Couples Counselling in Fremantle, WA

See all counsellors in Fremantle
Photo of Lily Caitlin Martin, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Lily Caitlin Martin
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I enjoy supporting those struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, and relationship challenges.
Hey there! My name’s Lily. I’m a provisionally registered psychologist committed to providing a warm, compassionate, and non-judgemental approach to therapy. I appreciate the value of each person’s unique experience and will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to supporting your needs and goals, to help you create meaningful and lasting change.
I enjoy supporting those struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, and relationship challenges.
Hey there! My name’s Lily. I’m a provisionally registered psychologist committed to providing a warm, compassionate, and non-judgemental approach to therapy. I appreciate the value of each person’s unique experience and will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to supporting your needs and goals, to help you create meaningful and lasting change.
(08) 6206 8191 View (08) 6206 8191
Photo of Melanie Ward, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Melanie Ward
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Are you struggling to deal with an unexpected life event such as the end of an important relationship , the death of someone you love or a life transition that came out of nowhere? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or stuck? Do you have a general sense of unease in your life? Grief and loss is a challenging emotional experience that can create immense feelings of sadness and confusion about how to cope. Counselling provides a confidential space to explore what has been going on for you and allows you to feel heard and understood.
Are you struggling to deal with an unexpected life event such as the end of an important relationship , the death of someone you love or a life transition that came out of nowhere? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or stuck? Do you have a general sense of unease in your life? Grief and loss is a challenging emotional experience that can create immense feelings of sadness and confusion about how to cope. Counselling provides a confidential space to explore what has been going on for you and allows you to feel heard and understood.
(08) 9468 7247 View (08) 9468 7247
Photo of Taylah Ladeira, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Taylah Ladeira
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Taylah is a Clinical Psychologist who values the importance of working alongside her clients to ensure the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of her clinical work. Taylah has a real passion for working young people and adults. Taylah can provide psychological support for individuals who experience difficulties with anxiety, mood, emotion regulation, sleep, stress, trauma and relationships.
Taylah is a Clinical Psychologist who values the importance of working alongside her clients to ensure the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of her clinical work. Taylah has a real passion for working young people and adults. Taylah can provide psychological support for individuals who experience difficulties with anxiety, mood, emotion regulation, sleep, stress, trauma and relationships.
(08) 9468 6067 View (08) 9468 6067
Photo of Emma McDougall, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Emma McDougall
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Emma is a clinical psychologist who aims to create a supportive space to collaboratively work with clients to improve their quality of life. Emma’s therapeutic approach is guided by the client’s personal needs and draws upon a range of evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. Emma is passionate about providing psychological support for clients who experience anxiety, low mood, emotion regulation difficulties, stress, trauma and relationship difficulties.
Emma is a clinical psychologist who aims to create a supportive space to collaboratively work with clients to improve their quality of life. Emma’s therapeutic approach is guided by the client’s personal needs and draws upon a range of evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. Emma is passionate about providing psychological support for clients who experience anxiety, low mood, emotion regulation difficulties, stress, trauma and relationship difficulties.
(08) 6206 8067 View (08) 6206 8067
Photo of Cameron Williams - The Healing Dock, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Cameron Williams - The Healing Dock
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
“Hello! I’m Cameron, and I'm thrilled you’re here. Whether you're new to therapy or returning, your courage is commendable. The path to healing and personal growth isn’t always easy, but it's a significant step towards relief, understanding, and a ‘better you’. I'm a dedicated psychologist, offering flexible after-hours and weekend sessions, in-person or via Telehealth (Aus-wide). My journey in psychology has been enriched by working with diverse people facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and complex relationship dynamics. I'm also passionate about assisting those with ADHD to unlock their personal strengths.
“Hello! I’m Cameron, and I'm thrilled you’re here. Whether you're new to therapy or returning, your courage is commendable. The path to healing and personal growth isn’t always easy, but it's a significant step towards relief, understanding, and a ‘better you’. I'm a dedicated psychologist, offering flexible after-hours and weekend sessions, in-person or via Telehealth (Aus-wide). My journey in psychology has been enriched by working with diverse people facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and complex relationship dynamics. I'm also passionate about assisting those with ADHD to unlock their personal strengths.
0485 840 409 View 0485 840 409
Photo of Olivia Marshall, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Olivia Marshall
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Olivia is a Clinical Psychologist working in Fremantle and Joondalup. She works with people across the lifespan, understanding the range of issues each stage of life may bring. She has experience working with complex clients, particularly children and adolescents through working with CAMHS. Olivia values the importance of the therapeutic relationship and finding the right ‘fit’ for therapy. Empathy, compassion and authenticity provide the foundations of her practice.
Olivia is a Clinical Psychologist working in Fremantle and Joondalup. She works with people across the lifespan, understanding the range of issues each stage of life may bring. She has experience working with complex clients, particularly children and adolescents through working with CAMHS. Olivia values the importance of the therapeutic relationship and finding the right ‘fit’ for therapy. Empathy, compassion and authenticity provide the foundations of her practice.
(08) 6206 8892 View (08) 6206 8892
Photo of Aksana Sutherland, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Aksana Sutherland
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Not accepting new clients
I have a range of experience with older teens, adults, older adults, couples and families.
Hi there. I want you to take a deep breath in- hold- and an even longer breath out now. Well done on finding your way here. If you have done therapy before -welcome back! If its your first time, well done on being so courageous. Id love to say therapy is easy- but its not. It may very well be one of the hardest things you do in your life. BUT it might be a little easier than the struggle you have been living with so far. You might have come here feeling broken- rather than that, perhaps you are actually stuck. Effective therapy is largely based on human relationship so we will start by getting to know each other.
I have a range of experience with older teens, adults, older adults, couples and families.
Hi there. I want you to take a deep breath in- hold- and an even longer breath out now. Well done on finding your way here. If you have done therapy before -welcome back! If its your first time, well done on being so courageous. Id love to say therapy is easy- but its not. It may very well be one of the hardest things you do in your life. BUT it might be a little easier than the struggle you have been living with so far. You might have come here feeling broken- rather than that, perhaps you are actually stuck. Effective therapy is largely based on human relationship so we will start by getting to know each other.
View
Photo of Naomi Terpsis, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Naomi Terpsis
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I offer short, mid, or longer term therapy and assessment to anyone struggling with being human - regardless of age - young and old, singles, couples and families.
I am passionate about helping you become psychologically flexible. No, I won't try to fix you, because you're not broken! I won't try to challenge your thoughts or feelings, because they are valid! I will help you understand what motivates you and I will teach you how to live a life that is meaningful - to you! My lived experience with ADHD gives me special insight into how and why you have been struggling to master your ADHD Superpowers! I respect your needs and tailor sessions to suit your time and finances - and I am committed to providing you with meaningful therapy on your very first session!
I offer short, mid, or longer term therapy and assessment to anyone struggling with being human - regardless of age - young and old, singles, couples and families.
I am passionate about helping you become psychologically flexible. No, I won't try to fix you, because you're not broken! I won't try to challenge your thoughts or feelings, because they are valid! I will help you understand what motivates you and I will teach you how to live a life that is meaningful - to you! My lived experience with ADHD gives me special insight into how and why you have been struggling to master your ADHD Superpowers! I respect your needs and tailor sessions to suit your time and finances - and I am committed to providing you with meaningful therapy on your very first session!
(08) 6118 6433 View (08) 6118 6433
Photo of Leesha Monson, Psychotherapist in Fremantle, WA
Leesha Monson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Leesha offers both individual and couples therapy and also takes bookings for speaking engagements.
Leesha is a Counsellor and Psychotherapist specialising in women’s health, addiction, relationships, sexuality and work with young people. Leesha is a knowledgeable and empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in the therapeutic process. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
Leesha offers both individual and couples therapy and also takes bookings for speaking engagements.
Leesha is a Counsellor and Psychotherapist specialising in women’s health, addiction, relationships, sexuality and work with young people. Leesha is a knowledgeable and empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in the therapeutic process. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
(08) 6206 8047 View (08) 6206 8047
Photo of Stephanie Crevatin, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Stephanie Crevatin
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Stephanie Crevatin is an experienced Senior Counsellor with 20 years of experience. She is a level 4 member of the Australian Counselling Association and has been in private practice as well as working with community organisations since 2003. Stephanie has worked in a range of diverse settings to provide counselling to adults, children, adolescents, couples , families and group work. Stephanie is a professional, qualified and skilled counsellor possessing compassion and empathy. Her supportive, professional and therapeutic counselling practice provides opportunity for healing and growth for her clients.
Stephanie Crevatin is an experienced Senior Counsellor with 20 years of experience. She is a level 4 member of the Australian Counselling Association and has been in private practice as well as working with community organisations since 2003. Stephanie has worked in a range of diverse settings to provide counselling to adults, children, adolescents, couples , families and group work. Stephanie is a professional, qualified and skilled counsellor possessing compassion and empathy. Her supportive, professional and therapeutic counselling practice provides opportunity for healing and growth for her clients.
(08) 6109 8029 View (08) 6109 8029
Photo of Making Space Psychology, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Making Space Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Making Space Psychology is committed to choice, safety and connection with a strong appreciation of the benefits of nature. My clients are in their late teens through adulthood to our elders in the latter stages of life. They may have recognised psychological disorders, relationship , adjustment and self-worth concerns, existential and climate anxiety or trauma, bereavement or medical crises. My clients often recognise the therapeutic benefits of nature and want to harness it. They like to walk and talk or engage in an activity whilst they are undertaking therapy. Just sitting in an office talking sometimes just doesn't cut it!
Making Space Psychology is committed to choice, safety and connection with a strong appreciation of the benefits of nature. My clients are in their late teens through adulthood to our elders in the latter stages of life. They may have recognised psychological disorders, relationship , adjustment and self-worth concerns, existential and climate anxiety or trauma, bereavement or medical crises. My clients often recognise the therapeutic benefits of nature and want to harness it. They like to walk and talk or engage in an activity whilst they are undertaking therapy. Just sitting in an office talking sometimes just doesn't cut it!
(08) 6219 3797 View (08) 6219 3797
Photo of Katie Woodley-Smith, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Katie Woodley-Smith
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I have experience working with couples , stepparents, parents, friends, people negotiating the dating world, aging and people with disabilities both as individuals and in the context of their relationships.
I am a practiced counsellor, most of my experience is in trauma and relationships. My job is to build a comfortable and safe space for you to explore any issues that may be holding you back from creating the life and connections you long for. My experience is that we all have the same longing for intimacy and community but that our ability to create this in the world can be compromised by our early experiences, affecting how we relate to ourselves and others. Working with couples and individuals we can explore what stands in your way and how to begin to move through these barriers to build the life of your potential.
I have experience working with couples , stepparents, parents, friends, people negotiating the dating world, aging and people with disabilities both as individuals and in the context of their relationships.
I am a practiced counsellor, most of my experience is in trauma and relationships. My job is to build a comfortable and safe space for you to explore any issues that may be holding you back from creating the life and connections you long for. My experience is that we all have the same longing for intimacy and community but that our ability to create this in the world can be compromised by our early experiences, affecting how we relate to ourselves and others. Working with couples and individuals we can explore what stands in your way and how to begin to move through these barriers to build the life of your potential.
(08) 6333 0717 View (08) 6333 0717
Photo of Danielle Passmore, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Danielle Passmore
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremantle, WA 6160
I typically work with people who lead full and busy lives who often feel burnt out and exhausted, looking to find a way back to flourishing and wellbeing. I also work with people who are going through relationship challenges of all shapes and sizes, and people who wish to break free from old, limiting childhood patterns that keep showing up to hinder their full potential. My hope is that clients who work with me are reconnected to their deepest sense of who they are, to their strengths, gifts, and their capacity to love themselves and their lives. I work with individuals and couples .
I typically work with people who lead full and busy lives who often feel burnt out and exhausted, looking to find a way back to flourishing and wellbeing. I also work with people who are going through relationship challenges of all shapes and sizes, and people who wish to break free from old, limiting childhood patterns that keep showing up to hinder their full potential. My hope is that clients who work with me are reconnected to their deepest sense of who they are, to their strengths, gifts, and their capacity to love themselves and their lives. I work with individuals and couples .
(08) 9473 6346 View (08) 9473 6346
Photo of Anita Smith, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Anita Smith
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience providing counselling and therapy to adults and adolescents. My approach is client-centred, placing strong value on the therapeutic relationship as a space where it is safe to laugh and cry, while learning how to respond differently to yourself and to others. Every person is unique and every situation is unique, so I utilise a variety of evidence-based therapies, tailoring therapy to you and your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience providing counselling and therapy to adults and adolescents. My approach is client-centred, placing strong value on the therapeutic relationship as a space where it is safe to laugh and cry, while learning how to respond differently to yourself and to others. Every person is unique and every situation is unique, so I utilise a variety of evidence-based therapies, tailoring therapy to you and your needs.
(08) 6206 8980 View (08) 6206 8980
Photo of Jennie Fitzhardinge, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Jennie Fitzhardinge
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
One of the most important factors in successful therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist.
I work with highly sensitive people who struggle with intense emotions and their aftermath. Sometimes they may feel like they are feeling everything, all at once, at other times nothing at all. They may have experienced a big trauma, or lots of little ones. My clients come to learn how to navigate the emotional highs and lows, be a better friend and partner (and find better friends and partners) and overcome their difficulties to build a life that is meaningful and rich to them. I work with adolescents and their families and adults of all ages. I also work with carers (family and friends) of people with mental health challenges.
One of the most important factors in successful therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist.
I work with highly sensitive people who struggle with intense emotions and their aftermath. Sometimes they may feel like they are feeling everything, all at once, at other times nothing at all. They may have experienced a big trauma, or lots of little ones. My clients come to learn how to navigate the emotional highs and lows, be a better friend and partner (and find better friends and partners) and overcome their difficulties to build a life that is meaningful and rich to them. I work with adolescents and their families and adults of all ages. I also work with carers (family and friends) of people with mental health challenges.
(08) 6219 3991 View (08) 6219 3991
Photo of Linda Skinner, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Linda Skinner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
She is able to work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss, relationship , parenting and family challenges, significant life transitions, and the difficulties associated with the diagnosis of a chronic or life limiting illness.
Linda has over ten years of clinical experience working in mental health services across the public, private and not for profit sectors. Linda’s therapeutic approach is warm, empathic and person centred. She believes that each client is the expert of their own life and provides a safe therapeutic space where she works collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve goals, bring about life enhancing positive change and improve social and emotional wellbeing. In addition to working in private practice, Linda works in a local community hospice providing specialised palliative care and bereavement counselling services.
She is able to work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss, relationship , parenting and family challenges, significant life transitions, and the difficulties associated with the diagnosis of a chronic or life limiting illness.
Linda has over ten years of clinical experience working in mental health services across the public, private and not for profit sectors. Linda’s therapeutic approach is warm, empathic and person centred. She believes that each client is the expert of their own life and provides a safe therapeutic space where she works collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve goals, bring about life enhancing positive change and improve social and emotional wellbeing. In addition to working in private practice, Linda works in a local community hospice providing specialised palliative care and bereavement counselling services.
(08) 6007 3295 View (08) 6007 3295
Photo of Dr Sophie Henshaw, Psychologist in Fremantle, WA
Dr Sophie Henshaw
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I'm a registered Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years' experience helping clients deal with anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship issues, workplace bullying, recovery from trauma and family of origin issues.
Trying to figure important things out by yourself is just too difficult. There are times we need the perspective that comes from someone who really listens and cares about you. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, workplace bullying, bereavement, spiritual growth or being a woman in a male dominated profession (including facing legal issues), I'm here for you. With over 25 years' experience I can help you navigate difficult circumstances while you build confidence, self-esteem, improve personal boundaries and resolve trauma. If you're a dog person who appreciates a good sense of humour, we'll get along famously.
I'm a registered Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years' experience helping clients deal with anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship issues, workplace bullying, recovery from trauma and family of origin issues.
Trying to figure important things out by yourself is just too difficult. There are times we need the perspective that comes from someone who really listens and cares about you. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, workplace bullying, bereavement, spiritual growth or being a woman in a male dominated profession (including facing legal issues), I'm here for you. With over 25 years' experience I can help you navigate difficult circumstances while you build confidence, self-esteem, improve personal boundaries and resolve trauma. If you're a dog person who appreciates a good sense of humour, we'll get along famously.
(08) 9551 7655 View (08) 9551 7655
Photo of Marie-Helene Marsolais, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Marie-Helene Marsolais
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
My clients are the ones who are generally questioning their relationship with alcohol although not identifying as full-blown alcoholic. Most of all, my clients need a safe, non-judgemental, confidential space to talk about it and leave the shame and stigma about alcohol and addiction outside the room to talk freely. My clients are professional workers, FIFO, parents and stay-at-home parents, they are from here and from overseas. They feel tired, trapped, confused, ashamed, and very fed up to feel hangover, miserable, lonely, sometimes anxious, depressed and full of self-loathing. Like me, they may have googled "Am I an alcoholic?".
My clients are the ones who are generally questioning their relationship with alcohol although not identifying as full-blown alcoholic. Most of all, my clients need a safe, non-judgemental, confidential space to talk about it and leave the shame and stigma about alcohol and addiction outside the room to talk freely. My clients are professional workers, FIFO, parents and stay-at-home parents, they are from here and from overseas. They feel tired, trapped, confused, ashamed, and very fed up to feel hangover, miserable, lonely, sometimes anxious, depressed and full of self-loathing. Like me, they may have googled "Am I an alcoholic?".
(08) 9468 7260 View (08) 9468 7260
Photo of Claudia Zappalenti, Counsellor in Fremantle, WA
Claudia Zappalenti
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I have worked with not for profit organisations, supporting people with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship matters, domestic abuse, self-esteem, parenting matters, grief and bereavement.
I have over 10 years of experience and a deep passion for helping people just like you. I will apply a strength-based approach, using only evidence-based therapeutic modalities, to suit your unique needs and empower you to transition successfully through your challenges. Whether you are facing relationship issues, challenging life transitions, cultural issues, professional dissatisfaction or other emotionally challenging life events, I can help you to become more aware of your strengths and assist you in engaging in successful coping styles and letting go of ones that are not serving you well.
I have worked with not for profit organisations, supporting people with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship matters, domestic abuse, self-esteem, parenting matters, grief and bereavement.
I have over 10 years of experience and a deep passion for helping people just like you. I will apply a strength-based approach, using only evidence-based therapeutic modalities, to suit your unique needs and empower you to transition successfully through your challenges. Whether you are facing relationship issues, challenging life transitions, cultural issues, professional dissatisfaction or other emotionally challenging life events, I can help you to become more aware of your strengths and assist you in engaging in successful coping styles and letting go of ones that are not serving you well.
(08) 6185 0804 View (08) 6185 0804
Photo of Angela Ranallo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fremantle, WA
Angela Ranallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160  (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

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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.