Photo of Matt Shollenberger, Ph.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Matt Shollenberger, Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19610
Thank you for considering my counseling services. I aspire to give the most quality, ethical therapeutic services from my 30 years of diverse experience. My associates and I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families that are in search of improving their behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. I also provide evaluations for individuals with mental health/psychology/child custody evaluations used for personal, medical, and/or court related issues. Sexual concerns and Substance abuse treatment available. We are a positive, cooperative counseling organization made up of independent practitioners.
Thank you for considering my counseling services. I aspire to give the most quality, ethical therapeutic services from my 30 years of diverse experience. My associates and I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families that are in search of improving their behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. I also provide evaluations for individuals with mental health/psychology/child custody evaluations used for personal, medical, and/or court related issues. Sexual concerns and Substance abuse treatment available. We are a positive, cooperative counseling organization made up of independent practitioners.
(610) 421-0106 View (610) 421-0106
Photo of Lauren DeTurk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Lauren DeTurk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyomissing, PA 19610  (Online Only)
Lauren works to specialize in trauma, addiction and relationship issues and she is passionate about working with eating disorders, postpartum depression and infertility issues.
Lauren is an experienced and caring therapist who takes time to walk with you on your journey toward healing. Her genuine and down to earth approach makes her sought out by clients of all ages. She has a fun and playful way with children, but also a keen, intuitive sense for connecting with the heart of your trials. She will build a path for you and ensure your safety as you walk toward freedom and flourishing.
Lauren works to specialize in trauma, addiction and relationship issues and she is passionate about working with eating disorders, postpartum depression and infertility issues.
Lauren is an experienced and caring therapist who takes time to walk with you on your journey toward healing. Her genuine and down to earth approach makes her sought out by clients of all ages. She has a fun and playful way with children, but also a keen, intuitive sense for connecting with the heart of your trials. She will build a path for you and ensure your safety as you walk toward freedom and flourishing.
(610) 615-7535 View (610) 615-7535
Photo of Christine DiPrinzio Guerrero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Christine DiPrinzio Guerrero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Shillington, PA 19607
One of my specialties is Marital/Relationship counseling.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes you need help to feel your best. I use a solution-focused approach that can result in rapid progress for depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, anger management, problem gambling, drug/alcohol, process addictions, codependency, DUI's, and Relationship/Marital issues. Hypnotherapy is available for in-person clients, and I can personalize it for almost any treatment issue, including anxiety, phobias, and smoking cessation. Call for more information. Evening hours available.
One of my specialties is Marital/Relationship counseling.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes you need help to feel your best. I use a solution-focused approach that can result in rapid progress for depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, anger management, problem gambling, drug/alcohol, process addictions, codependency, DUI's, and Relationship/Marital issues. Hypnotherapy is available for in-person clients, and I can personalize it for almost any treatment issue, including anxiety, phobias, and smoking cessation. Call for more information. Evening hours available.
(610) 810-1273 View (610) 810-1273
Photo of Everlasting Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berks County, PA
Everlasting Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reading, PA 19608
At Everlasting Wellness LLC, we understand that finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust is extremely important. We offer a safe and trusting space and work at your comfort level. Everlasting Wellness specializes in Pregnancy, Postpartum and Maternal Issues, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, D&A, Acute and Chronic Medical Diagnosis and Women's Issues as well as Young/Older Adults and College Students. We come with an array of experiences, professionally and personally. We offer groups, individual, couples, and family counseling. We offer in-person sessions in our Sinking Spring and/or Royersford location.
At Everlasting Wellness LLC, we understand that finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust is extremely important. We offer a safe and trusting space and work at your comfort level. Everlasting Wellness specializes in Pregnancy, Postpartum and Maternal Issues, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, D&A, Acute and Chronic Medical Diagnosis and Women's Issues as well as Young/Older Adults and College Students. We come with an array of experiences, professionally and personally. We offer groups, individual, couples, and family counseling. We offer in-person sessions in our Sinking Spring and/or Royersford location.
(484) 706-9465 View (484) 706-9465
Photo of Wellsprings Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Wellsprings Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyomissing, PA 19610
At Wellsprings, we recognize the importance of forming safe connections between the client and the counselor to help the therapeutic relationship. Our commitment lies in understanding your personal history and unique experiences so that our counselors can develop a tailored plan that caters to your needs. During therapy, your counselor will support you in understanding your goals and recognizing any challenges that could hinder your progress. We want to assist you in developing the skills needed to overcome these obstacles.
At Wellsprings, we recognize the importance of forming safe connections between the client and the counselor to help the therapeutic relationship. Our commitment lies in understanding your personal history and unique experiences so that our counselors can develop a tailored plan that caters to your needs. During therapy, your counselor will support you in understanding your goals and recognizing any challenges that could hinder your progress. We want to assist you in developing the skills needed to overcome these obstacles.
(484) 851-9265 View (484) 851-9265
Photo of Garrett Denzler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Berks County, PA
Garrett Denzler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boyertown, PA 19512
I also do cognitive-behavioral, trauma, and spirituality work with individuals and am committed to emotionally-focused therapy with couples, as these are proven techniques.
I believe that everything we do and are as people makes sense when we understand the context of our lives. Every area of one’s life affects another in some way, shape, or form. Therefore, I find it quite helpful to explore the areas of physical, emotional, and other areas of health to put all the pieces together to make a complete puzzle picture. With an accurate picture, it may feel as though things begin to “click” and “make sense.” With an accurate framework, we can begin to address the root of the issues you might be experiencing at the pace that you are comfortable with so that foundational progress can take place.
I also do cognitive-behavioral, trauma, and spirituality work with individuals and am committed to emotionally-focused therapy with couples, as these are proven techniques.
I believe that everything we do and are as people makes sense when we understand the context of our lives. Every area of one’s life affects another in some way, shape, or form. Therefore, I find it quite helpful to explore the areas of physical, emotional, and other areas of health to put all the pieces together to make a complete puzzle picture. With an accurate picture, it may feel as though things begin to “click” and “make sense.” With an accurate framework, we can begin to address the root of the issues you might be experiencing at the pace that you are comfortable with so that foundational progress can take place.
(610) 379-1416 x6 View (610) 379-1416 x6
Photo of Adrian P Quinn, Psychologist in Berks County, PA
Adrian P Quinn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610
Quinn has extensive experience providing therapy to Individuals, Couples and Families.
Dr. Quinn delivers an engaging, thought provoking, interpersonal psychotherapy, allowing patients to move to the heart of their lived experiences. There, they may discover the root of their longings, and move toward human flourishing.
Quinn has extensive experience providing therapy to Individuals, Couples and Families.
Dr. Quinn delivers an engaging, thought provoking, interpersonal psychotherapy, allowing patients to move to the heart of their lived experiences. There, they may discover the root of their longings, and move toward human flourishing.
(484) 406-1034 View (484) 406-1034
Photo of Roger Lavine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Roger Lavine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Reading, PA 19611
I have 26 years experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, groups, and families.
I utilize a person-centered approach to counseling which allows the individual to experience a sense of empowerment and involvement throughout the therapeutic process. I believe that establishing a positive, non-judgmental, and trusting relationship between client and therapist is the key to initiating change and working towards solutions. Whether you're feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, misunderstood, unheard, or just stuck and feeling as if there's no way out, we can work together to find workable, realistic alternatives to improve your feeling, thinking, and behaving, as you move towards overall healthy and authentic living.
I have 26 years experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, groups, and families.
I utilize a person-centered approach to counseling which allows the individual to experience a sense of empowerment and involvement throughout the therapeutic process. I believe that establishing a positive, non-judgmental, and trusting relationship between client and therapist is the key to initiating change and working towards solutions. Whether you're feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, misunderstood, unheard, or just stuck and feeling as if there's no way out, we can work together to find workable, realistic alternatives to improve your feeling, thinking, and behaving, as you move towards overall healthy and authentic living.
(610) 463-1097 View (610) 463-1097
Photo of Colleen Annmarie Gensemer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Colleen Annmarie Gensemer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610
In helping people who have depression, anxiety, relationship problems, poor self esteem, grief issues, family issues, substance abuse related problems, dual disorders people have found me to be an active therapist using traditional talk therapies, an individual, or couple can work toward change.
A practical, interactive, solution-focused 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 blend conventional and alternatives approaches, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals. I provide a safe environment, in which people can express themself openly.
In helping people who have depression, anxiety, relationship problems, poor self esteem, grief issues, family issues, substance abuse related problems, dual disorders people have found me to be an active therapist using traditional talk therapies, an individual, or couple can work toward change.
A practical, interactive, solution-focused 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 blend conventional and alternatives approaches, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals. I provide a safe environment, in which people can express themself openly.
(610) 632-7163 View (610) 632-7163
Photo of Furnace Creek Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Furnace Creek Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Robesonia, PA 19551
We are a private practice located in Robesonia, PA and Birdsboro, PA providing individual, couples, and family counseling.
Whether you are looking to form new coping skills, enhance your self-concept, or improve relationships with loved ones, we are caring professionals ready to help you realize your goals! We help children and adolescents navigate their emotions and teaching them coping skills vital to adjusting to adult life. We educate parents on effective communication and discipline strategies, and how to build connection in their romantic relationships. We support individuals in empowering oneself and finding one's passion in life.
We are a private practice located in Robesonia, PA and Birdsboro, PA providing individual, couples, and family counseling.
Whether you are looking to form new coping skills, enhance your self-concept, or improve relationships with loved ones, we are caring professionals ready to help you realize your goals! We help children and adolescents navigate their emotions and teaching them coping skills vital to adjusting to adult life. We educate parents on effective communication and discipline strategies, and how to build connection in their romantic relationships. We support individuals in empowering oneself and finding one's passion in life.
(610) 463-0467 View (610) 463-0467
Photo of Meghan Onderdonk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Meghan Onderdonk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Douglassville, PA 19518
I believe the most important part of counseling is the therapeutic relationship.
Maybe you’ve noticed that making a change in your life is a difficult. Many people struggle to find their footing in the world at one point or another – this can be a large source of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and stress. I want you to feel at ease to be your most authentic self, and to feel genuinely safe and comfortable as we explore your concerns together. Above all else, I prioritize warmth, comfort, and compassion at the core of the work we do. I promise to tell you honestly and compassionately what you need to hear, even when it might be difficult to face right now.
I believe the most important part of counseling is the therapeutic relationship.
Maybe you’ve noticed that making a change in your life is a difficult. Many people struggle to find their footing in the world at one point or another – this can be a large source of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and stress. I want you to feel at ease to be your most authentic self, and to feel genuinely safe and comfortable as we explore your concerns together. Above all else, I prioritize warmth, comfort, and compassion at the core of the work we do. I promise to tell you honestly and compassionately what you need to hear, even when it might be difficult to face right now.
(610) 385-3155 View (610) 385-3155
Photo of Lynne A Williams, Psychologist in Berks County, PA
Lynne A Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kutztown, PA 19530
My experiences living in and working with people from multiple cultures and faith backgrounds help me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. My professional experiences range from marriage and parenting issues, mood and anxiety disorders, delinquency, veterans' issues, career selection, bereavement, trauma recovery, family violence, adoption & infertility issues, relationship problems, cross-cultural adjustment, chronic illness and pain, and the challenges of living with ADHD and other learning difficulties.
My experiences living in and working with people from multiple cultures and faith backgrounds help me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. My professional experiences range from marriage and parenting issues, mood and anxiety disorders, delinquency, veterans' issues, career selection, bereavement, trauma recovery, family violence, adoption & infertility issues, relationship problems, cross-cultural adjustment, chronic illness and pain, and the challenges of living with ADHD and other learning difficulties.
(484) 734-2746 View (484) 734-2746
Photo of Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, Psychologist in Berks County, PA
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19609
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
Photo of Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berks County, PA
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19602  (Online Only)
Everyone struggles at times, and there should be no shame in asking for help. This is why we started Serenity Psychotherapy with a core belief that everybody should have access to professional mental health services and dedicated health care professionals anywhere in the world. With our national teletherapy sessions, we seek to help individuals, families, couples, and children with all the tools and therapy sessions they may need to live happier lives. Here at Serenity Psychotherapy, we have an array of therapists with various specializations, such as depression, anxiety, relationship, substance abuse, and parenting problems.
Everyone struggles at times, and there should be no shame in asking for help. This is why we started Serenity Psychotherapy with a core belief that everybody should have access to professional mental health services and dedicated health care professionals anywhere in the world. With our national teletherapy sessions, we seek to help individuals, families, couples, and children with all the tools and therapy sessions they may need to live happier lives. Here at Serenity Psychotherapy, we have an array of therapists with various specializations, such as depression, anxiety, relationship, substance abuse, and parenting problems.
(610) 510-6360 View (610) 510-6360
Photo of Nastassja Hanna, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Nastassja Hanna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610  (Online Only)
Nastassja Hanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with five years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction within the family, relationship issues, borderline personality, self-esteem, spiritual and religious issues, and life adjustments. Nastassja completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School.
Nastassja Hanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with five years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction within the family, relationship issues, borderline personality, self-esteem, spiritual and religious issues, and life adjustments. Nastassja completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School.
(610) 756-8664 View (610) 756-8664
Photo of Kahl Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Kahl Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wernersville, PA 19565  (Online Only)
Polly Kahl, LPC, specializes in PTSD, transgender clients, mood disorders, relationship challenges, addictions and other issues with clients age 14 and up.
Are you seeking counseling for general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and grief, or special challenges such as PTSD, hoarding & gender issues? We are experienced licensed professional counselors providing in-office and online psychotherapy for a variety of mental health concerns. Our counseling services are dynamic, client-centered and strength-based and we provide free in-office or telephone consultations to help you determine if we're appropriate to meet your counseling needs. Let us help you determine your counseling goals & then work together with you to help you meet those goals. FREE CONSULTS.
Polly Kahl, LPC, specializes in PTSD, transgender clients, mood disorders, relationship challenges, addictions and other issues with clients age 14 and up.
Are you seeking counseling for general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and grief, or special challenges such as PTSD, hoarding & gender issues? We are experienced licensed professional counselors providing in-office and online psychotherapy for a variety of mental health concerns. Our counseling services are dynamic, client-centered and strength-based and we provide free in-office or telephone consultations to help you determine if we're appropriate to meet your counseling needs. Let us help you determine your counseling goals & then work together with you to help you meet those goals. FREE CONSULTS.
(610) 422-3496 View (610) 422-3496
Photo of Molli Zielinski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Molli Zielinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reading, PA 19601
I work with clients on many issues including depression, anxiety, couples issues and relationship counseling, PTSD, low self-esteem and personal relationship issues.
Have you been struggling with depressive or anxious thoughts, negative views of yourself or not knowing how to deal with life stressors? Sometimes the hardest step is to admit that you need guidance and direction, but getting help can be the first step to feeling better. I am here to provide a non judgmental, calm and productive environment to help move past that first step.
I work with clients on many issues including depression, anxiety, couples issues and relationship counseling, PTSD, low self-esteem and personal relationship issues.
Have you been struggling with depressive or anxious thoughts, negative views of yourself or not knowing how to deal with life stressors? Sometimes the hardest step is to admit that you need guidance and direction, but getting help can be the first step to feeling better. I am here to provide a non judgmental, calm and productive environment to help move past that first step.
(484) 469-9164 View (484) 469-9164
Photo of Mark Edward Walthofer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berks County, PA
Mark Edward Walthofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610
In today's world, individuals and families often face formidable challenges. As an experienced LCSW, I harness the power of collaboration to navigate these hurdles. For an adult, it might be their spouse. When I treat children, their parents, primary care providers, and the school system all contribute to an exhaustive needs assessment. From this rich tapestry, we weave a bespoke treatment plan that accentuates your inherent positives. With our partnership, I hope we can empower your journey toward becoming your best "you."
In today's world, individuals and families often face formidable challenges. As an experienced LCSW, I harness the power of collaboration to navigate these hurdles. For an adult, it might be their spouse. When I treat children, their parents, primary care providers, and the school system all contribute to an exhaustive needs assessment. From this rich tapestry, we weave a bespoke treatment plan that accentuates your inherent positives. With our partnership, I hope we can empower your journey toward becoming your best "you."
(267) 627-6298 View (267) 627-6298
Photo of Dare Owoloja, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berks County, PA
Dare Owoloja
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610  (Online Only)
I specialize in emotional support for tenagers, adults and couples related to all types - Anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Attention Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Relationships and social disorder .
I am Licensed a professional Counseling (LPC) from the state of Pennsylvania. I have been providing services in the social services field for 15 years. I have versatile experience with competence in providing therapeutic milieu for individuals with affect behavioral changes and improve the individual's psychological health and functioning.
I specialize in emotional support for tenagers, adults and couples related to all types - Anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Attention Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Relationships and social disorder .
I am Licensed a professional Counseling (LPC) from the state of Pennsylvania. I have been providing services in the social services field for 15 years. I have versatile experience with competence in providing therapeutic milieu for individuals with affect behavioral changes and improve the individual's psychological health and functioning.
(610) 379-3683 View (610) 379-3683
Photo of Amanda Hunter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berks County, PA
Amanda Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Sinking Spring, PA 19608  (Online Only)
I have the expertise working with Pregnancy and Postpartum Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Maternal & Women’s Issues, Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Adolescents, Geriatric Issues, Brief Couples & Family Counseling, and Childhood Trauma and Mental/Behavioral Health Disorders.
Therapy should be a safe place where you feel heard and your feelings are validated. It can be struggling to find the person you feel comfortable with opening up about your feelings. You deserve to have a therapist to help guide and support you through your difficult times in your life. Specializing in Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Maternal Issues as well as Child & Adult Trauma Therapy. I have the personal and clinical experience and the expertise to work with women and children through their difficult times in their life. You deserve a safe space to be able to express all your feelings and thoughts and not worry about being judged.
I have the expertise working with Pregnancy and Postpartum Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Maternal & Women’s Issues, Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Adolescents, Geriatric Issues, Brief Couples & Family Counseling, and Childhood Trauma and Mental/Behavioral Health Disorders.
Therapy should be a safe place where you feel heard and your feelings are validated. It can be struggling to find the person you feel comfortable with opening up about your feelings. You deserve to have a therapist to help guide and support you through your difficult times in your life. Specializing in Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Maternal Issues as well as Child & Adult Trauma Therapy. I have the personal and clinical experience and the expertise to work with women and children through their difficult times in their life. You deserve a safe space to be able to express all your feelings and thoughts and not worry about being judged.
(484) 706-9465 View (484) 706-9465

See more therapy options for Berks County

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.