Couples Counselling Therapists in M2K

Photo of Ummara Ashfaq, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in M2K, ON
Ummara Ashfaq
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Are you a highly sensitive person struggling with mood regulation and/or an anxious attachment style? You may struggle with anxiety, high stress levels, and maintaining stable relationships. Criticism or conflict might hit you harder than it does others. Endless arguments over the same issue and ineffective communication hurts both you and your partner. Past grievances often resurface, intensifying the conflict. You're sensitive to any signs of perceived distance or disinterest from your partner, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and insecurity. You long for emotional stability, and a sense of connection yet fear intimacy.
Are you a highly sensitive person struggling with mood regulation and/or an anxious attachment style? You may struggle with anxiety, high stress levels, and maintaining stable relationships. Criticism or conflict might hit you harder than it does others. Endless arguments over the same issue and ineffective communication hurts both you and your partner. Past grievances often resurface, intensifying the conflict. You're sensitive to any signs of perceived distance or disinterest from your partner, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and insecurity. You long for emotional stability, and a sense of connection yet fear intimacy.
(365) 363-0140 View (365) 363-0140
Photo of Adelaide Pinder, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Adelaide Pinder
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K
Did you lose your job or a loved one? Or maybe you feel defeated or frustrated in life? Are you emotionally and/or physically hurting in a relationship. The challenges we face in life will sometimes knock us down or throw us off course. These experiences do not need to overtake your life and you don't have to suffer alone. If you are an individual or a couple who needs a safe space to explore, heal and grow, I am here for you.
Did you lose your job or a loved one? Or maybe you feel defeated or frustrated in life? Are you emotionally and/or physically hurting in a relationship. The challenges we face in life will sometimes knock us down or throw us off course. These experiences do not need to overtake your life and you don't have to suffer alone. If you are an individual or a couple who needs a safe space to explore, heal and grow, I am here for you.
(647) 360-3305 x2856 View (647) 360-3305 x2856
Photo of Angie Chan, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Angie Chan
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Her hope is to be that safe space for individuals, couples and families where they can be their authentic selves and explore through the issues that are getting in the way of living the life that they yearn for.
There may be times where a person may feel so overwhelmed by their feelings or external circumstances that they are crippled from living the life that they desire and yearn for. These feelings or external circumstances may present themselves as negative thoughts, anxiety, depression, traumatic events, family dynamics and so much more. There is a need and desire for a safe space where one can process through external circumstances and how they impacted them; navigate through those difficult and overwhelming emotions with empathy and compassion; and where they can be their authentic selves without the worry of judgement or rejection.
Her hope is to be that safe space for individuals, couples and families where they can be their authentic selves and explore through the issues that are getting in the way of living the life that they yearn for.
There may be times where a person may feel so overwhelmed by their feelings or external circumstances that they are crippled from living the life that they desire and yearn for. These feelings or external circumstances may present themselves as negative thoughts, anxiety, depression, traumatic events, family dynamics and so much more. There is a need and desire for a safe space where one can process through external circumstances and how they impacted them; navigate through those difficult and overwhelming emotions with empathy and compassion; and where they can be their authentic selves without the worry of judgement or rejection.
(289) 272-8775 View (289) 272-8775
Photo of Marcy Barrett, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Marcy Barrett
Registered Psychotherapist, PsyD, RP
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
My strength lies in my ability to develop a strong, therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I am a Toronto-based psychotherapist with more than ten years of experience helping individuals identify and successfully meet their goals. The work I do is tailored to the needs of each person, and it is centered on the meaningful changes they want to make in their own lives. As a life coach, I also encourage people to think outside the box, and assist them in pursuing and fulfilling their wants and desires.
My strength lies in my ability to develop a strong, therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I am a Toronto-based psychotherapist with more than ten years of experience helping individuals identify and successfully meet their goals. The work I do is tailored to the needs of each person, and it is centered on the meaningful changes they want to make in their own lives. As a life coach, I also encourage people to think outside the box, and assist them in pursuing and fulfilling their wants and desires.
(289) 807-2682 View (289) 807-2682
Photo of Lee Kraemer, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Lee Kraemer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA, PACT ce
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2K
Lee works with couples on a wide range of personal issues and relationship conflicts. Lee's draws from a variety of psycho-therapeutic understandings, including psychodynamic, attachment theory, and contemporary concepts of psycho- and neurobiology. Education and training in various approaches allows Lee to put the specific needs and issues of the individual client first rather than fitting the client into a specific framework. Lee is a PACT certified couples therapist. Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (Stan Tatkin)
Lee works with couples on a wide range of personal issues and relationship conflicts. Lee's draws from a variety of psycho-therapeutic understandings, including psychodynamic, attachment theory, and contemporary concepts of psycho- and neurobiology. Education and training in various approaches allows Lee to put the specific needs and issues of the individual client first rather than fitting the client into a specific framework. Lee is a PACT certified couples therapist. Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (Stan Tatkin)
(289) 216-2648 View (289) 216-2648
Photo of Aglaia Tudor, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in M2K, ON
Aglaia Tudor
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
The foundation of my clinical experience has been in helping people heal their relationship with food and their body.
Welcome to Tudor Therapy, my name is Aglaia and I believe that the quality of our relationships lays the foundation for how we experience our life. My therapeautic approach pulls from Emotionally Focused, Narrative & Existential Therapy. This means that the meaning you make of your experiences and your unique story, will be integral to the work we do together. I work with couples and individuals to explore what relationship satisfaction means to you. If you have experienced relationship transgressions or attachment injuries, engaging in open and honest dialogue about these experiences is possible!
The foundation of my clinical experience has been in helping people heal their relationship with food and their body.
Welcome to Tudor Therapy, my name is Aglaia and I believe that the quality of our relationships lays the foundation for how we experience our life. My therapeautic approach pulls from Emotionally Focused, Narrative & Existential Therapy. This means that the meaning you make of your experiences and your unique story, will be integral to the work we do together. I work with couples and individuals to explore what relationship satisfaction means to you. If you have experienced relationship transgressions or attachment injuries, engaging in open and honest dialogue about these experiences is possible!
(289) 301-9305 View (289) 301-9305
Photo of Anna Shin, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Anna Shin
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, anger, or feeling overwhelmed with life's challenges? I provide a non-judgemental, supportive environment where clients can feel safe exploring their most difficult issues and gain some clarity on directions for change. I have successfully helped numerous clients enhance self-awareness, discover their inherent strengths, and boost resilience to meet the complex demands of modern-day life.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, anger, or feeling overwhelmed with life's challenges? I provide a non-judgemental, supportive environment where clients can feel safe exploring their most difficult issues and gain some clarity on directions for change. I have successfully helped numerous clients enhance self-awareness, discover their inherent strengths, and boost resilience to meet the complex demands of modern-day life.
(844) 402-2686 View (844) 402-2686
Photo of Dharshana Jayapathy, Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Dharshana Jayapathy
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist , MSW, BSW, BA, RSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2K  (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 Sebastian Kowalik, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Sebastian Kowalik
Registered Psychotherapist, Dipl, Psych, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North York, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When working with couples I help to bring insight into repetitive patterns of behaviour, to the ways in which individuals defend themselves from being hurt in the relationship and how life stressors can add to relationship distress.
I work with both individuals and couples that are seeking to restore balance, to connect and to bring meaning to their lives and their relationships in the face of life's questions and challenges. Within my practice I use a range of integrative techniques as understood through the lens of Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness. In addition to individual and couples work, I also facilitate psychodynamic process groups.
When working with couples I help to bring insight into repetitive patterns of behaviour, to the ways in which individuals defend themselves from being hurt in the relationship and how life stressors can add to relationship distress.
I work with both individuals and couples that are seeking to restore balance, to connect and to bring meaning to their lives and their relationships in the face of life's questions and challenges. Within my practice I use a range of integrative techniques as understood through the lens of Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness. In addition to individual and couples work, I also facilitate psychodynamic process groups.
(647) 699-7393 View (647) 699-7393
Photo of EBT3 - Evidence-Based Therapy, Training & Testing, Psychologist in M2K, ON
EBT3 - Evidence-Based Therapy, Training & Testing
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Not Verified Not Verified
North York, ON M2K
, accidents, abuse), couples experiencing relationship problems, those having trouble dealing with their emotions, and individuals with anxiety and mood difficulties.
EBT3 is a team of culturally competent professionals who provide high-quality psychological services including therapy and assessment. These services are evidence-based, meaning they have been proven to work based on rigorous scientific research. Therapy is usually short-term, focuses on specific problems, and takes into account clients' circumstances and preferences when setting and achieving goals. Clients are also active participants in therapy along with their therapists. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups. We are LGBTQ2S positive
, accidents, abuse), couples experiencing relationship problems, those having trouble dealing with their emotions, and individuals with anxiety and mood difficulties.
EBT3 is a team of culturally competent professionals who provide high-quality psychological services including therapy and assessment. These services are evidence-based, meaning they have been proven to work based on rigorous scientific research. Therapy is usually short-term, focuses on specific problems, and takes into account clients' circumstances and preferences when setting and achieving goals. Clients are also active participants in therapy along with their therapists. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups. We are LGBTQ2S positive
(416) 628-4336 View (416) 628-4336
Photo of Mahshid Abbasi, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Mahshid Abbasi
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CHyp, EFT, EMDR, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M2K
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Ontario and an EMDR Clinician, Hypnotherapist in bilingual counselling (Farsi-English) to individuals, couples and families experiencing a variety of life transitions and challenges. I offer counselling within a safe conducive environment to individuals and couples. I have worked successfully with clients seeking support with personal growth, anger management, anxiety, coping with loss, child sexual abuse, relationship issues, life crisis, divorce and many other personal issues.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Ontario and an EMDR Clinician, Hypnotherapist in bilingual counselling (Farsi-English) to individuals, couples and families experiencing a variety of life transitions and challenges. I offer counselling within a safe conducive environment to individuals and couples. I have worked successfully with clients seeking support with personal growth, anger management, anxiety, coping with loss, child sexual abuse, relationship issues, life crisis, divorce and many other personal issues.
(855) 976-3256 View (855) 976-3256
Photo of Jyotsna Saraf-Uiterlinden, Registered Social Worker in M2K, ON
Jyotsna Saraf-Uiterlinden
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, LLM
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2K
I mediate family disputes specializing in helping couples in a non adversarial environment.
Successful psychotherapy requires close cooperation between a client seeking change, and an experienced therapist/coach to facilitate that change. I work with individuals, couples, families and expatriates in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. I offer personalized treatment approaches from the fields of clinical counselling, organizational and occupational psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy. As a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I also encourage lifestyle adjustments as part of a holistic treatment designed to help clients cope, and continue onto their path of recovery.
I mediate family disputes specializing in helping couples in a non adversarial environment.
Successful psychotherapy requires close cooperation between a client seeking change, and an experienced therapist/coach to facilitate that change. I work with individuals, couples, families and expatriates in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. I offer personalized treatment approaches from the fields of clinical counselling, organizational and occupational psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy. As a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I also encourage lifestyle adjustments as part of a holistic treatment designed to help clients cope, and continue onto their path of recovery.
(647) 931-1231 View (647) 931-1231
Davis Psychotherapy Group
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2K  (Online Only)
In addition to anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and other issues, we also focus on couples and relationship challenges, such as communication difficulties, emotionally unavailable partners, unhealthy and repetitive negative cycles, and infidelity.
Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or trauma, our compassionate and skilled therapists can help you gain a better understanding and increased clarity of your struggles, with the purpose of providing ways to resolve those difficulties. Whether you're looking for a practical and solution-focussed approach or for a more in-depth and exploratory process, our therapists can accomodate your needs. If you are unsure as to what might be more beneficial for you, a brief phone consultation with Avi Davis, the Clinical Director, will help guide you.
In addition to anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and other issues, we also focus on couples and relationship challenges, such as communication difficulties, emotionally unavailable partners, unhealthy and repetitive negative cycles, and infidelity.
Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or trauma, our compassionate and skilled therapists can help you gain a better understanding and increased clarity of your struggles, with the purpose of providing ways to resolve those difficulties. Whether you're looking for a practical and solution-focussed approach or for a more in-depth and exploratory process, our therapists can accomodate your needs. If you are unsure as to what might be more beneficial for you, a brief phone consultation with Avi Davis, the Clinical Director, will help guide you.
(647) 699-3703 View (647) 699-3703
Photo of Relationship Counseling & Therapy with Anne Kanata, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Relationship Counseling & Therapy with Anne Kanata
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2K
Couples/ Family: If you want to improve trust, intimacy with your partner, manage conflict, work to separate with dignity, Anne can help.
I am a registered psychotherapist in Kanata experienced in assisting adults, couples, youth & families with personal issues, with relationships, & with career issues. I use an evidence based approach tailored to meet your individual need. Together, we work to create a supportive, safe & nonjudgemental environment to help you make changes in your life, relieve anxiety, stress, reach new understandings & ultimately achieve true personal growth. My expertise is in communication with both professionals & families. I have training in resilience for anxiety & depression for adolescents, children, adults & in navigating school challenges
Couples/ Family: If you want to improve trust, intimacy with your partner, manage conflict, work to separate with dignity, Anne can help.
I am a registered psychotherapist in Kanata experienced in assisting adults, couples, youth & families with personal issues, with relationships, & with career issues. I use an evidence based approach tailored to meet your individual need. Together, we work to create a supportive, safe & nonjudgemental environment to help you make changes in your life, relieve anxiety, stress, reach new understandings & ultimately achieve true personal growth. My expertise is in communication with both professionals & families. I have training in resilience for anxiety & depression for adolescents, children, adults & in navigating school challenges
(343) 341-0027 View (343) 341-0027
Photo of Noémie Mary Irène Kyryluk, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Noémie Mary Irène Kyryluk
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MCA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! After receiving a masters in criminology from the University of Ottawa, I completed a placement in sexual behaviours working with the forensic population. I also completed a 2nd master in counselling, spirituality and psychotherapy at Saint Paul University. I have several years of experience in brain injury rehabilitation as well as with those suffering from co-occurring mental health and addiction issues. My areas of speciality are in sex therapy and alternative relationship styles, mental health and addictions.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! After receiving a masters in criminology from the University of Ottawa, I completed a placement in sexual behaviours working with the forensic population. I also completed a 2nd master in counselling, spirituality and psychotherapy at Saint Paul University. I have several years of experience in brain injury rehabilitation as well as with those suffering from co-occurring mental health and addiction issues. My areas of speciality are in sex therapy and alternative relationship styles, mental health and addictions.
(343) 633-3813 View (343) 633-3813
Photo of Maria Orrego, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Maria Orrego
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MTS, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K
Therapy services are provided for couples seeking to enrich their relationship, build trust and communication skills, work through trauma or crisis and engage in meaningful conversation about life events; as well work to enhance their intimacy / sexual relationship inside and outside of the bedroom.
My education and experience has led me to a profound passion for the restoration of people. I value understanding how the human mind functions on a day to day basis. My education and experience in Marriage (Couple) and Family Therapy has led me to further expertise on topics including communication, conflict resolution, relationship issues, sex and stress within relationships. I believe therapy should never be seen as a failure, but rather as an avenue of growth and restoration.
Therapy services are provided for couples seeking to enrich their relationship, build trust and communication skills, work through trauma or crisis and engage in meaningful conversation about life events; as well work to enhance their intimacy / sexual relationship inside and outside of the bedroom.
My education and experience has led me to a profound passion for the restoration of people. I value understanding how the human mind functions on a day to day basis. My education and experience in Marriage (Couple) and Family Therapy has led me to further expertise on topics including communication, conflict resolution, relationship issues, sex and stress within relationships. I believe therapy should never be seen as a failure, but rather as an avenue of growth and restoration.
(289) 207-5092 View (289) 207-5092
Photo of Tanya Opoku - Forward First Therapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist in M2K, ON
Tanya Opoku - Forward First Therapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2K
Sometimes we need to muster up the courage to ask for the support required to find ourselves again. Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed with a lot on your plate? have you lost connection with yourself? Have you experienced past or present challenges or changes that you need support to navigate? With me you can expect a therapist that is empathetic and understanding but also skilled at goal attainment. I work from a trauma informed, non-judgmental and multicultural lens and you can also expect warmth and sensitivity within our relationship. Reach out If you are ready to take steps towards creating a life you can be proud of.
Sometimes we need to muster up the courage to ask for the support required to find ourselves again. Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed with a lot on your plate? have you lost connection with yourself? Have you experienced past or present challenges or changes that you need support to navigate? With me you can expect a therapist that is empathetic and understanding but also skilled at goal attainment. I work from a trauma informed, non-judgmental and multicultural lens and you can also expect warmth and sensitivity within our relationship. Reach out If you are ready to take steps towards creating a life you can be proud of.
(289) 312-0281 View (289) 312-0281
Photo of Nalini Elisa Ramlakhan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in M2K, ON
Nalini Elisa Ramlakhan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
, sizeism, ageism), personal and professional relationship issues, and major life transitions.
Life’s journey offers many things to be grateful for. However, we all face challenges throughout our lifetime that has the ability to affect our mental health. Having the right supports can help us navigate these challenges. I hold an open, non-judgmental space to help you heal. Therapy goals differ from person to person. My treatment approach is therefore tailored to you, working collaboratively with you to help you reach your therapeutic goals. As your therapist, I hope to help you gain insight and self-awareness, leading you to live your most beautiful, authentic life.
, sizeism, ageism), personal and professional relationship issues, and major life transitions.
Life’s journey offers many things to be grateful for. However, we all face challenges throughout our lifetime that has the ability to affect our mental health. Having the right supports can help us navigate these challenges. I hold an open, non-judgmental space to help you heal. Therapy goals differ from person to person. My treatment approach is therefore tailored to you, working collaboratively with you to help you reach your therapeutic goals. As your therapist, I hope to help you gain insight and self-awareness, leading you to live your most beautiful, authentic life.
(289) 312-2086 View (289) 312-2086
Photo of Rosemary Victor, Registered Social Worker in M2K, ON
Rosemary Victor
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
I am NOT currently accepting new clients. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, mental health support for individuals, couples ad families. I provide supports around relationship issues, as well as coping with mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, grief & loss, managing life transitions, trauma, and addictions.
I am NOT currently accepting new clients. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, mental health support for individuals, couples ad families. I provide supports around relationship issues, as well as coping with mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, grief & loss, managing life transitions, trauma, and addictions.
(226) 286-0952 View (226) 286-0952
Photo of Erin Harding, Registered Social Worker in M2K, ON
Erin Harding
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
Life throws A LOT of challenges our way. . Are you currently going through it? Are you, your family members, children or your partner and you starting to feel like you can't keep afloat? Perhaps you're worrying 24/7, you can't seem to stop your thoughts. Maybe you experience physical symptoms of the stress or anxiety you've been feeling. Maybe you're trying to support a loved one, but aren't sure what the solution is. Whatever the struggle, I'm here to help. I work with clients of all ages to help them find the solutions that work for them. I help clients to find satisfaction again, to ease worry, become confident & commited.
Life throws A LOT of challenges our way. . Are you currently going through it? Are you, your family members, children or your partner and you starting to feel like you can't keep afloat? Perhaps you're worrying 24/7, you can't seem to stop your thoughts. Maybe you experience physical symptoms of the stress or anxiety you've been feeling. Maybe you're trying to support a loved one, but aren't sure what the solution is. Whatever the struggle, I'm here to help. I work with clients of all ages to help them find the solutions that work for them. I help clients to find satisfaction again, to ease worry, become confident & commited.
(226) 271-4992 View (226) 271-4992

See more therapy options for M2K

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.