Couples Counselling Therapists in Winnipeg, MB

Photo of Jessica Hill, MMFT
Jessica Hill
MMFT
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3L
Most importantly, I am aware of my relationship with my clients.
"Better communication" is how most people summarize their therapeutic goals for a reason. Sometimes it seems like an impossible task to feel understood by others. I am deeply committed to comforting and guiding individuals and couples who struggle with the internal and external conflicts that result from feeling misunderstood. I facilitate improvements in communication with an approach that streamlines the process of therapy by identifying and working on eradicating our issues from their foundation.
Most importantly, I am aware of my relationship with my clients.
"Better communication" is how most people summarize their therapeutic goals for a reason. Sometimes it seems like an impossible task to feel understood by others. I am deeply committed to comforting and guiding individuals and couples who struggle with the internal and external conflicts that result from feeling misunderstood. I facilitate improvements in communication with an approach that streamlines the process of therapy by identifying and working on eradicating our issues from their foundation.
(204) 784-0371 View (204) 784-0371
Photo of Raegan Elizabeth, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Raegan Elizabeth
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2J  (Online Only)
I believe that counseling and any personal practice is impacted by relationship and fit; empathy, honesty, compassionate and caring practices are foundational.
I practice within an anti-oppressive framework, using a whole-person approach. I work with individuals, couples and families to enhance personal and relationship goals. Counseling should be a collaborative process, based on goals and values of compassion and authenticity. As a holistic practitioner, I use multiple approaches in therapy, believing strongly in finding a fit, which is personal and unique to each of us. I have experience working with people who have been involved in the justice and child welfare systems, experienced childhood/adult abuse, oppression, and multiple/complex trauma, have addictions, and a wide variety of other issues.
I believe that counseling and any personal practice is impacted by relationship and fit; empathy, honesty, compassionate and caring practices are foundational.
I practice within an anti-oppressive framework, using a whole-person approach. I work with individuals, couples and families to enhance personal and relationship goals. Counseling should be a collaborative process, based on goals and values of compassion and authenticity. As a holistic practitioner, I use multiple approaches in therapy, believing strongly in finding a fit, which is personal and unique to each of us. I have experience working with people who have been involved in the justice and child welfare systems, experienced childhood/adult abuse, oppression, and multiple/complex trauma, have addictions, and a wide variety of other issues.
(204) 400-3098 View (204) 400-3098
Photo of Natalie Koleric, MA, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Koleric
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
I deeply value relationships, which includes your relationship to yourself, others, and our own therapeutic relationship.
I work with individuals, couples and families from all walks of life, ages, sexualities, gender identities, abilities and belief systems. I practice from an anti-oppressionist position and value equality in and out of the therapy space.
I deeply value relationships, which includes your relationship to yourself, others, and our own therapeutic relationship.
I work with individuals, couples and families from all walks of life, ages, sexualities, gender identities, abilities and belief systems. I practice from an anti-oppressionist position and value equality in and out of the therapy space.
(204) 400-1863 View (204) 400-1863
Photo of Erika Meadows, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Erika Meadows
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
I work with adults and couples for concerns relating to trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship issues, and life decisions, meaning and purpose.
Whatever it is that’s bothering you, there’s no need to struggle alone. Whatever it is, it can help to talk about it. Sometimes we just need someone to really hear us. Sometimes we need to learn new skills to help us cope. Sometimes we need help figuring out how what has happened to us affects how we think, feel and behave. Sometimes we need help to heal from things we have done, or things that were done to us. You’re here because you think it might be time to talk to someone, too.
I work with adults and couples for concerns relating to trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship issues, and life decisions, meaning and purpose.
Whatever it is that’s bothering you, there’s no need to struggle alone. Whatever it is, it can help to talk about it. Sometimes we just need someone to really hear us. Sometimes we need to learn new skills to help us cope. Sometimes we need help figuring out how what has happened to us affects how we think, feel and behave. Sometimes we need help to heal from things we have done, or things that were done to us. You’re here because you think it might be time to talk to someone, too.
(204) 817-8882 View (204) 817-8882
Photo of Andrea McKenzie, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Andrea McKenzie
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2M
Whether you are grappling with past or present experiences and their current effects on your life and relationships; a crisis; day to day stressors and/or anxiety; relationship difficulties; a major (or minor) life transition; or grief and loss, you are absolutely worth investing the time and energy in to move forward in your preferred way of being and living. You deserve to feel good about your life. We will work together so you can move from feeling overwhelmed and struggling, or just getting by, to living your best life.
Whether you are grappling with past or present experiences and their current effects on your life and relationships; a crisis; day to day stressors and/or anxiety; relationship difficulties; a major (or minor) life transition; or grief and loss, you are absolutely worth investing the time and energy in to move forward in your preferred way of being and living. You deserve to feel good about your life. We will work together so you can move from feeling overwhelmed and struggling, or just getting by, to living your best life.
(431) 341-4113 View (431) 341-4113
Photo of Krysti Dedi, MC, CCC, BFA, Hons
Krysti Dedi
MC, CCC, BFA, Hons
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2M
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual and group counselling as well as specialized work in the areas of: depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and loss, and relationship support.
Hello. I am proud to offer a range of therapeutic services for children, youth and adult clients. I have over fifteen years experience in talk and art therapies. I hold a Masters in Counselling Psychology and extensive training in art therapy, psychology and educational interventions. I am a 2nd Degree Reiki practitioner and use those skills to bring my clients the options of relaxation and self care support in addition to traditional counselling.My therapeutic approach highlights the working alliance that values the relationship between client and their therapist. Whether short or long term therapy, I believe in helping my clients achieve their personal goals.
I provide individual and group counselling as well as specialized work in the areas of: depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and loss, and relationship support.
Hello. I am proud to offer a range of therapeutic services for children, youth and adult clients. I have over fifteen years experience in talk and art therapies. I hold a Masters in Counselling Psychology and extensive training in art therapy, psychology and educational interventions. I am a 2nd Degree Reiki practitioner and use those skills to bring my clients the options of relaxation and self care support in addition to traditional counselling.My therapeutic approach highlights the working alliance that values the relationship between client and their therapist. Whether short or long term therapy, I believe in helping my clients achieve their personal goals.
(204) 808-1993 View (204) 808-1993
Photo of Lisa Johnson, BA, MMFT
Lisa Johnson
BA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
2) Sexuality/Intimacy issues - desire discrepancy, aging, infertility, betrayal trauma, disconnection with self/ partner.
One of the hardest things to say/admit is 'I/we need help'. It takes courage, openness, trust and self-awareness, which can be difficult to foster on our own. Whether you need tools for symptom management (anxiety, depression, nervous system dysregulation, people pleasing behaviours, trauma responses, addictions, relational distress) or you want to deep dive into past experiences for better understanding and meaning, we can work towards developing a treatment plan that helps you create the life you want going forward. Develop the "life hacks" you need to bounce back from challenges with grace and grit!
2) Sexuality/Intimacy issues - desire discrepancy, aging, infertility, betrayal trauma, disconnection with self/ partner.
One of the hardest things to say/admit is 'I/we need help'. It takes courage, openness, trust and self-awareness, which can be difficult to foster on our own. Whether you need tools for symptom management (anxiety, depression, nervous system dysregulation, people pleasing behaviours, trauma responses, addictions, relational distress) or you want to deep dive into past experiences for better understanding and meaning, we can work towards developing a treatment plan that helps you create the life you want going forward. Develop the "life hacks" you need to bounce back from challenges with grace and grit!
(204) 817-0184 View (204) 817-0184
Photo of Bree Jordan, BA, MA, Counsellor
Bree Jordan
Counsellor, BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3M
This background gives Bree unique insight into development, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and relationship problems, loss of play and meaning.
Bree acknowledges the courage that it takes to seek counselling and the vulnerability involved in letting someone else in on their struggles. Bree aims to create a culturally sensitive counselling space where the client feels that they are accepted and worthy as the person that they are. Everyone has struggles and perfection is not a goal any of us will achieve. Bree is currently in training for parent consulting and Narcissistic abuse recovery. Bree has a wealth of knowledge regarding relationships and development and facilitates courses. Please inquire regarding insurance coverage. I cannot offer free 15-minute consultations.
This background gives Bree unique insight into development, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and relationship problems, loss of play and meaning.
Bree acknowledges the courage that it takes to seek counselling and the vulnerability involved in letting someone else in on their struggles. Bree aims to create a culturally sensitive counselling space where the client feels that they are accepted and worthy as the person that they are. Everyone has struggles and perfection is not a goal any of us will achieve. Bree is currently in training for parent consulting and Narcissistic abuse recovery. Bree has a wealth of knowledge regarding relationships and development and facilitates courses. Please inquire regarding insurance coverage. I cannot offer free 15-minute consultations.
(204) 477-4673 View (204) 477-4673
Photo of Stephan Warrener, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Stephan Warrener
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3C
I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and am a registered Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship issues, stress, or any other mental health challenges, my goals as a therapist remain the same. First, I will learn about these challenges from your perspective. Second, I will try to understand how you have historically attempted to solve these issues on your own (or with help). And third, we will work together to form new and more effective strategies.
I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and am a registered Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship issues, stress, or any other mental health challenges, my goals as a therapist remain the same. First, I will learn about these challenges from your perspective. Second, I will try to understand how you have historically attempted to solve these issues on your own (or with help). And third, we will work together to form new and more effective strategies.
(204) 400-3658 View (204) 400-3658
Photo of Shelley Levit, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shelley Levit
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2M
Are you you looking for CBT or talk therapy? I provide both short and long term counselIing to individuals, couples and families to help people work through the emotional and interpersonal struggles that are holding them back and causing angst in their life.
Do you often feel anxious without reason? Do you sometimes wish your mind could just stop thinking for awhile and let you enjoy inner peace? We often become victims of our own minds and emotions, struggling with the same inner and outer turmoil over and over and don’t know why. Anxiety, worry, self doubt, fear and incessant thinking aren’t caused by a single factor but a combination of things such as trauma, difficult life experiences, loss, troubled relationships and stress. Dealing with these issues, processing your feelings and learning strategies to quiet your mind will help you attain inner peace and emotional resilience
Are you you looking for CBT or talk therapy? I provide both short and long term counselIing to individuals, couples and families to help people work through the emotional and interpersonal struggles that are holding them back and causing angst in their life.
Do you often feel anxious without reason? Do you sometimes wish your mind could just stop thinking for awhile and let you enjoy inner peace? We often become victims of our own minds and emotions, struggling with the same inner and outer turmoil over and over and don’t know why. Anxiety, worry, self doubt, fear and incessant thinking aren’t caused by a single factor but a combination of things such as trauma, difficult life experiences, loss, troubled relationships and stress. Dealing with these issues, processing your feelings and learning strategies to quiet your mind will help you attain inner peace and emotional resilience
(204) 813-9432 View (204) 813-9432
Photo of Donna Youngdahl, MMFT, RMFT-SQ, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Youngdahl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, RMFT-SQ
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3N
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens.
Is there a gap between where you feel you are now, and where you want to be? We all have times in our lives when we feel things just aren't working anymore. If you desire connection and a place to feel understood, gain insights, and make changes, take the first step, and call for an appointment. There are many times in our lives when therapy can make a big difference. Suffering is a fact of life, but there is a way out of suffering. If you are interested in taking that journey, I can point you in the right direction, and walk with you for a time.
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens.
Is there a gap between where you feel you are now, and where you want to be? We all have times in our lives when we feel things just aren't working anymore. If you desire connection and a place to feel understood, gain insights, and make changes, take the first step, and call for an appointment. There are many times in our lives when therapy can make a big difference. Suffering is a fact of life, but there is a way out of suffering. If you are interested in taking that journey, I can point you in the right direction, and walk with you for a time.
(431) 531-7129 View (431) 531-7129
Photo of Acksanna Witherspoon, MA, LMFT, Counsellor
Acksanna Witherspoon
Counsellor, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2K
I have experience working with individuals, couples (married/non-married), and families, as well as anger management and conducting therapy regarding parenting concerns.
I am Acksanna Witherspoon - a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Winnipeg MB. I am someone who has sought out professional help in my life at one point too. I have a passion for walking alongside people in seasons of their life where nobody else can. I believe in my clients and their goals, no matter the situation, no matter the mess.
I have experience working with individuals, couples (married/non-married), and families, as well as anger management and conducting therapy regarding parenting concerns.
I am Acksanna Witherspoon - a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Winnipeg MB. I am someone who has sought out professional help in my life at one point too. I have a passion for walking alongside people in seasons of their life where nobody else can. I believe in my clients and their goals, no matter the situation, no matter the mess.
(431) 800-4133 View (431) 800-4133
Photo of Wai-Han Lui - Wai-Han Counselling, MSc, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Wai-Han Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3L
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with school-age & college students, adults, couples and families.
Wai-Han (慧娴) is my name. Wai: wisdom; Han: elegance. Born and raised in a shame-based culture, from a young age things were spoken over me that were the opposite of this, that I did not measure up to my name. I experienced the power of words- that they can speak life or death- for me evoking self-rejection. Through my journey toward healing, spoken words brought liberating life to me. Thus, I am passionate about speaking life into people’s lives, even while they struggle with depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I love seeing individuals find more internal freedom, and feel empowered & in control of their experiences.
I have experience working with school-age & college students, adults, couples and families.
Wai-Han (慧娴) is my name. Wai: wisdom; Han: elegance. Born and raised in a shame-based culture, from a young age things were spoken over me that were the opposite of this, that I did not measure up to my name. I experienced the power of words- that they can speak life or death- for me evoking self-rejection. Through my journey toward healing, spoken words brought liberating life to me. Thus, I am passionate about speaking life into people’s lives, even while they struggle with depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I love seeing individuals find more internal freedom, and feel empowered & in control of their experiences.
(204) 400-0613 View (204) 400-0613
Photo of Josiah M. Mutua, MA, Counsellor
Josiah M. Mutua
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3G
Perhaps thoughts, memories, or feelings about a painful event make it difficult for you to experience satisfaction in your marriage or family or to excel in roles such as parenting or socializing, or cause you to do things you do not like. Perhaps a personal, relationship or vocational situation is causing you distress, or mental health condition such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or addiction makes it difficult for you to pursue your aspirations. Or, perhaps, concerns about managing a situation, the outcome of significant events, or achieving meaningful goals make it difficult for you to fulfill important roles.
Perhaps thoughts, memories, or feelings about a painful event make it difficult for you to experience satisfaction in your marriage or family or to excel in roles such as parenting or socializing, or cause you to do things you do not like. Perhaps a personal, relationship or vocational situation is causing you distress, or mental health condition such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or addiction makes it difficult for you to pursue your aspirations. Or, perhaps, concerns about managing a situation, the outcome of significant events, or achieving meaningful goals make it difficult for you to fulfill important roles.
(431) 831-2070 View (431) 831-2070
Photo of Michelle Ham, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Ham
Counsellor, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2H
Believing in healing through safety, support, and mutual respect, I'm a collaborative partner in your journey towards healing.
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach embraces a holistic, integrative, and person-centred approach, ensuring you are always central in our collaborative process. I'm dedicated to fostering an inclusive and affirming environment, deeply valuing the wealth of diversity in its many forms. In my practice, I aim to cultivate a nonjudgmental and empathetic therapeutic connection, encouraging tailored paths to personal growth. My academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s in Human Ecology, Family Social Sciences, and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, complemented by over a decade of experience in social work.
Believing in healing through safety, support, and mutual respect, I'm a collaborative partner in your journey towards healing.
Hello and welcome. My therapeutic approach embraces a holistic, integrative, and person-centred approach, ensuring you are always central in our collaborative process. I'm dedicated to fostering an inclusive and affirming environment, deeply valuing the wealth of diversity in its many forms. In my practice, I aim to cultivate a nonjudgmental and empathetic therapeutic connection, encouraging tailored paths to personal growth. My academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s in Human Ecology, Family Social Sciences, and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, complemented by over a decade of experience in social work.
(204) 400-2665 View (204) 400-2665
Photo of Eldon Pullman, MA
Eldon Pullman
MA
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3G
Some of my specialities are working with clients who are experiencing relationship issues, grief, alcohol and drug, marital conflict, depression and anxiety, financial, separation and divorce issues .
Thirty three years of counselling experience has given me expertise in all areas of counselling. I am concerned for people experiencing individual, relationship, family and anger management concerns. I work with all clients in a safe and confidential environment to help them gain wholeness and a new perspective in their lives. I also offer video counselling via Skype. People can access me from anywhere in the world. I have clients over-seas and across Canada.
Some of my specialities are working with clients who are experiencing relationship issues, grief, alcohol and drug, marital conflict, depression and anxiety, financial, separation and divorce issues .
Thirty three years of counselling experience has given me expertise in all areas of counselling. I am concerned for people experiencing individual, relationship, family and anger management concerns. I work with all clients in a safe and confidential environment to help them gain wholeness and a new perspective in their lives. I also offer video counselling via Skype. People can access me from anywhere in the world. I have clients over-seas and across Canada.
(204) 817-9052 View (204) 817-9052
Photo of Gail Bryant, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gail Bryant
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3P
For the entirety of my career, I have focused on supporting people. This is my life’s work and passion. I work with clients to help them build the skills to live each day from a place of courage, connection, and compassion. I have more than 25+ years of extensive experience working therapeutically with a wide array of clients struggling with relationship conflicts, grief and loss, occupational stress, as well as emotional and behavioural concerns.
For the entirety of my career, I have focused on supporting people. This is my life’s work and passion. I work with clients to help them build the skills to live each day from a place of courage, connection, and compassion. I have more than 25+ years of extensive experience working therapeutically with a wide array of clients struggling with relationship conflicts, grief and loss, occupational stress, as well as emotional and behavioural concerns.
(204) 400-3522 View (204) 400-3522
Photo of Jodie Schoenbeck, MSW, RSW, ExAT, Registered Social Worker
Jodie Schoenbeck
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, ExAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3L  (Online Only)
My hope is to support you in finding a way back to safer and kinder relationship with yourself, your body, and your loved ones.
Currently accepting new clients from Ontario and Manitoba. I work with youth, young adults, and mature adults (15-65+). Life is complex and challenging, and sometimes we simply need a safe space to be heard and supported. I value the opportunity to hear your story, and support you in finding a healing way to move forward. Every person has a unique lived experience, set of strengths, and inner wisdom. It may not feel this way to you, right now, and that's ok. Part of my role is to help you rediscover who you are today, building on all the skills and knowledge your already have. So you can move towards who you want to be tomorrow.
My hope is to support you in finding a way back to safer and kinder relationship with yourself, your body, and your loved ones.
Currently accepting new clients from Ontario and Manitoba. I work with youth, young adults, and mature adults (15-65+). Life is complex and challenging, and sometimes we simply need a safe space to be heard and supported. I value the opportunity to hear your story, and support you in finding a healing way to move forward. Every person has a unique lived experience, set of strengths, and inner wisdom. It may not feel this way to you, right now, and that's ok. Part of my role is to help you rediscover who you are today, building on all the skills and knowledge your already have. So you can move towards who you want to be tomorrow.
(204) 400-5546 View (204) 400-5546
Photo of Ron Sigurdson, MMFT, Counsellor
Ron Sigurdson
Counsellor, MMFT
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2M
Although I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, many of my clients are individual & unmarried couples.
“Your first choice for the last people who would ever go to therapy.” In my 20+ years of being a Marriage & Family Therapist, I have enjoyed great success with clients who either had unsuccessful experiences with other counsellors or were reluctant to seek help. My clients report that they find me very easy to talk with and say that I excel at making difficult subjects easy to understand.
Although I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, many of my clients are individual & unmarried couples.
“Your first choice for the last people who would ever go to therapy.” In my 20+ years of being a Marriage & Family Therapist, I have enjoyed great success with clients who either had unsuccessful experiences with other counsellors or were reluctant to seek help. My clients report that they find me very easy to talk with and say that I excel at making difficult subjects easy to understand.
(204) 400-0984 View (204) 400-0984
Photo of Celina Abrey, MFT, CCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Celina Abrey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CCC
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2L  (Online Only)
I specialize in issues of self-esteem (that critical voice that cuts us down!), eating disorders, grief, and personal and relationship transitions.
Each challenging moment provides an opportunity to slow down, reflect and to integrate what life hands us. Sometimes this is messy, often it is hardship, but my hope is to walk alongside my clients and to see them through to what is next, hopefully with a renewed sense of strength, self-acceptance and awareness. I've worked for the provincial Eating Disorder Program, Family/Parenting Centre and in Community based Women's Health services. These experiences have provided me with a deep respect and admiration for my clients' strength and resilience.
I specialize in issues of self-esteem (that critical voice that cuts us down!), eating disorders, grief, and personal and relationship transitions.
Each challenging moment provides an opportunity to slow down, reflect and to integrate what life hands us. Sometimes this is messy, often it is hardship, but my hope is to walk alongside my clients and to see them through to what is next, hopefully with a renewed sense of strength, self-acceptance and awareness. I've worked for the provincial Eating Disorder Program, Family/Parenting Centre and in Community based Women's Health services. These experiences have provided me with a deep respect and admiration for my clients' strength and resilience.
(204) 900-5994 View (204) 900-5994
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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.