Couples Counselling Therapists in L1T

Photo of Tricia Cooper, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tricia Cooper
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T
Are you looking for a therapist who has extensive knowledge and practice utilizing a range of different therapeutic approaches and has specific knowledge related to children and adolescents? Look no further! I am trained to provide Cognitive behavioural therapy, Dialectical behavioural therapy, Attachment based and Structural family therapy as well as Emotion and Solution focused therapies. Many of these interventions work well for adults, children, teens and couples as well!
Are you looking for a therapist who has extensive knowledge and practice utilizing a range of different therapeutic approaches and has specific knowledge related to children and adolescents? Look no further! I am trained to provide Cognitive behavioural therapy, Dialectical behavioural therapy, Attachment based and Structural family therapy as well as Emotion and Solution focused therapies. Many of these interventions work well for adults, children, teens and couples as well!
(289) 210-7412 View (289) 210-7412
Photo of Arnoldene Grace-Sandy, MCC, MDiv, Counsellor
Arnoldene Grace-Sandy
Counsellor, MCC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T
I aim to help you to project your best self in every relationship - marriage, family, common-law, workplace, or business relationship.
My mission is to help clients develop the skills needed to cope with life's challenges, to give clients the hope of freedom from anxiety, fear, anger and the effects of trauma that reduce their enjoyment of life. I provide counselling in the areas of anxiety, anger management, trauma, stress management, counselling for family, marriage and couples strategies for coping with life changes. Experience change with the alcohol abuse education which emphasize the effects of alcohol abuse on your brain & body and on relationships. I provide a warm, respectful, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to share your experiences.
I aim to help you to project your best self in every relationship - marriage, family, common-law, workplace, or business relationship.
My mission is to help clients develop the skills needed to cope with life's challenges, to give clients the hope of freedom from anxiety, fear, anger and the effects of trauma that reduce their enjoyment of life. I provide counselling in the areas of anxiety, anger management, trauma, stress management, counselling for family, marriage and couples strategies for coping with life changes. Experience change with the alcohol abuse education which emphasize the effects of alcohol abuse on your brain & body and on relationships. I provide a warm, respectful, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to share your experiences.
(647) 697-6611 x905686 View (647) 697-6611 x905686
Photo of Motse Ramathe - Optimum Focus Counselling, BA Psyc, MA , RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Optimum Focus Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Psyc, MA , RP
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T
I work with individuals and/or couples working on their marriages utilizing Emotion Focused Therapy.
My name is Motse Ramathe and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Life coach and have been in practice for over 10 years. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach in my practice utilizing a wide-range of tested and proven therapeutic modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-based strategies to help client deal with depression, anxiety, grief and stress management.
I work with individuals and/or couples working on their marriages utilizing Emotion Focused Therapy.
My name is Motse Ramathe and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Life coach and have been in practice for over 10 years. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach in my practice utilizing a wide-range of tested and proven therapeutic modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-based strategies to help client deal with depression, anxiety, grief and stress management.
(365) 602-2404 View (365) 602-2404
Photo of Vincent Cheng, Registered Psychotherapist
Vincent Cheng
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
With Heal The SourceTM therapy, I will partner with you so we can connect directly with the core source of the issue that will help you fast-track your own healing based on your need for change and development.
Do you feel you’ve achieved a high level of success but you’re still not satisfied? Do you find yourself feeling stuck? That something is missing, but just don’t know what that is. Are you having some trouble finding your way to true happiness that you end up living on somebody’s expectations? You want to move forward but you are confined in your own world, afraid to spread your wings because of thoughts that you are not good enough. So, it’s your time to start facing your fears and be the driver of your life, too. Become the better version of yourself by connecting to the source of what holds you back!
With Heal The SourceTM therapy, I will partner with you so we can connect directly with the core source of the issue that will help you fast-track your own healing based on your need for change and development.
Do you feel you’ve achieved a high level of success but you’re still not satisfied? Do you find yourself feeling stuck? That something is missing, but just don’t know what that is. Are you having some trouble finding your way to true happiness that you end up living on somebody’s expectations? You want to move forward but you are confined in your own world, afraid to spread your wings because of thoughts that you are not good enough. So, it’s your time to start facing your fears and be the driver of your life, too. Become the better version of yourself by connecting to the source of what holds you back!
(647) 691-0628 View (647) 691-0628
Photo of Lee-Ann Leslie-Augustine, RP, BA, DipTIRP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lee-Ann Leslie-Augustine
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA, DipTIRP
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
I have supported people in various ways as a psychotherapist, couples counsellor, personal trainer, entrepreneur and parent.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Lets get connected! Healthy Connections offers counselling and coaching that will help guide you towards improved quality of life and relationships. I will be there to support you with working through the issues, anxieties, traumas, behaviours or negative habits that may have you unsatisfied. Together we can look at the major areas of your life and co-create awareness, coping skills, improved communication, positive behaviour change, visions and goals. I offer services to individuals or couples. At this time, all sessions will be Online or over the phone.
I have supported people in various ways as a psychotherapist, couples counsellor, personal trainer, entrepreneur and parent.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Lets get connected! Healthy Connections offers counselling and coaching that will help guide you towards improved quality of life and relationships. I will be there to support you with working through the issues, anxieties, traumas, behaviours or negative habits that may have you unsatisfied. Together we can look at the major areas of your life and co-create awareness, coping skills, improved communication, positive behaviour change, visions and goals. I offer services to individuals or couples. At this time, all sessions will be Online or over the phone.
(647) 371-5190 View (647) 371-5190
Photo of David Currie, Hons, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
David Currie
Registered Social Worker, Hons, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
Are you thinking that something needs to change? Do you feel a little tired, scared, hurt or fed up? Are there meaningful things in your life that aren't working out right now? Is it time you stood up, and took on, what has been heavy on your mind or heart? I have worked with hundreds of individuals, couples and families who have faced challenges and transitions that many of us experience at some time in our lives. I am familiar with the things life can throw your way, and how to be able to thrive, not just survive, afterwards.
Are you thinking that something needs to change? Do you feel a little tired, scared, hurt or fed up? Are there meaningful things in your life that aren't working out right now? Is it time you stood up, and took on, what has been heavy on your mind or heart? I have worked with hundreds of individuals, couples and families who have faced challenges and transitions that many of us experience at some time in our lives. I am familiar with the things life can throw your way, and how to be able to thrive, not just survive, afterwards.
(289) 302-5939 View (289) 302-5939
Photo of Kristy Cartwright, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kristy Cartwright
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
I value honesty and compassion within the therapeutic relationship and practice my approach with acceptance, genuineness and empathy.
We all feel lost sometimes or face life challenges and relationships that can feel overwhelming. Life is tough, but I believe we all have the ability to overcome hardships. Together, we can explore your concerns and past traumas, working towards lasting change that helps you progress toward the person and future you desire and deserve. I believe in a collaborative approach that empowers and motivates you during the therapeutic process. It's important to me to not only understand and address your concerns throughout therapy, but also to remind you of your strengths and capacity to contribute to goal setting and problem solving.
I value honesty and compassion within the therapeutic relationship and practice my approach with acceptance, genuineness and empathy.
We all feel lost sometimes or face life challenges and relationships that can feel overwhelming. Life is tough, but I believe we all have the ability to overcome hardships. Together, we can explore your concerns and past traumas, working towards lasting change that helps you progress toward the person and future you desire and deserve. I believe in a collaborative approach that empowers and motivates you during the therapeutic process. It's important to me to not only understand and address your concerns throughout therapy, but also to remind you of your strengths and capacity to contribute to goal setting and problem solving.
(289) 483-1150 View (289) 483-1150
Photo of Pamella Seaton-Brissett, BSW, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Pamella Seaton-Brissett
Registered Social Worker, BSW, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
With over 20 years of professional counselling experience helping many individuals, couples and families, I know how hard life's challenges can be and I know that it takes courage to stand up to the problems in your life. You don't need to be alone. I will work with you on any of the following life, career and relationship issues: work-life balance, career counselling, lacks of motivation, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide tendencies, teen violence, trauma, domestic violence, women/female issues and interpersonal issues such as relationship, communication, and intimacy.
With over 20 years of professional counselling experience helping many individuals, couples and families, I know how hard life's challenges can be and I know that it takes courage to stand up to the problems in your life. You don't need to be alone. I will work with you on any of the following life, career and relationship issues: work-life balance, career counselling, lacks of motivation, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide tendencies, teen violence, trauma, domestic violence, women/female issues and interpersonal issues such as relationship, communication, and intimacy.
(855) 972-9502 View (855) 972-9502
Photo of Derek Wright, BSW, MSW, RSW
Derek Wright
BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T
Throughout counselling, I will routinely check-in with you to enusre that your needs are being are being adequately addressed within the therapeutic relationship.
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
Throughout counselling, I will routinely check-in with you to enusre that your needs are being are being adequately addressed within the therapeutic relationship.
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
(289) 271-0758 View (289) 271-0758
Photo of Dharshana Jayapathy, MSW, BSW, BA, RSW
Dharshana Jayapathy
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist , MSW, BSW, BA, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
I offer individual, family and couples therapy.
As a compassionate therapist using a client-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space for youth, adults, seniors, caregivers, and students to develop the insights, skills, and experiences needed to overcome challenges and make positive changes that last. Using a trauma-informed lens, I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based framework; my treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches.
I offer individual, family and couples therapy.
As a compassionate therapist using a client-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space for youth, adults, seniors, caregivers, and students to develop the insights, skills, and experiences needed to overcome challenges and make positive changes that last. Using a trauma-informed lens, I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based framework; my treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches.
(437) 747-6135 View (437) 747-6135
Photo of Matthew Longmore - Bri Counselling, BA, MAPC, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Matthew Longmore - Bri Counselling
Registered Social Worker, BA, MAPC, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
For over ten years, I have worked with individuals experiencing: Anxiety and Depression, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Addictions and relationship problems.
Have you been feeling stuck in a cycle you can’t seem to break out of? Do you experience overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, frustration, anger, grief, shame or rejection? Are these feelings negatively impacting your relationships and causing unwanted conflict? Do you feel like a victim of trauma? You may think to yourself: “what’s wrong with me, why can’t I get over this?” Self-blaming or avoiding uncomfortable thoughts and feelings may provide temporary relief but will create long-term challenges. Thankfully, there’s a way to change your narrative and experience mental, emotional and relational freedom.
For over ten years, I have worked with individuals experiencing: Anxiety and Depression, PTSD, Personality Disorders, Addictions and relationship problems.
Have you been feeling stuck in a cycle you can’t seem to break out of? Do you experience overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, frustration, anger, grief, shame or rejection? Are these feelings negatively impacting your relationships and causing unwanted conflict? Do you feel like a victim of trauma? You may think to yourself: “what’s wrong with me, why can’t I get over this?” Self-blaming or avoiding uncomfortable thoughts and feelings may provide temporary relief but will create long-term challenges. Thankfully, there’s a way to change your narrative and experience mental, emotional and relational freedom.
(647) 696-0816 View (647) 696-0816
Photo of Benjamin Bamijoko - Bri Counselling, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Benjamin Bamijoko - Bri Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
My professional speciality includes supporting people struggling with addictions, abuse, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, behavioral problems, and parenting issues.
I am a culturally sensitive Master's level social worker who is passionate about working with diverse populations and creating a non-judgmental space where each client feels heard, respected, and understood. I provide counselling to youth, adults, individuals, couples, and families and I have over 14 years of experience as a clinician on the frontline and in leadership teams. I understand that at times, life’s impacts bring stress, worry, frustration, and anxiety. I work to provide clients with the right support, help, and guidance so that they can cope with challenges and re-discover their path to a more fulfilling life.
My professional speciality includes supporting people struggling with addictions, abuse, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, behavioral problems, and parenting issues.
I am a culturally sensitive Master's level social worker who is passionate about working with diverse populations and creating a non-judgmental space where each client feels heard, respected, and understood. I provide counselling to youth, adults, individuals, couples, and families and I have over 14 years of experience as a clinician on the frontline and in leadership teams. I understand that at times, life’s impacts bring stress, worry, frustration, and anxiety. I work to provide clients with the right support, help, and guidance so that they can cope with challenges and re-discover their path to a more fulfilling life.
(647) 955-5424 View (647) 955-5424
Photo of Laurie deOliveira, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Laurie deOliveira
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T
Counselling can be a helpful tool when you are feeling overwhelmed due to stress, mental health concerns, history of trauma, strain in a relationship, or a situational stress. Stress can complicate and add layers to your nervous system, leaving you in a “fight or flight” state causing feelings of anxiety, low mood, and irritability. I would like to help you learn more about yourself, strategies to manage and lessen stress, and find a sense of calm again.
Counselling can be a helpful tool when you are feeling overwhelmed due to stress, mental health concerns, history of trauma, strain in a relationship, or a situational stress. Stress can complicate and add layers to your nervous system, leaving you in a “fight or flight” state causing feelings of anxiety, low mood, and irritability. I would like to help you learn more about yourself, strategies to manage and lessen stress, and find a sense of calm again.
(289) 302-5871 View (289) 302-5871
Photo of Therapywvan Inc. - Van Vu, MSW, RSW, CCAC, Registered Social Worker
Therapywvan Inc. - Van Vu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCAC
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
I provide couples with the tools to improve communication, change negative interaction patterns, repair past hurts, and revitalize emotional and physical intimacy.
Whether this is your first time or your return to therapy, I offer a flexible therapeutic approach that is client-centered and collaborative. I take a compassionate and thoughtful approach to ensure that I understand your concerns and your hopes for therapy. My therapeutic style is well-paced, warm, and caring. I use a dynamic combination of evidence-based treatment approaches and I incorporate practical and experiential treatment activities to support positive treatment outcomes.
I provide couples with the tools to improve communication, change negative interaction patterns, repair past hurts, and revitalize emotional and physical intimacy.
Whether this is your first time or your return to therapy, I offer a flexible therapeutic approach that is client-centered and collaborative. I take a compassionate and thoughtful approach to ensure that I understand your concerns and your hopes for therapy. My therapeutic style is well-paced, warm, and caring. I use a dynamic combination of evidence-based treatment approaches and I incorporate practical and experiential treatment activities to support positive treatment outcomes.
(365) 305-0397 View (365) 305-0397
Photo of Heather Boorsma, MA, RP(Q), CCTP-II, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Heather Boorsma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q), CCTP-II
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T
Mental health concerns often leave us feeling lost, helpless, and questioning who we are, no matter how they choose to present themselves (as traumatic memories, intrusive thoughts, depressive spirals, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, etc). I view my role as being two-fold: helping you cope in your daily life through new tools and strategies, and helping you heal the root of your mental health concerns to create long-term change. I work with adults and youth from a trauma-focused, holistic perspective that considers the mind/body connection, fosters self-compassion, builds inner resilience, and improves self-image.
Mental health concerns often leave us feeling lost, helpless, and questioning who we are, no matter how they choose to present themselves (as traumatic memories, intrusive thoughts, depressive spirals, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, etc). I view my role as being two-fold: helping you cope in your daily life through new tools and strategies, and helping you heal the root of your mental health concerns to create long-term change. I work with adults and youth from a trauma-focused, holistic perspective that considers the mind/body connection, fosters self-compassion, builds inner resilience, and improves self-image.
(289) 536-4831 View (289) 536-4831
Photo of Barry Hogeboom - First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist), MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
We also offer couples counselling and therapy for partners.
Stuck - broken - powerless - disconnected. Many men come to me seeking change. Perhaps you are feeling lost, broken, stuck, hopeless, disconnected or lacking purpose. I have always been drawn to people, and over time grown deep appreciation for the value of sharing and listening intentionally. You may feel you are alone in the world, and that nobody understands you. You may question whether you are a good partner, father, or son. Even worse, you may struggle with addiction, grief, anxiety, depression, or another mental health challenge. Ready to get started? Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website" link
We also offer couples counselling and therapy for partners.
Stuck - broken - powerless - disconnected. Many men come to me seeking change. Perhaps you are feeling lost, broken, stuck, hopeless, disconnected or lacking purpose. I have always been drawn to people, and over time grown deep appreciation for the value of sharing and listening intentionally. You may feel you are alone in the world, and that nobody understands you. You may question whether you are a good partner, father, or son. Even worse, you may struggle with addiction, grief, anxiety, depression, or another mental health challenge. Ready to get started? Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website" link
(343) 453-5084 View (343) 453-5084
Photo of Michela Di Salvo, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Michela Di Salvo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
Hey, I'm Michela! (She/her). Have you ever found yourself looking for a way to ease your pain and make life a little lighter? If so, you're not alone We all all experience challenges and difficulties that can weigh us down, but there is hope and support available. The therapeutic process is a collaborative journey, and I recognize that you know yourself better than anyone else. I aim to use your unique insights and strengths as a foundation for our work together, helping you rediscover your resilience and inner strength.
Hey, I'm Michela! (She/her). Have you ever found yourself looking for a way to ease your pain and make life a little lighter? If so, you're not alone We all all experience challenges and difficulties that can weigh us down, but there is hope and support available. The therapeutic process is a collaborative journey, and I recognize that you know yourself better than anyone else. I aim to use your unique insights and strengths as a foundation for our work together, helping you rediscover your resilience and inner strength.
(289) 780-2153 View (289) 780-2153
Photo of Harpal Hayer, MD, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Harpal Hayer
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MD, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
Whether you have been struggling with something for a long time, or are currently in the midst of a crisis, a safe space can allow for introspection, growth. As a child of Indian immigrants, I can navigate the nuances of different cultural backgrounds and values. My years of medical and research experience allow me to appreciate the personal and professional challenges medical professionals and first responders have to navigate in their daily lives.
Whether you have been struggling with something for a long time, or are currently in the midst of a crisis, a safe space can allow for introspection, growth. As a child of Indian immigrants, I can navigate the nuances of different cultural backgrounds and values. My years of medical and research experience allow me to appreciate the personal and professional challenges medical professionals and first responders have to navigate in their daily lives.
(289) 212-8928 View (289) 212-8928
Photo of John Tella, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
John Tella
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
I offer a safe and collaborative environment where clients can openly explore their challenges and work towards a meaningful, authentic path forward. I prioritize long-term solutions over quick fixes, fostering lasting personal growth and transformation. In my sessions, you will experience a compassionate and understanding approach, a focus on your unique needs and circumstances, expertise in crisis intervention along with mediation and conflict resolution, and a partnership where your voice is integral to the therapeutic process.​​ ​
I offer a safe and collaborative environment where clients can openly explore their challenges and work towards a meaningful, authentic path forward. I prioritize long-term solutions over quick fixes, fostering lasting personal growth and transformation. In my sessions, you will experience a compassionate and understanding approach, a focus on your unique needs and circumstances, expertise in crisis intervention along with mediation and conflict resolution, and a partnership where your voice is integral to the therapeutic process.​​ ​
(289) 212-8698 View (289) 212-8698
Photo of Alia Siddiqi - The Therapeutic Couch  , RP, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
The Therapeutic Couch
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MC
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T  (Online Only)
Now accepting clients for phone/video! In life, we take many paths. Some paths are smooth and effortless, while others can be rough and challenging. Sometimes, on a particularly difficult path, we can lose sight of our goals, loved ones, and the connection to our inner selves. On the surface, it may feel like we do not have the strength to get through these hardships. But we believe that we can find it within ourselves to forge new pathways towards happiness. Therapy is empowering! By working through emotions, thoughts, and feelings, you can grow into the person you want to be, and achieve your full potential.
Now accepting clients for phone/video! In life, we take many paths. Some paths are smooth and effortless, while others can be rough and challenging. Sometimes, on a particularly difficult path, we can lose sight of our goals, loved ones, and the connection to our inner selves. On the surface, it may feel like we do not have the strength to get through these hardships. But we believe that we can find it within ourselves to forge new pathways towards happiness. Therapy is empowering! By working through emotions, thoughts, and feelings, you can grow into the person you want to be, and achieve your full potential.
(289) 216-5846 View (289) 216-5846
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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.