Couples Counseling Therapists in 27514

Photo of Miriam Lieberman, Licensed Professional Counselor in 27514, NC
Miriam Lieberman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCMHCS, HTCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
This includes our relationship to self, family, people, work, spirituality, addictive behaviors and change.
Are you looking for a safe place to discuss what matters most to you? Family, work, relationships, health, transitions, grief, loss, children, trauma, life purpose, letting go of past hurts. I love assisting individuals and couples with relationship skills, communication issues, changing self defeating patterns, healing pain (physical and emotional), and learning to be one's best self across settings. I work with children and families in our ever changing world to improve relationships, performance, self awareness, mood, behavior. I bring my many years of experience working with young and old alike to this passionate pursuit of balanced living.
This includes our relationship to self, family, people, work, spirituality, addictive behaviors and change.
Are you looking for a safe place to discuss what matters most to you? Family, work, relationships, health, transitions, grief, loss, children, trauma, life purpose, letting go of past hurts. I love assisting individuals and couples with relationship skills, communication issues, changing self defeating patterns, healing pain (physical and emotional), and learning to be one's best self across settings. I work with children and families in our ever changing world to improve relationships, performance, self awareness, mood, behavior. I bring my many years of experience working with young and old alike to this passionate pursuit of balanced living.
(919) 618-4919 View (919) 618-4919
Photo of Marlana Elan Peterson Rogers, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in 27514, NC
Marlana Elan Peterson Rogers
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MPA, LCAS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am a person-centered therapist who uses the guide-collaborator approach to provide a safe space to empathetically build a therapeutic rapport with clients. My theoretical model of choice is CBT with elements of CPT, NET, and DBT. I meet my clients where they are in their stage of readiness for change. I find this is the optimum approach in being responsive to the individual's needs. This approach allows my techniques to be flexible and integrative. I incorporate psychoeducational components on symptom impact of diagnosis, the influence of negative schemas, porous boundaries, ineffective communication styles, and attachment styles.
I am a person-centered therapist who uses the guide-collaborator approach to provide a safe space to empathetically build a therapeutic rapport with clients. My theoretical model of choice is CBT with elements of CPT, NET, and DBT. I meet my clients where they are in their stage of readiness for change. I find this is the optimum approach in being responsive to the individual's needs. This approach allows my techniques to be flexible and integrative. I incorporate psychoeducational components on symptom impact of diagnosis, the influence of negative schemas, porous boundaries, ineffective communication styles, and attachment styles.
(919) 849-3520 View (919) 849-3520
Photo of Dani Leah Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Dani Leah Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I believe pleasure and intimacy are key components to realizing your own worth. Whether you are looking to connect more deeply to yourself, a partner, or a community, I am here to reflect your own capacity for joy and fulfillment back to you. Therapy is about connection, and I bring my openness, curiosity, and sense of humor into my sessions. I use a blend of techniques from emotionally-focused therapy, somatic psychotherapy, sex therapy, and yoga to work with both individuals and partners.
I believe pleasure and intimacy are key components to realizing your own worth. Whether you are looking to connect more deeply to yourself, a partner, or a community, I am here to reflect your own capacity for joy and fulfillment back to you. Therapy is about connection, and I bring my openness, curiosity, and sense of humor into my sessions. I use a blend of techniques from emotionally-focused therapy, somatic psychotherapy, sex therapy, and yoga to work with both individuals and partners.
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Photo of Dr. Sophia Walder-Hoge, Psychologist in 27514, NC
Dr. Sophia Walder-Hoge
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I welcome the inclusion of individual interests and experiences and support the development of a strong therapeutic relationship.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide therapy with children, families, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including ADHD, self-esteem, interpersonal and relational difficulties, anxiety and mood disorders, major life transitions, behavioral/conduct issues, and developmental disorders/ASD. My approach to therapy emphasizes a humanist, strengths-based, and trauma-informed style. I strive to support growth, self-understanding, and adaptive skill-building in an open and nonjudgmental space.
I welcome the inclusion of individual interests and experiences and support the development of a strong therapeutic relationship.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide therapy with children, families, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including ADHD, self-esteem, interpersonal and relational difficulties, anxiety and mood disorders, major life transitions, behavioral/conduct issues, and developmental disorders/ASD. My approach to therapy emphasizes a humanist, strengths-based, and trauma-informed style. I strive to support growth, self-understanding, and adaptive skill-building in an open and nonjudgmental space.
(984) 265-2176 View (984) 265-2176
Photo of Jonah Woodsong Leslie, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in 27514, NC
Jonah Woodsong Leslie
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MS
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
You’re feeling disconnected from yourself or the people around you. Maybe you’re feeling stuck in life and can’t find the energy to change things up. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by thoughts or feelings that push you around or keep you from doing what you want to be doing. I'd like to help out. Clients often come to see me for help with different forms of anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, navigating a major transition or wanting to explore their identity. I also support individuals and relationship partners in traditional and non-traditional relationships, and specialize in helping people navigating polyamory.
You’re feeling disconnected from yourself or the people around you. Maybe you’re feeling stuck in life and can’t find the energy to change things up. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by thoughts or feelings that push you around or keep you from doing what you want to be doing. I'd like to help out. Clients often come to see me for help with different forms of anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, navigating a major transition or wanting to explore their identity. I also support individuals and relationship partners in traditional and non-traditional relationships, and specialize in helping people navigating polyamory.
(919) 642-4785 View (919) 642-4785
Photo of Dr. Danielle Weber, Psychologist in 27514, NC
Dr. Danielle Weber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with couples with a variety of concerns, including communication, roles and responsibilities, intimacy, trust/boundaries.
I completed my PhD in clinical psychology with a particular focus on couple therapy. I believe that relationships have a transformative role in our lives. Positive, healthy relationships help us thrive. Simultaneously, a relationship that has encountered challenges can compound stress experienced in daily life. My goal is to (a) help you understand what has contributed to challenging patterns in your relationship and then (b) guide you in building new patterns that work better for you. I practice evidence-based couple therapy, which means I use strategies and principles that research has shown to improve relationships.
I work with couples with a variety of concerns, including communication, roles and responsibilities, intimacy, trust/boundaries.
I completed my PhD in clinical psychology with a particular focus on couple therapy. I believe that relationships have a transformative role in our lives. Positive, healthy relationships help us thrive. Simultaneously, a relationship that has encountered challenges can compound stress experienced in daily life. My goal is to (a) help you understand what has contributed to challenging patterns in your relationship and then (b) guide you in building new patterns that work better for you. I practice evidence-based couple therapy, which means I use strategies and principles that research has shown to improve relationships.
(919) 246-4388 View (919) 246-4388
Photo of Donna Boni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Donna Boni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, C-PD, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Your life may not be what you want it to be. You may be struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, past or present trauma. You need someone to talk to, who will listen, not judge, who wants to help you find a way to a better life. I subscribe to the wise words of Viktor Frankl: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Let me help you meet that challenge. I strive to create a trusting relationship with my clients, which is the foundation that allows a successful outcome. I have extensive training in trauma and the symptoms that often result from these experiences.
Your life may not be what you want it to be. You may be struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, past or present trauma. You need someone to talk to, who will listen, not judge, who wants to help you find a way to a better life. I subscribe to the wise words of Viktor Frankl: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Let me help you meet that challenge. I strive to create a trusting relationship with my clients, which is the foundation that allows a successful outcome. I have extensive training in trauma and the symptoms that often result from these experiences.
(919) 759-5784 View (919) 759-5784
Photo of Queen Village Therapy Group, Counselor in 27514, NC
Queen Village Therapy Group
Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
At Queen Village Therapy Group, we understand the importance of mental health and wellness. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized and high-quality services to help you feel your best. We offer a variety of therapy services, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work together with our patients to identify the best treatment plan for their individual needs
At Queen Village Therapy Group, we understand the importance of mental health and wellness. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized and high-quality services to help you feel your best. We offer a variety of therapy services, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work together with our patients to identify the best treatment plan for their individual needs
(757) 859-9531 View (757) 859-9531
Photo of Tim Donahoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Tim Donahoe, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Breaking patterns is hard, but you know you want change and meaningful redirection. Painful memories and recurrent conflict can strain relationships. Work stress gets in the way of being present and feeling fulfilled. People often work with me to get things moving when they feel blocked or stuck, to develop calm where uncertainty has them off balance. Our work will reveal insight to restore stability, address trauma, and change outlook towards realizing an improved sense of self. Together we can work to identify and harness strength, addressing challenges with new clarity and inspiration.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Breaking patterns is hard, but you know you want change and meaningful redirection. Painful memories and recurrent conflict can strain relationships. Work stress gets in the way of being present and feeling fulfilled. People often work with me to get things moving when they feel blocked or stuck, to develop calm where uncertainty has them off balance. Our work will reveal insight to restore stability, address trauma, and change outlook towards realizing an improved sense of self. Together we can work to identify and harness strength, addressing challenges with new clarity and inspiration.
(984) 369-8046 View (984) 369-8046
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 27514, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC in 27514, NC
Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
(919) 587-8394 View (919) 587-8394
Photo of Abide Inclusive, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Abide Inclusive
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Have you been struggling to feel like you belong or feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling like your family is not communicating with everyone's nose stuck in a screen? At Abide Inclusive we have a talented group of therapists who work with a variety of struggles including life transitions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, and trauma. We are an inclusive agency with strong roots in supporting the LGBTQ2IA+ community. For more information on each clinician please visit our website www.abideinclusive.org
Have you been struggling to feel like you belong or feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling like your family is not communicating with everyone's nose stuck in a screen? At Abide Inclusive we have a talented group of therapists who work with a variety of struggles including life transitions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, and trauma. We are an inclusive agency with strong roots in supporting the LGBTQ2IA+ community. For more information on each clinician please visit our website www.abideinclusive.org
(828) 547-4697 View (828) 547-4697
Photo of Dina Kinner, Psychologist in 27514, NC
Dina Kinner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals and couples, specializing in trauma, life transitions, anxiety, relationship distress, and women's and perinatal mental health.
You may be struggling with managing stress and anxiety, overcoming trauma, coping with life changes, or navigating relationship conflict. Our work together will help you resolve these difficulties, learn how to cope in ways you feel good about, deepen relationships, and achieve the goals most important to you. I create a safe, secure space for you to be yourself so that we can build insight that leads to lasting change.
I work with individuals and couples, specializing in trauma, life transitions, anxiety, relationship distress, and women's and perinatal mental health.
You may be struggling with managing stress and anxiety, overcoming trauma, coping with life changes, or navigating relationship conflict. Our work together will help you resolve these difficulties, learn how to cope in ways you feel good about, deepen relationships, and achieve the goals most important to you. I create a safe, secure space for you to be yourself so that we can build insight that leads to lasting change.
(919) 351-6372 View (919) 351-6372
Photo of Ronald A Zumstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Ronald A Zumstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Though I have a wide area of professional interests, and training, I specialize in Relationship and Couples' issues, and Sexual Addiction (including Internet and Porn Addiction).
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
Though I have a wide area of professional interests, and training, I specialize in Relationship and Couples' issues, and Sexual Addiction (including Internet and Porn Addiction).
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
(919) 283-3480 View (919) 283-3480
Photo of David M Franzen, Pastoral Counselor in 27514, NC
David M Franzen
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, ThM, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My highest priority is to respect the integrity, faith and values of each person. I work with a variety of people and have an extensive psychodynamic and psychoanalytic background, advanced degrees in Psychology and Theology, and decades of clinical experience with persons and families in crisis. I welcome clients from any (or no) faith tradition. I have decades of experience working with people struggling with loss, grief, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Visit me at www.drdavidfranzen.com. I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you journey toward greater wholeness, and health.
My highest priority is to respect the integrity, faith and values of each person. I work with a variety of people and have an extensive psychodynamic and psychoanalytic background, advanced degrees in Psychology and Theology, and decades of clinical experience with persons and families in crisis. I welcome clients from any (or no) faith tradition. I have decades of experience working with people struggling with loss, grief, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Visit me at www.drdavidfranzen.com. I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you journey toward greater wholeness, and health.
(919) 561-6118 View (919) 561-6118
Photo of Kalita D McBride, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Kalita D McBride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
The House of Gray PLLC was created with the strong friend and family member in mind. The one that often feels alone and who finds it difficult to be vulnerable with their loved ones. Our passion lies in educating, empowering and healing communities that have been fragmented for generations. Our energy is rooted in being empathic, safe and nonjudgmental to support your journey towards healing and inner peace. We guide you in finding meaning to the challenges you face and explore your inner strengths to thrive.
The House of Gray PLLC was created with the strong friend and family member in mind. The one that often feels alone and who finds it difficult to be vulnerable with their loved ones. Our passion lies in educating, empowering and healing communities that have been fragmented for generations. Our energy is rooted in being empathic, safe and nonjudgmental to support your journey towards healing and inner peace. We guide you in finding meaning to the challenges you face and explore your inner strengths to thrive.
(919) 635-1834 View (919) 635-1834
Photo of Aly Attaway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27514, NC
Aly Attaway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Taking New Clients! I recognize that life is difficult, therefore, I am passionate about bringing healing to others. I am a compassionate, caring and motivated individual determined to further assist clients with identifying their internal strengths and providing support towards their continued evolving, growing and becoming empowered members of society. In a world which is forever changing, I will continue striving to encourage, support and guide clients towards building firmer foundations. In my care, you will receive a comfortable, confidential, and supportive space. The truth is opening up is hard and change is hard too.
Taking New Clients! I recognize that life is difficult, therefore, I am passionate about bringing healing to others. I am a compassionate, caring and motivated individual determined to further assist clients with identifying their internal strengths and providing support towards their continued evolving, growing and becoming empowered members of society. In a world which is forever changing, I will continue striving to encourage, support and guide clients towards building firmer foundations. In my care, you will receive a comfortable, confidential, and supportive space. The truth is opening up is hard and change is hard too.
(919) 737-7182 View (919) 737-7182
Photo of Katrina Roseboro-Marsh, Pre-Licensed Professional in 27514, NC
Katrina Roseboro-Marsh
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MSSW, DMin, P-PsyD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
The clients I serve find themselves being negatively impacted by unfortunate experiences in their lives. The three most prevalent commonalities are anxiety, stress, and prolonged feelings of sadness or depression. These symptoms can be accompanied by experiences of loss; loss of appetite, money, function, energy, employment, relationships, and oftentimes pleasure. This psychological distress can be rooted in fear, guilt, loneliness, disappointment, anger, resentment, and simple dissatisfaction.
The clients I serve find themselves being negatively impacted by unfortunate experiences in their lives. The three most prevalent commonalities are anxiety, stress, and prolonged feelings of sadness or depression. These symptoms can be accompanied by experiences of loss; loss of appetite, money, function, energy, employment, relationships, and oftentimes pleasure. This psychological distress can be rooted in fear, guilt, loneliness, disappointment, anger, resentment, and simple dissatisfaction.
(669) 234-8672 View (669) 234-8672
Photo of Sylvia Ward Graves, Counselor in 27514, NC
Sylvia Ward Graves
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I enjoy fostering healthy exploration for adults, adolescents, and couples processing issues of differentiation, self-esteem, anxiety, family of origin, relational health, spirituality, and more.
I approach counseling with the belief that I encounter every client in the middle of a story. Within these stories, individuals are influenced by their relational contexts and histories––therefore, what they have been through is worth exploring. At the same time, I believe all are active agents in their present and future––I seek to empower clients toward change while fostering awareness of what has shaped them. In the context of safety, individuals are able to begin embracing agency and taking new risks which might otherwise feel inaccessible or overwhelming. Through these new risks, freedom and growth is possible.
I enjoy fostering healthy exploration for adults, adolescents, and couples processing issues of differentiation, self-esteem, anxiety, family of origin, relational health, spirituality, and more.
I approach counseling with the belief that I encounter every client in the middle of a story. Within these stories, individuals are influenced by their relational contexts and histories––therefore, what they have been through is worth exploring. At the same time, I believe all are active agents in their present and future––I seek to empower clients toward change while fostering awareness of what has shaped them. In the context of safety, individuals are able to begin embracing agency and taking new risks which might otherwise feel inaccessible or overwhelming. Through these new risks, freedom and growth is possible.
(919) 873-4564 View (919) 873-4564
Photo of W. Ryan Murdoch, Counselor in 27514, NC
W. Ryan Murdoch
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Finding the right help in times of stress, conflict, fear, and emptiness is important, even if it is difficult. Choosing a counselor is about finding someone you feel confident can understand you where you are, and that you trust to help find the path forward. The people I serve value my openness, compassion, curiosity, insight and calm. If you are struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or feeling worthless, then I would like to help you find the pathways to healing that best work for you.
Finding the right help in times of stress, conflict, fear, and emptiness is important, even if it is difficult. Choosing a counselor is about finding someone you feel confident can understand you where you are, and that you trust to help find the path forward. The people I serve value my openness, compassion, curiosity, insight and calm. If you are struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or feeling worthless, then I would like to help you find the pathways to healing that best work for you.
(919) 535-4811 View (919) 535-4811
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.