Couples Counselling in Heidelberg Heights, VIC

Photo of Marie-Claire McCubbery, Psychologist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Marie-Claire McCubbery
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Heidelberg Heights, VIC 3081
Marie-Claire McCubbery has extensive experience providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients across the lifespan, individuals 14 years and over, and couples. Her special interest areas include individuals with trauma, coping/adjustment issues, life transition issues, relationship difficulties, parenting issues and couples counselling (Emotional Focus Therapy). Using a person-centred approach, Marie-Claire works collaboratively with the individual and/or couple's needs to increase their self-awareness and facilitate change in behaviour, entrenched thinking patterns and more deeply ingrained emotional difficulties.
Marie-Claire McCubbery has extensive experience providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients across the lifespan, individuals 14 years and over, and couples. Her special interest areas include individuals with trauma, coping/adjustment issues, life transition issues, relationship difficulties, parenting issues and couples counselling (Emotional Focus Therapy). Using a person-centred approach, Marie-Claire works collaboratively with the individual and/or couple's needs to increase their self-awareness and facilitate change in behaviour, entrenched thinking patterns and more deeply ingrained emotional difficulties.
(03) 7003 2060 View (03) 7003 2060
Photo of Allison Ross, Counsellor in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Allison Ross
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Heidelberg Heights, VIC 3081
Allison is a Counsellor and Psychotherapist with specialist training in Couple Therapy and Transpersonal Counselling. She offers a Holistic and Integrative approach to her work with both Couples and Individuals, drawing on many therapeutic models and theories such as Attachment theory; Mindfulness and Somatic processes; and how our fight or flight defence mechanisms effect our wellbeing.
Allison is a Counsellor and Psychotherapist with specialist training in Couple Therapy and Transpersonal Counselling. She offers a Holistic and Integrative approach to her work with both Couples and Individuals, drawing on many therapeutic models and theories such as Attachment theory; Mindfulness and Somatic processes; and how our fight or flight defence mechanisms effect our wellbeing.
(03) 7003 2468 View (03) 7003 2468

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Psychotherapy for High Functioning Adults/Couples, Psychotherapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Psychotherapy for High Functioning Adults/Couples
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
If you're looking to find more joy and peace, or to bring back life in your marriage/relationship or if you just want to find a way to live the best version of you, I'd love to help.
Are you doing reasonably well in your professional world, but your personal life is in shambles? Have you done everything you thought you should do to bring you happiness, yet somehow feel something is amiss? Are you surrounded by people regularly, yet feel lonelier than ever? Or do you go from relationship to relationship, yet can never feel safe enough to deepen with the one? Have you gone down the self-help track, yet somehow feel disconnected from life? Do you feel hesitant to see a therapist, because you feel like you shouldn't have problems? Sound familiar? You're not alone. I've been there too and would love to support you.
If you're looking to find more joy and peace, or to bring back life in your marriage/relationship or if you just want to find a way to live the best version of you, I'd love to help.
Are you doing reasonably well in your professional world, but your personal life is in shambles? Have you done everything you thought you should do to bring you happiness, yet somehow feel something is amiss? Are you surrounded by people regularly, yet feel lonelier than ever? Or do you go from relationship to relationship, yet can never feel safe enough to deepen with the one? Have you gone down the self-help track, yet somehow feel disconnected from life? Do you feel hesitant to see a therapist, because you feel like you shouldn't have problems? Sound familiar? You're not alone. I've been there too and would love to support you.
(03) 8797 2621 View (03) 8797 2621
Photo of Jake Potter, Psychotherapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Jake Potter
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
The clients that I work with range from issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, stress, attachment, anger, self esteem, relationship issues, body image, self development, increased self awareness, self confidence, conflict and life purpose.
I am a registered Psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and have taught embodied therapeutic practice at Esalen Institute and throughout Australia and the United States for the past 6 years. My therapeutic approach draws on evidence-based practices such as Attachment Theory, Gestalt Therapy, Body-Oriented Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Mindfulness-based practice. Therapy with me is always grounded in a person-centred approach that sees you as a whole-person and I always work collaboratively with clients to create a therapy that is bespoke to your needs.
The clients that I work with range from issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, stress, attachment, anger, self esteem, relationship issues, body image, self development, increased self awareness, self confidence, conflict and life purpose.
I am a registered Psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and have taught embodied therapeutic practice at Esalen Institute and throughout Australia and the United States for the past 6 years. My therapeutic approach draws on evidence-based practices such as Attachment Theory, Gestalt Therapy, Body-Oriented Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Mindfulness-based practice. Therapy with me is always grounded in a person-centred approach that sees you as a whole-person and I always work collaboratively with clients to create a therapy that is bespoke to your needs.
(03) 7020 2730 View (03) 7020 2730
Photo of Nick Valentine, Counsellor in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Nick Valentine
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Welcome to Healing Phase. I provide individual & relationship counselling (in private practice since 2014).​ I embody the principals of non-violence, relational alchemy & organicity in my work. My broad training, experience & skillset helps me to be flexible in the style & focus of therapy, based on one's individual needs. Ultimately, I create a safe & nurturing space for people to realise their most authentic selves, from which they can notice, understand & attend to their adaptive patterns & parts of self - on the journey towards more peace & a better quality of life. I welcome you to view further detail via my website.
Welcome to Healing Phase. I provide individual & relationship counselling (in private practice since 2014).​ I embody the principals of non-violence, relational alchemy & organicity in my work. My broad training, experience & skillset helps me to be flexible in the style & focus of therapy, based on one's individual needs. Ultimately, I create a safe & nurturing space for people to realise their most authentic selves, from which they can notice, understand & attend to their adaptive patterns & parts of self - on the journey towards more peace & a better quality of life. I welcome you to view further detail via my website.
(03) 8338 1669 View (03) 8338 1669
Photo of Kristi Lynch, Psychologist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Kristi Lynch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I am a psychologist with extensive experience across a range of corporate and educational settings. I provide a safe and supportive environment in which to explore and resolve challenging personal and relationship issues. I have a passion for working with couples, people looking to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, anger and grief. I want to help you achieve a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, why you think in a particular way, and to challenge and shift behaviour patterns which are holding you back from experiencing a more connected, fulfilled and meaningful life.
I am a psychologist with extensive experience across a range of corporate and educational settings. I provide a safe and supportive environment in which to explore and resolve challenging personal and relationship issues. I have a passion for working with couples, people looking to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, anger and grief. I want to help you achieve a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, why you think in a particular way, and to challenge and shift behaviour patterns which are holding you back from experiencing a more connected, fulfilled and meaningful life.
(03) 6146 1640 View (03) 6146 1640
Photo of Counselling Service Melbourne, Counsellor in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Counselling Service Melbourne
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
At counselling service in Melbourne we assist individuals and couples to overcome blindspots and unwanted patterns of behaviour.
We believe that change comes from within yourself and thats why we help to overcome negative beliefs and deal with emotions that can keep us stuck in unwanted behaviour. To build a stronger foundation for yourself and develop effective coping behaviour call 0449 861 147
At counselling service in Melbourne we assist individuals and couples to overcome blindspots and unwanted patterns of behaviour.
We believe that change comes from within yourself and thats why we help to overcome negative beliefs and deal with emotions that can keep us stuck in unwanted behaviour. To build a stronger foundation for yourself and develop effective coping behaviour call 0449 861 147
(03) 9069 9596 View (03) 9069 9596
Photo of Sara Louise Harris, Counsellor in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Sara Louise Harris
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bundoora, VIC 3083
Specialising in relationships, trauma and anxiety. I work collaboratively with you to reach your mental health & wellbeing goals, working with individuals, couples, families & teens. People often present with anxiety, depression, health issues/challenges, trauma, anger issues, lack of self-worth/confidence, parenting challenges, relationship issues, family challenges, difficulty managing stress, grief/loss & more. Specialising also in women's health issues impacting mental health, including fertility, perinatal anxiety, menopause, PMS, endometriosis, PCOS, cancers, etc. Here to support you to enrich your life & your relationships.
Specialising in relationships, trauma and anxiety. I work collaboratively with you to reach your mental health & wellbeing goals, working with individuals, couples, families & teens. People often present with anxiety, depression, health issues/challenges, trauma, anger issues, lack of self-worth/confidence, parenting challenges, relationship issues, family challenges, difficulty managing stress, grief/loss & more. Specialising also in women's health issues impacting mental health, including fertility, perinatal anxiety, menopause, PMS, endometriosis, PCOS, cancers, etc. Here to support you to enrich your life & your relationships.
(03) 7003 2963 View (03) 7003 2963
Photo of The Counselling, Mediation & Relationship Centre, Counsellor in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
The Counselling, Mediation & Relationship Centre
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe East, VIC 3079
For Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Loss & Bereavement, Low Self Esteem, Bullying, Stress Management, Separation & Divorce, Life Skills, Career Paths and Individual Counselling.
A no-obligation appointment is an excellent opportunity for you to view our environment and discuss the best approach for you. Whether you are an individual, a couple or a family, our methodology is about exploring the past, gaining an understanding, changing behaviors and improving relationships. We’ll support you through what can be a challenging time in your life.
For Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Loss & Bereavement, Low Self Esteem, Bullying, Stress Management, Separation & Divorce, Life Skills, Career Paths and Individual Counselling.
A no-obligation appointment is an excellent opportunity for you to view our environment and discuss the best approach for you. Whether you are an individual, a couple or a family, our methodology is about exploring the past, gaining an understanding, changing behaviors and improving relationships. We’ll support you through what can be a challenging time in your life.
(02) 4708 9620 View (02) 4708 9620
Photo of Bruce Alexander in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Bruce Alexander
PhD
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
Bruce has extensive experience using hypnosis to support and help people regain control over their lives, belief systems and unwanted behaviours including; anxiety & panic attacks; relationship issues; cigarette, alcohol & gambling dependency; fears & phobias; self confidence; insomnia and; weight loss.
Dr Bruce Alexander has devoted his life to the improvement of physical and psychological health. With over 20 years experience, Melbourne Hypnotherapist, Bruce offers private hypnotherapy consultations at his clinic in Kew. After working for 10 years as a medical researcher, Bruce was seeking a new career where he could support people more directly to improve their own lives. He was inspired to train as a hypnotherapist based on his own successful experience using hypnotherapy to gain control over exam anxiety while he was at university.
Bruce has extensive experience using hypnosis to support and help people regain control over their lives, belief systems and unwanted behaviours including; anxiety & panic attacks; relationship issues; cigarette, alcohol & gambling dependency; fears & phobias; self confidence; insomnia and; weight loss.
Dr Bruce Alexander has devoted his life to the improvement of physical and psychological health. With over 20 years experience, Melbourne Hypnotherapist, Bruce offers private hypnotherapy consultations at his clinic in Kew. After working for 10 years as a medical researcher, Bruce was seeking a new career where he could support people more directly to improve their own lives. He was inspired to train as a hypnotherapist based on his own successful experience using hypnotherapy to gain control over exam anxiety while he was at university.
(03) 9034 6071 View (03) 9034 6071
Photo of Ruth Elizabeth Willcox, Psychologist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Ruth Elizabeth Willcox
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
Ruth has been a Registered Psychologist for twenty years. She works from a client centred perspective placing importance on her individual therapeutic relationship with each client. She works to understand each client's unique challenges and goals and focuses on using strategies that are most effective to the situation. She is comfortable working from either a short term solution focused perspective or engaging in longer term therapy.
Ruth has been a Registered Psychologist for twenty years. She works from a client centred perspective placing importance on her individual therapeutic relationship with each client. She works to understand each client's unique challenges and goals and focuses on using strategies that are most effective to the situation. She is comfortable working from either a short term solution focused perspective or engaging in longer term therapy.
(03) 7003 2244 View (03) 7003 2244
Photo of Nerolie Ross, Counsellor in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Nerolie Ross
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Supporting adolescents, young adults and adults when they're experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and other related issues, causes can be triggered by relationship issues, school and workplace bullying, lack of self-identity confidence, attachment challenges, as well as worries about future direction, self-doubt, lack of self-esteem, motivation and especially more recently lockdown impacts due to COVID. Additionally leveraging from 25 years in human resources, I also provide guidance for adolescents, young adults and adults in navigating their career pathways and how to negotiate working relationships in the most affective way.
Supporting adolescents, young adults and adults when they're experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and other related issues, causes can be triggered by relationship issues, school and workplace bullying, lack of self-identity confidence, attachment challenges, as well as worries about future direction, self-doubt, lack of self-esteem, motivation and especially more recently lockdown impacts due to COVID. Additionally leveraging from 25 years in human resources, I also provide guidance for adolescents, young adults and adults in navigating their career pathways and how to negotiate working relationships in the most affective way.
(03) 7003 2031 View (03) 7003 2031
Photo of Negin Sadeghian- Psychologist & Art Therapist, Psychologist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Negin Sadeghian- Psychologist & Art Therapist
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I am a psychologist and art therapist, with 10 years of clinical experience. I have worked with adults, young people, and couples in a variety of public and private health settings including community health, inpatient programs, and relationship support services such as Relationships Australia and SHIPS. My therapeutic work is informed by the following approaches: Internal Family Systems Model, Art Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
I am a psychologist and art therapist, with 10 years of clinical experience. I have worked with adults, young people, and couples in a variety of public and private health settings including community health, inpatient programs, and relationship support services such as Relationships Australia and SHIPS. My therapeutic work is informed by the following approaches: Internal Family Systems Model, Art Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
(03) 7003 2421 View (03) 7003 2421
Photo of Virginia Golding, Psychotherapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Virginia Golding
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, VIC 3078
I have over 20 years’ experience as psychotherapist, working with Individuals, couples, families and teens, and in corporate and organisational coaching and psychology. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. I hope to support clients to develop greater self awareness and the practical strategies and tools to create positive changes and to better deal with individual, relationship and life challenges. I have training in EMDR modality, Somatic Experiencing, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Attachment based therapy and Strengths based and Positive Psychology.
I have over 20 years’ experience as psychotherapist, working with Individuals, couples, families and teens, and in corporate and organisational coaching and psychology. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. I hope to support clients to develop greater self awareness and the practical strategies and tools to create positive changes and to better deal with individual, relationship and life challenges. I have training in EMDR modality, Somatic Experiencing, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Attachment based therapy and Strengths based and Positive Psychology.
(03) 7003 2568 View (03) 7003 2568
Photo of Nelly Uhlenkott, Psychotherapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Nelly Uhlenkott
Psychotherapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, VIC 3078
Therapy is about much more than just talking; it is about having new experiences, which allow you to develop a different relationship with yourself, others & the world.
People come to see me for a lot of different reasons. For instance, you might be experiencing depression or anxiety, having relationship difficulties (whether you're single or partnered), going through a major life transition or loss, or wondering about the overall direction of your life. You may have a sense that there's something more to life -- that you could be living a richer life, and thriving more than you are right now. I'm here to support you and examine what's working and not, whether you're seeking a major transformation, or simply a deeper understanding of your life patterns.
Therapy is about much more than just talking; it is about having new experiences, which allow you to develop a different relationship with yourself, others & the world.
People come to see me for a lot of different reasons. For instance, you might be experiencing depression or anxiety, having relationship difficulties (whether you're single or partnered), going through a major life transition or loss, or wondering about the overall direction of your life. You may have a sense that there's something more to life -- that you could be living a richer life, and thriving more than you are right now. I'm here to support you and examine what's working and not, whether you're seeking a major transformation, or simply a deeper understanding of your life patterns.
(03) 8595 5018 View (03) 8595 5018
Photo of Marvel Adeyemi in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Marvel Adeyemi
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bundoora, VIC 3083
I specialise in Trauma Recovery, particularly childhood and Family Trauma. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trust issues, low self-esteem, over achieving, high functioning, people pleasing tendencies and relationship challenges, As a therapist with lived experience, I'm here to help. My trauma - informed therapies, including EMDR, will reduce your symptoms, improve your self worth/esteem, create better relationships, emotional regulation, empowerment and personal insight and awareness. Let's work together. Book a call or submit request on psychology Today.
I specialise in Trauma Recovery, particularly childhood and Family Trauma. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trust issues, low self-esteem, over achieving, high functioning, people pleasing tendencies and relationship challenges, As a therapist with lived experience, I'm here to help. My trauma - informed therapies, including EMDR, will reduce your symptoms, improve your self worth/esteem, create better relationships, emotional regulation, empowerment and personal insight and awareness. Let's work together. Book a call or submit request on psychology Today.
(03) 9034 5974 View (03) 9034 5974
Photo of Al Jeffery, Psychotherapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Al Jeffery
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Would resources, insight, and a companion to explore the intricacy of your life be supportive? I offer inclusive, embodied, trauma-informed, and relational psychotherapy, for individuals and couples, aiming to create spaces of trust for you to explore the complexity of your life/lives. Using a collaborative, relational, and embodied approach, I have experience supporting clients who are living with; depression, anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, and emotional and existential disturbance. Whether you have experienced therapy before and seeking someone to meet you in a new way, or this is your first time, we start where you are.
Would resources, insight, and a companion to explore the intricacy of your life be supportive? I offer inclusive, embodied, trauma-informed, and relational psychotherapy, for individuals and couples, aiming to create spaces of trust for you to explore the complexity of your life/lives. Using a collaborative, relational, and embodied approach, I have experience supporting clients who are living with; depression, anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, and emotional and existential disturbance. Whether you have experienced therapy before and seeking someone to meet you in a new way, or this is your first time, we start where you are.
(03) 7003 2541 View (03) 7003 2541
Photo of Finn Nugent , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Finn Nugent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
Finn enjoys working with couples at all stages in their relationship, including those navigating issues related to communication, family of origin, sex, betrayal, grief, polyamory, parenting and blended families.
Finn works with couples, individuals and families, looking to create change and understand themselves and their relationships better. She is person-centred and emotion-focused, informed by an awareness of trauma, polyvagal theory and the nervous system, mindfulness, family-systems theories, attachment theory, Internal Family Systems therapy, social justice and intersectionality.
Finn enjoys working with couples at all stages in their relationship, including those navigating issues related to communication, family of origin, sex, betrayal, grief, polyamory, parenting and blended families.
Finn works with couples, individuals and families, looking to create change and understand themselves and their relationships better. She is person-centred and emotion-focused, informed by an awareness of trauma, polyvagal theory and the nervous system, mindfulness, family-systems theories, attachment theory, Internal Family Systems therapy, social justice and intersectionality.
(03) 7003 2614 View (03) 7003 2614
Photo of Elliott Hunter McMahon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Elliott Hunter McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Reservoir, VIC 3073
I offer individual, relationship and family counselling, as well as individual and group supervision.
I am a social worker and family therapist with over eight years post-qualifying experience, and over five years experience providing supervision and consultation to frontline practitioners and leaders in mental health, AoD, family violence and housing and homelessness sectors. I offer compassionate and non-judgemental services to people in Melbourne who have been impacted by the war on people who use drugs, the criminalisation of sex work, incarceration, and other forms of marginalisation.
I offer individual, relationship and family counselling, as well as individual and group supervision.
I am a social worker and family therapist with over eight years post-qualifying experience, and over five years experience providing supervision and consultation to frontline practitioners and leaders in mental health, AoD, family violence and housing and homelessness sectors. I offer compassionate and non-judgemental services to people in Melbourne who have been impacted by the war on people who use drugs, the criminalisation of sex work, incarceration, and other forms of marginalisation.
(03) 8104 9400 View (03) 8104 9400
Photo of Carly Dober, Psychologist in Heidelberg Heights, VIC
Carly Dober
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I use a person-centred, strength-based approach in the working relationship.
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
I use a person-centred, strength-based approach in the working relationship.
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
1300 286 125 View 1300 286 125

See more therapy options for Heidelberg Heights

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.