Photo of Dr. Shari Geller - Centre for MindBody Health, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Dr. Shari Geller - Centre for MindBody Health
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5N
Her intention is to create a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship to help clients work through difficult emotions, and generate inner resources, self-care and self-compassion.
Shari is a Registered Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience. She is an author and leader in the field of Therapeutic Presence and certified teacher of Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC). Shari is a certified therapist and supervisor in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). She serves on the teaching faculty in Health Psychology at York University and is an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto. She is on the steering committee and part of the core faculty of the Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy (SCIP) certificate program.
Her intention is to create a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship to help clients work through difficult emotions, and generate inner resources, self-care and self-compassion.
Shari is a Registered Psychologist with over 30 years’ experience. She is an author and leader in the field of Therapeutic Presence and certified teacher of Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC). Shari is a certified therapist and supervisor in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). She serves on the teaching faculty in Health Psychology at York University and is an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto. She is on the steering committee and part of the core faculty of the Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy (SCIP) certificate program.
(647) 699-2596 View (647) 699-2596
Photo of Heyday Therapy Inc, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Heyday Therapy Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
(647) 797-9743 View (647) 797-9743
Photo of Stephen Giles MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Stephen Giles MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
EFT couples counselling rebuilds the emotional connection that you have had with your partner by identifying patterns in your communication cycle that are unhelpful.
As a registered member of a provincially regulated health care profession with 31 yrs of professional experience, I have the clinical training and experience necessary to provide psychotherapy. I am certified in EFT and CBT and qualified to help you with a variety of problems that you may be experiencing. I will help you get back on track to enjoying a more fulfilling life that you deserve. I provide marriage and couples counselling as well as adult individual therapy and counselling. Convenient weekday appointments are available and can be booked in real time on-line right now by visiting my website.
EFT couples counselling rebuilds the emotional connection that you have had with your partner by identifying patterns in your communication cycle that are unhelpful.
As a registered member of a provincially regulated health care profession with 31 yrs of professional experience, I have the clinical training and experience necessary to provide psychotherapy. I am certified in EFT and CBT and qualified to help you with a variety of problems that you may be experiencing. I will help you get back on track to enjoying a more fulfilling life that you deserve. I provide marriage and couples counselling as well as adult individual therapy and counselling. Convenient weekday appointments are available and can be booked in real time on-line right now by visiting my website.
(647) 931-3651 View (647) 931-3651
Photo of Risework Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Risework Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Registered, experienced therapists integrating evidence-based methods with a conversational approach and an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We provide clients with a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. At Risework Therapy we specialize in anxiety, self worth, and relationship issues. We also have therapists who specialize in trauma, attachment, OCD and eating disorders. Our team of therapists pride themselves in being approachable, personable and genuine. We want you to feel like you can be your authentic self as you allow us to support you in life's challenges.
Registered, experienced therapists integrating evidence-based methods with a conversational approach and an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. We provide clients with a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates openness and encourages self-exploration. At Risework Therapy we specialize in anxiety, self worth, and relationship issues. We also have therapists who specialize in trauma, attachment, OCD and eating disorders. Our team of therapists pride themselves in being approachable, personable and genuine. We want you to feel like you can be your authentic self as you allow us to support you in life's challenges.
(437) 291-8045 View (437) 291-8045
Photo of Dharshana Jayapathy, Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Dharshana Jayapathy
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist , MSW, BSW, BA, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5B  (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 Keith Adamson, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Keith Adamson
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of effective psychotherapy.
My specialty focuses on queer issues, anxiety, depression, post-trauma symptoms, work-related stress, and post-separation parental counselling. I care about what you want to accomplish in your life. My primary commitment is to help you achieve your life goals and become the best version of yourself. I am willing to start wherever you are at and work with you to make practical changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, I aim to empower you, at whatever age or stage of life you are, to actively participate in your own growth and fulfillment.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of effective psychotherapy.
My specialty focuses on queer issues, anxiety, depression, post-trauma symptoms, work-related stress, and post-separation parental counselling. I care about what you want to accomplish in your life. My primary commitment is to help you achieve your life goals and become the best version of yourself. I am willing to start wherever you are at and work with you to make practical changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, I aim to empower you, at whatever age or stage of life you are, to actively participate in your own growth and fulfillment.
(437) 747-7711 View (437) 747-7711
Photo of A&B Counselling and Psychotherapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
A&B Counselling and Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
My mission is to provide expert, compassionate care to individuals, couples, and families, offering comprehensive support tailored to their specific needs.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) certified by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. With a wealth of experience, I specialize in aiding individuals facing relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Additionally, I offer couple and family sessions along with career counselling for both students and adults grappling with career choices. My therapeutic toolbox includes evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamics, all customized to fit the unique needs of each client.
My mission is to provide expert, compassionate care to individuals, couples, and families, offering comprehensive support tailored to their specific needs.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) certified by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. With a wealth of experience, I specialize in aiding individuals facing relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Additionally, I offer couple and family sessions along with career counselling for both students and adults grappling with career choices. My therapeutic toolbox includes evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamics, all customized to fit the unique needs of each client.
(289) 514-0428 View (289) 514-0428
Photo of Sonam K Singh, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Sonam K Singh
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V
Together, we can explore and resolve depression, anxiety, past traumas, relationship challenges, body image concerns and self esteem.
NEW - Offering in person therapy on Mondays in Brampton. Do you feel a sense of disconnect from yourself? Do you feel at conflict with yourself and experience feelings of lack of control in your life and begin to wonder why? It’s important to understand that you can find the right support to guide you through these feelings. With the guidance of someone who cares deeply about your needs, we can begin to address and resolve what you think is important for you. I would be honoured to connect and support you in finding your way back to the best version of you, because I know it exists.
Together, we can explore and resolve depression, anxiety, past traumas, relationship challenges, body image concerns and self esteem.
NEW - Offering in person therapy on Mondays in Brampton. Do you feel a sense of disconnect from yourself? Do you feel at conflict with yourself and experience feelings of lack of control in your life and begin to wonder why? It’s important to understand that you can find the right support to guide you through these feelings. With the guidance of someone who cares deeply about your needs, we can begin to address and resolve what you think is important for you. I would be honoured to connect and support you in finding your way back to the best version of you, because I know it exists.
(289) 723-2141 View (289) 723-2141
Photo of Kaitlyn Swift, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Kaitlyn Swift
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, BComm, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
I am naturally drawn to a Solution Focused approach; however, I utilize interventions from several different modalities and maintain an overall humanistic approach to working with clients. I work with clients being challenged by anxiety, depression, and relationship issues in their daily lives. I believe that our personal experiences impact the way we view the world, and our emotions play a key role in our behaviour and choices.
I am naturally drawn to a Solution Focused approach; however, I utilize interventions from several different modalities and maintain an overall humanistic approach to working with clients. I work with clients being challenged by anxiety, depression, and relationship issues in their daily lives. I believe that our personal experiences impact the way we view the world, and our emotions play a key role in our behaviour and choices.
(647) 370-2480 View (647) 370-2480
Photo of Behrang Ajam, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Behrang Ajam
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2M  (Online Only)
With more than 10 years of experience as a counselor and therapist, I provide TeleMental Health (Online therapy) to help people (individuals, couples, immigrants, refugees, etc.) providing therapy and counseling for a variety of issues (anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships including pre-marriage counseling). As a Certified Trauma Professional, I provide treatment for trauma-related mental health challenges including PTSD, complex, developmental, and childhood traumas. All it takes is a 20-minute free call to answer all your questions and see if you'd like to work with me. After all, you deserve a "life worth living!"
With more than 10 years of experience as a counselor and therapist, I provide TeleMental Health (Online therapy) to help people (individuals, couples, immigrants, refugees, etc.) providing therapy and counseling for a variety of issues (anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships including pre-marriage counseling). As a Certified Trauma Professional, I provide treatment for trauma-related mental health challenges including PTSD, complex, developmental, and childhood traumas. All it takes is a 20-minute free call to answer all your questions and see if you'd like to work with me. After all, you deserve a "life worth living!"
(289) 216-6982 View (289) 216-6982
Photo of Paul Betito, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Paul Betito
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M8V
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been struggling lately? I am here for you. If you are looking for expert clinical knowledge and understanding, I am confident I am a great fit for you. I am a logical and book-smart yet empathic, sensitive and compassionate therapist able to help you implement change for difficult and distressing thoughts, emotions, situations and behaviours. I equip you with the right tools for developing awareness, aptitudes, strategies, techniques and life-long skills that can help you overcome modern issues like depression and anxiety, life and work stress, relationship and impulse concerns, life transitions, and more.
Have you been struggling lately? I am here for you. If you are looking for expert clinical knowledge and understanding, I am confident I am a great fit for you. I am a logical and book-smart yet empathic, sensitive and compassionate therapist able to help you implement change for difficult and distressing thoughts, emotions, situations and behaviours. I equip you with the right tools for developing awareness, aptitudes, strategies, techniques and life-long skills that can help you overcome modern issues like depression and anxiety, life and work stress, relationship and impulse concerns, life transitions, and more.
(647) 363-5630 View (647) 363-5630
Photo of Zarmina Khan, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Zarmina Khan
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
Hello and welcome! I specialize in providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, anti-oppressive, and gender-affirming individual and couples therapy. In individual therapy, I support racialized folks, women, immigrants and LGBTQI2S+ folks with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, generational trauma, and family dynamics. In couples therapy, I help couples at all relationship stages to manage conflict and repair connection, build healthy communication skills, and enhance intimacy. I'm especially interested in helping folks navigate cultural differences in intercultural/racial relationships.
Hello and welcome! I specialize in providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, anti-oppressive, and gender-affirming individual and couples therapy. In individual therapy, I support racialized folks, women, immigrants and LGBTQI2S+ folks with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, generational trauma, and family dynamics. In couples therapy, I help couples at all relationship stages to manage conflict and repair connection, build healthy communication skills, and enhance intimacy. I'm especially interested in helping folks navigate cultural differences in intercultural/racial relationships.
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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 Zac Schraeder, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Zac Schraeder
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
The bedrock of effective therapy is the relationship we cultivate.
You might be here because you are searching for someone to help you with how you're feeling. You may feel anxious, depressed, stressed, like you don't measure up, or stuck and are hoping to find a compassionate listener. Perhaps you're dealing with big life transitions, issues between you and your partner(s), marginalization, interpersonal conflict, finding your purpose, or competing priorities. Bringing any of this to therapy can be scary. There is profound healing power in being courageous, listened to, validated, and encouraged.
The bedrock of effective therapy is the relationship we cultivate.
You might be here because you are searching for someone to help you with how you're feeling. You may feel anxious, depressed, stressed, like you don't measure up, or stuck and are hoping to find a compassionate listener. Perhaps you're dealing with big life transitions, issues between you and your partner(s), marginalization, interpersonal conflict, finding your purpose, or competing priorities. Bringing any of this to therapy can be scary. There is profound healing power in being courageous, listened to, validated, and encouraged.
(647) 576-2458 View (647) 576-2458
Photo of Janice Weintraub, Psychological Associate in Toronto, ON
Janice Weintraub
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
I am currently expanding registration to include Clinical Psychology with adults and couples.
Our feelings are a compass pointing toward personal growth and movement. I have learned to listen to and respect these feelings and I can help you to do the same. My approach is honed through years of clinical work with children and families. Through this developmental lens, I can help you bring context to your concerns, see unhelpful patterns, and change portions of the picture that don’t serve you so you can show up differently in small moments and in big ones.
I am currently expanding registration to include Clinical Psychology with adults and couples.
Our feelings are a compass pointing toward personal growth and movement. I have learned to listen to and respect these feelings and I can help you to do the same. My approach is honed through years of clinical work with children and families. Through this developmental lens, I can help you bring context to your concerns, see unhelpful patterns, and change portions of the picture that don’t serve you so you can show up differently in small moments and in big ones.
(647) 360-7938 View (647) 360-7938
Photo of North Star Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
North Star Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Clients bring a range of concerns to therapy, including relationship issues, parenting, anger, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, racism & other inequalities, body image, work/career goals, feeling "stuck," and finding meaning in life.
Welcome! At North Star Therapy, empathy and understanding are central to our practice. We know reaching out for help is a courageous step, and we approach every client with respect, compassion, and an open mind. We strive to create a non-judgmental environment where you will feel heard and validated, fostering a sense of trust that is essential for the therapeutic journey. We are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore, understand, and navigate the complexities of your life and work towards meaningful change. We are here to help. Let's talk about how to get started living the life you want.
Clients bring a range of concerns to therapy, including relationship issues, parenting, anger, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, racism & other inequalities, body image, work/career goals, feeling "stuck," and finding meaning in life.
Welcome! At North Star Therapy, empathy and understanding are central to our practice. We know reaching out for help is a courageous step, and we approach every client with respect, compassion, and an open mind. We strive to create a non-judgmental environment where you will feel heard and validated, fostering a sense of trust that is essential for the therapeutic journey. We are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore, understand, and navigate the complexities of your life and work towards meaningful change. We are here to help. Let's talk about how to get started living the life you want.
(437) 800-1479 View (437) 800-1479
Photo of Barbara Brown, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Barbara Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MTS, BSc
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S
Areas of specialization include: anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, esteem, trauma, creativity, career directions, and spirituality.
With over 35 years in mental health and addiction services, I bring a strong mix of approaches to help you find your way forward. Integrating CBT, mindfulness, coaching, insight and body-based therapies, together we will build ways that work for you. Our therapeutic work can help you climb out of whatever difficult emotional spot you're in and build the life you're dreaming of. I believe “fit” is essential and offer a free phone consultation to help determine who is the right fit for you. We work with individuals (14 yr+), couples and poly relationships, and families.
Areas of specialization include: anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, esteem, trauma, creativity, career directions, and spirituality.
With over 35 years in mental health and addiction services, I bring a strong mix of approaches to help you find your way forward. Integrating CBT, mindfulness, coaching, insight and body-based therapies, together we will build ways that work for you. Our therapeutic work can help you climb out of whatever difficult emotional spot you're in and build the life you're dreaming of. I believe “fit” is essential and offer a free phone consultation to help determine who is the right fit for you. We work with individuals (14 yr+), couples and poly relationships, and families.
(647) 493-6494 View (647) 493-6494
Photo of Krista Roesler, Counsellor in Toronto, ON
Krista Roesler
Counsellor, MA, Bsc, ATC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
Psychotherapy, life coaching and/or couples counselling can help you: Enhance confidence, self-esteem and well-being Improve the quality of your life Reduce stress, increase productivity, develop peace of mind Get more energy, time, passion and focus Take control of daily stress Reach your potential and goals Love your work Have lasting relationships, Personal freedom Find and sustain personal and professional success, wealth and happiness. Are you tired of just being listened to by counselors and ready to move on with your life?
Psychotherapy, life coaching and/or couples counselling can help you: Enhance confidence, self-esteem and well-being Improve the quality of your life Reduce stress, increase productivity, develop peace of mind Get more energy, time, passion and focus Take control of daily stress Reach your potential and goals Love your work Have lasting relationships, Personal freedom Find and sustain personal and professional success, wealth and happiness. Are you tired of just being listened to by counselors and ready to move on with your life?
(888) 441-9141 View (888) 441-9141
Photo of Emma Hough, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Emma Hough
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6K
The core of my approach is person-centred and humanistic-based because of its emphasis on building a strong therapeutic relationship, empathy, and congruence.
I am currently taking on new individual clients from both Ontario and British Columbia. I aim to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can delve into your thoughts, emotions, experiences, and actions on your terms. Together, we'll explore how you can gain a deeper understanding of your inner world, behaviours, and relationships, and develop strategies for coping with life changes and stressors. Additionally, we will work collaboratively to find what approach and interventions work best for you and your needs.
The core of my approach is person-centred and humanistic-based because of its emphasis on building a strong therapeutic relationship, empathy, and congruence.
I am currently taking on new individual clients from both Ontario and British Columbia. I aim to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can delve into your thoughts, emotions, experiences, and actions on your terms. Together, we'll explore how you can gain a deeper understanding of your inner world, behaviours, and relationships, and develop strategies for coping with life changes and stressors. Additionally, we will work collaboratively to find what approach and interventions work best for you and your needs.
(437) 291-8721 View (437) 291-8721
Photo of Sheila Nayak, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Sheila Nayak
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2N  (Online Only)
With more than 20 years of experience in the field of social work, I bring my life experience to my work with children, adolescents, individuals, families, parents, and couples. While raising three beautiful children with my amazing life partner, I understand that along with these joys of life, come challenges. I understand there is no recipe book for our unique relationships and journey. I understand the challenges of finding a sense of belonging, social identity, with marginalization, inclusion, and diversity. I would be happy to support the process of navigating your path.
With more than 20 years of experience in the field of social work, I bring my life experience to my work with children, adolescents, individuals, families, parents, and couples. While raising three beautiful children with my amazing life partner, I understand that along with these joys of life, come challenges. I understand there is no recipe book for our unique relationships and journey. I understand the challenges of finding a sense of belonging, social identity, with marginalization, inclusion, and diversity. I would be happy to support the process of navigating your path.
(289) 277-6753 View (289) 277-6753

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.