Photo of Sarah Lo, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Sarah Lo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
I believe that the key to success lies in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that offers trust and allows autonomy and authenticity.
We cannot get through life unscathed, but when we choose to explore our internal motivation and interpersonal relationships with compassion, positive changes can be made. My passion for helping others lies in a person-centered, culturally intuitive, and competent approach where mind and body can be explored safely and inclusively.
I believe that the key to success lies in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that offers trust and allows autonomy and authenticity.
We cannot get through life unscathed, but when we choose to explore our internal motivation and interpersonal relationships with compassion, positive changes can be made. My passion for helping others lies in a person-centered, culturally intuitive, and competent approach where mind and body can be explored safely and inclusively.
(647) 957-9396 View (647) 957-9396
Photo of Natasha Sharma, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
Natasha Sharma
Counsellor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
My team has expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, Relationship/Dating Issues, Marriage, Divorce, Parenting Issues, and Career/Life Transitions.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
My team has expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, Relationship/Dating Issues, Marriage, Divorce, Parenting Issues, and Career/Life Transitions.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
(289) 207-4800 View (289) 207-4800
Photo of Marina Riker-Kucic, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Marina Riker-Kucic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, HBSc, Psych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
Are you feeling trapped in repetitive, unsatisfying patterns, weighed down by unease, discomfort or self-criticism? Are you longing for a change in how you relate to yourself and others, yearning for more fulfilling connections and inner peace? I am here to offer support and guidance as you navigate your journey toward healing and personal growth, helping you become more aligned with who you truly are. We work together as a team, building a supportive relationship in a safe, open-minded atmosphere. We look at how to unblock issues stuck for years and increase your participation and satisfaction in life.
Are you feeling trapped in repetitive, unsatisfying patterns, weighed down by unease, discomfort or self-criticism? Are you longing for a change in how you relate to yourself and others, yearning for more fulfilling connections and inner peace? I am here to offer support and guidance as you navigate your journey toward healing and personal growth, helping you become more aligned with who you truly are. We work together as a team, building a supportive relationship in a safe, open-minded atmosphere. We look at how to unblock issues stuck for years and increase your participation and satisfaction in life.
(855) 504-3935 View (855) 504-3935
Photo of NKS Therapy, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
All of our practitioners are licensed, highly trained mental health professionals with expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Relationship/Dating Issues, Career Issues, Marriage/Divorce, Parenting Issues, Anger, Stress, Substance Abuse, and more.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
All of our practitioners are licensed, highly trained mental health professionals with expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Relationship/Dating Issues, Career Issues, Marriage/Divorce, Parenting Issues, Anger, Stress, Substance Abuse, and more.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
(289) 206-7074 View (289) 206-7074
Photo of Gerardo Quintero, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Gerardo Quintero
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCPA, OACCPP, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9P
Gerardo is a registered Psychotherapist and Canadian certified counsellor with broad experience working with adult, couples, adolescents, and children. He has more than 20 years of counseling experience. He uses his knowledge & experience in psychotherapy, human relationships and human development to improve and heal a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, eating disorders, addictions; and personal challenges such as perfectionism, anger management, stress, procrastination, self-esteem, self-harming; relationship troubles on communication, intimacy or lack of trust.
Gerardo is a registered Psychotherapist and Canadian certified counsellor with broad experience working with adult, couples, adolescents, and children. He has more than 20 years of counseling experience. He uses his knowledge & experience in psychotherapy, human relationships and human development to improve and heal a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, eating disorders, addictions; and personal challenges such as perfectionism, anger management, stress, procrastination, self-esteem, self-harming; relationship troubles on communication, intimacy or lack of trust.
(647) 931-6054 View (647) 931-6054
Photo of Alicia Tough, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Alicia Tough
Registered Psychotherapist, MScOT, OT, Reg, (Ont), RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8Y  (Online Only)
Please reach out to me if you are tired of feeling alone with your worries, "stuck patterns", insecurities and relationship difficulties.
Are you curious about where you get stuck in unhelpful patterns? Would you like to explore how you can access your own gifts and strengths to feel more connected? If your goal is to gain more ease, flow and comfort in relating to yourself and others, I can help.
Please reach out to me if you are tired of feeling alone with your worries, "stuck patterns", insecurities and relationship difficulties.
Are you curious about where you get stuck in unhelpful patterns? Would you like to explore how you can access your own gifts and strengths to feel more connected? If your goal is to gain more ease, flow and comfort in relating to yourself and others, I can help.
(855) 737-3659 View (855) 737-3659
Photo of Irina Petrova, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Irina Petrova
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DipGIT, MSc
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my work! Congratulations on taking your first step to a more fulfilling life. I provide warm, safe and collaborative environment for my clients' healing journey. I am here to help you to become more authentic, grounded, and happy with yourself and your relationships. In my work I use client-centered, anti-oppression and culturally-competent framework. I work with individuals, couples and families.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my work! Congratulations on taking your first step to a more fulfilling life. I provide warm, safe and collaborative environment for my clients' healing journey. I am here to help you to become more authentic, grounded, and happy with yourself and your relationships. In my work I use client-centered, anti-oppression and culturally-competent framework. I work with individuals, couples and families.
(647) 931-3920 View (647) 931-3920
Photo of Melinda Zourntos, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Melinda Zourntos
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MBA, BASc, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
I offer individual and couples counselling for a variety of issues using a collaborative approach, within a judgement free environment. The majority of my experience revolves around using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness based approaches, and Existential Therapy. I am also most familiar with mental health issues regarding anxiety, depression, stress, postpartum issues, obsessive compulsive tendencies, and self-esteem.
I offer individual and couples counselling for a variety of issues using a collaborative approach, within a judgement free environment. The majority of my experience revolves around using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness based approaches, and Existential Therapy. I am also most familiar with mental health issues regarding anxiety, depression, stress, postpartum issues, obsessive compulsive tendencies, and self-esteem.
(289) 276-8174 View (289) 276-8174
Photo of Saadia Akram-Pall, Psychologist in Etobicoke, ON
Saadia Akram-Pall
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9V
Dr. Saadia Akram-Pall is a registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and has a doctorate and two master's degrees. She has more than 30 years of experience delivering psychological services to adults, couples, and families using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Guided Imagery, Emotion Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Multicultural Counselling, etc. She offers clients helpful tools and resources to achieve their personal, professional, and relationship goals and to assist them in strengthening their coping skills to deal with their issues effectively.
Dr. Saadia Akram-Pall is a registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and has a doctorate and two master's degrees. She has more than 30 years of experience delivering psychological services to adults, couples, and families using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Guided Imagery, Emotion Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Multicultural Counselling, etc. She offers clients helpful tools and resources to achieve their personal, professional, and relationship goals and to assist them in strengthening their coping skills to deal with their issues effectively.
(416) 317-0439 View (416) 317-0439
Photo of Debbie Papadakis, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Debbie Papadakis
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CHT, CI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9P
Hello, my name is Debbie Papadakis. My goal is to empower you to unfold your inherent potential by accessing the subconscious mind using a combination of psychotherapy with hypnotherapy to help you live a healthy, wealthy, productive and happy life. For more than 25 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome limiting beliefs, unwanted behaviours, negative thoughts and emotions, addictions and/or afflictions, fears and phobias that were hindering them from achieving their goals, unleashing their full potential, and living in harmony.
Hello, my name is Debbie Papadakis. My goal is to empower you to unfold your inherent potential by accessing the subconscious mind using a combination of psychotherapy with hypnotherapy to help you live a healthy, wealthy, productive and happy life. For more than 25 years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals, couples and groups from diverse backgrounds to help empower them to overcome limiting beliefs, unwanted behaviours, negative thoughts and emotions, addictions and/or afflictions, fears and phobias that were hindering them from achieving their goals, unleashing their full potential, and living in harmony.
(855) 982-1391 View (855) 982-1391
Photo of Mario Jose Lourenco, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Mario Jose Lourenco
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CGT, CAPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9R
Welcome! It seems that you may be struggling with life challenges at the moment (i.e., relationship issues, work issues, loss, etc.), or, perhaps, anxiety, unwelcome thoughts, or apathy are getting in the way of you having the life you want. These are some of the common issues that people bring to my office. I have experience working with individuals, couples and groups, and I draw from extensive professional training to ensure you reach your desired outcome. This could include moving through old and/or new issues, making changes, improving relationships, increasing your vitality.
Welcome! It seems that you may be struggling with life challenges at the moment (i.e., relationship issues, work issues, loss, etc.), or, perhaps, anxiety, unwelcome thoughts, or apathy are getting in the way of you having the life you want. These are some of the common issues that people bring to my office. I have experience working with individuals, couples and groups, and I draw from extensive professional training to ensure you reach your desired outcome. This could include moving through old and/or new issues, making changes, improving relationships, increasing your vitality.
(437) 372-5694 View (437) 372-5694
Photo of Your Lifetime Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Your Lifetime Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MD, MACP, RP(q), PMP, CCRP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, life-transitional issues, adjustment disorders, stress, trauma, relationship conflict, parenting concerns, academic/career concerns, and difficulties in attaining work-life balance.
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP(q), a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, life-transitional issues, adjustment disorders, stress, trauma, relationship conflict, parenting concerns, academic/career concerns, and difficulties in attaining work-life balance.
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP(q), a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
(289) 677-1873 View (289) 677-1873
Photo of Natasha Huff, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Natasha Huff
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9C
I offer individual, couple and family therapy for a wide range of issues including; divorce/separation, trauma, grief, co-parenting, substance abuse, school refusal, family conflict, eating disorders and mental health (specifically, anxiety and depression). I have assisted many couples and families in improving their relationships with one another, providing them with the ability to communicate, respect and understand each other better using Collaborative Problem Solving and Emotion-focussed therapy.
I offer individual, couple and family therapy for a wide range of issues including; divorce/separation, trauma, grief, co-parenting, substance abuse, school refusal, family conflict, eating disorders and mental health (specifically, anxiety and depression). I have assisted many couples and families in improving their relationships with one another, providing them with the ability to communicate, respect and understand each other better using Collaborative Problem Solving and Emotion-focussed therapy.
(647) 696-7276 View (647) 696-7276
Photo of Psychotherapy at Ohana Wellness Clinic, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Psychotherapy at Ohana Wellness Clinic
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Our family-focused clinic provides counselling for adults, couples, children, and families. We offer a variety of group therapy options taking place every couple of months. Our diverse team is experienced in supporting anxiety, stress, depression, anger management, addictions, grief, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, relationship challenges, and more. Child and youth therapy can be working one-on-one or parent counselling. We use a supportive, non-judgemental approach for those looking for immediate relief from stressful situations to those seeking long-term support for more complex challenges.
Our family-focused clinic provides counselling for adults, couples, children, and families. We offer a variety of group therapy options taking place every couple of months. Our diverse team is experienced in supporting anxiety, stress, depression, anger management, addictions, grief, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, relationship challenges, and more. Child and youth therapy can be working one-on-one or parent counselling. We use a supportive, non-judgemental approach for those looking for immediate relief from stressful situations to those seeking long-term support for more complex challenges.
(647) 277-5145 View (647) 277-5145
Photo of Justin the Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 274-8209 View (289) 274-8209
Photo of Ashley Chiappetta, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Ashley Chiappetta
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Thank you for being here! My commitment is to create a safe and supportive space for your personal growth and healing journey and my approach is rooted in the belief that a strong therapeutic relationship can be the foundation for meaningful change. I strive to be a relatable and understanding presence in your life, fostering an environment where you feel heard, valued, and truly understood. My passion lies in the transformative power of healing – whether that be your inner child, past trauma or going through change or life transitions.
Thank you for being here! My commitment is to create a safe and supportive space for your personal growth and healing journey and my approach is rooted in the belief that a strong therapeutic relationship can be the foundation for meaningful change. I strive to be a relatable and understanding presence in your life, fostering an environment where you feel heard, valued, and truly understood. My passion lies in the transformative power of healing – whether that be your inner child, past trauma or going through change or life transitions.
(365) 305-0168 View (365) 305-0168
Photo of M. Christine Brown Clearview Wellness Counselling, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
M. Christine Brown Clearview Wellness Counselling
Counsellor, BA, BEd, MEd, equiv, Gestalt
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V
My clientele has included people of all ages dealing with: Depression, Anxiety, Loss and Grief, Relationship/Marital issues, Childhood Trauma, Addiction, Work related issues, Gender identity issues, ADHD, Communication issues, Self esteem issues, Health crises, Cancer, Physical and Mental Disabilities, Narcissistic Abuse, Teen issues, .
Seeking professional counselling is a sign of mental health. It indicates that through awareness you have realized that you want more functionality and integration in your life. If you're ready to learn and grow in a new direction, please contact me. I will assist you in connecting to your self as a means to helping you discover the healthiest choices ahead.
My clientele has included people of all ages dealing with: Depression, Anxiety, Loss and Grief, Relationship/Marital issues, Childhood Trauma, Addiction, Work related issues, Gender identity issues, ADHD, Communication issues, Self esteem issues, Health crises, Cancer, Physical and Mental Disabilities, Narcissistic Abuse, Teen issues, .
Seeking professional counselling is a sign of mental health. It indicates that through awareness you have realized that you want more functionality and integration in your life. If you're ready to learn and grow in a new direction, please contact me. I will assist you in connecting to your self as a means to helping you discover the healthiest choices ahead.
(289) 272-9267 View (289) 272-9267
Photo of Morgan Jacqueline, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Morgan Jacqueline
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, Q, MACP, OAMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
You look around the crowded room full of friends, family, colleagues or strangers and think to yourself… How do they make it look so easy? Why can't I find that happiness within myself and surrounded by others? I know I have; it is part of the human experience to feel uncertain or lost at some point in our lives. Whether that be trauma from childhood or the present day, anxiety, depression, a breakup, marital stress or grief - I commend you for making it here onto my profile and courageously taking that first step.
You look around the crowded room full of friends, family, colleagues or strangers and think to yourself… How do they make it look so easy? Why can't I find that happiness within myself and surrounded by others? I know I have; it is part of the human experience to feel uncertain or lost at some point in our lives. Whether that be trauma from childhood or the present day, anxiety, depression, a breakup, marital stress or grief - I commend you for making it here onto my profile and courageously taking that first step.
(289) 210-1199 View (289) 210-1199
Photo of Thought Feeling: Scarlett Jones, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Thought Feeling: Scarlett Jones
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8W
Life is full of surprises, some of which are pleasant, while others can be seen as obstacles, resulting in uncomfortable emotions, anxiety, depression, or even a sense of loss, to name a few. Whether you are feeling stuck, unfulfilled, lacking a sense of purpose, or are experiencing challenges in relationships, I am here to support you and help work with you through these discomforts. My aim is to help you work through difficult, vulnerable, and even painful thoughts, emotions, and habits, while fostering self-reflection and transformation in lasting ways to help you live life to its fullest.
Life is full of surprises, some of which are pleasant, while others can be seen as obstacles, resulting in uncomfortable emotions, anxiety, depression, or even a sense of loss, to name a few. Whether you are feeling stuck, unfulfilled, lacking a sense of purpose, or are experiencing challenges in relationships, I am here to support you and help work with you through these discomforts. My aim is to help you work through difficult, vulnerable, and even painful thoughts, emotions, and habits, while fostering self-reflection and transformation in lasting ways to help you live life to its fullest.
(437) 372-5410 View (437) 372-5410
Photo of Gui Mansilla, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Gui Mansilla
Registered Psychotherapist, Lawyer, MDiv, RP CRPO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
(289) 210-6231 View (289) 210-6231

See more therapy options for Etobicoke


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.