Photo of APT Counselling, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
APT Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Inglewood, WA 6052
Depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship counselling are available in person, online in the comfort of your home and remote location.
Hello, I am Sam, a dedicated mindfulness counsellor with over a decade of experience. I believe therapeutic relationships built on trust and empathy are integral to counselling. Are you overwhelmed or feeling uncertain, please know that you are not alone. APT Counselling offers individual and couples sessions for late teens and adults who are experiencing clinical depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship counselling. An integrated and tailored approach will be personalized to your needs and desires.
Depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship counselling are available in person, online in the comfort of your home and remote location.
Hello, I am Sam, a dedicated mindfulness counsellor with over a decade of experience. I believe therapeutic relationships built on trust and empathy are integral to counselling. Are you overwhelmed or feeling uncertain, please know that you are not alone. APT Counselling offers individual and couples sessions for late teens and adults who are experiencing clinical depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship counselling. An integrated and tailored approach will be personalized to your needs and desires.
(08) 6490 9534 View (08) 6490 9534
Photo of Skye Frizza, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Skye Frizza
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Inglewood, WA 6052
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
(08) 6493 7338 View (08) 6493 7338
Photo of Jade Rivera, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Jade Rivera
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inglewood, WA 6052
I work with individuals and couples and I offer a warm, empathic and understanding space for people to explore their issues, concerns and relationships with themselves and others.
I work from a client-centred and transpersonal lens within a trauma-informed framework. I assist people suffering from anxiety, depression, grief & loss, ADHD, relationship problems, drug & alcohol use, existential crises, life transitions, loneliness and a range of other issues that contribute to difficulties coping. I often help highly sensitive people, and clients interested in moving into deeper truth. The therapeutic process involves identifying needs, working through fears and concerns, exploring various aspects of the self, and helping people to find their centre so they may experience a more joyful and fulfilling existence.
I work with individuals and couples and I offer a warm, empathic and understanding space for people to explore their issues, concerns and relationships with themselves and others.
I work from a client-centred and transpersonal lens within a trauma-informed framework. I assist people suffering from anxiety, depression, grief & loss, ADHD, relationship problems, drug & alcohol use, existential crises, life transitions, loneliness and a range of other issues that contribute to difficulties coping. I often help highly sensitive people, and clients interested in moving into deeper truth. The therapeutic process involves identifying needs, working through fears and concerns, exploring various aspects of the self, and helping people to find their centre so they may experience a more joyful and fulfilling existence.
(08) 6490 9810 View (08) 6490 9810

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr William Kirkpatrick, Psychologist in Inglewood, WA
Dr William Kirkpatrick
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Ultimately I am human like you with a story and life experiences like you. As a Clinical Psychologist and Counselling Psychologist I can offer you support at this time with: anger, anxiety (general, health, panic, specific phobia, social), attachment, bereavement, complicated grief, CPTSD, depression, impact of cancer, life transitions, low self-esteem, managing emotions, neurodevelopment (ASD, ADHD, FAS), personality disorders (BPD), PTSD, relationship problems, self-harm, self-identity, stress management, substance abuse (alcohol, illicit, prescribed), suicidal thoughts, trauma (combat, emotional, physical, sexual).
Ultimately I am human like you with a story and life experiences like you. As a Clinical Psychologist and Counselling Psychologist I can offer you support at this time with: anger, anxiety (general, health, panic, specific phobia, social), attachment, bereavement, complicated grief, CPTSD, depression, impact of cancer, life transitions, low self-esteem, managing emotions, neurodevelopment (ASD, ADHD, FAS), personality disorders (BPD), PTSD, relationship problems, self-harm, self-identity, stress management, substance abuse (alcohol, illicit, prescribed), suicidal thoughts, trauma (combat, emotional, physical, sexual).
(08) 9560 6957 View (08) 9560 6957
Photo of Angela Ranallo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Inglewood, WA
Angela Ranallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Children & Young People counselling (3-18 years) for social and behavioural problems; Adolescence emotional and mental health; Parenting support, coaching; Family and Relationship counselling; Adult mental health for Depression and other mood disorders; Grief and Loss; Trauma therapy for historical and current sexual abuse.
Angela Ranallo is an accredited mental health clinician and supervisor with AASW.  She is a member of Australian College of Social Work (ACSW) signifying advanced clinical practice. Angela is a Medicare Australia registered provider, a Clinical member of the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT). Angela Ranallo has operated an independent counselling and family therapy service in Perth, WA since 2008.   Angela has over 26 years’ professional experience in counselling, family therapy with a focus on:
Children & Young People counselling (3-18 years) for social and behavioural problems; Adolescence emotional and mental health; Parenting support, coaching; Family and Relationship counselling; Adult mental health for Depression and other mood disorders; Grief and Loss; Trauma therapy for historical and current sexual abuse.
Angela Ranallo is an accredited mental health clinician and supervisor with AASW.  She is a member of Australian College of Social Work (ACSW) signifying advanced clinical practice. Angela is a Medicare Australia registered provider, a Clinical member of the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT). Angela Ranallo has operated an independent counselling and family therapy service in Perth, WA since 2008.   Angela has over 26 years’ professional experience in counselling, family therapy with a focus on:
(08) 6490 9034 View (08) 6490 9034
Photo of Shagoon Maurya, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Shagoon Maurya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
(08) 7079 4465 View (08) 7079 4465
Photo of COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment, Psychologist in Inglewood, WA
COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Our practice offers a broad range of services including assessment and therapy for individuals, couples, children, families, workplaces and groups. We offer treatment for a wide range of mental health issues including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, stress/anger management, grief, addictive behaviours, self-esteem, relationship problems, sleeping problems, child behavioural and emotional problems, pain management and resilience. Our goal is to ensure the highest standard of evidenced based psychological intervention, psychometric testing and assessment.
Our practice offers a broad range of services including assessment and therapy for individuals, couples, children, families, workplaces and groups. We offer treatment for a wide range of mental health issues including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, stress/anger management, grief, addictive behaviours, self-esteem, relationship problems, sleeping problems, child behavioural and emotional problems, pain management and resilience. Our goal is to ensure the highest standard of evidenced based psychological intervention, psychometric testing and assessment.
(08) 7078 8301 View (08) 7078 8301
Photo of Samantha Strahan, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Samantha Strahan
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Specialising in infertility, low self-esteem, and relationship issues, I empatheise with the unique challenges that individuals and couples face in these areas.
Are you struggling with infertility, low self-esteem, or relationship issues? You're not alone. I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. I am a compassionate and experienced counsellor who believes in a holistic approach to counselling. By focusing on the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - I assist clients to achieve balance and well-being in their lives. With a person-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences so you can move through past pain to a state of awareness and acceptance.
Specialising in infertility, low self-esteem, and relationship issues, I empatheise with the unique challenges that individuals and couples face in these areas.
Are you struggling with infertility, low self-esteem, or relationship issues? You're not alone. I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. I am a compassionate and experienced counsellor who believes in a holistic approach to counselling. By focusing on the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - I assist clients to achieve balance and well-being in their lives. With a person-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences so you can move through past pain to a state of awareness and acceptance.
(08) 9540 0872 View (08) 9540 0872
Photo of ACE Counselling, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
ACE Counselling
Counsellor, PhD
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I'm certified in the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program and a Certified Infidelity Recovery Professional following the 7-step Infidelity Recovery Program, guiding complex relationship issues.
The client informs my counselling approach, not any theory or modality. It's about making the client feel comfortable and being able to communicate confidently with an end goal in sight. I follow the 80/20 rule in counselling; the client talks 80% of the time, and I respond 20% of the time. With 13+ years working as a mental health nurse, both in the private and public sector, I have helped hundreds of clients and I am versed in all facets of mental health counselling. As a counsellor, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing, helping individuals overcome challenges to achieve lasting positive change.
I'm certified in the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program and a Certified Infidelity Recovery Professional following the 7-step Infidelity Recovery Program, guiding complex relationship issues.
The client informs my counselling approach, not any theory or modality. It's about making the client feel comfortable and being able to communicate confidently with an end goal in sight. I follow the 80/20 rule in counselling; the client talks 80% of the time, and I respond 20% of the time. With 13+ years working as a mental health nurse, both in the private and public sector, I have helped hundreds of clients and I am versed in all facets of mental health counselling. As a counsellor, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing, helping individuals overcome challenges to achieve lasting positive change.
(03) 6364 2946 View (03) 6364 2946
Photo of The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones), Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I offer a judgement-free space for you to come as you are, welcoming clients of all ages and identities; individuals, couples, throuples or more.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
I offer a judgement-free space for you to come as you are, welcoming clients of all ages and identities; individuals, couples, throuples or more.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765
Photo of Bronte Purcell, Psychotherapist in Inglewood, WA
Bronte Purcell
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
As a qualified somatic psychotherapist & counsellor, I support people experiencing anxiety, burn out, shut down, low self worth, body disconnection & relationship challenges. I help you develop a safe, loving relationship with your body & mind so that you can transform your relationship to yourself, and embrace the wholeness of this human experience. The approach I take is person-centred, trauma-informed and built on a foundation of openness, acceptance, curiosity & compassion. I focus on providing you with the tools that you need to thrive and getting to the root cause of the challenges you are experiencing.
As a qualified somatic psychotherapist & counsellor, I support people experiencing anxiety, burn out, shut down, low self worth, body disconnection & relationship challenges. I help you develop a safe, loving relationship with your body & mind so that you can transform your relationship to yourself, and embrace the wholeness of this human experience. The approach I take is person-centred, trauma-informed and built on a foundation of openness, acceptance, curiosity & compassion. I focus on providing you with the tools that you need to thrive and getting to the root cause of the challenges you are experiencing.
(02) 5943 7272 View (02) 5943 7272
Photo of MoonGrove Counselling - Tamara , Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
MoonGrove Counselling - Tamara
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I support individuals and partners to navigate the unique challenges faced by those wanting to explore relationship styles other than the socially accepted heterosexual monogamous relationship, such as Kink, BDSM, swinging, multi-partner relationships, or polyamory, especially those in mixed-orientation and queer relationships.
We are all constantly evolving and this can present difficult challenges, often impacted by family, social and cultural conditioning, religious and gender-based beliefs, roles, and biases. You might want to challenge this conditioning and these constraints. Understanding this within ourself, our relationships, and our families can be complex. You might realise that your sexual, relationship, and gender identities and preferences may be different from societal expectations, so you may struggle internally to accept who you are and your ability to live authentically. We need safe and appropriate support to navigate these changes.
I support individuals and partners to navigate the unique challenges faced by those wanting to explore relationship styles other than the socially accepted heterosexual monogamous relationship, such as Kink, BDSM, swinging, multi-partner relationships, or polyamory, especially those in mixed-orientation and queer relationships.
We are all constantly evolving and this can present difficult challenges, often impacted by family, social and cultural conditioning, religious and gender-based beliefs, roles, and biases. You might want to challenge this conditioning and these constraints. Understanding this within ourself, our relationships, and our families can be complex. You might realise that your sexual, relationship, and gender identities and preferences may be different from societal expectations, so you may struggle internally to accept who you are and your ability to live authentically. We need safe and appropriate support to navigate these changes.
(03) 7302 8903 View (03) 7302 8903
Photo of Valda Prado-Sampaio, Psychologist in Inglewood, WA
Valda Prado-Sampaio
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
North Perth, WA 6006
Our relationship will be an important part of the therapy - a safe place where, among other things, you can try trusting and saying no.
Hi, I'm Valda. I help people of all ages and walks of life navigate difficult times in their lives and create healthier, happier relationships. Especially when anger or fears are high and hope low. If you long for better, deeper, more authentic relationships, I can help you too. I teach skills and principles that will help you communicate and solve problems better, while developing flexibility and resilience. It's important to me that you feel heard, understood, respected, and valued. I’ll respect your differences and always remember it’s a privilege to be allowed into your personal, private world.
Our relationship will be an important part of the therapy - a safe place where, among other things, you can try trusting and saying no.
Hi, I'm Valda. I help people of all ages and walks of life navigate difficult times in their lives and create healthier, happier relationships. Especially when anger or fears are high and hope low. If you long for better, deeper, more authentic relationships, I can help you too. I teach skills and principles that will help you communicate and solve problems better, while developing flexibility and resilience. It's important to me that you feel heard, understood, respected, and valued. I’ll respect your differences and always remember it’s a privilege to be allowed into your personal, private world.
(08) 6490 9795 View (08) 6490 9795
Photo of Cindy Roberts, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Cindy Roberts
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Mount Lawley, WA 6050
My work with clients is based on the relationship we develop during the counselling process.
I help clients explore their problems and feelings about themselves and others in their lives. I specialise in working with issues such as communication problems, betrayal, anxiety, depression and stress, separation and parenting. Helping clients to empower themselves and find solutions to improve their relationships and their mental health is important as this has a positive knock-on effect in family systems.
My work with clients is based on the relationship we develop during the counselling process.
I help clients explore their problems and feelings about themselves and others in their lives. I specialise in working with issues such as communication problems, betrayal, anxiety, depression and stress, separation and parenting. Helping clients to empower themselves and find solutions to improve their relationships and their mental health is important as this has a positive knock-on effect in family systems.
(08) 6493 7206 View (08) 6493 7206
Photo of Fiona Rogerson, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Fiona Rogerson
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
As a trauma and perinatal counsellor I work with individuals and couples to foster healing, growth and relationships, both with the self and those around them, through the provision of integrative, holistic counselling, and birth debriefing sessions.
My work centres on trauma recovery (attachment/relational, PTSD, acute, complex), perinatal difficulties, and relational healing. I work with individuals and couples to validate and support their individual journeys, and create change in their lives. I will show you that you are not alone; that I see you and I hear you; and your struggle does not have to continue. There is a way out. I work holistically and collaboratively with you to support you in understanding your experiences; gaining insight to past and present contributing factors; increasing your self-awareness; and taking ownership of your healing and growth.
As a trauma and perinatal counsellor I work with individuals and couples to foster healing, growth and relationships, both with the self and those around them, through the provision of integrative, holistic counselling, and birth debriefing sessions.
My work centres on trauma recovery (attachment/relational, PTSD, acute, complex), perinatal difficulties, and relational healing. I work with individuals and couples to validate and support their individual journeys, and create change in their lives. I will show you that you are not alone; that I see you and I hear you; and your struggle does not have to continue. There is a way out. I work holistically and collaboratively with you to support you in understanding your experiences; gaining insight to past and present contributing factors; increasing your self-awareness; and taking ownership of your healing and growth.
(08) 7078 7894 View (08) 7078 7894
Photo of Tania Stretton, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Tania Stretton
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Registered Counsellor & Supervisor - individuals, couples and families (adults, adolescents & children). I love to engage with my client's unique story and tailor my approach to my clients' needs. Whether you are feeling stuck in life or your relationship, overwhelmed, demotivated, lost or down, or ready for a change in career or life in general - I would love to hear your story and walk with you. If you're looking for supervision, I offer my support to student counsellors and private practice counsellors (Provisional to Level 2), chaplains, and pastors/ministers.
Registered Counsellor & Supervisor - individuals, couples and families (adults, adolescents & children). I love to engage with my client's unique story and tailor my approach to my clients' needs. Whether you are feeling stuck in life or your relationship, overwhelmed, demotivated, lost or down, or ready for a change in career or life in general - I would love to hear your story and walk with you. If you're looking for supervision, I offer my support to student counsellors and private practice counsellors (Provisional to Level 2), chaplains, and pastors/ministers.
(08) 9560 4737 View (08) 9560 4737
Photo of Carmel Bob, Psychologist in Inglewood, WA
Carmel Bob
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Carmel is experienced in working with young adults, adults and couples in the areas of anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders , adjustment issues, cross cultural issues, grief and loss and relationship issues including; affairs, communication difficulties, assisted fertility, loss of intimacy and exit counselling
Carmel is experienced in working with young adults, adults and couples in the areas of anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders , adjustment issues, cross cultural issues, grief and loss and relationship issues including; affairs, communication difficulties, assisted fertility, loss of intimacy and exit counselling
(08) 6118 7213 View (08) 6118 7213
Photo of Harshani Algiriya, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Harshani Algiriya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Our commitment extends to couples and children, offering EMDR therapy specially crafted for them, along with AOD counselling and autism counselling for children.
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing and growth, where transformation begins and resilience thrives. Our team is dedicated to providing trauma-informed therapy services that are tailored to your unique journey towards a healthier and happier life. Our commitment extends to those who bear the weight of complex trauma, wrestle with personality disorders, anxiety, depression, navigate the complexities of family and relationship issues, combat addiction, struggle with sleep disturbances, and burnout of daily life. We are here to support individuals of all generations. We provide culturally sensitive inclusive environment for our clients.
Our commitment extends to couples and children, offering EMDR therapy specially crafted for them, along with AOD counselling and autism counselling for children.
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing and growth, where transformation begins and resilience thrives. Our team is dedicated to providing trauma-informed therapy services that are tailored to your unique journey towards a healthier and happier life. Our commitment extends to those who bear the weight of complex trauma, wrestle with personality disorders, anxiety, depression, navigate the complexities of family and relationship issues, combat addiction, struggle with sleep disturbances, and burnout of daily life. We are here to support individuals of all generations. We provide culturally sensitive inclusive environment for our clients.
(03) 8595 5442 View (03) 8595 5442
Photo of Tamra Eastough, Psychologist in Inglewood, WA
Tamra Eastough
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mount Hawthorn, WA 6016
Tamra is passionate about creating stability and trust within the client and therapist relationship. I value the importance of a strength-based approach to treatment to promote growth and lasting outcomes. I welcome individuals and couples of all backgrounds, genders, identifications, or religious beliefs. I am dedicated to working collaboratively in a non-judgmental, empathic and compassionate environment to create a safe space for clients to explore and genuinely express their concerns.
Tamra is passionate about creating stability and trust within the client and therapist relationship. I value the importance of a strength-based approach to treatment to promote growth and lasting outcomes. I welcome individuals and couples of all backgrounds, genders, identifications, or religious beliefs. I am dedicated to working collaboratively in a non-judgmental, empathic and compassionate environment to create a safe space for clients to explore and genuinely express their concerns.
(08) 9521 4102 View (08) 9521 4102
Photo of Jennifer Wolff, Counsellor in Inglewood, WA
Jennifer Wolff
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Hello and welcome! I'm Jen and I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental space for individuals and couples to explore their concerns with a warm, empathetic, and client centred therapist. As a Master of Counselling qualified therapist I incorporate a variety of evidence-based interventions to tailor therapy to your personal needs, preferences, and values. I help you understand underlying factors that are contributing to your current problems, develop new skills and strategies, make changes, and move towards healing and recovery from issues that have been holding you back.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jen and I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental space for individuals and couples to explore their concerns with a warm, empathetic, and client centred therapist. As a Master of Counselling qualified therapist I incorporate a variety of evidence-based interventions to tailor therapy to your personal needs, preferences, and values. I help you understand underlying factors that are contributing to your current problems, develop new skills and strategies, make changes, and move towards healing and recovery from issues that have been holding you back.
(08) 6206 8854 View (08) 6206 8854
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.