Photo of Manpreet Kour, Counsellor in British Columbia
Manpreet Kour
Counsellor
Verified Verified
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.
View
Photo of Jasbir (Jas) Khurana, Counsellor in British Columbia
Jasbir (Jas) Khurana
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6E  (Online Only)
0ver 15 years of experience in Mental Health, I have dedicated a career supporting adults addressing challenges related to Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Life/Role Transitions, Relationship Problems and Communication, Addictive Behaviors, Anxiety and Depression. Therapy can be a personal and supportive journey to help you realize your strengths, goals and dreams as you try to overcome many of these challenges. As a therapist who identifies as older, male “person of colour", and an ally of LGBTQ+ populations, I bring to counselling a unique perspective and also acknowledge that it is your story to tell and therefore must be honored.
0ver 15 years of experience in Mental Health, I have dedicated a career supporting adults addressing challenges related to Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Life/Role Transitions, Relationship Problems and Communication, Addictive Behaviors, Anxiety and Depression. Therapy can be a personal and supportive journey to help you realize your strengths, goals and dreams as you try to overcome many of these challenges. As a therapist who identifies as older, male “person of colour", and an ally of LGBTQ+ populations, I bring to counselling a unique perspective and also acknowledge that it is your story to tell and therefore must be honored.
(705) 710-2585 View (705) 710-2585
Photo of Claire Yangxiezi Cao, Counsellor in British Columbia
Claire Yangxiezi Cao
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I hold a profound belief in the inherent wisdom, resilience, and self-actualization potential within every individual. With a compassionate, client-centered and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to cultivate a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on their personal journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My areas of expertise encompass trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, attachment, gender identity, parenting, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
I hold a profound belief in the inherent wisdom, resilience, and self-actualization potential within every individual. With a compassionate, client-centered and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to cultivate a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on their personal journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My areas of expertise encompass trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, attachment, gender identity, parenting, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
(236) 239-0339 View (236) 239-0339
Photo of Audree McIvor, Counsellor in British Columbia
Audree McIvor
Counsellor, RCC, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Are you unsure of what to do from here? Let's untangle those moments to help you see your true self, which includes your strengths, struggles and life transitions. When we see ourselves through a different lens, we may recognize a more authentic self, creating self-acceptance and self-love. Let’s work together to create a relationship based on trust, genuineness and acceptance. I have daytime and evening availability.
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Are you unsure of what to do from here? Let's untangle those moments to help you see your true self, which includes your strengths, struggles and life transitions. When we see ourselves through a different lens, we may recognize a more authentic self, creating self-acceptance and self-love. Let’s work together to create a relationship based on trust, genuineness and acceptance. I have daytime and evening availability.
(431) 430-2007 View (431) 430-2007
Photo of Jilleun Tenning, Counsellor in British Columbia
Jilleun Tenning
Counsellor, PhD(c), MA, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A  (Online Only)
Welcome to my virtual office, if you're feeling stressed, irritable, or low, or if you're struggling with anxiety, panic, or specific challenges in your life, I'm here to help you discover better ways to cope and manage conflict. Additionally, if you're longing for more meaningful connections in your relationships with your partner, family members, or friends, I can provide guidance on that journey.In my practice, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Together, we can develop coping skills and overcome life's obstacles.
Welcome to my virtual office, if you're feeling stressed, irritable, or low, or if you're struggling with anxiety, panic, or specific challenges in your life, I'm here to help you discover better ways to cope and manage conflict. Additionally, if you're longing for more meaningful connections in your relationships with your partner, family members, or friends, I can provide guidance on that journey.In my practice, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Together, we can develop coping skills and overcome life's obstacles.
(431) 441-5541 View (431) 441-5541
Photo of Lyris Paña, Counsellor in British Columbia
Lyris Paña
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you get frustrated at your partner, your mother, your co-workers or your boss? Have you thought that if you moved jobs, or countries, or changed your relationship that life would change; only to realize that you are having the same experience all over again? Sometimes we wish that people would just do what we want them to or be a certain way so that we can feel better. Often we think our relationships need to change when change must really begin within ourselves. If you are ready to look at who you are in your relationships, I'm here to help you discover who that is and why!
Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you get frustrated at your partner, your mother, your co-workers or your boss? Have you thought that if you moved jobs, or countries, or changed your relationship that life would change; only to realize that you are having the same experience all over again? Sometimes we wish that people would just do what we want them to or be a certain way so that we can feel better. Often we think our relationships need to change when change must really begin within ourselves. If you are ready to look at who you are in your relationships, I'm here to help you discover who that is and why!
(778) 400-7149 View (778) 400-7149
Photo of Jim Edwards, Registered Social Worker in British Columbia
Jim Edwards
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, CCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9T
If you are struggling with relationship with self and others, old patterns of coping are getting tired and ineffective let us collaborate and conspire to grow.
Simplicity, gratitude, love and service are my guiding principles. I utilize the Satir Model (Virginia Satir et al) to help clients cultivate personal awareness, internal resources, change and healthy relationship with self and others. I promote and model balanced lifestyle including; contemplation, exercise, solitude, ceremony and connection. I have demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for helping people heal for over 35 years as a youth worker, addictions counsellor and social worker.
If you are struggling with relationship with self and others, old patterns of coping are getting tired and ineffective let us collaborate and conspire to grow.
Simplicity, gratitude, love and service are my guiding principles. I utilize the Satir Model (Virginia Satir et al) to help clients cultivate personal awareness, internal resources, change and healthy relationship with self and others. I promote and model balanced lifestyle including; contemplation, exercise, solitude, ceremony and connection. I have demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for helping people heal for over 35 years as a youth worker, addictions counsellor and social worker.
(604) 256-7247 View (604) 256-7247
Photo of Nicole Dudek, Counsellor in British Columbia
Nicole Dudek
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of focus include working with teens and adults experiencing signs of depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be complicated and difficult at times. We are not meant to navigate it alone. I believe you already have the inner-strength and wisdom needed to lead a hopeful and meaningful life. My goal is to help you access your inner resources in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic space. I practice from a person-centered perspective characterized by warmth, empathy, and acceptance. Drawing on different therapeutic modalities to fit specific needs and goals, including Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Somatic approaches.
My areas of focus include working with teens and adults experiencing signs of depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be complicated and difficult at times. We are not meant to navigate it alone. I believe you already have the inner-strength and wisdom needed to lead a hopeful and meaningful life. My goal is to help you access your inner resources in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic space. I practice from a person-centered perspective characterized by warmth, empathy, and acceptance. Drawing on different therapeutic modalities to fit specific needs and goals, including Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Somatic approaches.
(581) 203-0622 View (581) 203-0622
Photo of Summit Counselling Group with Linda Williams, Counsellor in British Columbia
Summit Counselling Group with Linda Williams
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
Personality Disorders, emotional regulation, addiction, difficult parental relationship, menopause, relationship issues, infidelity, emdr, and much more.
Summit Counselling Group is a collection passionate and skilled counsellors devoted to working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families, from all walks of life, to overcome whatever challenges the world has thrown their way. Our counsellors have a wide range of specializations and approaches; no matter what you are struggling with, you will find the right fit here with us. We believe in partnering with our clients to overcome the obstacles in their lives; our top priority is to find the path to a more rich and fulfilling life for you. We have the ability to provide an environment of safety and trust; and the expertise to help you reconnect with your hopes and aspirations, find peace and clarity, and develop new means of achieving your goals. No matter how big or small your struggles may feel, whether the challenge is a specific event or a ongoing pattern that you want to change, we can help. You have come to the right place.
Personality Disorders, emotional regulation, addiction, difficult parental relationship, menopause, relationship issues, infidelity, emdr, and much more.
Summit Counselling Group is a collection passionate and skilled counsellors devoted to working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families, from all walks of life, to overcome whatever challenges the world has thrown their way. Our counsellors have a wide range of specializations and approaches; no matter what you are struggling with, you will find the right fit here with us. We believe in partnering with our clients to overcome the obstacles in their lives; our top priority is to find the path to a more rich and fulfilling life for you. We have the ability to provide an environment of safety and trust; and the expertise to help you reconnect with your hopes and aspirations, find peace and clarity, and develop new means of achieving your goals. No matter how big or small your struggles may feel, whether the challenge is a specific event or a ongoing pattern that you want to change, we can help. You have come to the right place.
(855) 999-1489 View (855) 999-1489
Vancouver Counselling and Wellness Centre
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
VCAWC is a Vancouver based counselling clinic with many experience counsellors as well as a low rate student clinic. We work collaboratively with clients to explore the concerns in their lives. Although our practices are influenced by many therapeutic models, we primarily offer an approach called Narrative Therapy. Narrative Therapy is a collaborative approach to therapy that helps to centre people’s strengths, values, abilities and hopes. We believe that all people have relationships to problems. Through counselling—a journey of exploration with another person—we get to re-author that relationship and choose how we want to be.
VCAWC is a Vancouver based counselling clinic with many experience counsellors as well as a low rate student clinic. We work collaboratively with clients to explore the concerns in their lives. Although our practices are influenced by many therapeutic models, we primarily offer an approach called Narrative Therapy. Narrative Therapy is a collaborative approach to therapy that helps to centre people’s strengths, values, abilities and hopes. We believe that all people have relationships to problems. Through counselling—a journey of exploration with another person—we get to re-author that relationship and choose how we want to be.
(705) 243-2490 View (705) 243-2490
Photo of Mirrell Desjardins, Counsellor in British Columbia
Mirrell Desjardins
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, EMDR BT
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Mirrell can provide individual, group, and couples counselling.
Significant life events and transitions can throw anyone off their "best self." Our work together will help you regain a sense of balance and focus, identity, and belonging. I believe individuals are experts on themselves, and I walk beside my clients offering insight and resources that help them move toward the life they want to live. "True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are.”-Brene Brown
Mirrell can provide individual, group, and couples counselling.
Significant life events and transitions can throw anyone off their "best self." Our work together will help you regain a sense of balance and focus, identity, and belonging. I believe individuals are experts on themselves, and I walk beside my clients offering insight and resources that help them move toward the life they want to live. "True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are.”-Brene Brown
(647) 699-1523 View (647) 699-1523
Photo of Christina Faedo, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in British Columbia
Christina Faedo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
My name is Christina, and I am a Registered Counsellor Candidate with both CPCA & ACCT. I enjoy working with teens, and adults who may have experienced trauma or life challenges. This could include anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, or vicarious trauma from working in the first responder world. I will work alongside you to help navigate and support you during these and many other roadblocks that may be in your way. This process is collaborative and unique to each individual.
My name is Christina, and I am a Registered Counsellor Candidate with both CPCA & ACCT. I enjoy working with teens, and adults who may have experienced trauma or life challenges. This could include anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, or vicarious trauma from working in the first responder world. I will work alongside you to help navigate and support you during these and many other roadblocks that may be in your way. This process is collaborative and unique to each individual.
(506) 709-9271 View (506) 709-9271
Gurpal Bamara
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy.
As a Counsellor who works with youth, adults, and couples, I value a relational approach in our therapeutic alliance. I am a bi-lingual Counsellor fluent in both English and Punjabi. I utilize various modalities based on your special needs including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), utilizing a Person Centered approach.
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy.
As a Counsellor who works with youth, adults, and couples, I value a relational approach in our therapeutic alliance. I am a bi-lingual Counsellor fluent in both English and Punjabi. I utilize various modalities based on your special needs including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), utilizing a Person Centered approach.
(867) 292-6161 View (867) 292-6161
Photo of Sarah Jane Swartz, Counsellor in British Columbia
Sarah Jane Swartz
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, RM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5T
I have helped parents and mothers through their unique journeys of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting for over a decade as a midwife, and now as a clinical counsellor. Within my counselling practice, I work with people who are somewhere along their reproductive or parenting journeys. I also work with individuals and couples who are at other life stages, such as looking to heal, grieve, and find balance or direction. I am also a counsellor at pregnancy loss and termination clinics in Vancouver, providing decision-making guidance, as well as coping, healing, and trauma support.
I have helped parents and mothers through their unique journeys of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting for over a decade as a midwife, and now as a clinical counsellor. Within my counselling practice, I work with people who are somewhere along their reproductive or parenting journeys. I also work with individuals and couples who are at other life stages, such as looking to heal, grieve, and find balance or direction. I am also a counsellor at pregnancy loss and termination clinics in Vancouver, providing decision-making guidance, as well as coping, healing, and trauma support.
View
Photo of Jessica Kurucz (Psychotherapy For You British Columbia), Counsellor in British Columbia
Jessica Kurucz (Psychotherapy For You British Columbia)
Counsellor, BCCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5W  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Social Worker. I provide support to adults and couples. I have experience working with individuals experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, gender issues, substance use, low self-esteem, stress related issues, and chronic illness. I recognize that it takes a great deal of courage to make the decision to start and commit to counselling. I consider it a privilege to be invited into your life. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to process the confusing, overwhelming, or painful part of your life.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Social Worker. I provide support to adults and couples. I have experience working with individuals experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, gender issues, substance use, low self-esteem, stress related issues, and chronic illness. I recognize that it takes a great deal of courage to make the decision to start and commit to counselling. I consider it a privilege to be invited into your life. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to process the confusing, overwhelming, or painful part of your life.
(579) 501-1966 View (579) 501-1966
Photo of Kamalpreet Kaur, Counsellor in British Columbia
Kamalpreet Kaur
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, MCP
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
I hold a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have 5+ years of experience in the mental health field and have been working as a trauma therapist for the past 2 years. I am passionate about supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and traumatic experiences. I work from an eclectic, strength-based therapeutic approach taking clients’ unique experiences, therapeutic needs, and contextual factors into account. Besides English, I can speak and provide counselling in Punjabi, Hindi, and Dutch.
I hold a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have 5+ years of experience in the mental health field and have been working as a trauma therapist for the past 2 years. I am passionate about supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and traumatic experiences. I work from an eclectic, strength-based therapeutic approach taking clients’ unique experiences, therapeutic needs, and contextual factors into account. Besides English, I can speak and provide counselling in Punjabi, Hindi, and Dutch.
View
Photo of Rhianna Williams, Counsellor in British Columbia
Rhianna Williams
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BCYC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Squamish, BC V8B
My approach is centered around building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel understood, validated, and safe to work on their relationship with themselves and their loved ones, and to experience and process the depth of their emotions.
I offer sessions in person in Squamish BC and virtually to clients throughout BC. I focus primarily on working with young adults, couples, and families. I practice from a biopsychosocial perspective, taking into account the whole person, their nervous system, social dynamics, and personal circumstances that impact their well-being. I utilize a number of different therapeutic modalities, including Solution-Focused, Family Systems, Nature-Based, Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
My approach is centered around building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel understood, validated, and safe to work on their relationship with themselves and their loved ones, and to experience and process the depth of their emotions.
I offer sessions in person in Squamish BC and virtually to clients throughout BC. I focus primarily on working with young adults, couples, and families. I practice from a biopsychosocial perspective, taking into account the whole person, their nervous system, social dynamics, and personal circumstances that impact their well-being. I utilize a number of different therapeutic modalities, including Solution-Focused, Family Systems, Nature-Based, Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
(819) 412-4538 View (819) 412-4538
Photo of Barb N. Aronchick-Zachernuk, Registered Psychotherapist in British Columbia
Barb N. Aronchick-Zachernuk
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd, CCC, RCC, RPTSCPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Having worn the hats of teacher, special needs advocate, workshop and group leader, mental health worker, consultant, and clinical supervisor- I have learned the value of creating relationship first, and allowing the client to lead the process.
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
Having worn the hats of teacher, special needs advocate, workshop and group leader, mental health worker, consultant, and clinical supervisor- I have learned the value of creating relationship first, and allowing the client to lead the process.
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
(855) 730-0987 View (855) 730-0987
Photo of Tajinder Sangara, Counsellor in British Columbia
Tajinder Sangara
Counsellor, BED, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5R
I treat stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, grief and loss, physical/emotional pain in individual, couples, group, and family therapy.
Are you or your loved one struggling with daily stress, anxiety or depression in this difficult time? You may be experiencing loneliness from isolation, loss of a loved one, physical health challenges and/or emotional pain, or relationship issues. Allow me the privilege to help support you in your time of need. I am a compassionate therapist who is committed to developing healthy individuals, families and communities. I work collaboratively with clients to instil hope; embracing their personal stories, strengths, multicultural and diverse backgrounds. Healing the body, mind and spirit to build healthy individuals.
I treat stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, grief and loss, physical/emotional pain in individual, couples, group, and family therapy.
Are you or your loved one struggling with daily stress, anxiety or depression in this difficult time? You may be experiencing loneliness from isolation, loss of a loved one, physical health challenges and/or emotional pain, or relationship issues. Allow me the privilege to help support you in your time of need. I am a compassionate therapist who is committed to developing healthy individuals, families and communities. I work collaboratively with clients to instil hope; embracing their personal stories, strengths, multicultural and diverse backgrounds. Healing the body, mind and spirit to build healthy individuals.
(604) 670-4073 View (604) 670-4073
Photo of Danielle Simpson, Counsellor in British Columbia
Danielle Simpson
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, MOT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
With Vancouver being such a multicultural city, I have been honoured to work with individuals, couples, and families, from very diverse backgrounds.
I’m Danielle, Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). I hold a Master’s Degree in Counselling from Simon Fraser University (SFU), as well as a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy (OT) from University of British Columbia (UBC). A little about me – I grew up in Vancouver and I love our city. I live downtown with my husband and two cats (Samuel L Catson & The Jetpack) and my passions are food, films, and yoga. I began my career in healthcare as an Occupational Therapist (OT), and I’ve helped people with a broad range of mental and physical health concerns.
With Vancouver being such a multicultural city, I have been honoured to work with individuals, couples, and families, from very diverse backgrounds.
I’m Danielle, Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). I hold a Master’s Degree in Counselling from Simon Fraser University (SFU), as well as a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy (OT) from University of British Columbia (UBC). A little about me – I grew up in Vancouver and I love our city. I live downtown with my husband and two cats (Samuel L Catson & The Jetpack) and my passions are food, films, and yoga. I began my career in healthcare as an Occupational Therapist (OT), and I’ve helped people with a broad range of mental and physical health concerns.
(778) 760-3462 View (778) 760-3462

See more therapy options for British Columbia

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.