Couples Counseling Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Dr. Jeff Riffle, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Jeff Riffle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102  (Online Only)
We all have challenges. We all need a supportive and non-judgmental helping hand from time-to-time. I'm Dr. Jeff Riffle, a CA Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Allow me the opportunity to provide that help. I see men and women online from all across California and am available evenings and weekends. I specialize in helping adults manage a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD (including sexual abuse), ADHD, OCD, low self-esteem, chronic illness, life transitions, grief & loss, masculinity issues, military lifestyle concerns, and first responder/law enforcement challenges. I also provide couple’s counseling.
We all have challenges. We all need a supportive and non-judgmental helping hand from time-to-time. I'm Dr. Jeff Riffle, a CA Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Allow me the opportunity to provide that help. I see men and women online from all across California and am available evenings and weekends. I specialize in helping adults manage a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD (including sexual abuse), ADHD, OCD, low self-esteem, chronic illness, life transitions, grief & loss, masculinity issues, military lifestyle concerns, and first responder/law enforcement challenges. I also provide couple’s counseling.
(707) 392-3796 View (707) 392-3796
Photo of Emily Ruth, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Emily Ruth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Hi! Thanks for reading through my profile. Seeking support outside of your social circle can feel vulnerable. You’re here because you know there’s something inside of you ready to be explored, attended to, and integrated. Therapy is a space of collaboration and curiosity, a space to inquire about who we think we are and the limits of our beliefs, a space to delve into new shapes. I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
Hi! Thanks for reading through my profile. Seeking support outside of your social circle can feel vulnerable. You’re here because you know there’s something inside of you ready to be explored, attended to, and integrated. Therapy is a space of collaboration and curiosity, a space to inquire about who we think we are and the limits of our beliefs, a space to delve into new shapes. I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
(619) 304-6429 View (619) 304-6429
Photo of Elihu ' Eliott ' Goretsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Elihu ' Eliott ' Goretsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Greetings! As a licensed MFT, my career continues to evolve as science and technology transform the behavioral health field. I have provided services to a culturally-diverse population across Southern California since 2004, including ten years with Riverside County in the desert region after graduating from Antioch University in 2005 with an M.A. degree in clinical psychology. I specialize in adults with addiction-recovery issues, LGBT+ patients, phase of life problems, and couples (limited). For insured clients: I work with two provider platforms, Headway and Rula (Path). Please email me directly for additional information!
Greetings! As a licensed MFT, my career continues to evolve as science and technology transform the behavioral health field. I have provided services to a culturally-diverse population across Southern California since 2004, including ten years with Riverside County in the desert region after graduating from Antioch University in 2005 with an M.A. degree in clinical psychology. I specialize in adults with addiction-recovery issues, LGBT+ patients, phase of life problems, and couples (limited). For insured clients: I work with two provider platforms, Headway and Rula (Path). Please email me directly for additional information!
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Photo of Ashley Quiroz (Komaromi), Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Ashley Quiroz (Komaromi)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
At Mission Valley Psychology, Inc., we aim to provide the highest quality care with parameters that fit your lifestyle. We focus on both individual and couples therapy for adults 18 and older. Whether you are going through a life transition, struggling with depression or anxiety, or simply need an outlet to quiet your mind, we are here for you.
At Mission Valley Psychology, Inc., we aim to provide the highest quality care with parameters that fit your lifestyle. We focus on both individual and couples therapy for adults 18 and older. Whether you are going through a life transition, struggling with depression or anxiety, or simply need an outlet to quiet your mind, we are here for you.
(516) 362-2294 View (516) 362-2294
Photo of Ryanne Giorgione, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Ryanne Giorgione
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I place an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as it can be especially powerful in exploring how we enter into and operate within the world.
Sometimes our inner world seems chaotic and stressful. Sometimes we feel like we are going through life surrounded by a fog and can’t see a way out. Sometimes we experience something so significant that our life is turned upside down and we have a hard time coping. Regardless of what you are experiencing right now, it does not reflect anything about your worth and you do not have to navigate it alone. My goal as a therapist is to provide opportunities for you to work through the challenges of life while reconnecting with your authentic self and embracing your inner-knowing.
I place an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as it can be especially powerful in exploring how we enter into and operate within the world.
Sometimes our inner world seems chaotic and stressful. Sometimes we feel like we are going through life surrounded by a fog and can’t see a way out. Sometimes we experience something so significant that our life is turned upside down and we have a hard time coping. Regardless of what you are experiencing right now, it does not reflect anything about your worth and you do not have to navigate it alone. My goal as a therapist is to provide opportunities for you to work through the challenges of life while reconnecting with your authentic self and embracing your inner-knowing.
(619) 505-0169 View (619) 505-0169
Photo of Jeffrey Allen Suiter, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Jeffrey Allen Suiter
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
(510) 726-1520 View (510) 726-1520
Photo of Wendy Salazar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Wendy Salazar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I utilize a holistic approach to address issues and bring about deep healing of the mind/body/spirit. We can work together to resolve your relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting problems, low self-esteem, spiritual issues, grief, or any other difficult life experience that you may be dealing with. I am here to provide you with a safe, empathetic space in which to share and discover the meaning in the suffering that you've been experiencing in order to be able to heal from it on a deep level and improve your life.
I utilize a holistic approach to address issues and bring about deep healing of the mind/body/spirit. We can work together to resolve your relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting problems, low self-esteem, spiritual issues, grief, or any other difficult life experience that you may be dealing with. I am here to provide you with a safe, empathetic space in which to share and discover the meaning in the suffering that you've been experiencing in order to be able to heal from it on a deep level and improve your life.
(858) 215-1958 View (858) 215-1958
Photo of Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Our clinicians are excited to partner with you on your journey to your best, most liberated self.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands your unique experiences as a BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ person? Do you want to work with someone who is compassionate, affirming, and culturally responsive? Are you looking for a clinician with shared lived experiences? If so, then you're in the right place. Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective is a group of licensed queer and/or BIPOC therapists who are passionate about helping people heal and thrive. We provide culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and compassionate psychotherapy and counseling.
Our clinicians are excited to partner with you on your journey to your best, most liberated self.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands your unique experiences as a BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ person? Do you want to work with someone who is compassionate, affirming, and culturally responsive? Are you looking for a clinician with shared lived experiences? If so, then you're in the right place. Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective is a group of licensed queer and/or BIPOC therapists who are passionate about helping people heal and thrive. We provide culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and compassionate psychotherapy and counseling.
(619) 404-4534 View (619) 404-4534
Photo of Carina deManigold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Carina deManigold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Hi, my name is Carina deManigold, I’m a bilingual Swedish speaking LCSW. I will meet you with a deep compassionate presence, provide a safe place to explore your inner landscape, assist you in identifying needs and what might trigger the difficult emotions. Unprocessed emotional often manifest in mental and physical suffering. I provide compassionate evidence-based psychotherapy to individuals and couples with mild to moderate symptoms resulting from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, survivors of suicide loss, end of life, and challenging life transitions. Life consists of ongoing waves of transitions.
Hi, my name is Carina deManigold, I’m a bilingual Swedish speaking LCSW. I will meet you with a deep compassionate presence, provide a safe place to explore your inner landscape, assist you in identifying needs and what might trigger the difficult emotions. Unprocessed emotional often manifest in mental and physical suffering. I provide compassionate evidence-based psychotherapy to individuals and couples with mild to moderate symptoms resulting from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, survivors of suicide loss, end of life, and challenging life transitions. Life consists of ongoing waves of transitions.
(323) 859-1245 View (323) 859-1245
Photo of Dr. Sophie Whitney, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Dr. Sophie Whitney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
We all deserve to feel fully alive and well. Somewhere along the way we will all experience challenges large and small. Sophie believes that one goal of therapy is to cultivate the inner strength, confidence, tools, and resources to overcome any obstacle. Sophie brings a heart-centered, compassionate, and solutions-focused approach to the therapy room. Sophie believes that the key to a more joyful, connected, meaningful life is to truly get to know ourselves in an intimate and honest way while embracing change and personal growth.
We all deserve to feel fully alive and well. Somewhere along the way we will all experience challenges large and small. Sophie believes that one goal of therapy is to cultivate the inner strength, confidence, tools, and resources to overcome any obstacle. Sophie brings a heart-centered, compassionate, and solutions-focused approach to the therapy room. Sophie believes that the key to a more joyful, connected, meaningful life is to truly get to know ourselves in an intimate and honest way while embracing change and personal growth.
(805) 669-9677 View (805) 669-9677
Photo of Kirstyn Odle, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kirstyn Odle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
My approach is to create an authentic and curious therapeutic relationship that is filled with grace and compassion.
Do you ever sit back and think about the you, you once were? Or the couple you once were? Do you ever sit and think to yourself, “how did I get here?” Is your kiddo struggling with BIG emotions too? Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, anxious and lonely? Let’s work together, in a safe space and answer those questions. Let’s work toward paving a road where you can move through those dark, scary, unknown places and foster the best version of yourself. Let’s work together to strengthen your relationships and reach your goals.
My approach is to create an authentic and curious therapeutic relationship that is filled with grace and compassion.
Do you ever sit back and think about the you, you once were? Or the couple you once were? Do you ever sit and think to yourself, “how did I get here?” Is your kiddo struggling with BIG emotions too? Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, anxious and lonely? Let’s work together, in a safe space and answer those questions. Let’s work toward paving a road where you can move through those dark, scary, unknown places and foster the best version of yourself. Let’s work together to strengthen your relationships and reach your goals.
(760) 493-7432 View (760) 493-7432
Photo of Orlando Zuniga, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Orlando Zuniga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
I specialize in: creative & artistic coaching, relationship issues, psychedelic-assisted therapy, multicultural issues, spirituality, men's issues, LGBTQ-affirming therapy, life coaching, stress, anxiety, and personal growth using psychotherapy, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and hypnotherapy.
People that usually work with me are typically feeling stuck, and at times are questioning their path. I have worked with many stressors for most of my career, in the capacity as an individual therapist, couples and family therapist, group facilitator, educator, coach, and consultant. Although I can work with most, I am a great match for those that identify as creative, cultured, empathic and sensitive. My therapeutic style is eclectic and pull from various modalities to provide support where needed. I am interactive and ask that my clients also work outside the therapy container. I provide legal psychedelic therapy part-time.
I specialize in: creative & artistic coaching, relationship issues, psychedelic-assisted therapy, multicultural issues, spirituality, men's issues, LGBTQ-affirming therapy, life coaching, stress, anxiety, and personal growth using psychotherapy, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and hypnotherapy.
People that usually work with me are typically feeling stuck, and at times are questioning their path. I have worked with many stressors for most of my career, in the capacity as an individual therapist, couples and family therapist, group facilitator, educator, coach, and consultant. Although I can work with most, I am a great match for those that identify as creative, cultured, empathic and sensitive. My therapeutic style is eclectic and pull from various modalities to provide support where needed. I am interactive and ask that my clients also work outside the therapy container. I provide legal psychedelic therapy part-time.
(323) 675-2042 View (323) 675-2042
Photo of Keileisha Weaver, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Keileisha Weaver
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
We provide individual and couples therapy for children and adults.
Keileisha is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider San Diego Therapy Center. San Diego Therapy Center is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
We provide individual and couples therapy for children and adults.
Keileisha is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider San Diego Therapy Center. San Diego Therapy Center is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(619) 432-6427 View (619) 432-6427
Photo of Melissa Houlston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melissa Houlston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
(909) 316-3351 View (909) 316-3351
Photo of Judith Bucholtz, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Judith Bucholtz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I am Judi Bucholtz and I am a PhD. and a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. As a practical, interactive, interpersonal, and insight-oriented therapist, my treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. With sensitivity and compassion, I help clients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
I am Judi Bucholtz and I am a PhD. and a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. As a practical, interactive, interpersonal, and insight-oriented therapist, my treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. With sensitivity and compassion, I help clients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
(619) 586-5285 View (619) 586-5285
Photo of Gregory E. Koch, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Gregory E. Koch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
If you have unresolved trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, heartache, or you want to grow as a person, therapy can be the place for you.
My goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and valued. Believing deeply in the power of positive human connection, we can learn the most about ourselves in the context of meaningful relationships. Conflict in romantic relationships is an opportunity for profound and powerful growth, learning, and healing. I welcome clients of all genders, sexualities, and relationship diversity. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, couples learn invaluable tools and techniques to enhance closeness in relationships and teach partners how to resolve conflicts while maintaining a deep sense of connection.
If you have unresolved trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, heartache, or you want to grow as a person, therapy can be the place for you.
My goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and valued. Believing deeply in the power of positive human connection, we can learn the most about ourselves in the context of meaningful relationships. Conflict in romantic relationships is an opportunity for profound and powerful growth, learning, and healing. I welcome clients of all genders, sexualities, and relationship diversity. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, couples learn invaluable tools and techniques to enhance closeness in relationships and teach partners how to resolve conflicts while maintaining a deep sense of connection.
(858) 428-2962 View (858) 428-2962
Photo of Aisha Thompkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Aisha Thompkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
Hi there, I'm Aisha! Life is made up of various obstacles that can negatively impact your mental state. I help people navigate life while teaching them skills to address their issues by managing and overcoming their issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address the mental and emotional state that affects decision-making skills. Positive affirmations, unconditional support, humor, hard work, and understanding are what you can expect in therapy with me.
Hi there, I'm Aisha! Life is made up of various obstacles that can negatively impact your mental state. I help people navigate life while teaching them skills to address their issues by managing and overcoming their issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address the mental and emotional state that affects decision-making skills. Positive affirmations, unconditional support, humor, hard work, and understanding are what you can expect in therapy with me.
(831) 610-5613 View (831) 610-5613
Photo of Julie H Morrell, MFT Online, Phone, & Telehealth, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Julie H Morrell, MFT Online, Phone, & Telehealth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties:*Relationship/Intimacy issues *Marriage/Couples Counseling.
Are you having feelings of sadness or anxiety? Do you feel angry, grief, trauma and/or frustration? Do you feel like something is preventing you from experiencing joy or freedom in your life, or your relationships? That's where I can help you. I have over 39 years of counseling/therapy experience. My approach is interactive & collaborative. After counseling, my clients report having more fulfilling relationships, better coping skills, more feelings of connection, as well as healing from the burdens of past hurts, anxieties & traumas. I am also a trained EMDR therapist.
Specialties:*Relationship/Intimacy issues *Marriage/Couples Counseling.
Are you having feelings of sadness or anxiety? Do you feel angry, grief, trauma and/or frustration? Do you feel like something is preventing you from experiencing joy or freedom in your life, or your relationships? That's where I can help you. I have over 39 years of counseling/therapy experience. My approach is interactive & collaborative. After counseling, my clients report having more fulfilling relationships, better coping skills, more feelings of connection, as well as healing from the burdens of past hurts, anxieties & traumas. I am also a trained EMDR therapist.
(619) 857-1355 View (619) 857-1355
Photo of Kelsey Kickbush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kelsey Kickbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body.
We will work together to help you heal your wounds from the past, and learn skills to help you thrive in the present. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
I am committed to creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for our relationship, where you can engage in self-inquiry and healing in mind and body.
We will work together to help you heal your wounds from the past, and learn skills to help you thrive in the present. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
(401) 264-8784 View (401) 264-8784
Photo of David Watts Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
David Watts Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Across all ages and backgrounds, I seek to help my clients experience relief from shame, anxiety, depression, inner criticism, and relationship struggles through self-understanding and self-compassion.
I work with clients addressing issues related to their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I help my clients create meaningful changes, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of self by focusing on their strengths and using a blend of different therapeutic styles that best match the client’s individual personality. My approach is highly relational, meaning the relationship as therapist and client is an important part of the work.
Across all ages and backgrounds, I seek to help my clients experience relief from shame, anxiety, depression, inner criticism, and relationship struggles through self-understanding and self-compassion.
I work with clients addressing issues related to their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I help my clients create meaningful changes, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of self by focusing on their strengths and using a blend of different therapeutic styles that best match the client’s individual personality. My approach is highly relational, meaning the relationship as therapist and client is an important part of the work.
(650) 456-1452 View (650) 456-1452
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.