Photo of Vern Ward, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Vern Ward
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
For couples, I enjoy teaching them to communicate effectively and resolve conflict quickly!.
My clients are regular people who find themselves stuck - emotionally (negative emotions), personally (self-esteem), or relationally (conflict/communication). I work with my clients to help them experience freedom in these areas. My clients get results quickly because I use a proven system guaranteed to get them unstuck. Skeptical? That's okay, because I have a money-back satisfaction guarantee. I offer that because I know that if you can understand the underlying dynamics of your emotions, then change can start during the first session. Free consultation! You have nothing to lose, and only your freedom to gain. Call today!
For couples, I enjoy teaching them to communicate effectively and resolve conflict quickly!.
My clients are regular people who find themselves stuck - emotionally (negative emotions), personally (self-esteem), or relationally (conflict/communication). I work with my clients to help them experience freedom in these areas. My clients get results quickly because I use a proven system guaranteed to get them unstuck. Skeptical? That's okay, because I have a money-back satisfaction guarantee. I offer that because I know that if you can understand the underlying dynamics of your emotions, then change can start during the first session. Free consultation! You have nothing to lose, and only your freedom to gain. Call today!
(855) 982-0992 View (855) 982-0992
Photo of Sandy Boon, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Sandy Boon
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Specializing in couples and relationship challenges, Sandy can specifically help clients deal with issues related to areas such as separation and divorce, infidelity and affairs, communication difficulties between partners, sexuality and gender issues (including LGBTQ2S+) and family conflict.
Although not all of the last 30+ years of Sandy's professional career has been spent exclusively practicing therapy, Sandy has passionately helped children, families, couples and corporations through her work as an educator, therapist, consultant and ardent volunteer in the area of Mental Health. Sandy develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients that is respectful, and collaborative. She helps clients focus on creating solutions while intensely listening and understanding the individuals thoughts and behaviours within the context of their culture and unique story.
Specializing in couples and relationship challenges, Sandy can specifically help clients deal with issues related to areas such as separation and divorce, infidelity and affairs, communication difficulties between partners, sexuality and gender issues (including LGBTQ2S+) and family conflict.
Although not all of the last 30+ years of Sandy's professional career has been spent exclusively practicing therapy, Sandy has passionately helped children, families, couples and corporations through her work as an educator, therapist, consultant and ardent volunteer in the area of Mental Health. Sandy develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients that is respectful, and collaborative. She helps clients focus on creating solutions while intensely listening and understanding the individuals thoughts and behaviours within the context of their culture and unique story.
(778) 761-4489 View (778) 761-4489
Photo of Dan Smith, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Dan Smith
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Whether you need support through a significant life event, you're having unkind thoughts about yourself or others and want to work through them, or you are just generally feeling unwell and want to regain balance – therapy allows someone to walk with you on that journey. You may have days where you feel low, nervous, unmotivated, or lost. Those can get in the way of your enjoyment, your relationships, or you just being at your best. I work with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, placing intentional focus on folks who identify within the IBPOC, queer, gay/lesbian, trans, and other underserved communities.
Whether you need support through a significant life event, you're having unkind thoughts about yourself or others and want to work through them, or you are just generally feeling unwell and want to regain balance – therapy allows someone to walk with you on that journey. You may have days where you feel low, nervous, unmotivated, or lost. Those can get in the way of your enjoyment, your relationships, or you just being at your best. I work with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, placing intentional focus on folks who identify within the IBPOC, queer, gay/lesbian, trans, and other underserved communities.
(236) 900-3071 View (236) 900-3071
Photo of Jess Holtslander, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Jess Holtslander
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Grief Recovery Specialist, passionate about helping individuals navigate their grief journey as well as supporting individuals who are neurodivergent. I work with people who have a suspected, recent, or late diagnosis of Autism/ADHD; have a partner/a child who is Autistic/ADHD; are grieving for various reasons (e.g., life change, chronic pain, loss of a loved one); and/or want to become more comfortable with their uncomfortable emotions.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Grief Recovery Specialist, passionate about helping individuals navigate their grief journey as well as supporting individuals who are neurodivergent. I work with people who have a suspected, recent, or late diagnosis of Autism/ADHD; have a partner/a child who is Autistic/ADHD; are grieving for various reasons (e.g., life change, chronic pain, loss of a loved one); and/or want to become more comfortable with their uncomfortable emotions.
(902) 517-0195 View (902) 517-0195
Photo of Miroslava Djakov, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kelowna, BC
Miroslava Djakov
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, RCC, RMFT
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
We are all trying our best in our relationships. Unfortunately, sometimes our past or present experiences prevents us to be the best we can be for our selves and our loved ones. This is where I come in. I am passionate about helping families overcome variety of issues, including mental health, relational and parenting challenges, so you can create loving home. When working with couples, I assure each partner is heard, supported, and loved in the way they need it. I will explore with you what gets in a way of your goals and together, we will create a plan that is achievable and that will create a lasting change you are hoping for.
We are all trying our best in our relationships. Unfortunately, sometimes our past or present experiences prevents us to be the best we can be for our selves and our loved ones. This is where I come in. I am passionate about helping families overcome variety of issues, including mental health, relational and parenting challenges, so you can create loving home. When working with couples, I assure each partner is heard, supported, and loved in the way they need it. I will explore with you what gets in a way of your goals and together, we will create a plan that is achievable and that will create a lasting change you are hoping for.
(604) 373-0584 View (604) 373-0584
Photo of Tosh Gordey, Registered Social Worker in Kelowna, BC
Tosh Gordey
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Whether you are experiencing relationship challenges, a change in relationship, anxiety, or depression, grief, struggles with self esteem, challenges with boundaries or communication, or looking for ways to grow your capacity for joy, pleasure and self compassion, together we can examine root causes for patterns in behavior and enhance your ability to live a rich, meaningful, connected life. I have worked as a Social Worker for 16 years and am passionate about working with individuals and couples regarding trauma, grief and loss, burnout, attachment, 2SLGBTQ+, polyamory/non-monogamy, and parenting.
Whether you are experiencing relationship challenges, a change in relationship, anxiety, or depression, grief, struggles with self esteem, challenges with boundaries or communication, or looking for ways to grow your capacity for joy, pleasure and self compassion, together we can examine root causes for patterns in behavior and enhance your ability to live a rich, meaningful, connected life. I have worked as a Social Worker for 16 years and am passionate about working with individuals and couples regarding trauma, grief and loss, burnout, attachment, 2SLGBTQ+, polyamory/non-monogamy, and parenting.
(709) 800-3967 View (709) 800-3967
Photo of Kimberly Castle, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Kimberly Castle
Counsellor, RTC, CAMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Through Empowered Solutions Counselling, I meet individuals, couples, and families who are impacted by challenges within their relationships and collaboratively work with them towards a desired outcome.
The quality of our lives is based partly upon the quality of the questions we ask ourselves daily. I hold a core belief in the power of people and relationships to heal and transform. I think that nothing should be labelled as good or bad, right or wrong, it is simply effective and ineffective. Therapy can allow us to find patterns that are no longer serving us, or beliefs that are keeping us from healthy connections with others. I aim to create a safe space, relaxed, empathetic and confidential environment. This positive context helps us explore new ways for your to connect to yourself, and to those you are in relationships with.
Through Empowered Solutions Counselling, I meet individuals, couples, and families who are impacted by challenges within their relationships and collaboratively work with them towards a desired outcome.
The quality of our lives is based partly upon the quality of the questions we ask ourselves daily. I hold a core belief in the power of people and relationships to heal and transform. I think that nothing should be labelled as good or bad, right or wrong, it is simply effective and ineffective. Therapy can allow us to find patterns that are no longer serving us, or beliefs that are keeping us from healthy connections with others. I aim to create a safe space, relaxed, empathetic and confidential environment. This positive context helps us explore new ways for your to connect to yourself, and to those you are in relationships with.
(778) 401-9773 View (778) 401-9773
Photo of Shauna Dawn Paynter, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Shauna Dawn Paynter
Counsellor, BSc, MA, PDPP, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1W
Learning new coping skills and effective methods to handle life's difficulties is the basis of how I work with clients combining Acceptance & Commitment Therapy & Expressive Art. My focus is to activate the deep wisdom and resourcefulness that you already possess inside of you. When faced with challenging relationship issues, family conflict or personal hurdles, you will begin to move forward with greater psychological flexibility and less discomfort. You will discover your values & goals, identify how to halt unhelpful thoughts, and gain greater confidence in your ability to be the person you want to be.
Learning new coping skills and effective methods to handle life's difficulties is the basis of how I work with clients combining Acceptance & Commitment Therapy & Expressive Art. My focus is to activate the deep wisdom and resourcefulness that you already possess inside of you. When faced with challenging relationship issues, family conflict or personal hurdles, you will begin to move forward with greater psychological flexibility and less discomfort. You will discover your values & goals, identify how to halt unhelpful thoughts, and gain greater confidence in your ability to be the person you want to be.
(778) 770-1724 View (778) 770-1724
Photo of Alexandria Rich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kelowna, BC
Alexandria Rich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Area’s of specialization include working with individuals that have personality disorders or impacted by them, leaving abusive relationships/abusive workplaces, and couples counselling.
Hello there and welcome!! My name is Alexandria and I am a Registered Social Worker. I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance through any challenging life experience you are currently facing. My specializations include: Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Psychopathic Disorder. Alexandria feels many individuals and/or counsellors do not truly understand the magnitude of the damage and devastating effect on others that personality disorders create. Through personal experience she has gained a greater understanding and compassion for those impacted.
Area’s of specialization include working with individuals that have personality disorders or impacted by them, leaving abusive relationships/abusive workplaces, and couples counselling.
Hello there and welcome!! My name is Alexandria and I am a Registered Social Worker. I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance through any challenging life experience you are currently facing. My specializations include: Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Psychopathic Disorder. Alexandria feels many individuals and/or counsellors do not truly understand the magnitude of the damage and devastating effect on others that personality disorders create. Through personal experience she has gained a greater understanding and compassion for those impacted.
(819) 272-4798 View (819) 272-4798
Photo of Dawn Clarke, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Dawn Clarke
Counsellor, RTC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
How are you navigating these challenging times? Are you ready to gently shift through depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational difficulty? Are you motivated to become more regulated, connected, and centered? My approach is to hold a healing space that is compassionate, safe, experiential, and collaborative. My focus is to gently guide my clients towards a renewed sense of aliveness and to restore clarity, wholeness, and hope. I also help couples and individuals work to improve their communication, boundaries, and resilience.
How are you navigating these challenging times? Are you ready to gently shift through depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational difficulty? Are you motivated to become more regulated, connected, and centered? My approach is to hold a healing space that is compassionate, safe, experiential, and collaborative. My focus is to gently guide my clients towards a renewed sense of aliveness and to restore clarity, wholeness, and hope. I also help couples and individuals work to improve their communication, boundaries, and resilience.
(855) 969-4284 View (855) 969-4284
Photo of Amanda Morazain, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Amanda Morazain
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
Demographic: Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, Group Therapy, Seniors Focus: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Building Self-Confidence, Self-Esteem, and Sense of Self, Parenting, Family, Relationships, Stress Management, Self-Harm, Addiction, LGBTQ+, Thoughts of Suicide, Health and Wellness, Personal Development, Life Transitions, Burnout.
Many of us feel stuck in our daily lives, not knowing exactly how to get the progress that we want. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can hold us back from where we deserve to be and can negatively affect our well-being and relationships. Children and youth may need some guidance and help navigating different life transitions. No two people are the same and it is my goal to help you recognize your own unique strengths, integrating a case-specific approach to create your unique therapy plan. I am here to offer mental health support in a non-judgemental, friendly, and compassionate space.
Demographic: Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, Group Therapy, Seniors Focus: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Building Self-Confidence, Self-Esteem, and Sense of Self, Parenting, Family, Relationships, Stress Management, Self-Harm, Addiction, LGBTQ+, Thoughts of Suicide, Health and Wellness, Personal Development, Life Transitions, Burnout.
Many of us feel stuck in our daily lives, not knowing exactly how to get the progress that we want. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can hold us back from where we deserve to be and can negatively affect our well-being and relationships. Children and youth may need some guidance and help navigating different life transitions. No two people are the same and it is my goal to help you recognize your own unique strengths, integrating a case-specific approach to create your unique therapy plan. I am here to offer mental health support in a non-judgemental, friendly, and compassionate space.
(250) 765-0606 View (250) 765-0606
Photo of Clarity Okanagan Counselling and Consultation, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Clarity Okanagan Counselling and Consultation
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Clarity Counsellors have a minimum of a Master’s degree in the counselling field. This comes with 7 years of formal education, plus multiple practicums where skills are developed to ensure clients are getting the services they need. Our educations are supported by our own journeys, too. We have been there; explored sexuality, experienced trauma, lived through relationship breakdowns/heartbreak, built self-esteem, grieved a loss, and worked through difficult parenting situations. We know what the work is like, and how it feels to come out the other side. We want to help you do the same.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Clarity Counsellors have a minimum of a Master’s degree in the counselling field. This comes with 7 years of formal education, plus multiple practicums where skills are developed to ensure clients are getting the services they need. Our educations are supported by our own journeys, too. We have been there; explored sexuality, experienced trauma, lived through relationship breakdowns/heartbreak, built self-esteem, grieved a loss, and worked through difficult parenting situations. We know what the work is like, and how it feels to come out the other side. We want to help you do the same.
(250) 300-6860 View (250) 300-6860
Photo of Tara S. Klassen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kelowna, BC
Tara S. Klassen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I have extensive experience working with individuals who deal with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and more.
I strive to help individuals and families deal effectively with their concerns, either from historical events and experiences or current issues and concerns. My experience extends to children, youth, adults and seniors, with a strong focus on assisting women.
I have extensive experience working with individuals who deal with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and more.
I strive to help individuals and families deal effectively with their concerns, either from historical events and experiences or current issues and concerns. My experience extends to children, youth, adults and seniors, with a strong focus on assisting women.
(844) 313-2928 View (844) 313-2928
Photo of Jes Thickson, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Jes Thickson
Counsellor, RPC, CTIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X  (Online Only)
I am an Attachment and Trauma Specialist well versed in navigating this terrain with both individuals and couples.
In your darkest moments, there can be the most vibrant growth "But how?" - A lot of people find themselves asking this very question, and if you've found yourself here today, I gather that you're trying to find an answer to; How to heal, how to forgive, how to change, how to bond, how to break-free, and step into the truest version of yourself. I'm here to tell you that there is a way.
I am an Attachment and Trauma Specialist well versed in navigating this terrain with both individuals and couples.
In your darkest moments, there can be the most vibrant growth "But how?" - A lot of people find themselves asking this very question, and if you've found yourself here today, I gather that you're trying to find an answer to; How to heal, how to forgive, how to change, how to bond, how to break-free, and step into the truest version of yourself. I'm here to tell you that there is a way.
(450) 235-5968 View (450) 235-5968
Photo of Liz Sage, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Liz Sage
Counsellor, BA, PHED, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Male mental health challenges such as depression, relationship conflict and anxiety are not that much different than women's. These challenges can hold us in place, in fear, in hopelessness, in pain. Confronting behaviours, thinking and feelings that may be the root of a life not lived well takes courage. Sometimes we need help doing that to move us forward and improve the quality of our life. You may be struggling on your own or in a relationship. It doesn't matter neither place feels good. My intent is to help you navigate the obstacles and make sense of your story so you can get to where you want to be sooner.
Male mental health challenges such as depression, relationship conflict and anxiety are not that much different than women's. These challenges can hold us in place, in fear, in hopelessness, in pain. Confronting behaviours, thinking and feelings that may be the root of a life not lived well takes courage. Sometimes we need help doing that to move us forward and improve the quality of our life. You may be struggling on your own or in a relationship. It doesn't matter neither place feels good. My intent is to help you navigate the obstacles and make sense of your story so you can get to where you want to be sooner.
(855) 912-8578 View (855) 912-8578
Photo of Maryann Daase, Life Now Counselling, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Maryann Daase, Life Now Counselling
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I have a keen understanding & heart for people that enables me to help both individuals & couples gain insight into areas where they are struggling, address their key concerns, incorporate the changes & skills they need so they can truly "heal from the inside out", & effect positive change in their lives & relationships.
Life can be hard; each season comes with its own set of challenges. I am here as a counsellor to come alongside you, & work together with you, in those areas you feel you could use some support. Maybe you just feel "stuck". Or you sense something isn't quite right. Or you're struggling in a tough season or relationship in your life. I can help you unlock these areas, so you can move towards the life & relationships you're really longing for. We have one life to live...let's work together so you can live it free!
I have a keen understanding & heart for people that enables me to help both individuals & couples gain insight into areas where they are struggling, address their key concerns, incorporate the changes & skills they need so they can truly "heal from the inside out", & effect positive change in their lives & relationships.
Life can be hard; each season comes with its own set of challenges. I am here as a counsellor to come alongside you, & work together with you, in those areas you feel you could use some support. Maybe you just feel "stuck". Or you sense something isn't quite right. Or you're struggling in a tough season or relationship in your life. I can help you unlock these areas, so you can move towards the life & relationships you're really longing for. We have one life to live...let's work together so you can live it free!
(672) 784-5414 View (672) 784-5414
Photo of OK Clinical Therapy Group - Kelowna & West Kelowna, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
OK Clinical Therapy Group - Kelowna & West Kelowna
Counsellor, RCC, MSW, RSW, CCC, MC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Seeking a life of greater ease? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, or relationship hurdles impacting your daily functioning? Overwhelmed by life's pressures, parenting challenges, or the daily grind? Questioning if positive change is possible? In today's climate, many wrestle with anxiety, seeking their purpose and navigating relationships. We firmly believe in the potential for all clients to find ease and joy, embracing the possibility of change and fostering hope.
Seeking a life of greater ease? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, or relationship hurdles impacting your daily functioning? Overwhelmed by life's pressures, parenting challenges, or the daily grind? Questioning if positive change is possible? In today's climate, many wrestle with anxiety, seeking their purpose and navigating relationships. We firmly believe in the potential for all clients to find ease and joy, embracing the possibility of change and fostering hope.
(672) 202-3687 View (672) 202-3687
Photo of Jeff Hay, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Jeff Hay
Counsellor, RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W
You deserve and need more connection and joy in your primary relationship. You want better communication so you can stop having the same arguments over and over again. All relationships have times when connection is easy, passion is alive, and love abounds, but also times when trust is broken, regrettable incidents linger, and friendship is barely possible. I help couples and also individuals who are struggling to thrive in relationships. Like a growing garden, relationships need nurturing and focused attention. I want to share new ideas, skills, and tools to enhance your relationship to increase your quality of life.
You deserve and need more connection and joy in your primary relationship. You want better communication so you can stop having the same arguments over and over again. All relationships have times when connection is easy, passion is alive, and love abounds, but also times when trust is broken, regrettable incidents linger, and friendship is barely possible. I help couples and also individuals who are struggling to thrive in relationships. Like a growing garden, relationships need nurturing and focused attention. I want to share new ideas, skills, and tools to enhance your relationship to increase your quality of life.
(778) 654-5983 View (778) 654-5983
Photo of Motion Counselling, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Motion Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
We are dedicated to our work with individuals (including children and youth), couples and families within Kelowna and it’s surrounding communities.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or stuck? Disconnected from family, friends or even yourself? Experiencing unfamiliar and uncomfortable feelings after an event or life transition? Feeling unfulfilled in life? If so, you are not alone. We often find ourselves engaging in the same repetitive behaviours and relationships that prevent us from achieving our goals and commitments in life. However, with the support and guidance of a counsellor, you can begin to make changes that will generate momentum in your life.
We are dedicated to our work with individuals (including children and youth), couples and families within Kelowna and it’s surrounding communities.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or stuck? Disconnected from family, friends or even yourself? Experiencing unfamiliar and uncomfortable feelings after an event or life transition? Feeling unfulfilled in life? If so, you are not alone. We often find ourselves engaging in the same repetitive behaviours and relationships that prevent us from achieving our goals and commitments in life. However, with the support and guidance of a counsellor, you can begin to make changes that will generate momentum in your life.
(778) 760-9061 View (778) 760-9061
Photo of Next Step Counselling Group, Counsellor in Kelowna, BC
Next Step Counselling Group
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Next Step Counselling is a group practice comprised of compassionate, goal oriented therapists looking to welcome you to a positive place of healthy change. Next Step is dedicated to helping people in our community foster change and embark upon personal development. We specialize in areas such as stress, anxiety, depression, couples, and marital problems. Next Step can help alleviate the daily challenges that life has to offer. We are highly trained RCC's and understand that life can have many challenges, and our goal is to help people navigate through life’s tougher situations. Please get in touch for more information!
Next Step Counselling is a group practice comprised of compassionate, goal oriented therapists looking to welcome you to a positive place of healthy change. Next Step is dedicated to helping people in our community foster change and embark upon personal development. We specialize in areas such as stress, anxiety, depression, couples, and marital problems. Next Step can help alleviate the daily challenges that life has to offer. We are highly trained RCC's and understand that life can have many challenges, and our goal is to help people navigate through life’s tougher situations. Please get in touch for more information!
(343) 300-3220 View (343) 300-3220

See more therapy options for Kelowna

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.