Couples Counselling Therapists in Dartmouth, NS

Photo of Brooklyn Thompson, MA, RCT-C, CCC
Brooklyn Thompson
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MA, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A  (Online Only)
Whether we begin a therapeutic relationship, or simply cross paths through a referral to another resource, I am honoured to be part of your journey to wellness.
Life can be challenging. We all live unique experiences and face obstacles on a daily basis. This can leave us feeling extremely isolated and overwhelmed. Seeking support form a therapist allows you to share your experience in a safe, welcoming environment. When working with clients, I strive to support them in identifying their strengths and values to improve their quality of life and empower them to take the necessary steps to achieve their therapeutic goals. I believe we are all unique and have individual needs. This means that I will tailor our work together to fit your unique experience.
Whether we begin a therapeutic relationship, or simply cross paths through a referral to another resource, I am honoured to be part of your journey to wellness.
Life can be challenging. We all live unique experiences and face obstacles on a daily basis. This can leave us feeling extremely isolated and overwhelmed. Seeking support form a therapist allows you to share your experience in a safe, welcoming environment. When working with clients, I strive to support them in identifying their strengths and values to improve their quality of life and empower them to take the necessary steps to achieve their therapeutic goals. I believe we are all unique and have individual needs. This means that I will tailor our work together to fit your unique experience.
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Photo of Christa Vail, BA, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Christa Vail
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
I also support those navigating a range of challenges, including living with borderline personality disorder, coping with life transitions, relationship difficulties, job stress, mental health struggles, caregiving responsibilities, and managing anger.
You may want support dealing with a recent or ongoing traumatic experience, a safe place to discuss your childhood, or help in understanding and changing harmful behaviours. Perhaps your child finding it difficult to cope after a significant life event? I support clients working through difficult emotions, gaining insight into past experiences, implementing coping mechanisms, and rebuilding a sense of safety and self-identity. I’m a Clinical MSW student practicing under professional supervision, and I work with children, teens, and adults.
I also support those navigating a range of challenges, including living with borderline personality disorder, coping with life transitions, relationship difficulties, job stress, mental health struggles, caregiving responsibilities, and managing anger.
You may want support dealing with a recent or ongoing traumatic experience, a safe place to discuss your childhood, or help in understanding and changing harmful behaviours. Perhaps your child finding it difficult to cope after a significant life event? I support clients working through difficult emotions, gaining insight into past experiences, implementing coping mechanisms, and rebuilding a sense of safety and self-identity. I’m a Clinical MSW student practicing under professional supervision, and I work with children, teens, and adults.
(782) 222-6056 View (782) 222-6056
Photo of Ayesha Adeel, MD, MA, RCT-C, CCC, EMDR T, Counsellor
Ayesha Adeel
Counsellor, MD, MA, RCT-C, CCC, EMDR T
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I am Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate (RCT-C) and an EMDR Trained Therapist and working in the Halifax area. I provide holistic and trauma-informed counselling to individuals and couples in private practice setting. I specialize in Trauma and PTSD; anxiety; depression; and relationship issues. I work with older adolescents, adults, and elderly. I help people who are a survivor of trauma/abuse, or as someone who struggles with anxious relationships, or in finding their identity. I am compassionate about providing you the supportive, safe and non-judgmental environment to help you in disclosing your personal challenges.
I am Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate (RCT-C) and an EMDR Trained Therapist and working in the Halifax area. I provide holistic and trauma-informed counselling to individuals and couples in private practice setting. I specialize in Trauma and PTSD; anxiety; depression; and relationship issues. I work with older adolescents, adults, and elderly. I help people who are a survivor of trauma/abuse, or as someone who struggles with anxious relationships, or in finding their identity. I am compassionate about providing you the supportive, safe and non-judgmental environment to help you in disclosing your personal challenges.
(782) 201-3878 View (782) 201-3878
Photo of Savannah Champagne, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Savannah Champagne
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
Everyone’s journey to overall wellness will be unique. My goal is always to provide a warm, safe, supportive space for my clients, so you feel comfortable navigating your own journey of growth and self-discovery. I support teens, adults, and couples, who struggle with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more. I aim to provide judgment-free support while we navigate your unique journey together.
Everyone’s journey to overall wellness will be unique. My goal is always to provide a warm, safe, supportive space for my clients, so you feel comfortable navigating your own journey of growth and self-discovery. I support teens, adults, and couples, who struggle with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more. I aim to provide judgment-free support while we navigate your unique journey together.
(782) 820-4080 View (782) 820-4080
Photo of Melyssa Wood, MA, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Melyssa Wood
Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I have specialized training in sex therapy and work with individuals and couples to resolve sexual problems that may be getting in the way of their relationships and their wellbeing.
I work with adults and older teens, including individuals and relationships, who feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety, are lacking motivation, and perhaps even feel stuck and are not sure where to turn for support. Many of my clients have experienced anxiety, depression or issues in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify the issues and areas that are keeping them stuck. Considering your unique needs and goals, we will create a plan to help you recover feelings of wellbeing and wholeness, and feel more fulfilled in your life.
I have specialized training in sex therapy and work with individuals and couples to resolve sexual problems that may be getting in the way of their relationships and their wellbeing.
I work with adults and older teens, including individuals and relationships, who feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety, are lacking motivation, and perhaps even feel stuck and are not sure where to turn for support. Many of my clients have experienced anxiety, depression or issues in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify the issues and areas that are keeping them stuck. Considering your unique needs and goals, we will create a plan to help you recover feelings of wellbeing and wholeness, and feel more fulfilled in your life.
(782) 823-3156 View (782) 823-3156
Photo of Neal S Henderson, CCC, RCT-C, RSW, Counsellor
Neal S Henderson
Counsellor, CCC, RCT-C, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Counselling offered to adults, couples, families, and youth.
Is your relationship struggling? Do you feel like you and your partner are always in distress? Something that I offer that may help is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). If you want to enhance your emotional connection or overcome your relationship distress, I can help. I also offer Behavioral Family Therapy (BFT) is a type of counseling that helps families improve their relationships and how they interact with each other. You're not alone, let’s connect so you can work together the relationships you’d like to have. I offer direct billing, and evening and weekend appointments. I’m looking forward to us working together.
Counselling offered to adults, couples, families, and youth.
Is your relationship struggling? Do you feel like you and your partner are always in distress? Something that I offer that may help is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). If you want to enhance your emotional connection or overcome your relationship distress, I can help. I also offer Behavioral Family Therapy (BFT) is a type of counseling that helps families improve their relationships and how they interact with each other. You're not alone, let’s connect so you can work together the relationships you’d like to have. I offer direct billing, and evening and weekend appointments. I’m looking forward to us working together.
(902) 901-5834 View (902) 901-5834
Photo of Dr. Lori Brown, PsyD, CCC, RPC-C, Counsellor
Dr. Lori Brown
Counsellor, PsyD, CCC, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2W
I have worked with adults, adolescents, and couples for the past 20 years.
I have experience working with clients who have symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, grief and loss.
I have worked with adults, adolescents, and couples for the past 20 years.
I have experience working with clients who have symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, grief and loss.
(782) 201-3769 View (782) 201-3769
Photo of Archie T MacKinnon, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Archie T MacKinnon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3B
Couple Counselling– in support of couples Archie has undertaken study in two models of intervention: Externship in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy- focusing on the science of attachment and the development of skills to foster secure, resilient relationships.
Archie has a propensity for understanding & helping restore relationships- beginning first and foremost with our relationship with self and extending outward to our emotional and relational connections with others. Archie has been drawn to create a space for couples and individuals to find balance and move beyond that which limits them. In addition to treatment of anxiety and depression, Archie specializes in the treatment of Trauma & PTSD. Archie possesses a certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies from the International Trauma Research Foundation as well as training in Cognitive Processing and Prolonged Exposure Therapy.
Couple Counselling– in support of couples Archie has undertaken study in two models of intervention: Externship in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy- focusing on the science of attachment and the development of skills to foster secure, resilient relationships.
Archie has a propensity for understanding & helping restore relationships- beginning first and foremost with our relationship with self and extending outward to our emotional and relational connections with others. Archie has been drawn to create a space for couples and individuals to find balance and move beyond that which limits them. In addition to treatment of anxiety and depression, Archie specializes in the treatment of Trauma & PTSD. Archie possesses a certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies from the International Trauma Research Foundation as well as training in Cognitive Processing and Prolonged Exposure Therapy.
(782) 825-6795 View (782) 825-6795
Photo of Jennifer Gracie, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Gracie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2Y  (Online Only)
Jennifer takes a collaborative and non-judgmental approach in supporting clients to reach their goals. She believes in person centered care that explores and incorporates each client’s individual strengths and experiences. Jennifer completed her Master’s Degree from University of New England and has over 16 years’ experience providing services to adults within hospital, community mental health, and private practice settings. Jennifer utilizes various evidence based therapeutic approaches including Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Jennifer takes a collaborative and non-judgmental approach in supporting clients to reach their goals. She believes in person centered care that explores and incorporates each client’s individual strengths and experiences. Jennifer completed her Master’s Degree from University of New England and has over 16 years’ experience providing services to adults within hospital, community mental health, and private practice settings. Jennifer utilizes various evidence based therapeutic approaches including Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(782) 800-0936 View (782) 800-0936
Photo of Lisa Dexter, RCT, CCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Lisa Dexter
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I can help with grief, trauma, stress, life changes, helping with ADHD, helping couples and families, and life planning.
My ideal clients range in age from adolescents through adulthood, including couples and families. They may have a past history of trauma or grief, or perhaps they are presently struggling with symptoms of ADHD, life changes, or a breakdown of a key relationship. They may be feeling completely overwhelmed and unsure where to go next. They will be open to trying new ideas to help them on the path to feeling better, but will not be worried about talking to me when certain strategies that do not work for them, as they will know it is best that we use techniques that they are comfortable with and will use.
I can help with grief, trauma, stress, life changes, helping with ADHD, helping couples and families, and life planning.
My ideal clients range in age from adolescents through adulthood, including couples and families. They may have a past history of trauma or grief, or perhaps they are presently struggling with symptoms of ADHD, life changes, or a breakdown of a key relationship. They may be feeling completely overwhelmed and unsure where to go next. They will be open to trying new ideas to help them on the path to feeling better, but will not be worried about talking to me when certain strategies that do not work for them, as they will know it is best that we use techniques that they are comfortable with and will use.
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Photo of Mercedes Ruiz, MA, RCT, CH, Counsellor
Mercedes Ruiz
Counsellor, MA, RCT, CH
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2W
I support your healing process with a variety of techniques, using the one that best works for you. My approach is to meet you where you are at currently and help you get to where you want to be! I have extensive experience working with people that live with anxiety, depression and trauma throughout their lifetime; including pre and postnatally. I also have extensive experience supporting clients with relationship conflicts, adjusting to life changes, stress management, sexual orientation, fertility, family concerns and personal growth.
I support your healing process with a variety of techniques, using the one that best works for you. My approach is to meet you where you are at currently and help you get to where you want to be! I have extensive experience working with people that live with anxiety, depression and trauma throughout their lifetime; including pre and postnatally. I also have extensive experience supporting clients with relationship conflicts, adjusting to life changes, stress management, sexual orientation, fertility, family concerns and personal growth.
(782) 821-3415 View (782) 821-3415
Photo of Lauren Mackintosh, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Lauren Mackintosh
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Sometimes in life, we just need additional support. I offer sessions to adolescents (15+), adults & couples going through a variety of issues. We can identify difficulties in interpersonal relationships (romantic, familial, work or otherwise) that may be causing distress. Challenging relationships can take a toll on our mental health and well-being. Some topics addressed include boundaries, attachment, and communication. I have an easygoing and supportive approach and believe you know yourself best. I encourage open communication throughout treatment on what is working & what's not working for you!
Sometimes in life, we just need additional support. I offer sessions to adolescents (15+), adults & couples going through a variety of issues. We can identify difficulties in interpersonal relationships (romantic, familial, work or otherwise) that may be causing distress. Challenging relationships can take a toll on our mental health and well-being. Some topics addressed include boundaries, attachment, and communication. I have an easygoing and supportive approach and believe you know yourself best. I encourage open communication throughout treatment on what is working & what's not working for you!
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Photo of Deandrea McIntosh, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Deandrea McIntosh
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I draw from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and I have specialized training in working with couples.
I work with teens, adults, and couples, who are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship issues, and more. We often need help navigating this ever-changing world, and I'm looking forward to navigating it with you! If you’ve been struggling and are ready for counselling, I’m here to help support you on your journey to mental wellbeing!
I draw from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and I have specialized training in working with couples.
I work with teens, adults, and couples, who are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship issues, and more. We often need help navigating this ever-changing world, and I'm looking forward to navigating it with you! If you’ve been struggling and are ready for counselling, I’m here to help support you on your journey to mental wellbeing!
(782) 222-1018 View (782) 222-1018
Photo of Brock Peter Caldwell, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Brock Peter Caldwell
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
If you decide to connect with me for counselling I first focus on building a strong relationship with you to give us a foundation to work from. Whatever issues you are facing I am ready to partner with you to explore the history of the issue and work on making effective change happen. I use a Somatic approach which considers how your nervous system works, the effects of trauma / PTSD, and focuses on balancing the mind / body system. I also use a Narrative therapy approach considering identity and meaning making. Finally I incorporate Psychoanalytic theory and practice to consider life long human development.
If you decide to connect with me for counselling I first focus on building a strong relationship with you to give us a foundation to work from. Whatever issues you are facing I am ready to partner with you to explore the history of the issue and work on making effective change happen. I use a Somatic approach which considers how your nervous system works, the effects of trauma / PTSD, and focuses on balancing the mind / body system. I also use a Narrative therapy approach considering identity and meaning making. Finally I incorporate Psychoanalytic theory and practice to consider life long human development.
(902) 706-8425 View (902) 706-8425
Photo of Rebecca Simms, MA
Rebecca Simms
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MA
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2W
We are all thrown into this journey of life without our consent. While life can be astonishingly beautiful, it has a way of testing our limits and pushing us to our breaking point at times. I am here to offer you a guiding hand along the way and to provide you with additional support to navigate the rough waves of life. I offer sessions to adolescents, adults and couples, helping them with diverse concerns. I have an easy-going, non-judgemental attitude fostered on meeting the client with unconditional positive regard. I use a strength-based, person-centred approach, being mindful that the client is the expert of their own care.
We are all thrown into this journey of life without our consent. While life can be astonishingly beautiful, it has a way of testing our limits and pushing us to our breaking point at times. I am here to offer you a guiding hand along the way and to provide you with additional support to navigate the rough waves of life. I offer sessions to adolescents, adults and couples, helping them with diverse concerns. I have an easy-going, non-judgemental attitude fostered on meeting the client with unconditional positive regard. I use a strength-based, person-centred approach, being mindful that the client is the expert of their own care.
(782) 222-4829 View (782) 222-4829
Photo of Johan Pieter Botes, Pre-Licensed Professional
Johan Pieter Botes
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I regularly work with individuals, teens (16 and up), and adults, as well as couples and families. They face challenges such as anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, and perfectionism as well as general mental health concerns. These clients seek to improve their overall mental well-being, enhance self-esteem, and manage their perfectionist tendencies. Couples and families aim to improve communication, manage conflicts more effectively, and strengthen their connections. Their ultimate goal is to achieve a balanced, fulfilling life with healthier relationships and a stronger sense of self.
I regularly work with individuals, teens (16 and up), and adults, as well as couples and families. They face challenges such as anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, and perfectionism as well as general mental health concerns. These clients seek to improve their overall mental well-being, enhance self-esteem, and manage their perfectionist tendencies. Couples and families aim to improve communication, manage conflicts more effectively, and strengthen their connections. Their ultimate goal is to achieve a balanced, fulfilling life with healthier relationships and a stronger sense of self.
(782) 222-2846 View (782) 222-2846
Photo of Michelle Labine, MA , RCT, RP, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Labine
Counsellor, MA , RCT, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
28 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I am deeply compassionate and 100% committed to the therapeutic relationship, offering a discreet, comfortable, and safe therapeutic space.
My areas of clinical focus are sex therapy, relational health, chronic and complex trauma. Some challenges my clients face are discrepancies in sexual desire, arousal, pleasure, shame, lack of sexual education, sexual functioning, illness-related sexual changes, and body image. Common themes in my relational work are deepening connection, understanding conflict dynamics and attachment, communication, infidelity, and healing relational wounds and trauma. I work with individuals and partners, in monogamous and CNM relationships. I have lived experience, clinical experience, and training in working with Autistic adults and ADHD.
I am deeply compassionate and 100% committed to the therapeutic relationship, offering a discreet, comfortable, and safe therapeutic space.
My areas of clinical focus are sex therapy, relational health, chronic and complex trauma. Some challenges my clients face are discrepancies in sexual desire, arousal, pleasure, shame, lack of sexual education, sexual functioning, illness-related sexual changes, and body image. Common themes in my relational work are deepening connection, understanding conflict dynamics and attachment, communication, infidelity, and healing relational wounds and trauma. I work with individuals and partners, in monogamous and CNM relationships. I have lived experience, clinical experience, and training in working with Autistic adults and ADHD.
(782) 312-0152 View (782) 312-0152
Photo of Constance Huyer, M Ed, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Constance Huyer
Counsellor, M Ed, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy-primarily used in couples counselling.
Life isn’t always hard, but when things get challenging, when feelings of anxiousness and despair seem overwhelming, seeing a counsellor can help. Having a place to say it all out loud can be the gateway to better emotional and mental health. Sorting through and dealing with issues of anger, abandonment, fear, trauma and hopelessness can help you restore balance in your life. We can work together to find your way forward.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy-primarily used in couples counselling.
Life isn’t always hard, but when things get challenging, when feelings of anxiousness and despair seem overwhelming, seeing a counsellor can help. Having a place to say it all out loud can be the gateway to better emotional and mental health. Sorting through and dealing with issues of anger, abandonment, fear, trauma and hopelessness can help you restore balance in your life. We can work together to find your way forward.
(902) 906-6766 View (902) 906-6766
Photo of Margo Quinlan, MSW, SWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margo Quinlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I offer a safe place for queer, trans, and gender expansive youth and adults to navigate life's challenges together. Existing in today's world as part of these communities brings it's own unique stressors, challenges, and joys. My background as a community organizer in the trans community, as well as my own lived experiences as a trans and queer woman, help guide my work in empowering teens, adults, and couples to find enrichment and empowerment through their own lives and experiences. I am active in polyamory and kink communities, am a parent, and am going to treat you with the care and respect you deserve.
I offer a safe place for queer, trans, and gender expansive youth and adults to navigate life's challenges together. Existing in today's world as part of these communities brings it's own unique stressors, challenges, and joys. My background as a community organizer in the trans community, as well as my own lived experiences as a trans and queer woman, help guide my work in empowering teens, adults, and couples to find enrichment and empowerment through their own lives and experiences. I am active in polyamory and kink communities, am a parent, and am going to treat you with the care and respect you deserve.
(782) 824-3690 View (782) 824-3690
Photo of Sonia Elizabeth Clark, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Sonia Elizabeth Clark
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I can support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, personality disorder, grief & loss, divorce, co-parenting challenges, behaviour issues, stress, low self-esteem, parenting, pre & post natal anxiety and depression, trauma, rejection, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
My name is Sonia and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Can.) in beautiful Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. I support children, youth, adults, couples and families with a variety of challenges and experiences as they work towards better mental health and healthier relationships. Working from a client-centred lens, I believe that each person is an expert in their own lives, and that the power to heal comes from within. I will hold an inviting, safe and non-judgemental space for you to explore your experiences, cultivating a therapeutic relationship built on genuineness, unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding.
I can support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, personality disorder, grief & loss, divorce, co-parenting challenges, behaviour issues, stress, low self-esteem, parenting, pre & post natal anxiety and depression, trauma, rejection, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
My name is Sonia and I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (Can.) in beautiful Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. I support children, youth, adults, couples and families with a variety of challenges and experiences as they work towards better mental health and healthier relationships. Working from a client-centred lens, I believe that each person is an expert in their own lives, and that the power to heal comes from within. I will hold an inviting, safe and non-judgemental space for you to explore your experiences, cultivating a therapeutic relationship built on genuineness, unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding.
(902) 209-1618 View (902) 209-1618
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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.