Photo of Arthur Becker-Weidman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Arthur Becker-Weidman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
A relationship focused and attachment-focused approach is one I find most helpful.
My focus is on trauma and attachment issues, especially those related to adoption and foster care. I always begin with a thorough assessment that includes assessment the seven domains that may be affected by Complex Trauma. In addition I work extensively with families of teenagers on relationships, family conflicts, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and school issues.
A relationship focused and attachment-focused approach is one I find most helpful.
My focus is on trauma and attachment issues, especially those related to adoption and foster care. I always begin with a thorough assessment that includes assessment the seven domains that may be affected by Complex Trauma. In addition I work extensively with families of teenagers on relationships, family conflicts, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and school issues.
(716) 337-5186 View (716) 337-5186

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Denise Torres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Denise Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPhil, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14215  (Online Only)
If you are looking to give yourself grace, then you have found the right place! Together we'll explore what your issues, needs, and goals are and how to go about achieving them. Through no-nonsense warmth and humor, I'll assist you in identifying and confronting your bugaboos serving as a guide who accompanies and bears witness to your journey of re-discovery and reclamation. "Homework" runs the gamut and often includes journaling, artwork/crafting, bibliotherapy, practicing a new protocol, or just saying "no" without further elaboration.
If you are looking to give yourself grace, then you have found the right place! Together we'll explore what your issues, needs, and goals are and how to go about achieving them. Through no-nonsense warmth and humor, I'll assist you in identifying and confronting your bugaboos serving as a guide who accompanies and bears witness to your journey of re-discovery and reclamation. "Homework" runs the gamut and often includes journaling, artwork/crafting, bibliotherapy, practicing a new protocol, or just saying "no" without further elaboration.
(718) 550-6432 View (718) 550-6432
Photo of Courtney Ciraolo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Williamsville, NY
Courtney Ciraolo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223  (Online Only)
I am a person centered therapist willing to work to your specific needs. Every person is different which is why together we will build the foundation for therapy based on what will work best for you. I also use CBT which allows you to learn coping skills and emotion regulation to improve your quality of life.
I am a person centered therapist willing to work to your specific needs. Every person is different which is why together we will build the foundation for therapy based on what will work best for you. I also use CBT which allows you to learn coping skills and emotion regulation to improve your quality of life.
(585) 501-2048 View (585) 501-2048
Photo of Kelly S. Ghani, Counselor in Williamsville, NY
Kelly S. Ghani
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14202
I am a professional, well-established leader in the counseling and wellness field. I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and advocate for over 18 years. My experience includes working with adults, young adults, and teens experiencing mental health and behavioral struggles. My professional specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief / loss, anger, job-related stress, transitional concerns, interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, eating disorders, self-injury, suicidal thinking / behaviors, and impulsivity. I work with individuals with co-morbid medical concerns, those struggling with alcohol / substance use, and individuals who require court-mandated services in a confidential setting.
I am a professional, well-established leader in the counseling and wellness field. I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and advocate for over 18 years. My experience includes working with adults, young adults, and teens experiencing mental health and behavioral struggles. My professional specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief / loss, anger, job-related stress, transitional concerns, interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, eating disorders, self-injury, suicidal thinking / behaviors, and impulsivity. I work with individuals with co-morbid medical concerns, those struggling with alcohol / substance use, and individuals who require court-mandated services in a confidential setting.
(716) 462-0284 View (716) 462-0284
Photo of WNY Psychotherapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
WNY Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14226
Joseph P. Zannoni is the Executive Director of W.N.Y Psychotherapy Services. As an owner since 1988, he works diligently to select private practitioners who are interested in providing high quality, cost effective services utilizing a wide range of treatment modalities for families and individuals in the advancement of emotional health. Our network of providers consists of over twenty independent practitioners with various areas of expertise. Our licensed practitioners include; Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Psychologists, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. With diverse backgrounds and specializations we address most patient needs, and provide comprehensive services for children, adults, families and seniors.
Joseph P. Zannoni is the Executive Director of W.N.Y Psychotherapy Services. As an owner since 1988, he works diligently to select private practitioners who are interested in providing high quality, cost effective services utilizing a wide range of treatment modalities for families and individuals in the advancement of emotional health. Our network of providers consists of over twenty independent practitioners with various areas of expertise. Our licensed practitioners include; Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Psychologists, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. With diverse backgrounds and specializations we address most patient needs, and provide comprehensive services for children, adults, families and seniors.
(716) 508-4568 View (716) 508-4568
Photo of Nicole D. Morley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Nicole D. Morley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14201
Not accepting new clients
Throughout my career I have worked with DV, at risk youth, mentally ill, substance abuse, forensic mental health, court mandated clients in residential settings, OPMH clinics, treatment courts, NYS prisons & state operated psychiatric centers. I also have supervised the service delivery of several community based programs (SPOA, AOT, Hospital Diversion, Forensic Case Management, Crisis Services Coordination, Youth in Probation, Raise the Age & partnered w/ DSS to provide Behavioral Health/Recovery services to jointly served CPS clients). No matter the client, setting or issue I treat everyone with the the respect they deserve.
Throughout my career I have worked with DV, at risk youth, mentally ill, substance abuse, forensic mental health, court mandated clients in residential settings, OPMH clinics, treatment courts, NYS prisons & state operated psychiatric centers. I also have supervised the service delivery of several community based programs (SPOA, AOT, Hospital Diversion, Forensic Case Management, Crisis Services Coordination, Youth in Probation, Raise the Age & partnered w/ DSS to provide Behavioral Health/Recovery services to jointly served CPS clients). No matter the client, setting or issue I treat everyone with the the respect they deserve.
(716) 222-7527 View (716) 222-7527
Photo of Directions, LCSW,PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Directions, LCSW,PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14215  (Online Only)
I have experience conducting therapy with children, adults, couples and families.
I believe my clients are the experts in their lives. I see myself as a facilitator of conversations that lead my clients to new perspectives. Therapy is an opportunity to take control of one's problems and as an opportunity to become the preferred version of oneself. My hope is to provide you with the tools and perspective to know that even when you FEEL there is nothing but closed roads, detours and wrong way signs in life, you KNOW you possess the power to strive for, obtain and maintain THROUGH and OVER it all.
I have experience conducting therapy with children, adults, couples and families.
I believe my clients are the experts in their lives. I see myself as a facilitator of conversations that lead my clients to new perspectives. Therapy is an opportunity to take control of one's problems and as an opportunity to become the preferred version of oneself. My hope is to provide you with the tools and perspective to know that even when you FEEL there is nothing but closed roads, detours and wrong way signs in life, you KNOW you possess the power to strive for, obtain and maintain THROUGH and OVER it all.
(716) 576-3671 View (716) 576-3671
Photo of Sam Vaughn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Sam Vaughn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14202
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, suicidal ideation or have been a victim of domestic violence? I have experience coordinating crisis interventions and employing Dialectical Behavior Therapy with patients who harm others or themselves, and particularly those who have experienced violence within their family network. I believe that the behaviors we display are part of a larger function, and collectively comprise the larger tapestry of the human experience, while also acknowledging the uniqueness to each human as they make their way through life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, suicidal ideation or have been a victim of domestic violence? I have experience coordinating crisis interventions and employing Dialectical Behavior Therapy with patients who harm others or themselves, and particularly those who have experienced violence within their family network. I believe that the behaviors we display are part of a larger function, and collectively comprise the larger tapestry of the human experience, while also acknowledging the uniqueness to each human as they make their way through life.
(914) 685-8854 View (914) 685-8854
Photo of Penny Lynn Drag, Counselor in Williamsville, NY
Penny Lynn Drag
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14222
Waitlist for new clients
I believe therapy is a collaborative relationship and I welcome this opportunity to assist you in your journey.
Your journey to empower self deserves empathy, authentic intentions and a passion for the growth you seek. You will find that I am a compassionate and non-judgmental listener, and I am confident that I will earn your trust. I have 17 years of experience with crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, medication monitoring, problem solving, human rights and relationship dynamics. Additionally, I work with the special challenges that face the LGBTQIA+ community. Clients often tell me they appreciate my authentic, direct and warm style and are pleasantly surprised that we can share laughter together, despite addressing difficult topics.
I believe therapy is a collaborative relationship and I welcome this opportunity to assist you in your journey.
Your journey to empower self deserves empathy, authentic intentions and a passion for the growth you seek. You will find that I am a compassionate and non-judgmental listener, and I am confident that I will earn your trust. I have 17 years of experience with crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, medication monitoring, problem solving, human rights and relationship dynamics. Additionally, I work with the special challenges that face the LGBTQIA+ community. Clients often tell me they appreciate my authentic, direct and warm style and are pleasantly surprised that we can share laughter together, despite addressing difficult topics.
(716) 340-4525 View (716) 340-4525
Photo of Melissa Anne Muldoon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Melissa Anne Muldoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14216  (Online Only)
I believe low self-esteem and feelings of diminished self worth often play a significant role in relationship difficulty, and I work with my clients on increasing positive self-regard & practical relationship skills.
I value a non-judgemental approach over all else and will offer you unconditional positive regard. My treatment modality focus is on motivational interviewing & a client-centered approach. As your therapist it's my job to guide you while remembering that you are the expert in your own life. I can offer advice on coping strategies, mindfulness, and guide you through cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques. No matter what you have experienced, survived, or done, you are worthy & valuable. I believe in encouraging clients to work through feelings of shame that can be pervasive and devastating to their lives.
I believe low self-esteem and feelings of diminished self worth often play a significant role in relationship difficulty, and I work with my clients on increasing positive self-regard & practical relationship skills.
I value a non-judgemental approach over all else and will offer you unconditional positive regard. My treatment modality focus is on motivational interviewing & a client-centered approach. As your therapist it's my job to guide you while remembering that you are the expert in your own life. I can offer advice on coping strategies, mindfulness, and guide you through cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques. No matter what you have experienced, survived, or done, you are worthy & valuable. I believe in encouraging clients to work through feelings of shame that can be pervasive and devastating to their lives.
(716) 303-4093 View (716) 303-4093
Photo of Danielle Matias, Counselor in Williamsville, NY
Danielle Matias
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14222
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Peace, Love, & Counseling by Fran - Francis A. Bax, Counselor in Williamsville, NY
Peace, Love, & Counseling by Fran - Francis A. Bax
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-M
Verified Verified
North Tonawanda, NY 14120  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Nevada with over 25 years of clinical experience in behavioral health counseling. I’ve worked with individuals dealing with chemical dependency, mental health issues and co-occurring disorders. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I help people who have experienced physical trauma and emotional abuse. I work with athletes to help them improve their sports performance and mental framework.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Nevada with over 25 years of clinical experience in behavioral health counseling. I’ve worked with individuals dealing with chemical dependency, mental health issues and co-occurring disorders. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I help people who have experienced physical trauma and emotional abuse. I work with athletes to help them improve their sports performance and mental framework.
(716) 219-0152 View (716) 219-0152
Photo of Sara Kathleen Lis, Counselor in Williamsville, NY
Sara Kathleen Lis
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14223
Sigmund Freud once said, “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” For me, this quote has always encapsulated one of the most important aspects of mental health. I believe that our ability to grow comes from our ability to heal; and for us to heal we need to be able to cope with our deepest struggles. It is in the act of opening up that we make our day-to-day existence an opportunity to develop as people; it’s how we become more resilient, and in the process of being vulnerable with others, we learn to love ourselves.
Sigmund Freud once said, “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” For me, this quote has always encapsulated one of the most important aspects of mental health. I believe that our ability to grow comes from our ability to heal; and for us to heal we need to be able to cope with our deepest struggles. It is in the act of opening up that we make our day-to-day existence an opportunity to develop as people; it’s how we become more resilient, and in the process of being vulnerable with others, we learn to love ourselves.
(716) 271-9628 View (716) 271-9628
Photo of Dr. Warren D Keller, Psychologist in Williamsville, NY
Dr. Warren D Keller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14228
Trained in child development and neuropsychology, Dr. Keller has been providing psychological services to children and families for over 35 years. His expertise focuses on the social, emotional, and behavioral issues that children experience. He has presented locally, nationally, and internationally on his research on the differential diagnosis of ADHD, Central Auditory Processing Disorder, and related learning and attention problems. Dr. Keller was the founder of one of the largest group Psychology practices in Western New York before recently relocating to Naples, Florida.
Trained in child development and neuropsychology, Dr. Keller has been providing psychological services to children and families for over 35 years. His expertise focuses on the social, emotional, and behavioral issues that children experience. He has presented locally, nationally, and internationally on his research on the differential diagnosis of ADHD, Central Auditory Processing Disorder, and related learning and attention problems. Dr. Keller was the founder of one of the largest group Psychology practices in Western New York before recently relocating to Naples, Florida.
(716) 634-2600 View (716) 634-2600
Photo of Stacy Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Stacy Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14203  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a supportive environment for personal growth? The therapy space is here to challenge you into becoming the best version of yourself. If you're tired of feeling overwhelmed and burnt out on life, therapy can give you the support you need to make lasting improvements. Are you done being impacted by the toxic people around you? A therapist can help you set boundaries and remain effective in all of your relationships. Stop suffering emotionally and give yourself the chance to decrease pain and increase joy. I assure you - you already have what it takes to thrive.
Are you seeking a supportive environment for personal growth? The therapy space is here to challenge you into becoming the best version of yourself. If you're tired of feeling overwhelmed and burnt out on life, therapy can give you the support you need to make lasting improvements. Are you done being impacted by the toxic people around you? A therapist can help you set boundaries and remain effective in all of your relationships. Stop suffering emotionally and give yourself the chance to decrease pain and increase joy. I assure you - you already have what it takes to thrive.
(803) 573-4863 View (803) 573-4863

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Marisol Valencia-Payne, Psychologist in Williamsville, NY
Dr. Marisol Valencia-Payne
Psychologist, Psy D, M A
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with trauma, substance use and addictions, interpersonal concerns, couples, and neuropsychology.
Reaching out is often the toughest step and it is very important (and can be rewarding) to find the right fit! Each individual has their own unique story and experiences and therefore deserving of an individualized approach to therapy. The therapeutic relationship should foster one's personal journey to self exploration and growth. My goal is to help you find your best fit and support you in your personal growth, healing, and self-empowering journey. My approach is often described as supportive, warm, empowering, challenging (when you need it), and humorous.
My experience includes working with trauma, substance use and addictions, interpersonal concerns, couples, and neuropsychology.
Reaching out is often the toughest step and it is very important (and can be rewarding) to find the right fit! Each individual has their own unique story and experiences and therefore deserving of an individualized approach to therapy. The therapeutic relationship should foster one's personal journey to self exploration and growth. My goal is to help you find your best fit and support you in your personal growth, healing, and self-empowering journey. My approach is often described as supportive, warm, empowering, challenging (when you need it), and humorous.
(585) 541-3285 View (585) 541-3285
Photo of Eric Gregory Braun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsville, NY
Eric Gregory Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SAP, LSW, LMSW, CCFC
Verified Verified
Jamestown, NY 14701
I am Eric Braun and I have been a Social Worker for 20 years. I have experience in treating various mental health, addiction, and forensic issues. I use a variety of effective treatment techniques in utilizing your strengths to assist you in overcoming difficulties, attaining your goals and feeling your best. In addition, I am credentialed as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) in that I can provide evaluations to individuals working in safety-sensitive occupations who are covered under the Department of Transportation, for the purpose of the Return-to-Duty Process.
I am Eric Braun and I have been a Social Worker for 20 years. I have experience in treating various mental health, addiction, and forensic issues. I use a variety of effective treatment techniques in utilizing your strengths to assist you in overcoming difficulties, attaining your goals and feeling your best. In addition, I am credentialed as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) in that I can provide evaluations to individuals working in safety-sensitive occupations who are covered under the Department of Transportation, for the purpose of the Return-to-Duty Process.
(716) 281-5053 View (716) 281-5053
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates of Western NY, Counselor in Williamsville, NY
Christian Counseling Associates of Western NY
Counselor
Verified Verified
Jamestown, NY 14701
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(716) 271-1445 View (716) 271-1445
Photo of Stephen Farmer Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Williamsville, NY
Stephen Farmer Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
I provide psychotherapy for adults and couples.
My therapy style is relational and I am particularly skilled at helping clients identify feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that impede efforts to form and maintain fulfilling relationships. Together, in a warm and empathetic atmosphere, we will look into your unique past and come to understand how that history is connected to your current emotional pain. Emotional pain tends to manifest as some variety of anxiety and/or depression. Understandably, we all look to alleviate anxiety and depression. Coping methods such as drugs/alcohol, may do the trick, initially. However, they tend to stop working, and ultimately lead to more misery.
I provide psychotherapy for adults and couples.
My therapy style is relational and I am particularly skilled at helping clients identify feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that impede efforts to form and maintain fulfilling relationships. Together, in a warm and empathetic atmosphere, we will look into your unique past and come to understand how that history is connected to your current emotional pain. Emotional pain tends to manifest as some variety of anxiety and/or depression. Understandably, we all look to alleviate anxiety and depression. Coping methods such as drugs/alcohol, may do the trick, initially. However, they tend to stop working, and ultimately lead to more misery.
(585) 257-0172 View (585) 257-0172
Photo of LaVern Cole-Ristuccia, Psychologist in Williamsville, NY
LaVern Cole-Ristuccia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618  (Online Only)
I am Dr. LaVern Cole-Ristuccia. I received my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova-Southeastern University (NSU). I am a NY State Licensed Psychologist and have been in the field for over 20 years. I completed my internship at the University of Rochester Department of Psychiatry in 1990. I specialize in working with Adolescents, Adults, Couples & Families. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues, divorce, sexual dysfunction, anger management & parenting strategies. I do a great deal of work with blended families. Therapy is goal oriented/insight oriented, utilizing a cognitive-behavioral approach with a psycho-educational emphasis.
I am Dr. LaVern Cole-Ristuccia. I received my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova-Southeastern University (NSU). I am a NY State Licensed Psychologist and have been in the field for over 20 years. I completed my internship at the University of Rochester Department of Psychiatry in 1990. I specialize in working with Adolescents, Adults, Couples & Families. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues, divorce, sexual dysfunction, anger management & parenting strategies. I do a great deal of work with blended families. Therapy is goal oriented/insight oriented, utilizing a cognitive-behavioral approach with a psycho-educational emphasis.
(585) 294-2324 View (585) 294-2324

See more therapy options for Williamsville

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.