quality counseling services to children and adults that promotes the health, vitality and well-being of the whole person.
I focus on three key levels of expertise: transformational counseling, lifestyle counseling, and relationship counseling.
I will help you to improve communication skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, lift depression, relieve anxiety, reduce an overload of accumulating stress, and eliminate self-sabotaging habits. I will encourage you to embrace a quality of life that includes joy, health, abundance and a LOVE for life. Individuals who acquire the skills necessary to experience personal transformation are catalysts of change for their family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and community. I will be your therapist, teacher, and inspirational guide. I provide quality counseling services to children and adults that promotes the health, vitality and well-being of the whole person.
(540) 491-4263 View (540) 491-4263
Photo of Jennifer G. Oginz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Jennifer G. Oginz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
I’ve worked 30+ years as a therapist and am very lucky to have found my passion. My love has been nonprofit community mental health, and I have dedicated many years of service to nonprofits. I have worked extensively with clients of all ages and stages in life, facilitated recovery groups and provided family/couples therapy. This is an LGBTQ+ friendly practice. It is a privilege to be invited into someone's life story. I have gained a great many things from the clients that I have served. I can only hope, I've helped them along their pathway in life.
I’ve worked 30+ years as a therapist and am very lucky to have found my passion. My love has been nonprofit community mental health, and I have dedicated many years of service to nonprofits. I have worked extensively with clients of all ages and stages in life, facilitated recovery groups and provided family/couples therapy. This is an LGBTQ+ friendly practice. It is a privilege to be invited into someone's life story. I have gained a great many things from the clients that I have served. I can only hope, I've helped them along their pathway in life.
(540) 712-6173 View (540) 712-6173
Photo of Dr. Jeannie B Berger, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
Dr. Jeannie B Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck? Are you and your partner trapped in repetitive arguments that go nowhere? Juggling work, finances, and parenting children leaves little room to prioritize your relationship. Your emotional and physical connection suffers. You’re caught in unhealthy patterns but don’t know how to change them. Or perhaps you’re redefining your relationship with adult children or caring for aging parents. Negotiating new family roles can be challenging. You crave healthier connections with your family, but you aren’t sure where to start. Therapy provides a soothing refuge amid life's chaos.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck? Are you and your partner trapped in repetitive arguments that go nowhere? Juggling work, finances, and parenting children leaves little room to prioritize your relationship. Your emotional and physical connection suffers. You’re caught in unhealthy patterns but don’t know how to change them. Or perhaps you’re redefining your relationship with adult children or caring for aging parents. Negotiating new family roles can be challenging. You crave healthier connections with your family, but you aren’t sure where to start. Therapy provides a soothing refuge amid life's chaos.
(540) 302-2682 View (540) 302-2682
Photo of Megan Massett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Megan Massett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
According to Charles Swindoll, “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” This quotation implies that "responding" to life is easy, doesn't it? But the truth is, life is messy, and navigating its ups and downs can be really hard. Having someone to act as a sounding board, help us stay grounded, and support us in shifting our perspective, can be invaluable. Whether working with individuals or couples, I do my best work with those who feel stuck in their lives, have decided that enough is enough, and are looking for relief, and fast.
According to Charles Swindoll, “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” This quotation implies that "responding" to life is easy, doesn't it? But the truth is, life is messy, and navigating its ups and downs can be really hard. Having someone to act as a sounding board, help us stay grounded, and support us in shifting our perspective, can be invaluable. Whether working with individuals or couples, I do my best work with those who feel stuck in their lives, have decided that enough is enough, and are looking for relief, and fast.
(540) 900-2849 View (540) 900-2849
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.