Couples Counselling Therapists in St Thomas, ON

Photo of Elgin Counselling and Mediation Centre, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Elgin Counselling and Mediation Centre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
At Elgin Counselling and Mediation Centre, our mission is to provide empathetic, inclusive, and accessible mental health services that are affordable and effective. We work with businesses, individuals, couples, and families to provide evidence-based therapy that is tailored to each client's unique needs.
At Elgin Counselling and Mediation Centre, our mission is to provide empathetic, inclusive, and accessible mental health services that are affordable and effective. We work with businesses, individuals, couples, and families to provide evidence-based therapy that is tailored to each client's unique needs.
(226) 270-5625 View (226) 270-5625
Photo of Brianne Bennett, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Brianne Bennett
Registered Social Worker, CYW, BApsych, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
I have been working in the Social Work field since 2010. For the first 2 years, I assisted those who struggled primarily with their mental health. From 2012 up until early 2019, I specialized in addictions of both youth and adults. Lastly, since 2016, I have provided private counseling supporting a variety of ages and presenting concerns. Issues range from anxiety, as the most prominent, to grief, couples, bullying and more. Social Workers are trained with various techniques in order to relieve their clients of whichever burden they may be carrying. It is my passion to listen and help develop a plan to move forward in your life.
I have been working in the Social Work field since 2010. For the first 2 years, I assisted those who struggled primarily with their mental health. From 2012 up until early 2019, I specialized in addictions of both youth and adults. Lastly, since 2016, I have provided private counseling supporting a variety of ages and presenting concerns. Issues range from anxiety, as the most prominent, to grief, couples, bullying and more. Social Workers are trained with various techniques in order to relieve their clients of whichever burden they may be carrying. It is my passion to listen and help develop a plan to move forward in your life.
(519) 900-7069 View (519) 900-7069
Photo of Katherine Dimoff, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Katherine Dimoff
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
You’ve lost your way. You’re not the parent or partner you want to be. Reactions come quickly and regrets soon follow. Solutions aren’t coming as easily as they used to, and you alternate between anxiousness and despair. Some days you feel okay and others, like today, you admit that maybe you need a different approach. It feels as if you’ve lost hope and faith in your ability to cope with the many stresses that have come your way. A challenging teen. A relationship conflict. A loss. And so, you find yourself here, contemplating this next step. You’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Insight Counselling Elgin.
You’ve lost your way. You’re not the parent or partner you want to be. Reactions come quickly and regrets soon follow. Solutions aren’t coming as easily as they used to, and you alternate between anxiousness and despair. Some days you feel okay and others, like today, you admit that maybe you need a different approach. It feels as if you’ve lost hope and faith in your ability to cope with the many stresses that have come your way. A challenging teen. A relationship conflict. A loss. And so, you find yourself here, contemplating this next step. You’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Insight Counselling Elgin.
(226) 840-2133 View (226) 840-2133
Photo of Judith Michelle Virdee Registered Nurse Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Judith Michelle Virdee Registered Nurse Psychotherapist
RN, MN
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5P
Accepting New Clients! I am a Registered Mental Health Nurse and psychotherapist offering services for adolescents and adults. Psychotherapy is used to treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma (PTSD), grief, major life transitions, and relationship problems. If these are some of your struggles you have done the hardest part, looking for support and trying something different. Life gets hard and we are not meant to navigate it alone. If you are here it means you are ready to learn more about yourself, what is troubling you, and new ways to deal with your challenges.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Registered Mental Health Nurse and psychotherapist offering services for adolescents and adults. Psychotherapy is used to treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma (PTSD), grief, major life transitions, and relationship problems. If these are some of your struggles you have done the hardest part, looking for support and trying something different. Life gets hard and we are not meant to navigate it alone. If you are here it means you are ready to learn more about yourself, what is troubling you, and new ways to deal with your challenges.
(226) 640-4862 View (226) 640-4862
Photo of Counselling For Men, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Counselling For Men
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
Maybe counselling isn't your idea and your partner sent you.
Most of us men have been taught that we have to manage things by ourselves. To hide our feelings. Or we don't have feelings. Guess what that leads to? Anger, irritability, relationship issues, work problems, and trouble connecting with our kids, friends, and partners. Maybe drinking too much and checking out, too. Or cheating on our partner, because it's easier than trying to figure out what's going on at home. Maybe you don't even realize how bad things have gotten until your partner tells you that you "can't communicate", you're messing up, and now you have no idea what to do and you're defensive and confused.
Maybe counselling isn't your idea and your partner sent you.
Most of us men have been taught that we have to manage things by ourselves. To hide our feelings. Or we don't have feelings. Guess what that leads to? Anger, irritability, relationship issues, work problems, and trouble connecting with our kids, friends, and partners. Maybe drinking too much and checking out, too. Or cheating on our partner, because it's easier than trying to figure out what's going on at home. Maybe you don't even realize how bad things have gotten until your partner tells you that you "can't communicate", you're messing up, and now you have no idea what to do and you're defensive and confused.
(226) 457-2074 View (226) 457-2074
Photo of Insight Counselling Elgin, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Insight Counselling Elgin
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
You’re exhausted with all that life has been throwing at you lately. All the strategies you’ve tried have only brought temporary gains or have somehow made things worse. You need support and a new perspective. You have a busy life and don’t have the time to drive all over the place trying desperately to connect with a therapist. Or maybe you've been to therapy but have just never found the right 'fit'. You really need a therapist who cares and who won't judge you. You’ve come to the right place. You can find the support you need here – for yourself, for you and your partner, or even for your preteen or teen.
You’re exhausted with all that life has been throwing at you lately. All the strategies you’ve tried have only brought temporary gains or have somehow made things worse. You need support and a new perspective. You have a busy life and don’t have the time to drive all over the place trying desperately to connect with a therapist. Or maybe you've been to therapy but have just never found the right 'fit'. You really need a therapist who cares and who won't judge you. You’ve come to the right place. You can find the support you need here – for yourself, for you and your partner, or even for your preteen or teen.
(226) 887-2861 View (226) 887-2861
Photo of Irnes Zeljkovic, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Irnes Zeljkovic
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
I serve a diverse set of communities, including teens, adults, seniors, couples and families. I am passionate about supporting clients who have experienced traumatic events, struggles with mental illness, learning disabilities, addictions and chronic pain. I also support folks who are struggling with conflict, communication, emotion regulation, workload and burnout within their work or school setting.
I serve a diverse set of communities, including teens, adults, seniors, couples and families. I am passionate about supporting clients who have experienced traumatic events, struggles with mental illness, learning disabilities, addictions and chronic pain. I also support folks who are struggling with conflict, communication, emotion regulation, workload and burnout within their work or school setting.
(548) 483-5605 View (548) 483-5605
Photo of Lauren Beattie, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Lauren Beattie
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, CYW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
Together, we will make sense of what is going on for you, or for both you and your partner, to move forward and rebuild the connection you once had.
You don’t recognize yourself anymore, and it’s getting harder to pretend you’re ok. Stress has taken over your life. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. You never thought you’d end up here. Every time you think you might be feeling a little bit better, you seem to get knocked down again and again. You’re overwhelmed, as you try to process it all alone and are feeling unsure of where to go from here. This journey wasn’t a choice for you, whether you're struggling with relationships, setting boundaries, infertility, a health diagnosis, I see your strength and courage to overcome life’s challenges.
Together, we will make sense of what is going on for you, or for both you and your partner, to move forward and rebuild the connection you once had.
You don’t recognize yourself anymore, and it’s getting harder to pretend you’re ok. Stress has taken over your life. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. You never thought you’d end up here. Every time you think you might be feeling a little bit better, you seem to get knocked down again and again. You’re overwhelmed, as you try to process it all alone and are feeling unsure of where to go from here. This journey wasn’t a choice for you, whether you're struggling with relationships, setting boundaries, infertility, a health diagnosis, I see your strength and courage to overcome life’s challenges.
(226) 917-2738 View (226) 917-2738
Photo of Daniel Young (Psychotherapy For You Canada), Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Daniel Young (Psychotherapy For You Canada)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R  (Online Only)
a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, personal and professional stress, managing ADHD, grief, relationship management care, and relationship conflict resolution.
I am a Registered Social Worker specializing in online counselling for individual men, women, couples and families. I am dedicated to providing high-quality therapeutic care to my clients utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including talk therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy,acceptance and Commitment Therapy,Solution Focused Brief Therapy and other evidence-based approaches.I am passionate about helping people and have dedicated my career to improve client mental health and overall well-being. I understand that life can be challenging and sometimes we all need a little extra
a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, personal and professional stress, managing ADHD, grief, relationship management care, and relationship conflict resolution.
I am a Registered Social Worker specializing in online counselling for individual men, women, couples and families. I am dedicated to providing high-quality therapeutic care to my clients utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including talk therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy,acceptance and Commitment Therapy,Solution Focused Brief Therapy and other evidence-based approaches.I am passionate about helping people and have dedicated my career to improve client mental health and overall well-being. I understand that life can be challenging and sometimes we all need a little extra
(226) 840-0632 View (226) 840-0632
Photo of Aileen Pennings, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Aileen Pennings
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5R
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Life can be challenging to navigate and taking the first step toward therapy can seem daunting. When you take this courageous step, you will be met with warmth and empathy. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, life stage transition, and faith issues. I provide both individual and couple therapy. I am intentional about building a relationship with my clients that is rooted in trust and safety. We will work together to reduce emotional distress, recover hope, and build resiliency.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Life can be challenging to navigate and taking the first step toward therapy can seem daunting. When you take this courageous step, you will be met with warmth and empathy. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, life stage transition, and faith issues. I provide both individual and couple therapy. I am intentional about building a relationship with my clients that is rooted in trust and safety. We will work together to reduce emotional distress, recover hope, and build resiliency.
(226) 774-1579 View (226) 774-1579
Photo of Darryl DeRoches, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Darryl DeRoches
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5R
Whether you're trying to figure yourself out, what you want, what your partner wants, we all need to be heard.
I believe that our lives are best lived with a sense of purpose, and my purpose is to be of service to others. As such I work with people to help support them in identifying and addressing their challenges and assist them with being present in their lives. I am grateful to work with: First Responders addressing work, incurred trauma and personal issues related to their service. Persons who identify as part of the LGBTQ +, Kink and ENM communities in a culturally sensitive and sex positive environment. An important focus of my practice is working with men regarding their sexual health/functioning. Especially post cancer diagnosis.
Whether you're trying to figure yourself out, what you want, what your partner wants, we all need to be heard.
I believe that our lives are best lived with a sense of purpose, and my purpose is to be of service to others. As such I work with people to help support them in identifying and addressing their challenges and assist them with being present in their lives. I am grateful to work with: First Responders addressing work, incurred trauma and personal issues related to their service. Persons who identify as part of the LGBTQ +, Kink and ENM communities in a culturally sensitive and sex positive environment. An important focus of my practice is working with men regarding their sexual health/functioning. Especially post cancer diagnosis.
(226) 780-8662 View (226) 780-8662
Photo of Hope M Pelufo in St Thomas, ON
Hope M Pelufo
RP, MSc, BA, DipGIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
I love working with couples, specially when one or both are neurodivergent or trans, queer, ENM or Poly.
Does any of this sound familiar? You survived emotional neglect. You work hard and are independent. Sometimes, your drive has harmed relationships and partnerships. Perhaps your family members struggle with alcohol or addictions. You often feel isolated and "not enough", and could use help from a person who understands these challenges. If you are Neurodivergent, in Recovery; or considering gender transition, I have specific education + experience to support you (Rainbow Health Ontario provider). I am Autistic (AuDHD), adopted, ACE, trans and in a loving marriage. I work, volunteer and learn in Harm Reduction communities.
I love working with couples, specially when one or both are neurodivergent or trans, queer, ENM or Poly.
Does any of this sound familiar? You survived emotional neglect. You work hard and are independent. Sometimes, your drive has harmed relationships and partnerships. Perhaps your family members struggle with alcohol or addictions. You often feel isolated and "not enough", and could use help from a person who understands these challenges. If you are Neurodivergent, in Recovery; or considering gender transition, I have specific education + experience to support you (Rainbow Health Ontario provider). I am Autistic (AuDHD), adopted, ACE, trans and in a loving marriage. I work, volunteer and learn in Harm Reduction communities.
(437) 500-6548 View (437) 500-6548
Photo of Lyndall Hewitt, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Lyndall Hewitt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5R
A warm hello from a therapist with a humanistic approach. I believe everyone deserves a sense of belonging and healthy relationships, and I strive to cultivate a therapeutic relationship that allows you to be yourself. I understand that not everyone can come to an office for therapy and I offer virtual appointments for your convenience and accessibility.
A warm hello from a therapist with a humanistic approach. I believe everyone deserves a sense of belonging and healthy relationships, and I strive to cultivate a therapeutic relationship that allows you to be yourself. I understand that not everyone can come to an office for therapy and I offer virtual appointments for your convenience and accessibility.
(226) 741-4549 View (226) 741-4549
Photo of TMK Counselling & Psychotherapy Services, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
TMK Counselling & Psychotherapy Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW(H), MSW, RSW, CHyp
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5R
I counsel individual adults & couples for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, OCD, trauma, workplace stress, divorce, self-esteem, eating disorders, addictions & more mental health issues.
Anxiety? Depression? Overwhelmed? Trauma? I empower individuals & couples to overcome personal issues & stressful life events by providing hope, support & therapeutic guidance using clinically proven interventions. I'm a Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker with 20 yrs. experience who provides mental health counselling & psychotherapy. Unhealthy relationships, poor coping skills & negative life experiences can contribute to both emotional & physical distress. Hence, I offer various therapies tailored specifically to the client. Telephone, online counselling & Life Coaching as well as in-person is available. TMKCounselling.com
I counsel individual adults & couples for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, OCD, trauma, workplace stress, divorce, self-esteem, eating disorders, addictions & more mental health issues.
Anxiety? Depression? Overwhelmed? Trauma? I empower individuals & couples to overcome personal issues & stressful life events by providing hope, support & therapeutic guidance using clinically proven interventions. I'm a Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker with 20 yrs. experience who provides mental health counselling & psychotherapy. Unhealthy relationships, poor coping skills & negative life experiences can contribute to both emotional & physical distress. Hence, I offer various therapies tailored specifically to the client. Telephone, online counselling & Life Coaching as well as in-person is available. TMKCounselling.com
(226) 406-5131 View (226) 406-5131
Photo of Chris Chmielewski, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Chris Chmielewski
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
My background holds 40yr of extensive practice experience and continued learning. Expertise:all relationship concerns; recovery/healing from emotional hurts, losses, trauma. Such events, if in early years, can instill persistent insecurity, fears, loneliness and grief, causing troubled close relationships and inner-life: Restricting our core resilient nature where we keep strong potentials to be more open, creative, confident, realistic/effective persons. Mainly treat “self-regulation” problems: Social anxiety, shame/guilt, anger, depression; Overdependencies; Intimacy-sexuality, Communication; Identity-Personality issues;Selfcare.
My background holds 40yr of extensive practice experience and continued learning. Expertise:all relationship concerns; recovery/healing from emotional hurts, losses, trauma. Such events, if in early years, can instill persistent insecurity, fears, loneliness and grief, causing troubled close relationships and inner-life: Restricting our core resilient nature where we keep strong potentials to be more open, creative, confident, realistic/effective persons. Mainly treat “self-regulation” problems: Social anxiety, shame/guilt, anger, depression; Overdependencies; Intimacy-sexuality, Communication; Identity-Personality issues;Selfcare.
(226) 400-1834 View (226) 400-1834
Photo of Bridget DeMarchi, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Bridget DeMarchi
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5R
When considering therapy, often times the hardest step is making the first phone call or email. I have a deep respect for the process of choosing a therapist. The therapeutic alliance is an integral part of the counselling relationship. I encourage you to take that next step and contact me. I have a warm, yet direct style when practicing and hold a deep respect for my clients. While this may be a challenging time in your life, this is an opportunity to explore, gain insights and heal. Anxiety, depression & stress need not control your life. Call or email me today!
When considering therapy, often times the hardest step is making the first phone call or email. I have a deep respect for the process of choosing a therapist. The therapeutic alliance is an integral part of the counselling relationship. I encourage you to take that next step and contact me. I have a warm, yet direct style when practicing and hold a deep respect for my clients. While this may be a challenging time in your life, this is an opportunity to explore, gain insights and heal. Anxiety, depression & stress need not control your life. Call or email me today!
(226) 455-6863 View (226) 455-6863
Photo of Jennifer Kausky, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Jennifer Kausky
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
Waitlist for new clients
I have completed Levels 1 & 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy Training, and Gottman Advanced Training in Trauma and Infidelity, and Couples Addiction Recovery.
My Psychotherapy Practice specializes in working with Couples, utilizing the Gottman Method (based in over 45 years of research). I am especially pleased, and proud, to have been selected as one of the Top Three Rated Marriage Counsellors in London! I am dedicated to providing the specific skills necessary for you to thrive in your relationship. During our work together, you will be provided with a Full Assessment and Treatment Plan, outlining your strengths and areas for improvement. You can expect to improve in the areas of Conflict Management, Friendship, Shared Dreams and Life Goals to name a few.
I have completed Levels 1 & 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy Training, and Gottman Advanced Training in Trauma and Infidelity, and Couples Addiction Recovery.
My Psychotherapy Practice specializes in working with Couples, utilizing the Gottman Method (based in over 45 years of research). I am especially pleased, and proud, to have been selected as one of the Top Three Rated Marriage Counsellors in London! I am dedicated to providing the specific skills necessary for you to thrive in your relationship. During our work together, you will be provided with a Full Assessment and Treatment Plan, outlining your strengths and areas for improvement. You can expect to improve in the areas of Conflict Management, Friendship, Shared Dreams and Life Goals to name a few.
(226) 400-7256 View (226) 400-7256
Photo of Peter Dikih Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist in St Thomas, ON
Peter Dikih Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
My specialty is working with couples and families and helping individuals with issues such as addictions, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, stress, employment and career development.
I have provided psychotherapy, counselling and coaching since 1996. I have worked with a diverse population with many types of issues and challenges. My passion is helping individuals, couples and families to thrive; and helping leaders and organizations to excel. I provide a safe and confidential place where problems can be shared, solutions identified, barriers overcome, progress achieved and success celebrated. I primarily use client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive behavioural approaches.
My specialty is working with couples and families and helping individuals with issues such as addictions, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, stress, employment and career development.
I have provided psychotherapy, counselling and coaching since 1996. I have worked with a diverse population with many types of issues and challenges. My passion is helping individuals, couples and families to thrive; and helping leaders and organizations to excel. I provide a safe and confidential place where problems can be shared, solutions identified, barriers overcome, progress achieved and success celebrated. I primarily use client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive behavioural approaches.
(855) 297-8219 View (855) 297-8219
Photo of Scholastica Asahchop - S A Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Scholastica Asahchop - S A Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5P
I offer pre-marital & couples counselling, grief and loss, racial trauma and parental couching.
Feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained and not sure of what to do? You are not alone because most people experience psychological issues from time to time in life and need help in resolving these challenges. Seeking professional help is pertinent in attaining and maintaining optimal mental health. I utilize both long-term and brief interventions approach to meet clients’ unique needs. I perform comprehensive psychosocial assessments and develop individualized treatment plans tailored to clients' needs. I work from a strength based, trauma informed framework, evidence-based practices and committed to an anti-oppressive approach.
I offer pre-marital & couples counselling, grief and loss, racial trauma and parental couching.
Feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained and not sure of what to do? You are not alone because most people experience psychological issues from time to time in life and need help in resolving these challenges. Seeking professional help is pertinent in attaining and maintaining optimal mental health. I utilize both long-term and brief interventions approach to meet clients’ unique needs. I perform comprehensive psychosocial assessments and develop individualized treatment plans tailored to clients' needs. I work from a strength based, trauma informed framework, evidence-based practices and committed to an anti-oppressive approach.
(877) 959-3274 View (877) 959-3274
Photo of Jackie Boyer, Registered Social Worker in St Thomas, ON
Jackie Boyer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with trauma, relationship struggles, tough family dynamics and parenting. When you have experienced adverse events in your childhood or recent trauma you may have difficulties regulating your mood, feeling joy, advocating for yourself, and may often feel unworthy or undeserving of positive things. Life events can leave us worried about being both physically and socially safe, as well as lacking a sense of belonging. Anxiety is a common feeling, leading to low mood, anger, intrusive thoughts, failed or chaotic relationships. Living this way can lead to burnout.
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with trauma, relationship struggles, tough family dynamics and parenting. When you have experienced adverse events in your childhood or recent trauma you may have difficulties regulating your mood, feeling joy, advocating for yourself, and may often feel unworthy or undeserving of positive things. Life events can leave us worried about being both physically and socially safe, as well as lacking a sense of belonging. Anxiety is a common feeling, leading to low mood, anger, intrusive thoughts, failed or chaotic relationships. Living this way can lead to burnout.
(548) 483-6343 View (548) 483-6343

See more therapy options for St Thomas

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.