Couples Counselling Therapists in Vancouver, BC

Photo of Brian Dean Williams - Brian Dean Williams & Associates, MA, RCC, ACS, CCC, Counsellor
Brian Dean Williams & Associates
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6A  (Online Only)
So whether it’s reduced anxiety, a more harmonious relationship, or changing your alcohol / substance use patterns, we’ve got you.
We all have things we’ve been told about ourselves that we internalize and start telling ourselves. Do you struggle with a story or belief about yourself that holds you back? Does this cause you some stress, loneliness, conflict in your relationships, or even lead you into misusing alcohol or substances? Now, more than ever, a lot of us are feeling disconnected from others and under the spell of negative stories about ourselves. In my practice, my team and I believe that these stories can be rewritten, that we are each the author of our own lives.
So whether it’s reduced anxiety, a more harmonious relationship, or changing your alcohol / substance use patterns, we’ve got you.
We all have things we’ve been told about ourselves that we internalize and start telling ourselves. Do you struggle with a story or belief about yourself that holds you back? Does this cause you some stress, loneliness, conflict in your relationships, or even lead you into misusing alcohol or substances? Now, more than ever, a lot of us are feeling disconnected from others and under the spell of negative stories about ourselves. In my practice, my team and I believe that these stories can be rewritten, that we are each the author of our own lives.
(855) 253-1630 View (855) 253-1630
Photo of Aigin Larki - Aim Couples Counselling, BA, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Aim Couples Counselling
Counsellor, BA, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Partnership and love are leaps of faith.
Every aspect of our lives can be affected by the quality of our romantic relationship and every relationship faces its own unique sets of challenges. You may be navigating a rough patch, having communication issues, interested in strengthening your bond, or need support ending your relationship in a compassionate way. Couples counselling sessions can help you better understand where things are going wrong and how to repair what feels broken.
Partnership and love are leaps of faith.
Every aspect of our lives can be affected by the quality of our romantic relationship and every relationship faces its own unique sets of challenges. You may be navigating a rough patch, having communication issues, interested in strengthening your bond, or need support ending your relationship in a compassionate way. Couples counselling sessions can help you better understand where things are going wrong and how to repair what feels broken.
(778) 488-8369 View (778) 488-8369
Photo of Laura Offenwanger, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Offenwanger
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
Are you struggling with relationships ( partners, family members, colleagues) and wondering if you're crazy, or if it's them? Do you have a parent or partner who is telling you that maybe you need to "get some help"? Or does it feel like your life (procrastination, anxiety, sadness, anger) is stuck or out of control and something needs to change?
Are you struggling with relationships ( partners, family members, colleagues) and wondering if you're crazy, or if it's them? Do you have a parent or partner who is telling you that maybe you need to "get some help"? Or does it feel like your life (procrastination, anxiety, sadness, anger) is stuck or out of control and something needs to change?
(431) 341-9562 View (431) 341-9562
Photo of Tricia Wallace - Tricia Wallace at Aisir Health, MN, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Tricia Wallace at Aisir Health
Counsellor, MN, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6H
With a broad base of life and work experiences, I counsel adults of all ages living with loss, trauma, mood imbalance, and anxiety. Three values guide my practice: connection, growth, and balance. A safe and trusting environment in counselling supports a therapeutic relationship, which can inspire changes in other relationships. Small changes can have a huge impact over time. Lifelong, each of us continues to develop, often learning from our mistakes and suffering. Balance is the key to health. There is healing power in the connections made between the body, heart, and mind.
With a broad base of life and work experiences, I counsel adults of all ages living with loss, trauma, mood imbalance, and anxiety. Three values guide my practice: connection, growth, and balance. A safe and trusting environment in counselling supports a therapeutic relationship, which can inspire changes in other relationships. Small changes can have a huge impact over time. Lifelong, each of us continues to develop, often learning from our mistakes and suffering. Balance is the key to health. There is healing power in the connections made between the body, heart, and mind.
(778) 488-8712 View (778) 488-8712
Photo of Diana Ball, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Diana Ball
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
As a person-centered therapist, I offer a collaborative relationship in which you will be deeply heard and accepted without judgement.
One of the most rewarding feelings in life is to feel a sense of ease and acceptance with who you are, despite your vulnerabilities. Like many others, it might be difficult for you to lean on others, yet you face challenges in managing your own emotions. You may feel disconnected from others or who you once were. I have been in the education system for 17 years and have extensive experience working with a variety of children, teens and parents struggling with difficult family dynamics, anxiety, depression, separation, divorce, trauma, major life transitions, and abuse.
As a person-centered therapist, I offer a collaborative relationship in which you will be deeply heard and accepted without judgement.
One of the most rewarding feelings in life is to feel a sense of ease and acceptance with who you are, despite your vulnerabilities. Like many others, it might be difficult for you to lean on others, yet you face challenges in managing your own emotions. You may feel disconnected from others or who you once were. I have been in the education system for 17 years and have extensive experience working with a variety of children, teens and parents struggling with difficult family dynamics, anxiety, depression, separation, divorce, trauma, major life transitions, and abuse.
(672) 202-3772 View (672) 202-3772
Photo of Nava Kasiri, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nava Kasiri
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I recognize the importance of the therapeutic relationship in counselling, and you can expect that I will meet you wherever you may be in your personal journey.
I work with individuals who are navigating various concerns, which may include anxiety, depression, experiences of trauma, life transitions, inter relationship issues, grief, and issues of identity. I use an integrated person-centered approach that supports clients in exploring their feelings, thoughts, and experiences, with emphasis on collaboration, safety, and intersectional feminist values. I have experience working with survivors of gender-based violence and through this work have learned the importance of creating safe spaces that foster trust and resiliency.
I recognize the importance of the therapeutic relationship in counselling, and you can expect that I will meet you wherever you may be in your personal journey.
I work with individuals who are navigating various concerns, which may include anxiety, depression, experiences of trauma, life transitions, inter relationship issues, grief, and issues of identity. I use an integrated person-centered approach that supports clients in exploring their feelings, thoughts, and experiences, with emphasis on collaboration, safety, and intersectional feminist values. I have experience working with survivors of gender-based violence and through this work have learned the importance of creating safe spaces that foster trust and resiliency.
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Photo of Aleesa Sutton, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Aleesa Sutton
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Y
Hi, I’m Aleesa. I provide counselling for individuals and couples who want to understand themselves better and improve their relationships. If you’re unhappy with your life; unsure about where you’re headed; struggling to make decisions; wondering who you are; impacted by family of origin issues; struggling with self-esteem; dealing with stress; always having conflicts; tired of walking on eggshells; getting stuck in the same fights with your partner; dealing with infidelity; or worried about sexuality/intimacy, I can help.
Hi, I’m Aleesa. I provide counselling for individuals and couples who want to understand themselves better and improve their relationships. If you’re unhappy with your life; unsure about where you’re headed; struggling to make decisions; wondering who you are; impacted by family of origin issues; struggling with self-esteem; dealing with stress; always having conflicts; tired of walking on eggshells; getting stuck in the same fights with your partner; dealing with infidelity; or worried about sexuality/intimacy, I can help.
(647) 496-0548 View (647) 496-0548
Photo of Lee Kotsalis Thulin, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Lee Kotsalis Thulin
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J
Some of the most common concerns I see in my practice include: Anxiety, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Substance Abuse, Disordered Eating, and Relationship Disconnect.
One of my clients described the process of therapy "like finally turning the lights on in a room that had been dark." It takes courage to seek counselling. It means committing to letting ourselves see, feel, and start to heal what we are no longer willing to keep dark. The joy in my work comes from helping people 'turn the lights on,' and witnessing what happens when they do.
Some of the most common concerns I see in my practice include: Anxiety, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Substance Abuse, Disordered Eating, and Relationship Disconnect.
One of my clients described the process of therapy "like finally turning the lights on in a room that had been dark." It takes courage to seek counselling. It means committing to letting ourselves see, feel, and start to heal what we are no longer willing to keep dark. The joy in my work comes from helping people 'turn the lights on,' and witnessing what happens when they do.
(604) 265-7820 View (604) 265-7820
Photo of John E Charlton, DMin, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
John E Charlton
Counsellor, DMin, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I assist people struggling through trauma, relationship issues or divorce.
Counselling for those who think OUTSIDE the BOX and NEED something different and individual: Discover your strengths. Identify your obstacles. Embrace your mental acuity. I offer a blend of innovative, evidence-based, person-centred, best practice mental health therapy and coaching that is designed and tailored for people who think outside the box. You will NOT get a cookie cutter, one size fits all, experience here! Nor will you receive a shallow, feel good, session. We will look at underlying issues and root causes. If you are looking for actionable results each session. Take that bold step, reach out. I can help.
I assist people struggling through trauma, relationship issues or divorce.
Counselling for those who think OUTSIDE the BOX and NEED something different and individual: Discover your strengths. Identify your obstacles. Embrace your mental acuity. I offer a blend of innovative, evidence-based, person-centred, best practice mental health therapy and coaching that is designed and tailored for people who think outside the box. You will NOT get a cookie cutter, one size fits all, experience here! Nor will you receive a shallow, feel good, session. We will look at underlying issues and root causes. If you are looking for actionable results each session. Take that bold step, reach out. I can help.
(365) 659-4006 View (365) 659-4006
Photo of Beth Hall, BSc, RTC, Counsellor
Beth Hall
Counsellor, BSc, RTC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
I have helped individuals, couples, founders, creatives, executives, and impact leaders get focused on what matters most to them in life, business, and the impact they bring to the world.
I believe life’s most difficult moments are an opportunity and gift - guiding our way to the life and experiences we’ve ultimately been looking for. With a linear, logical, yet creative mind, crossed with a deeply open and compassionate heart, I hold space for you to align with your deepest truth. Together, there is room to look at all areas of life - increasing intimacy and connection in your relationships, working through business or career challenges, reducing anxiety, healthy expression of anger, sadness and other emotions, and learning to move more smoothly through resistance, fear, and life transitions.
I have helped individuals, couples, founders, creatives, executives, and impact leaders get focused on what matters most to them in life, business, and the impact they bring to the world.
I believe life’s most difficult moments are an opportunity and gift - guiding our way to the life and experiences we’ve ultimately been looking for. With a linear, logical, yet creative mind, crossed with a deeply open and compassionate heart, I hold space for you to align with your deepest truth. Together, there is room to look at all areas of life - increasing intimacy and connection in your relationships, working through business or career challenges, reducing anxiety, healthy expression of anger, sadness and other emotions, and learning to move more smoothly through resistance, fear, and life transitions.
(778) 766-4375 View (778) 766-4375
Photo of Ben Bass, RTC, SEP, BP, Counsellor
Ben Bass
Counsellor, RTC, SEP, BP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6H
Welcome to Integrated Counselling and Somatic Therapy. A question for you: If you take this moment to gently pause, or slow down a little. Perhaps notice your breathing. May I ask: what is most important to you? Knowing the answer is sometimes easy, sometimes elusive. It usually lights the way forward. If you are struggling with unresolved trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, relationship or career issues or feeling dissatisfied with life, growth and healing are attainable. If you'd like to know more, please go to: www.benbasscounselling.com.
Welcome to Integrated Counselling and Somatic Therapy. A question for you: If you take this moment to gently pause, or slow down a little. Perhaps notice your breathing. May I ask: what is most important to you? Knowing the answer is sometimes easy, sometimes elusive. It usually lights the way forward. If you are struggling with unresolved trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, relationship or career issues or feeling dissatisfied with life, growth and healing are attainable. If you'd like to know more, please go to: www.benbasscounselling.com.
(226) 458-8431 View (226) 458-8431
Photo of Andressa Taverna, RTC, Counsellor
Andressa Taverna
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
I abide by a non-judgmental and compassionate framework, and I can assist you individually or in a couples/ relationship setting.
Hi, I am Andressa Taverna. Being a trauma survivor has moulded me and impacted my life in many obvious and also many mysterious ways. Numbing out and dissociating has helped me bear the trauma, but burying it deep and pretending it didn’t exist never really worked. It was only when I started looking at it and inviting my demons to come forward, to speak up, to scream out their rage, that what I saw behind it was pain. Eventually, I saw that they were not demons after all, but my inner child.
I abide by a non-judgmental and compassionate framework, and I can assist you individually or in a couples/ relationship setting.
Hi, I am Andressa Taverna. Being a trauma survivor has moulded me and impacted my life in many obvious and also many mysterious ways. Numbing out and dissociating has helped me bear the trauma, but burying it deep and pretending it didn’t exist never really worked. It was only when I started looking at it and inviting my demons to come forward, to speak up, to scream out their rage, that what I saw behind it was pain. Eventually, I saw that they were not demons after all, but my inner child.
(249) 504-0436 View (249) 504-0436
Photo of Hayley Bouton, MC, MSN, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hayley Bouton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5T  (Online Only)
I am a biracial counsellor specializing in supporting clients through emotional challenges (anxiety, depression, burnout, isolation, aftermath of narcissistic abuse), life and identity issues (life transitions, mixed-race identity exploration, fertility challenges) and relationship dynamics ( relationship challenges with family, partners, friends or at work).
Welcome! I'm Hayley (she/her), a counsellor dedicated to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental, therapeutic space built on safety and trust. My approach is trauma-informed, client-centred and anchored in compassion. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I aim to offer support that aligns with your individual needs and experiences. Together, we can explore meaningful solutions, all while honouring your own pace and comfort level. Whether you’re navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, relationship dynamics, or seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate this path.
I am a biracial counsellor specializing in supporting clients through emotional challenges (anxiety, depression, burnout, isolation, aftermath of narcissistic abuse), life and identity issues (life transitions, mixed-race identity exploration, fertility challenges) and relationship dynamics ( relationship challenges with family, partners, friends or at work).
Welcome! I'm Hayley (she/her), a counsellor dedicated to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental, therapeutic space built on safety and trust. My approach is trauma-informed, client-centred and anchored in compassion. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I aim to offer support that aligns with your individual needs and experiences. Together, we can explore meaningful solutions, all while honouring your own pace and comfort level. Whether you’re navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, relationship dynamics, or seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate this path.
(249) 488-2975 View (249) 488-2975
Photo of Manpreet Kour, Counsellor
Manpreet Kour
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5X  (Online Only)
It assists both individuals and couples.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC and an Associate Counsellor with Healing Waves. Clients can come in with various goals ranging from emotional regulation to identity of self. I specialize in clients with ADHD and symptom management is one of the primary goals that clients come in with. This is in addition to recognizing goals for other systems in their life which may be connected to ADHD.
It assists both individuals and couples.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC and an Associate Counsellor with Healing Waves. Clients can come in with various goals ranging from emotional regulation to identity of self. I specialize in clients with ADHD and symptom management is one of the primary goals that clients come in with. This is in addition to recognizing goals for other systems in their life which may be connected to ADHD.
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Photo of Jennifer Schine, MA, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Jennifer Schine
Counsellor, MA, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I draw from various theoretical lenses and philosophies including Existential, Adlerian, Internal Family Systems, Jungian, Feminist Theory, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Attachment-based Therapy.
Welcome to my practice. I believe that every person has the capacity for change. Counselling helps us unearth our internal compass, also called our inner intelligence, intuition, or higher self, so that we can relearn how to trust ourselves again. This is important work. Together, I will help you develop your capacity to respond to life's circumstances and manage the discomfort that you are experiencing. Our pain, anxiety, sadness, love, and joy all have important information for us. They can reveal what is required of us to heal, grow, and even thrive.
I draw from various theoretical lenses and philosophies including Existential, Adlerian, Internal Family Systems, Jungian, Feminist Theory, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Attachment-based Therapy.
Welcome to my practice. I believe that every person has the capacity for change. Counselling helps us unearth our internal compass, also called our inner intelligence, intuition, or higher self, so that we can relearn how to trust ourselves again. This is important work. Together, I will help you develop your capacity to respond to life's circumstances and manage the discomfort that you are experiencing. Our pain, anxiety, sadness, love, and joy all have important information for us. They can reveal what is required of us to heal, grow, and even thrive.
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Photo of Sylvana A Yeomans, MA, RPC, MPCC, CCPCP, Counsellor
Sylvana A Yeomans
Counsellor, MA, RPC, MPCC, CCPCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
Strengthen your relationship with your children.
I have widespread knowledge of family dynamics. I can help you deal with depression, anxiety, anger, and addiction in the family. I can explore traumatic events, attachment, emotion regulation, neglect and family of origin issues, and understand domestic violence and its effect. I can help explore issues of separation, divorce and co-parenting. If you were a victim and have a police incident number or face being charged with assault by the court. I can support you deal with your addiction. I can support increase your self esteem and explore your issues.
Strengthen your relationship with your children.
I have widespread knowledge of family dynamics. I can help you deal with depression, anxiety, anger, and addiction in the family. I can explore traumatic events, attachment, emotion regulation, neglect and family of origin issues, and understand domestic violence and its effect. I can help explore issues of separation, divorce and co-parenting. If you were a victim and have a police incident number or face being charged with assault by the court. I can support you deal with your addiction. I can support increase your self esteem and explore your issues.
(604) 227-8065 View (604) 227-8065
Photo of Melanie Yearow, MPCC, RPC, Counsellor
Melanie Yearow
Counsellor, MPCC, RPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
I support adults (individuals and couples) in creating a positive present-day experience, and in moving toward a future that is filled with hope and possibility.
The therapeutic counselling process is a unique and special interaction between two people. You are the primary person involved in this relationship. You are the one who knows where you are and where you want to be. I am here to work with you, to use my specialized training and understandings to assist you in your journey. My goal is to help you find your answers through your own wisdom and insights, and to empower you through your process. I will provide a safe, confidential and respectful environment, which will allow you the space to do so.
I support adults (individuals and couples) in creating a positive present-day experience, and in moving toward a future that is filled with hope and possibility.
The therapeutic counselling process is a unique and special interaction between two people. You are the primary person involved in this relationship. You are the one who knows where you are and where you want to be. I am here to work with you, to use my specialized training and understandings to assist you in your journey. My goal is to help you find your answers through your own wisdom and insights, and to empower you through your process. I will provide a safe, confidential and respectful environment, which will allow you the space to do so.
(866) 739-1631 View (866) 739-1631
Photo of Rhiannon Latimer, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Rhiannon Latimer
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I have extensive knowledge of relationships, couples, individuals, and parent/child therapy.
At an early age and throughout my life, as I have struggled with life’s ebbs and flows, I have realized how support and connection can provide people with a space for discovery. Through my own personal experiences, I have learned how essential it is to have a space to be heard. I believe in supporting those who are struggling to have a voice, and for that voice to provide a pathway towards growth and wellness. I am passionate about people, healing, and supporting those who need it most. My personal and professional values are intertwined. I believe in empowerment and supporting individuals to be the best they can be.
I have extensive knowledge of relationships, couples, individuals, and parent/child therapy.
At an early age and throughout my life, as I have struggled with life’s ebbs and flows, I have realized how support and connection can provide people with a space for discovery. Through my own personal experiences, I have learned how essential it is to have a space to be heard. I believe in supporting those who are struggling to have a voice, and for that voice to provide a pathway towards growth and wellness. I am passionate about people, healing, and supporting those who need it most. My personal and professional values are intertwined. I believe in empowerment and supporting individuals to be the best they can be.
(587) 315-0702 View (587) 315-0702
Photo of Robert M Miles - Lighthouse Counselling, MCP, RCC, EFT, OEI, CVAP, Counsellor
Lighthouse Counselling
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, EFT, OEI, CVAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
Stuck in your relationship? Feeling misunderstood, blamed, or attacked? Arguments and conflict weighing you down? Feeling empty or disconnected, frightened to speak your needs? If you're struggling in your relationships repeating the same pattern and in need of a way forward contact me today for your FREE 15 minute consultation. I am a relationship therapist whose aim is to help others gain insight into the problem patterns of behaviour we often fall victim to. Break-free of the painful cycles of the past. Contact me today to learn how you can enjoying the love and connection you deserve.
Stuck in your relationship? Feeling misunderstood, blamed, or attacked? Arguments and conflict weighing you down? Feeling empty or disconnected, frightened to speak your needs? If you're struggling in your relationships repeating the same pattern and in need of a way forward contact me today for your FREE 15 minute consultation. I am a relationship therapist whose aim is to help others gain insight into the problem patterns of behaviour we often fall victim to. Break-free of the painful cycles of the past. Contact me today to learn how you can enjoying the love and connection you deserve.
(604) 373-0857 View (604) 373-0857
Photo of Alexa Gelles, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Alexa Gelles
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Are you ready to step into your happiest life? A life where you feel confident both in yourself and in your romantic relationship? I'm passionate about helping individuals and couples, like you, experience real, lasting change.
Are you in the early stages of your relationship, looking to strengthen your foundation and confidently take next steps? Or, are in a long-term relationship, and are experiencing communication breakdowns or feeling distant and disconnected. Maybe you're someone whose noticing unhealthy relationship patterns, is dealing with past baggage, or struggles with self-esteem. What if the healthy relationship you desire isn't out of reach? You are capable and worthy of the life and relationship you've been craving. I'm here to help you stop feeling stuck and become the best you, so you can enjoy a fulfilling life and lasting relationships.
Are you ready to step into your happiest life? A life where you feel confident both in yourself and in your romantic relationship? I'm passionate about helping individuals and couples, like you, experience real, lasting change.
Are you in the early stages of your relationship, looking to strengthen your foundation and confidently take next steps? Or, are in a long-term relationship, and are experiencing communication breakdowns or feeling distant and disconnected. Maybe you're someone whose noticing unhealthy relationship patterns, is dealing with past baggage, or struggles with self-esteem. What if the healthy relationship you desire isn't out of reach? You are capable and worthy of the life and relationship you've been craving. I'm here to help you stop feeling stuck and become the best you, so you can enjoy a fulfilling life and lasting relationships.
(604) 239-3044 View (604) 239-3044
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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.