Couples Counselling Therapists in Toronto, ON

Photo of Patricia L Steckley, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Patricia L Steckley
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist offering assessment and psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples. I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, childhood and adult traumatic events, anger, loss, grief, low self-esteem/confidence, shyness and life transitions. I am trained in and practice Emotion-Focused Therapy, Somatic Oriented Therapies, Relational Therapy, Relaxation and Meditative practices. I have 25 years of therapy experience, having worked in hospital, university and private practice settings.
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist offering assessment and psychotherapy to adult individuals and couples. I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, childhood and adult traumatic events, anger, loss, grief, low self-esteem/confidence, shyness and life transitions. I am trained in and practice Emotion-Focused Therapy, Somatic Oriented Therapies, Relational Therapy, Relaxation and Meditative practices. I have 25 years of therapy experience, having worked in hospital, university and private practice settings.
(647) 931-1542 View (647) 931-1542
Photo of Lila Z. Hakim, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Lila Z. Hakim
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
I have been committed to supporting the development of individuals, couples, and families since 2001. My work has focused on the areas of mood, anxiety, traumatic stress, personality, attachment, and relationships/family systems. In addition, I work regularly in the area of family-building, including fertility stress, perinatal and postpartum issues, third-party reproduction, fostering, and adoption as well as parenting. I am a clinical supervisor for psychologists, psychotherapists, residents,​ and graduate students from various Universities, teaching integrative and trauma-focused therapy, as well as psychological assessment.
I have been committed to supporting the development of individuals, couples, and families since 2001. My work has focused on the areas of mood, anxiety, traumatic stress, personality, attachment, and relationships/family systems. In addition, I work regularly in the area of family-building, including fertility stress, perinatal and postpartum issues, third-party reproduction, fostering, and adoption as well as parenting. I am a clinical supervisor for psychologists, psychotherapists, residents,​ and graduate students from various Universities, teaching integrative and trauma-focused therapy, as well as psychological assessment.
(844) 957-2731 View (844) 957-2731
Photo of Sly Sarkisova, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Sly Sarkisova
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA, BSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
In whatever way you find yourself here, rest assured we can build the tools you need to unpack and resolve the issues you face. Whether you are exploring your identity, opening up or managing the health of your relationship(s), processing experiences from your past, or needing space to explore a sense of unrest - I will meet you in co-creating a compassionate space of deep empathy, gentle exploration, strengthening and resolution. If you feel ready to explore the next phase of your healing or recovery work, I offer a unique and experiential lens guided by integrity, consent, reflexivity and accountability.
In whatever way you find yourself here, rest assured we can build the tools you need to unpack and resolve the issues you face. Whether you are exploring your identity, opening up or managing the health of your relationship(s), processing experiences from your past, or needing space to explore a sense of unrest - I will meet you in co-creating a compassionate space of deep empathy, gentle exploration, strengthening and resolution. If you feel ready to explore the next phase of your healing or recovery work, I offer a unique and experiential lens guided by integrity, consent, reflexivity and accountability.
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Photo of Catherine Wood, PhD, RP Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Catherine Wood, PhD, RP Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5S
You want to improve your life in some way, and this is the privilege I have in working with clients everyday. Whether you want to feel happier, less anxious or upset, want to strive for goals and dreams, or want something to improve about your romantic relationship (you'd like to have one, you'd like to improve yours, you'd like to get over one), I'd love to help you with this. I am a skilled individual and couples counselor, having devoted training and expertise to this. Allow yourself to reach out and safely achieve your goals. My inclusive practice welcomes adult individuals and couples, heterosexual or gay, and all cultures.
You want to improve your life in some way, and this is the privilege I have in working with clients everyday. Whether you want to feel happier, less anxious or upset, want to strive for goals and dreams, or want something to improve about your romantic relationship (you'd like to have one, you'd like to improve yours, you'd like to get over one), I'd love to help you with this. I am a skilled individual and couples counselor, having devoted training and expertise to this. Allow yourself to reach out and safely achieve your goals. My inclusive practice welcomes adult individuals and couples, heterosexual or gay, and all cultures.
(855) 979-7523 View (855) 979-7523
Photo of Maddy Krupl, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Maddy Krupl
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, OASW, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5H  (Online Only)
I am experienced and well versed to work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, trauma, phobia, PTSD, self-esteem, and relationship difficulties.
How satisfied are you in your life? What do you want your future to look like? Are you experiencing feelings of distrust, panic or frustration? Overwhelmed by life’s demands? Feeling misunderstood, alone? Has there been an escalation of conflict and emotional distress? No more. Life is challenging and unpredictable. One of our deepest needs as humans is to feel understood. To find an anchor of peace, feel as if your voice is being heard, validated. And, you are NOT alone.
I am experienced and well versed to work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, trauma, phobia, PTSD, self-esteem, and relationship difficulties.
How satisfied are you in your life? What do you want your future to look like? Are you experiencing feelings of distrust, panic or frustration? Overwhelmed by life’s demands? Feeling misunderstood, alone? Has there been an escalation of conflict and emotional distress? No more. Life is challenging and unpredictable. One of our deepest needs as humans is to feel understood. To find an anchor of peace, feel as if your voice is being heard, validated. And, you are NOT alone.
(343) 321-2028 View (343) 321-2028
Photo of Brian Allison, Counsellor in Toronto, ON
Brian Allison
Counsellor, MDiv, MA, DMin
Not Verified Not Verified
Toronto, ON M2R
Brian Allison specializes in spirituality, marriage counselling, relationship counselling, couples counselling, family counselling, individual counselling, bereavement counselling, and life coaching.
I am a spiritual counsellor at Maranatha Counseling Services, and a life coach at Focused Life Coaching & Empowerment. I was a Clinical Affiliate with Homewood Human Solutions for 9 years, specializing in Solution-focused Brief therapy. I have over 40 years of counselling, coaching, and teaching experience, as a professor, public speaker, and clinician. I have lectured and spoken extensively in Canada, USA, and overseas. I have a passion for empowering and equipping people in being true to themselves and to their true nature; and to live a purpose-driven life in pursuit of their goals and dreams. I am a natural and gifted motivator.
Brian Allison specializes in spirituality, marriage counselling, relationship counselling, couples counselling, family counselling, individual counselling, bereavement counselling, and life coaching.
I am a spiritual counsellor at Maranatha Counseling Services, and a life coach at Focused Life Coaching & Empowerment. I was a Clinical Affiliate with Homewood Human Solutions for 9 years, specializing in Solution-focused Brief therapy. I have over 40 years of counselling, coaching, and teaching experience, as a professor, public speaker, and clinician. I have lectured and spoken extensively in Canada, USA, and overseas. I have a passion for empowering and equipping people in being true to themselves and to their true nature; and to live a purpose-driven life in pursuit of their goals and dreams. I am a natural and gifted motivator.
(289) 273-9610 View (289) 273-9610
Photo of Jennifer Kaplan, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Jennifer Kaplan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4T
I work within a wide range of practice experience from groups to individuals to couples therapy.
Please feel free to look at my website JenniferKaplantherapy.com. I am an empathic practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. My focus is to address your areas of concern with skill and determination. You will guide the work we do. We will set goals and work towards them in a reasonable time frame. Take the first step towards yourself and call me.
I work within a wide range of practice experience from groups to individuals to couples therapy.
Please feel free to look at my website JenniferKaplantherapy.com. I am an empathic practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. My focus is to address your areas of concern with skill and determination. You will guide the work we do. We will set goals and work towards them in a reasonable time frame. Take the first step towards yourself and call me.
(365) 598-5988 View (365) 598-5988
Photo of David Kirshner - Adhd And Autism Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
David Kirshner - Adhd And Autism Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6K  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have 5+ years of experience working with ADHD & Autism in children, teenagers, adults, seniors, families and couples.
As a neurodivergent person with ADHD myself, I know some of the difficulties you may face. If you have ADHD and/or are Autistic, you’ve probably spent many years trying to fight your own brain and force yourself to act “normal,” but find this never works in the long run. Or perhaps you have someone in your life who is neurodivergent, and are struggling meet their needs and your own. You may experience painful emotions, difficulty understanding yourself, and frustrating personal relationships. Navigating life can be overwhelming when you're neurodivergent, but I firmly believe there is hope, and I want you to feel hopeful too.
I have 5+ years of experience working with ADHD & Autism in children, teenagers, adults, seniors, families and couples.
As a neurodivergent person with ADHD myself, I know some of the difficulties you may face. If you have ADHD and/or are Autistic, you’ve probably spent many years trying to fight your own brain and force yourself to act “normal,” but find this never works in the long run. Or perhaps you have someone in your life who is neurodivergent, and are struggling meet their needs and your own. You may experience painful emotions, difficulty understanding yourself, and frustrating personal relationships. Navigating life can be overwhelming when you're neurodivergent, but I firmly believe there is hope, and I want you to feel hopeful too.
(647) 696-1259 View (647) 696-1259
Photo of André Turcotte, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
André Turcotte
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, MA, RP, LC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
Change and solutions are possible! Help is available. Psychotherapy addresses a variety of issues and I can help you with everything from anxiety to depression to life and relationship issues. Often the hardest part is simply making the decision to begin. I offer a unique approach; in addition to traditional office visits, I also offer online sessions. Many people enjoy the added benefits of 'meeting' online; reduced travel time to and from their appointments, greater scheduling flexibility and being able to continue whether they are feeling under the weather or away on vacation.
Change and solutions are possible! Help is available. Psychotherapy addresses a variety of issues and I can help you with everything from anxiety to depression to life and relationship issues. Often the hardest part is simply making the decision to begin. I offer a unique approach; in addition to traditional office visits, I also offer online sessions. Many people enjoy the added benefits of 'meeting' online; reduced travel time to and from their appointments, greater scheduling flexibility and being able to continue whether they are feeling under the weather or away on vacation.
(844) 841-4247 View (844) 841-4247
Photo of Gloria Segovia, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Gloria Segovia
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, CRPO
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4S
Therapy can benefit everyone, but it isn't solely beneficial after a traumatic experience, abuse, anxiety, or a major life change - it can help in everyday life, too! Many highly successful people use therapy to be more productive in goal setting, self-acceptance, and stress management. If you need compassionate support and are ready to commit to change, then I am your therapist. As a Gottman level 1/2 trained Couples therapist Providing & conducting a comprehensive assessment of the relationship, I provide couples with tools and strategies that address a wide range of issues.
Therapy can benefit everyone, but it isn't solely beneficial after a traumatic experience, abuse, anxiety, or a major life change - it can help in everyday life, too! Many highly successful people use therapy to be more productive in goal setting, self-acceptance, and stress management. If you need compassionate support and are ready to commit to change, then I am your therapist. As a Gottman level 1/2 trained Couples therapist Providing & conducting a comprehensive assessment of the relationship, I provide couples with tools and strategies that address a wide range of issues.
(226) 702-8598 View (226) 702-8598
Photo of David Appelrouth | Glimmer Health , Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
David Appelrouth | Glimmer Health
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6B
David Appelrouth holds an MSW from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work. He has worked in the field of addictions since 2020, focusing on CBT and Motivational Interviewing as strategies for clients in a one-on-one clinical setting. David is a compassionate and understanding individual and is excited to bring his strengths and skills to individuals and couples in Glimmer’s therapeutic setting. In addition to mental health, David has served as a spiritual guide and counsellor since 2007, and has worked in the field of education since 2016. David additionally holds a Masters in Education (2016) and rabbinic ordination (2005).
David Appelrouth holds an MSW from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work. He has worked in the field of addictions since 2020, focusing on CBT and Motivational Interviewing as strategies for clients in a one-on-one clinical setting. David is a compassionate and understanding individual and is excited to bring his strengths and skills to individuals and couples in Glimmer’s therapeutic setting. In addition to mental health, David has served as a spiritual guide and counsellor since 2007, and has worked in the field of education since 2016. David additionally holds a Masters in Education (2016) and rabbinic ordination (2005).
(437) 747-6104 View (437) 747-6104
Photo of Nisrine Maktabi, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Nisrine Maktabi
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5B
Seeking therapy is a radical act of self love. It takes courage to reach out when in pain or transition. Wanting support is a sign of the impulse to thrive. I hold space for you to heal your attachment and other wounds. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Masters of Psychology, with a private practice in downtown Toronto. My special interests include transitions across the life span, attachment and trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress, newcomer and multi cultural issues, intersecting with LGBTQ issues, women's mental health, transitioning genders, and newcomer issues.
Seeking therapy is a radical act of self love. It takes courage to reach out when in pain or transition. Wanting support is a sign of the impulse to thrive. I hold space for you to heal your attachment and other wounds. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Masters of Psychology, with a private practice in downtown Toronto. My special interests include transitions across the life span, attachment and trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress, newcomer and multi cultural issues, intersecting with LGBTQ issues, women's mental health, transitioning genders, and newcomer issues.
(647) 952-1830 View (647) 952-1830
Photo of Gabrielle Arruda, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Gabrielle Arruda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S
Providing psychotherapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families across diverse age groups, I offer services in both English and Portuguese.
Too often, people endure their obstacles alone, convinced that they must shoulder their burdens in silence. Whether it's a child struggling with emotional regulation, a teenager navigating the complexities of anxiety amid life's changes, or an adult wrestling with depression, everyone can benefit from specialized support at various points in their lives.
Providing psychotherapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families across diverse age groups, I offer services in both English and Portuguese.
Too often, people endure their obstacles alone, convinced that they must shoulder their burdens in silence. Whether it's a child struggling with emotional regulation, a teenager navigating the complexities of anxiety amid life's changes, or an adult wrestling with depression, everyone can benefit from specialized support at various points in their lives.
(365) 601-4322 View (365) 601-4322
Photo of Alison Duyck, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Alison Duyck
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
More recently, I have been working with individuals and couples as I expand my skillset using the evidence based model Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I specialize in helping you establish meaningful and healthy relationships whether working with you as an individual, a couple or a family. I believe it is important for you to feel connected to the important people in your life: this brings joy, and it also resources you to weather life’s challenges. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, my focus will be on improving (each of) your ability to connect with your emotional experience so that your emotions can become the guide that they were intended to be- to provide a way forward. This is what I will help you do.
More recently, I have been working with individuals and couples as I expand my skillset using the evidence based model Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I specialize in helping you establish meaningful and healthy relationships whether working with you as an individual, a couple or a family. I believe it is important for you to feel connected to the important people in your life: this brings joy, and it also resources you to weather life’s challenges. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, my focus will be on improving (each of) your ability to connect with your emotional experience so that your emotions can become the guide that they were intended to be- to provide a way forward. This is what I will help you do.
(647) 699-3295 View (647) 699-3295
Photo of Nan Keyser Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Nan Keyser Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, OSP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P
I have a strong purpose to create a sense of safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship and to help you meet your therapy goals.
As a registered psychotherapist with 19 years experience, my purpose is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, experiencing anxiety, grief, disordered eating, or depression, I will provide a caring and effective approach to support you in creating positive change. By applying effective therapy approaches and techniques that include mindfulness therapy, EFT and anti-oppression therapy approaches to therapy, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life.
I have a strong purpose to create a sense of safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship and to help you meet your therapy goals.
As a registered psychotherapist with 19 years experience, my purpose is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, experiencing anxiety, grief, disordered eating, or depression, I will provide a caring and effective approach to support you in creating positive change. By applying effective therapy approaches and techniques that include mindfulness therapy, EFT and anti-oppression therapy approaches to therapy, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life.
(365) 398-0671 View (365) 398-0671
Photo of Mindful Pleasures Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Mindful Pleasures Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy and sex therapy.
Our goal at Mindful Pleasures Therapy practice is to provide a reliable online psychotherapy service that allows you grow, educate and heal. We aid clients in overcoming emerging issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, co-dependancy, addictions, sex, spirituality, self-esteem, depression, women's issues and stress. LGBTQ+ and kink friendly practice. Life is not always easy and it can affect our psychological health and wellbeing. We strive in building a judgment-free, anti-oppressive, compassionate, safe space for Individuals & couples of all ages to work through challenging issues.
Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy and sex therapy.
Our goal at Mindful Pleasures Therapy practice is to provide a reliable online psychotherapy service that allows you grow, educate and heal. We aid clients in overcoming emerging issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, co-dependancy, addictions, sex, spirituality, self-esteem, depression, women's issues and stress. LGBTQ+ and kink friendly practice. Life is not always easy and it can affect our psychological health and wellbeing. We strive in building a judgment-free, anti-oppressive, compassionate, safe space for Individuals & couples of all ages to work through challenging issues.
(437) 747-4793 View (437) 747-4793
Photo of Andrew Holmes - Social Worker Clinical Supervisor, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Andrew Holmes - Social Worker Clinical Supervisor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
I am a queer transmasculine social worker with 19 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups.
Your past does not have to define your future. You are not doomed to repeat the same mistakes. You can manage stress, racing thoughts, and overwhelming emotions. Your story is a work in progress, and much is still unwritten. You can heal and grow beyond what you think is possible. You can revise your story to one of healing, hope and joy. I know this because I have healed from my own trauma story. You don’t have to do this alone. Together we will create a safe container where we can journey together. I am dedicated to making this journey with you, to a place of wholeness, healing, connection and transformation.
I am a queer transmasculine social worker with 19 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups.
Your past does not have to define your future. You are not doomed to repeat the same mistakes. You can manage stress, racing thoughts, and overwhelming emotions. Your story is a work in progress, and much is still unwritten. You can heal and grow beyond what you think is possible. You can revise your story to one of healing, hope and joy. I know this because I have healed from my own trauma story. You don’t have to do this alone. Together we will create a safe container where we can journey together. I am dedicated to making this journey with you, to a place of wholeness, healing, connection and transformation.
(647) 492-9244 View (647) 492-9244
Photo of Sophia Khan Wolsfeld | Relational Trauma Therapist | Support For C-Ptsd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Sophia Khan Wolsfeld | Relational Trauma Therapist | Support For C-Ptsd
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, RD, CCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Experiencing trauma does not have to hold you back. I specialize in supporting those who are navigating how past childhood, relational, betrayal, intergenerational, or complex trauma may have impacted their relationship with themselves, their body, and with others. This may present itself as struggling with self-esteem, body image, emotional/binge eating, attachment, relationship struggles, people pleasing, anxiety, perfectionism, or with just feeling “enough”. Together, we can process past trauma, nurture our unique nervous systems, break patterns that keep us feeling stuck, and move towards a life of self-trust and embodiment.
Experiencing trauma does not have to hold you back. I specialize in supporting those who are navigating how past childhood, relational, betrayal, intergenerational, or complex trauma may have impacted their relationship with themselves, their body, and with others. This may present itself as struggling with self-esteem, body image, emotional/binge eating, attachment, relationship struggles, people pleasing, anxiety, perfectionism, or with just feeling “enough”. Together, we can process past trauma, nurture our unique nervous systems, break patterns that keep us feeling stuck, and move towards a life of self-trust and embodiment.
(306) 400-5661 View (306) 400-5661
Photo of Dunn Kaufman, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Dunn Kaufman
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, CHT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6B  (Online Only)
What if you could actually be happy every day? Hi I'm Dunn Kaufman, therapist & couples counselor. For over a decade, I have been helping people like you with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship and/or other issues lead the life you know you can have. If you want more out of your life and haven't been able to do so on your own or with your current therapist, then be in touch.
What if you could actually be happy every day? Hi I'm Dunn Kaufman, therapist & couples counselor. For over a decade, I have been helping people like you with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship and/or other issues lead the life you know you can have. If you want more out of your life and haven't been able to do so on your own or with your current therapist, then be in touch.
(437) 500-6282 View (437) 500-6282
Photo of Nubia Edith Alfonso, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Nubia Edith Alfonso
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, EMDR C
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
You can be free to live your best life!!! I provide collaborative therapeutic work in assisting you to resolve issues, restore perspectives and recharge your dreams. I am a caring psychotherapist with a genuine enthusiasm for people to know inner wellness and personal freedom. My significant experience have provided me confidence in treating various psychological, emotional and behavioural issues in individuals, couples and families. My approach is to provide meaningful and effective treatment in a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment where you can find a support that is compassionate and transformative.
You can be free to live your best life!!! I provide collaborative therapeutic work in assisting you to resolve issues, restore perspectives and recharge your dreams. I am a caring psychotherapist with a genuine enthusiasm for people to know inner wellness and personal freedom. My significant experience have provided me confidence in treating various psychological, emotional and behavioural issues in individuals, couples and families. My approach is to provide meaningful and effective treatment in a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment where you can find a support that is compassionate and transformative.
(647) 360-6329 View (647) 360-6329

See more therapy options for Toronto

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.