Couples Counselling in Illawong, NSW

Photo of Nerida May Dunkerley, Psychotherapist in Illawong, NSW
Nerida May Dunkerley
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Illawong, NSW 2234  (Online Only)
Hello, I am so glad you found me! My name is Nerida, I have a wealth of knowledge, therapeutic expertise and training with over 30 years experience working as a Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and located in Menai and Padstow, New South Wales. As a Counsellor & Psychotherapist, I specialise in working with individuals, couples and groups applying various modalities to address issues such as addictions, relationship counselling, premarital counselling, trauma counselling and clinical supervision.
Hello, I am so glad you found me! My name is Nerida, I have a wealth of knowledge, therapeutic expertise and training with over 30 years experience working as a Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and located in Menai and Padstow, New South Wales. As a Counsellor & Psychotherapist, I specialise in working with individuals, couples and groups applying various modalities to address issues such as addictions, relationship counselling, premarital counselling, trauma counselling and clinical supervision.
0408 024 308 View 0408 024 308

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Fisher, Psychologist in Illawong, NSW
Jennifer Fisher
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Verified Verified
Sutherland, NSW 2232
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
(02) 4214 8212 View (02) 4214 8212
Photo of Western Psychology and Eastern Wisdom Counselling, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Western Psychology and Eastern Wisdom Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Enfield, NSW 2136
Lê Hoang is a Counsellor with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, and couples. Lê specialises in relationship counselling and cross-cultural issues. She is highly experienced in working with issues around decision-making, conflict resolution, enhancing communication and connection. Clients have described Lê's qualities: Insightful (“you quickly grasp dysfunctional dynamics”), Mind-visual communication style (“it’s easy to remember your feedback because you use great metaphors and analogies), Calm and neutral (both partners felt heard and attended to equally).
Lê Hoang is a Counsellor with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, and couples. Lê specialises in relationship counselling and cross-cultural issues. She is highly experienced in working with issues around decision-making, conflict resolution, enhancing communication and connection. Clients have described Lê's qualities: Insightful (“you quickly grasp dysfunctional dynamics”), Mind-visual communication style (“it’s easy to remember your feedback because you use great metaphors and analogies), Calm and neutral (both partners felt heard and attended to equally).
(02) 8105 5843 View (02) 8105 5843
Photo of Helen Brennan, Psychologist in Illawong, NSW
Helen Brennan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caringbah, NSW 2229
My main areas of practice include relationship/couples counselling, adjustment, life transition, grief/loss, depression & anxiety.
I am a warm and down-to-earth psychologist with a passion for working with clients to create the life they want to live. I bring a non-judgmental, supportive approach and a genuine care and respect for each client and the life experiences they bring to therapy. Drawing from current evidence-based practices, I work with clients to understand their specific goals, be it growth, healing, adjustment or other, and adapt the therapeutic support, strategies and tools to best meet their goals and make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. My work focuses mainly with adults, including older adults, couples and families.
My main areas of practice include relationship/couples counselling, adjustment, life transition, grief/loss, depression & anxiety.
I am a warm and down-to-earth psychologist with a passion for working with clients to create the life they want to live. I bring a non-judgmental, supportive approach and a genuine care and respect for each client and the life experiences they bring to therapy. Drawing from current evidence-based practices, I work with clients to understand their specific goals, be it growth, healing, adjustment or other, and adapt the therapeutic support, strategies and tools to best meet their goals and make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. My work focuses mainly with adults, including older adults, couples and families.
(02) 9538 7948 View (02) 9538 7948
Photo of Salome Elevated Counselling, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Salome Elevated Counselling
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Loftus, NSW 2232
I specialise in helping individuals and couples with Trauma & PTSD, Relationships, Behavioural issues and Bereavement.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming and you may feel like you have no one to turn to or trust. At these times your mental health is suffering and may be working against every effort you make. It may be that the way you view life issues does not help you and your relationships. Or you may think that the whole world is against you. Have you suffered trauma or loss? I can help you look at these traumatic life experiences and the devastating emotional consequences. I will provide you with non-judgmental, and empathic space to explore these issues, and figure out your best way forward to a progressive and fulfilling future.
I specialise in helping individuals and couples with Trauma & PTSD, Relationships, Behavioural issues and Bereavement.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming and you may feel like you have no one to turn to or trust. At these times your mental health is suffering and may be working against every effort you make. It may be that the way you view life issues does not help you and your relationships. Or you may think that the whole world is against you. Have you suffered trauma or loss? I can help you look at these traumatic life experiences and the devastating emotional consequences. I will provide you with non-judgmental, and empathic space to explore these issues, and figure out your best way forward to a progressive and fulfilling future.
(02) 7501 0206 View (02) 7501 0206
Photo of Lisa Haslam, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Lisa Haslam
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ingleburn, NSW 2565
I am a Counsellor in South Western Sydney. I have worked for many years as Child and Family Therapist. Working with individuals, couples and families with issues such as relationship breakdown, separation, parenting, divorce, grief and loss, self esteem, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. In my practice I provide a safe and calming environment to help clients feel comfortable to work through their underlying issues that may feel overwhelming in the day to day life. With the use of techniques such as Imago Therapy, Family Systems, Mindfulness, Art and Walk and Talk Therapy I help clients feel more empowered in their life.
I am a Counsellor in South Western Sydney. I have worked for many years as Child and Family Therapist. Working with individuals, couples and families with issues such as relationship breakdown, separation, parenting, divorce, grief and loss, self esteem, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. In my practice I provide a safe and calming environment to help clients feel comfortable to work through their underlying issues that may feel overwhelming in the day to day life. With the use of techniques such as Imago Therapy, Family Systems, Mindfulness, Art and Walk and Talk Therapy I help clients feel more empowered in their life.
(02) 4210 5086 View (02) 4210 5086
Photo of Jocelyn Koukoumas, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Jocelyn Koukoumas
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Sutherland, NSW 2232
I am an affordable Registered Counsellor/EAP Provider/I-Care and Victims Services Counsellor with experience spanning many years, I help clients manage Childhood & Adult Trauma, Anxiety throughout the lifespan, Stress, Grief/Loss, Depression, Self-Esteem, Impulse Control, Anger Management, Relationship Problems & Distorted Thinking. I work with empathy, respect and especially without judgment by providing a safe and warm environment in which to discuss what's causing the worry. I use a Person Centred, Strength Based and Trauma Informed Approach to tackle the current challenges and any distressing symptoms that is being experienced.
I am an affordable Registered Counsellor/EAP Provider/I-Care and Victims Services Counsellor with experience spanning many years, I help clients manage Childhood & Adult Trauma, Anxiety throughout the lifespan, Stress, Grief/Loss, Depression, Self-Esteem, Impulse Control, Anger Management, Relationship Problems & Distorted Thinking. I work with empathy, respect and especially without judgment by providing a safe and warm environment in which to discuss what's causing the worry. I use a Person Centred, Strength Based and Trauma Informed Approach to tackle the current challenges and any distressing symptoms that is being experienced.
(02) 8074 3566 View (02) 8074 3566
Photo of Hayley Yi, Psychologist in Illawong, NSW
Hayley Yi
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Roselands, NSW 2196
Building strong minds and relationships across the lifespan. I work with children and teens with a range of behavioural concerns, emotional outbursts and school refusal, and engage them in activities and learning in session, as well as coaching for parents. I work with adults with relationship difficulties, complex traumas, and people-pleasing habits, and provide them with the right tools to communicate assertively, set healthy boundaries and express self-confidence. Auslan is available.
Building strong minds and relationships across the lifespan. I work with children and teens with a range of behavioural concerns, emotional outbursts and school refusal, and engage them in activities and learning in session, as well as coaching for parents. I work with adults with relationship difficulties, complex traumas, and people-pleasing habits, and provide them with the right tools to communicate assertively, set healthy boundaries and express self-confidence. Auslan is available.
(02) 8105 6141 View (02) 8105 6141
Photo of Tania Rose, Psychotherapist in Illawong, NSW
Tania Rose
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool, NSW 2170
Whether through relationship or individual support, feeling comfortable and validated with the professional who walks with you on your journey is vital.
Tania Rose is a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming psychotherapist providing support for adults and their loved-ones Australia-wide. Tania's 30 years of experience includes working with Autistic and ADHD adults who may self-identify or have a formal diagnosis and wish to build capacity, aid recovery, or aim for renewal. Tania Rose supports empowerment to address client issues, focusing on the unique experience of each individual. Supporting queer, neurodivergent, differently-abled, and creative clients. Ethical Non-Monogamous (ENM) and unique relationship styles welcome. Zoom sessions are available for remote support.
Whether through relationship or individual support, feeling comfortable and validated with the professional who walks with you on your journey is vital.
Tania Rose is a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming psychotherapist providing support for adults and their loved-ones Australia-wide. Tania's 30 years of experience includes working with Autistic and ADHD adults who may self-identify or have a formal diagnosis and wish to build capacity, aid recovery, or aim for renewal. Tania Rose supports empowerment to address client issues, focusing on the unique experience of each individual. Supporting queer, neurodivergent, differently-abled, and creative clients. Ethical Non-Monogamous (ENM) and unique relationship styles welcome. Zoom sessions are available for remote support.
(02) 4708 9622 View (02) 4708 9622
Photo of Couples Counselling Inner West Sydney, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Couples Counselling Inner West Sydney
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hurlstone Park, NSW 2193  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Tamara Pallos and my area of expertise is relationship therapy. I work both with couples, wanting to resolve relationship difficulties, and with individuals looking to overcome blocks to having more fulfilling relationships. I can help with the full range of couple relationship problems, including conflict and communication issues, affairs or other breaches of trust, distance in the relationship, sexual difficulties, issues with in-laws, and parenting issues. I also support individuals to build thriving relationships through developing healthier patterns of relating.
Hi, I'm Tamara Pallos and my area of expertise is relationship therapy. I work both with couples, wanting to resolve relationship difficulties, and with individuals looking to overcome blocks to having more fulfilling relationships. I can help with the full range of couple relationship problems, including conflict and communication issues, affairs or other breaches of trust, distance in the relationship, sexual difficulties, issues with in-laws, and parenting issues. I also support individuals to build thriving relationships through developing healthier patterns of relating.
(02) 9100 0964 View (02) 9100 0964
Photo of 3R Counselling, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
3R Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Bankstown, NSW 2200
Hello everyone! I'm Cynthia Nathan, Relationship Counsellor and Marriage & Relationship Educator. I specialise in Pre-Marriage Education Counselling (ME-WE), Bringing Baby Home a Transition to Parenthood Program (WE-US) and Couples Counselling - Couples Check Up's to enrich, enhance and heal marriages. I am a qualified Relationship Counsellor with many years of experience in the field and I combine the many methods I'm qualified in such as Gottmans, EFT by Sue Johnson and PrepareEnrich by David Olson to provide the very best to my clients. My sessions are unique as it is therapy with education to really help couples grow and thrive.
Hello everyone! I'm Cynthia Nathan, Relationship Counsellor and Marriage & Relationship Educator. I specialise in Pre-Marriage Education Counselling (ME-WE), Bringing Baby Home a Transition to Parenthood Program (WE-US) and Couples Counselling - Couples Check Up's to enrich, enhance and heal marriages. I am a qualified Relationship Counsellor with many years of experience in the field and I combine the many methods I'm qualified in such as Gottmans, EFT by Sue Johnson and PrepareEnrich by David Olson to provide the very best to my clients. My sessions are unique as it is therapy with education to really help couples grow and thrive.
(02) 7804 4105 View (02) 7804 4105
Photo of Dr Shikha M Gray, Psychologist in Illawong, NSW
Dr Shikha M Gray
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Liverpool, NSW 2170  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples of all ages and genders facing a variety of challenges including depression, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, trauma, grief and loss, relationship or family problems, parenting issues, and health setbacks (e.g. diabetes). My approach is warm and compassionate. I am committed to understanding how you see things like no one else. I am Indian-Australian and welcome those from all backgrounds. Outside of therapy, I hold a university position as a lecturer and teach postgraduate counselling.
I work with adults and couples of all ages and genders facing a variety of challenges including depression, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, trauma, grief and loss, relationship or family problems, parenting issues, and health setbacks (e.g. diabetes). My approach is warm and compassionate. I am committed to understanding how you see things like no one else. I am Indian-Australian and welcome those from all backgrounds. Outside of therapy, I hold a university position as a lecturer and teach postgraduate counselling.
(03) 7003 2197 View (03) 7003 2197
Photo of Ability to Achieve, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Ability to Achieve
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Mortdale, NSW 2223
I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
I believe that ‘’Talking is the medicine of the soul” The most powerful thing we can do is to speak up and share what is on our minds. Talking with a professional can be a transformative tool in promoting self-awareness, growth, and emotional well-being. I have gained experience and developed skills to support individuals in exploring and addressing personal challenges and difficulties. I am dedicated to creating a safe and confidential space where clients can share their experiences without judgment or criticism.
I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
I believe that ‘’Talking is the medicine of the soul” The most powerful thing we can do is to speak up and share what is on our minds. Talking with a professional can be a transformative tool in promoting self-awareness, growth, and emotional well-being. I have gained experience and developed skills to support individuals in exploring and addressing personal challenges and difficulties. I am dedicated to creating a safe and confidential space where clients can share their experiences without judgment or criticism.
(02) 8105 5539 View (02) 8105 5539
Photo of Carmen Teodor, Psychologist in Illawong, NSW
Carmen Teodor
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moorebank, NSW 2170  (Online Only)
Whether you're facing the challenges of battling depression, managing anxiety, wrestling with low self-esteem, navigating parenting difficulties, relationship issues, coping with stress, dealing with life crises, family issues, complex trauma, PTSD, cross-cultural dilemmas, coping with grief and loss, tackling workplace stress, or providing support for children after separation—I'm here for you. Expect a reset button for your life. In our Telehealth sessions, we connect virtually to explore and understand your experiences. It's a conversation that helps you focus on what matters most – you.
Whether you're facing the challenges of battling depression, managing anxiety, wrestling with low self-esteem, navigating parenting difficulties, relationship issues, coping with stress, dealing with life crises, family issues, complex trauma, PTSD, cross-cultural dilemmas, coping with grief and loss, tackling workplace stress, or providing support for children after separation—I'm here for you. Expect a reset button for your life. In our Telehealth sessions, we connect virtually to explore and understand your experiences. It's a conversation that helps you focus on what matters most – you.
(02) 8105 6074 View (02) 8105 6074
Michelle Pal
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Bankstown, NSW 2200  (Online Only)
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues, and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I also am passionate about social justice and regularly provide assessments and report for criminal court proceedings including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports.
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues, and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I also am passionate about social justice and regularly provide assessments and report for criminal court proceedings including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports.
(02) 8294 8062 View (02) 8294 8062
Photo of Deniz Dagli, Psychologist in Illawong, NSW
Deniz Dagli
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Liverpool, NSW 2170
Deniz enjoys working with teens, adults, couples and families.
Are you feeling worried, stressed, low mood and depressed? Struggling to cope with life's challenges? Our psychology clinic is here to lend a helping hand. Are you seeking support to enhance your relationships and personal growth? And healing traumatic memories? You are not alone. Deniz at MindSea Psychology, offers compassionate, culturally safe, and personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Deniz has a rich history of clinical experience (15years) working in NGO’s, public and private mental health, hospitals, schools, universities and private practice. Visit us at www.mindseapsychology.com.au for further info.
Deniz enjoys working with teens, adults, couples and families.
Are you feeling worried, stressed, low mood and depressed? Struggling to cope with life's challenges? Our psychology clinic is here to lend a helping hand. Are you seeking support to enhance your relationships and personal growth? And healing traumatic memories? You are not alone. Deniz at MindSea Psychology, offers compassionate, culturally safe, and personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Deniz has a rich history of clinical experience (15years) working in NGO’s, public and private mental health, hospitals, schools, universities and private practice. Visit us at www.mindseapsychology.com.au for further info.
(02) 8105 6605 View (02) 8105 6605
Photo of Counselling Wollongong, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Counselling Wollongong
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Woronora Dam, NSW 2508
Amna and Jacob specialise in couples counselling as well as catering to all of the individual counselling needs like depression, anxiety, suicidality, addiction, family issues and just about every thing that we deal with in the human condition.
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
Amna and Jacob specialise in couples counselling as well as catering to all of the individual counselling needs like depression, anxiety, suicidality, addiction, family issues and just about every thing that we deal with in the human condition.
Jacob and Amna will help you...“Once you understand the four mechanisms that determine why different parts of your ‘self’ do disturbing behaviours, then you can begin to compassionately change your behaviours in a sustainable way” Child mechanism an internal override of unique expression. Adolescent mechanism an attempt to override Externally. Adult mechanism an override of the Adolescent Mechanism. Self-Distraction/Medication an attempt to override seemingly overwhelming feelings. Our counsellors get the most fulfilment and satisfaction by helping people become ’emotionally independent’.
(02) 4210 5604 View (02) 4210 5604
Photo of Counselling & Guidance Services, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Counselling & Guidance Services
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Glenfield, NSW 2167
Are you feeling unhappy about your relationship? Are you arguing about the same issues and unable to reach a solution? I help people create better relationships with themselves, and with other people. I help couples to learn how to grow through relationship challenges, build relationship health and resilience and learn new ways to communicate. I work with parents to create a family culture that is enjoyable, healthy and supportive to all. I work with new mums who feel lost, out of control, feeling nothing is working. I work with clients who have anxiety, depression or stress. I work with you to help yourself, whatever the issues.
Are you feeling unhappy about your relationship? Are you arguing about the same issues and unable to reach a solution? I help people create better relationships with themselves, and with other people. I help couples to learn how to grow through relationship challenges, build relationship health and resilience and learn new ways to communicate. I work with parents to create a family culture that is enjoyable, healthy and supportive to all. I work with new mums who feel lost, out of control, feeling nothing is working. I work with clients who have anxiety, depression or stress. I work with you to help yourself, whatever the issues.
(02) 9159 6942 View (02) 9159 6942
Photo of Connie Easterbrook Counselling Services, Counsellor in Illawong, NSW
Connie Easterbrook Counselling Services
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Engadine, NSW 2233
Experiencing relationship struggles or marriage breakdown. Wanting to refresh, renew or repair your relationship with your partner or loved one. Overwhelmed by grief and sadness. Anxious. Depressed. Stressed. Overwhelmed. Discouraged. Low self-esteem. If you are looking for compassionate care, support, hope for the future and a transformed emotional life - then I may be able to help. I am a warm, relational counsellor who offers experience, wisdom and compassion. I can provide practical skills and strategies to assist alongside empowering you to find your own unique way forward.
Experiencing relationship struggles or marriage breakdown. Wanting to refresh, renew or repair your relationship with your partner or loved one. Overwhelmed by grief and sadness. Anxious. Depressed. Stressed. Overwhelmed. Discouraged. Low self-esteem. If you are looking for compassionate care, support, hope for the future and a transformed emotional life - then I may be able to help. I am a warm, relational counsellor who offers experience, wisdom and compassion. I can provide practical skills and strategies to assist alongside empowering you to find your own unique way forward.
(02) 7501 0787 View (02) 7501 0787
Photo of Positive Thinking Clinic, Psychotherapist in Illawong, NSW
Positive Thinking Clinic
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wolli Creek, NSW 2205
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
(02) 8294 5710 View (02) 8294 5710
Couples Counselling

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.