Photo of Joel Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Joel Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Experienced New Jersey Licenced Psychotherapist, Offers a warm, caring and supportive environment, specializes in treating individuals of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Couples Relations, Anger Management, Stress Related Disorders, Parenting issues and more. I choose from a number of treatment modalities to best meet your needs, and just to name a few such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho Dynamics, Stress Reduction to get passed personal blocks and to achieve your desired goals such as improved relationships at home and better productivity at work. I am also a Certified Supervisor providing supervision to other LCSW Therapists in the area.
Experienced New Jersey Licenced Psychotherapist, Offers a warm, caring and supportive environment, specializes in treating individuals of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Couples Relations, Anger Management, Stress Related Disorders, Parenting issues and more. I choose from a number of treatment modalities to best meet your needs, and just to name a few such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho Dynamics, Stress Reduction to get passed personal blocks and to achieve your desired goals such as improved relationships at home and better productivity at work. I am also a Certified Supervisor providing supervision to other LCSW Therapists in the area.
(201) 509-4414 View (201) 509-4414
Photo of Pamela Kulisek, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07670, NJ
Pamela Kulisek
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670  (Online Only)
I am an African American/Black veteran woman who've worked with multicultural adults, couples and families tackling together a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD to name a few.
If you feel stressed out, unable to focus, depressed, anxious, or challenged by life, making the decision to seek help is the first step. Our sessions together will be a collaborative relationship that offers opportunities of self-discovery for clients ready to work towards their own personal growth. I appreciate the vulnerability and empathize with those who have chosen to share their struggles with me and enjoy working with them through their stages of self-exploration. Our sessions together will be about feeling valued, safe and connected. I look forward to assisting you with navigating your way to a greater self awareness.
I am an African American/Black veteran woman who've worked with multicultural adults, couples and families tackling together a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD to name a few.
If you feel stressed out, unable to focus, depressed, anxious, or challenged by life, making the decision to seek help is the first step. Our sessions together will be a collaborative relationship that offers opportunities of self-discovery for clients ready to work towards their own personal growth. I appreciate the vulnerability and empathize with those who have chosen to share their struggles with me and enjoy working with them through their stages of self-exploration. Our sessions together will be about feeling valued, safe and connected. I look forward to assisting you with navigating your way to a greater self awareness.
(201) 733-3718 View (201) 733-3718
Photo of Rochelle Glatter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Rochelle Glatter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MA, MPA
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
In my work with couples and families, I help participants learn how relationships are organized and feelings triggered, resulting in relational stress.
There are times when we all struggle and need some support managing feelings or relationships. As a clinician, I work in a relatable, non-judgmental manner to ease suffering and increase fulfillment. My approach is straightforward and honest, and I believe an empathic and genuine therapeutic bond is healing and restorative. Through exploration of both current and past issues, I aim to assist you in understanding formative and current patterns and roles and how they affect your daily life. Further, capitalizing on your strengths and abilities, I can guide you towards new ways of looking at challenges that empower you to overcome difficulties.
In my work with couples and families, I help participants learn how relationships are organized and feelings triggered, resulting in relational stress.
There are times when we all struggle and need some support managing feelings or relationships. As a clinician, I work in a relatable, non-judgmental manner to ease suffering and increase fulfillment. My approach is straightforward and honest, and I believe an empathic and genuine therapeutic bond is healing and restorative. Through exploration of both current and past issues, I aim to assist you in understanding formative and current patterns and roles and how they affect your daily life. Further, capitalizing on your strengths and abilities, I can guide you towards new ways of looking at challenges that empower you to overcome difficulties.
(201) 897-2757 View (201) 897-2757
Photo of Randi Linick, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07670, NJ
Randi Linick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Now in private practice, I am interested in helping people access their inner healer, and develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), as well as a licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC). For over a decade I have been working with adolescents, adults, and families utilizing an eclectic, holistic approach. I work with clients helping to foster the mind/body connection. Together we nurture this connection in order to promote balanced, well-rounded mental health. I received my Bachelor's Degree from Washington University in St. Louis and my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University.
Now in private practice, I am interested in helping people access their inner healer, and develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), as well as a licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC). For over a decade I have been working with adolescents, adults, and families utilizing an eclectic, holistic approach. I work with clients helping to foster the mind/body connection. Together we nurture this connection in order to promote balanced, well-rounded mental health. I received my Bachelor's Degree from Washington University in St. Louis and my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University.
(201) 771-8167 View (201) 771-8167
Photo of Joon Eui Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07670, NJ
Joon Eui Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, MPA
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I am a Korean and English speaking Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, relationship and parenting children. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Korean and English speaking Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, relationship and parenting children. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(201) 425-0889 View (201) 425-0889
Photo of Elissa R. Gross, Psychologist in 07670, NJ
Elissa R. Gross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I have extensive experience working with eating disorders, divorce, remarriage and blended families, depression, adoption related issues , life transitions , anxiety and general relationship problems.
Therapy is a powerful way to increase self awareness and develop problem solving skills. I work collaboratively with clients to address issues that interfere with their sense of wellbeing. I am warm,authentic,insightful,and funny. Feeling validated, clients are able to work through challenging issues. We will build upon your strengths to create more effective coping strategies, and to help clients attain happiness and peace. I am thrilled to announce that I have joined the Lukin Center, a group of highly qualified clinicians with locations in Englewood, Hoboken, Ridgewood and Jersey City, NJ.
I have extensive experience working with eating disorders, divorce, remarriage and blended families, depression, adoption related issues , life transitions , anxiety and general relationship problems.
Therapy is a powerful way to increase self awareness and develop problem solving skills. I work collaboratively with clients to address issues that interfere with their sense of wellbeing. I am warm,authentic,insightful,and funny. Feeling validated, clients are able to work through challenging issues. We will build upon your strengths to create more effective coping strategies, and to help clients attain happiness and peace. I am thrilled to announce that I have joined the Lukin Center, a group of highly qualified clinicians with locations in Englewood, Hoboken, Ridgewood and Jersey City, NJ.
(201) 292-6764 View (201) 292-6764
Photo of Eve Yudelson, LCSW, PsyA, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Eve Yudelson, LCSW, PsyA, CGP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA, CGP
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist who will work with you as a witness and a partner as you seek to make changes or find more peace or to grow.
You have the possibility of healing: of doing better and being more. Perhaps you would like to feel more comfortable in your own skin, or require better coping skills for stress. Together we can address issues of depression, anxiety, grief, and difficult transitions. We can work towards connecting better to yourself and to others.
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist who will work with you as a witness and a partner as you seek to make changes or find more peace or to grow.
You have the possibility of healing: of doing better and being more. Perhaps you would like to feel more comfortable in your own skin, or require better coping skills for stress. Together we can address issues of depression, anxiety, grief, and difficult transitions. We can work towards connecting better to yourself and to others.
(201) 778-6267 View (201) 778-6267
Photo of Caaron Willinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Caaron Willinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Do you feel "stuck?" In your current life situation? Are you in an unhappy relationship or job? Or are you searching for a partner? I specialize in transitions, life stage issues, and the stress or anxiety that often accompany these. I also have experience with mood issues that interfere with finding peace in life.Finally I also help with body image and food issues that overwhelm and frustrate many clients.
Do you feel "stuck?" In your current life situation? Are you in an unhappy relationship or job? Or are you searching for a partner? I specialize in transitions, life stage issues, and the stress or anxiety that often accompany these. I also have experience with mood issues that interfere with finding peace in life.Finally I also help with body image and food issues that overwhelm and frustrate many clients.
(201) 625-1152 View (201) 625-1152
Photo of Linda B Wachtel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Linda B Wachtel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I have advanced training in couples and family therapy from the Ackerman Institute for the Family in NYC, an international leader.
As we transition from the COVID 19 pandemic, and people face unprecedented challenges mental health needs are complex for people of all ages. I provide teletherapy sessions as well as some limited in person sessions. As always, I work collaboratively with clients using a relational lens to consider the meaning of important relationships, family, work, culture, health, trauma, special needs and more will be the basis of the therapeutic process. I like to think of therapy as a safe space that is a resource to have active conversation with privacy and dignity. I am happy to answer questions through a phone consultation.
I have advanced training in couples and family therapy from the Ackerman Institute for the Family in NYC, an international leader.
As we transition from the COVID 19 pandemic, and people face unprecedented challenges mental health needs are complex for people of all ages. I provide teletherapy sessions as well as some limited in person sessions. As always, I work collaboratively with clients using a relational lens to consider the meaning of important relationships, family, work, culture, health, trauma, special needs and more will be the basis of the therapeutic process. I like to think of therapy as a safe space that is a resource to have active conversation with privacy and dignity. I am happy to answer questions through a phone consultation.
(917) 809-5496 View (917) 809-5496
Photo of Maria Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Maria Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Therapy can open the door to so many positive changes in our lives. Working together we can discover new ways to create a healthy mind, body and spirit, and move forward on our personal pathway to growth. My services include psychotherapy for children, adolescents and young adults, as well as working with families, couples and individuals. My goal with each client is to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship. Through therapeutic techniques we can ease stress, depression and anxiety, work to resolve conflict, build self-esteem, and address other concerns that are interfering with day-to-day life.
Therapy can open the door to so many positive changes in our lives. Working together we can discover new ways to create a healthy mind, body and spirit, and move forward on our personal pathway to growth. My services include psychotherapy for children, adolescents and young adults, as well as working with families, couples and individuals. My goal with each client is to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship. Through therapeutic techniques we can ease stress, depression and anxiety, work to resolve conflict, build self-esteem, and address other concerns that are interfering with day-to-day life.
(201) 478-8284 View (201) 478-8284
Photo of Julie Buffington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Julie Buffington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I have training in crisis intervention, short and long term therapies, couples and family therapy and long term in depth psychoanalytic therapy.
You will find me to be warm, engaging, compassionate , comfortable to connect with, and a very solid and experienced professional. As a clinical social worker with over 35 years experience, I am able to hear not only what your challenges are now, but what themes and patterns you carry with you as part of your life story. My approach is active and collaborative: together we will identify what you need help with and develop an approach accordingly. I am flexible and creative and I will listen and learn to help you explore the challenges you are facing.
I have training in crisis intervention, short and long term therapies, couples and family therapy and long term in depth psychoanalytic therapy.
You will find me to be warm, engaging, compassionate , comfortable to connect with, and a very solid and experienced professional. As a clinical social worker with over 35 years experience, I am able to hear not only what your challenges are now, but what themes and patterns you carry with you as part of your life story. My approach is active and collaborative: together we will identify what you need help with and develop an approach accordingly. I am flexible and creative and I will listen and learn to help you explore the challenges you are facing.
(845) 554-3658 View (845) 554-3658
Photo of Alan Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Alan Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I can help you with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, family conflict, marital conflict, family violence (including domestic violence), parenting issues, adolescent issues, career issues, substance use, and many, many others.
Hope. Healing. Understanding. You deserve to live a fulfilling life with healthy relationships and satisfying life choices. I look forward to helping you along that journey. It is natural and common to be "blocked" or "stuck" as one travels through life's challenges. It is normal to feel sad, frustrated, confused... to feel like no one understands what you are going through, even a partner or your family members. I am an experienced clinician who has successfully helped many individuals, couples and families understand the barriers to meeting their needs and identify the ways and means to move forward.
I can help you with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, family conflict, marital conflict, family violence (including domestic violence), parenting issues, adolescent issues, career issues, substance use, and many, many others.
Hope. Healing. Understanding. You deserve to live a fulfilling life with healthy relationships and satisfying life choices. I look forward to helping you along that journey. It is natural and common to be "blocked" or "stuck" as one travels through life's challenges. It is normal to feel sad, frustrated, confused... to feel like no one understands what you are going through, even a partner or your family members. I am an experienced clinician who has successfully helped many individuals, couples and families understand the barriers to meeting their needs and identify the ways and means to move forward.
(201) 292-0566 View (201) 292-0566
Photo of Core Counseling of North Jersey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Core Counseling of North Jersey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Core Counseling of North Jersey offers the highest level of care to individuals, couples, families, and groups- helping people resolve their challenges and feel more confident and comfortable in themselves as they move through their lives. Our specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, body image, and aging. Our diverse group of clinicians is adept at engaging and coaching as you learn new core skills. We seed change so you see change. Individual profiles - Roberta Fallig, PhD; Lisa Fedder, LCSW, LCADC; Rachel Haley, MA, LPC; Lisa Sbahia, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCTP; Lia Friedman, LAC; Janis Cameron, Ed.S, CDT.
Core Counseling of North Jersey offers the highest level of care to individuals, couples, families, and groups- helping people resolve their challenges and feel more confident and comfortable in themselves as they move through their lives. Our specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, body image, and aging. Our diverse group of clinicians is adept at engaging and coaching as you learn new core skills. We seed change so you see change. Individual profiles - Roberta Fallig, PhD; Lisa Fedder, LCSW, LCADC; Rachel Haley, MA, LPC; Lisa Sbahia, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCTP; Lia Friedman, LAC; Janis Cameron, Ed.S, CDT.
(551) 230-7421 View (551) 230-7421
Photo of Ofra Markowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Ofra Markowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
My name is Ofra Markowitz and I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. Since I started my studies and thereafter, I have immersed myself in understanding the link between the gut and brain systems, and their effects on behaviors. I have worked with adolescent children and adults in inpatient psychiatric units, school settings, and currently In private practice.
My name is Ofra Markowitz and I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. Since I started my studies and thereafter, I have immersed myself in understanding the link between the gut and brain systems, and their effects on behaviors. I have worked with adolescent children and adults in inpatient psychiatric units, school settings, and currently In private practice.
(917) 746-0898 View (917) 746-0898
Photo of Odette Cohn, Psychologist in 07670, NJ
Odette Cohn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670  (Online Only)
For more than 25 years, I have worked with children, teens, and adults coping with a variety of problems and situations. Through therapy, I believe that people can develop greater insight and more adaptive, life-affirming ways of coping with their unique difficulties and circumstances. I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, health problems, loss, grief, and relationship/family/parenting issues. I received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University in New York City.
For more than 25 years, I have worked with children, teens, and adults coping with a variety of problems and situations. Through therapy, I believe that people can develop greater insight and more adaptive, life-affirming ways of coping with their unique difficulties and circumstances. I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, health problems, loss, grief, and relationship/family/parenting issues. I received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University in New York City.
(201) 429-0229 View (201) 429-0229
Photo of Laura A Caddell, Counselor in 07670, NJ
Laura A Caddell
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Balancing the demands of life can be stressful and anxiety provoking; I am here to help. With the fast pace of our society as well as the definition of the family system changing-many have difficulty dealing with a variety of life stressors. As a result some may struggle to cope with everyday obstacles that can effect their emotional and physical health/wellbeing as well as hinder relationships and work performance. I have experience with clients that may be dealing with depression or anxiety-as well as couples counseling. I also have knowledge of the school system and can assist with ones career and or life goals.
Balancing the demands of life can be stressful and anxiety provoking; I am here to help. With the fast pace of our society as well as the definition of the family system changing-many have difficulty dealing with a variety of life stressors. As a result some may struggle to cope with everyday obstacles that can effect their emotional and physical health/wellbeing as well as hinder relationships and work performance. I have experience with clients that may be dealing with depression or anxiety-as well as couples counseling. I also have knowledge of the school system and can assist with ones career and or life goals.
(201) 597-5212 View (201) 597-5212
Photo of Dominique Focazio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Dominique Focazio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
(201) 500-3372 View (201) 500-3372
Photo of Sara Ellen Helfrich, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in 07670, NJ
Sara Ellen Helfrich
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670  (Online Only)
I have particular experience in parenting issues, relationship issues, and codependency.
I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for almost 30 years. I began my career doing play therapy with young children. While I loved that, I discovered that there is so much more to be explored in therapy when working with a variety of age groups. Over the years I have worked with many different ages and populations and I feel as though I’ve learned from my clients as much as they have learned from me. I believe that the connection that you have with your therapist is the first step to meeting any goal. While I often take a direct approach with my clients, I also tell them, “my goals can’t be your goals."
I have particular experience in parenting issues, relationship issues, and codependency.
I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for almost 30 years. I began my career doing play therapy with young children. While I loved that, I discovered that there is so much more to be explored in therapy when working with a variety of age groups. Over the years I have worked with many different ages and populations and I feel as though I’ve learned from my clients as much as they have learned from me. I believe that the connection that you have with your therapist is the first step to meeting any goal. While I often take a direct approach with my clients, I also tell them, “my goals can’t be your goals."
(561) 782-5019 View (561) 782-5019
Photo of Tony Han, Counselor in 07670, NJ
Tony Han
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychological and interpersonal challenges in life, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, life transition, relationship problems, and developmental disorders. I believe that psychotherapy is a process in which client and therapist collaborate in order to help client to improve self-understanding, overcome painful emotions, and discover new and widened perspectives about himself/herself, others, and life. I facilitate client's discovery and development of balanced and integrated personality so that he/she can transcend his/her psychological conflicts.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychological and interpersonal challenges in life, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, life transition, relationship problems, and developmental disorders. I believe that psychotherapy is a process in which client and therapist collaborate in order to help client to improve self-understanding, overcome painful emotions, and discover new and widened perspectives about himself/herself, others, and life. I facilitate client's discovery and development of balanced and integrated personality so that he/she can transcend his/her psychological conflicts.
(917) 983-2486 View (917) 983-2486
Photo of Christine Menna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07670, NJ
Christine Menna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Welcome! I’m glad your journey has brought you here today. Do you feel like you’re hiding the real you? Do you worry that you make decisions based more on other people’s approval rather than your own sense of truth? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and your relationships? Do you desire to live your most authentic life? Maybe you don’t know what it looks like. You might even feel afraid to find out. Life can feel scary at times. And sometimes we face moments that overwhelm us, and that cause us to shut down and disconnect.
Welcome! I’m glad your journey has brought you here today. Do you feel like you’re hiding the real you? Do you worry that you make decisions based more on other people’s approval rather than your own sense of truth? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and your relationships? Do you desire to live your most authentic life? Maybe you don’t know what it looks like. You might even feel afraid to find out. Life can feel scary at times. And sometimes we face moments that overwhelm us, and that cause us to shut down and disconnect.
(201) 308-0263 View (201) 308-0263
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.