Photo of Gerardo Quintero, MA, CCPA, OACCPP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Gerardo Quintero
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCPA, OACCPP, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9P
Gerardo is a registered Psychotherapist and Canadian certified counsellor with broad experience working with adult, couples, adolescents, and children. He has more than 20 years of counseling experience. He uses his knowledge & experience in psychotherapy, human relationships and human development to improve and heal a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, eating disorders, addictions; and personal challenges such as perfectionism, anger management, stress, procrastination, self-esteem, self-harming; relationship troubles on communication, intimacy or lack of trust.
Gerardo is a registered Psychotherapist and Canadian certified counsellor with broad experience working with adult, couples, adolescents, and children. He has more than 20 years of counseling experience. He uses his knowledge & experience in psychotherapy, human relationships and human development to improve and heal a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, eating disorders, addictions; and personal challenges such as perfectionism, anger management, stress, procrastination, self-esteem, self-harming; relationship troubles on communication, intimacy or lack of trust.
(647) 931-6054 View (647) 931-6054
Photo of Liz Millican - IncreMental Health Tips, RP, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
IncreMental Health Tips
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
My therapeutic services encompass a spectrum, catering to individuals, couples, families, and groups.
I employ assessments to gain insight into the unique needs of my clients. Together, we collaboratively define achievable goals, laying the foundation for our work ahead. By offering a combination of psychoeducation and unwavering support, I guide clients on their journey toward realizing these goals. Struggling to identify the right goals is a common challenge. Many individuals falter in achieving their aspirations because their goals are often framed in ways that are unattainable. Drawing upon my expertise, I specialize in assisting individuals in discerning practical and manageable steps that align with their deepest desires.
My therapeutic services encompass a spectrum, catering to individuals, couples, families, and groups.
I employ assessments to gain insight into the unique needs of my clients. Together, we collaboratively define achievable goals, laying the foundation for our work ahead. By offering a combination of psychoeducation and unwavering support, I guide clients on their journey toward realizing these goals. Struggling to identify the right goals is a common challenge. Many individuals falter in achieving their aspirations because their goals are often framed in ways that are unattainable. Drawing upon my expertise, I specialize in assisting individuals in discerning practical and manageable steps that align with their deepest desires.
(289) 274-0491 View (289) 274-0491
Photo of Anna Toth - Anna Toth & Associates, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Anna Toth & Associates
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8W
Specialized individual, couple and sex therapist with over 20 years experience. My style is calm, gentle and direct, focused on helping you make meaningful change quickly. Regardless of who I am working with, my aim is to strengthen you and your relationships, and to help you make important decisions thoughtfully and with care. My current areas of focus include relationship conflict, trauma, sexuality and infidelity.
Specialized individual, couple and sex therapist with over 20 years experience. My style is calm, gentle and direct, focused on helping you make meaningful change quickly. Regardless of who I am working with, my aim is to strengthen you and your relationships, and to help you make important decisions thoughtfully and with care. My current areas of focus include relationship conflict, trauma, sexuality and infidelity.
(647) 933-9728 View (647) 933-9728
Photo of Patricia Keith - Break Free Family Centre, PhD, EdD, OACCPP, CPCA, OCA
Break Free Family Centre
PhD, EdD, OACCPP, CPCA, OCA
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9W
I specialize in Anxiety, Anger, and Stress Management individua/ Group Behavioral Therapy, Bullying issues, Couples Therapy, Depression, Alcohol, Drug/ Substance Abuse, Gambling, Grief, Immigration Issues, Justice Counselling, Mental Health and Parenting Individual & Group Training, Pre-Marriage, Marriage and Family Counselling, PTSD,MVA & Trauma Issues.
I counsel children (16 years and older), youth, and adults through individual and or group sessions. I am in good standing and have been awarded Full membership with the designation of Registered Counsellor (RCC) with CPCA as well as a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrics and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), and Bereavement Ontario Network (BON). Canadian Addiction Counsellors (CACCF) I provide psychological services under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist of Dalton Associates. I work in collaboration with clients to build upon their strength(s) to solve family issues.
I specialize in Anxiety, Anger, and Stress Management individua/ Group Behavioral Therapy, Bullying issues, Couples Therapy, Depression, Alcohol, Drug/ Substance Abuse, Gambling, Grief, Immigration Issues, Justice Counselling, Mental Health and Parenting Individual & Group Training, Pre-Marriage, Marriage and Family Counselling, PTSD,MVA & Trauma Issues.
I counsel children (16 years and older), youth, and adults through individual and or group sessions. I am in good standing and have been awarded Full membership with the designation of Registered Counsellor (RCC) with CPCA as well as a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrics and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), and Bereavement Ontario Network (BON). Canadian Addiction Counsellors (CACCF) I provide psychological services under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist of Dalton Associates. I work in collaboration with clients to build upon their strength(s) to solve family issues.
(844) 332-2287 View (844) 332-2287
Photo of Sihan Wang, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sihan Wang
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A
These elements form the bedrock of our therapeutic relationship, providing a safe and nurturing space for exploration and growth.
Are you ready to break free from the grip of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming family dynamics? Many people seek validation, understanding, and practical strategies to navigate life's complexities with resilience and grace, yet often find it elusive. If you're prepared to prioritize your mental and emotional health, overcome challenges, and embrace a more authentic and fulfilling life, rest assured, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
These elements form the bedrock of our therapeutic relationship, providing a safe and nurturing space for exploration and growth.
Are you ready to break free from the grip of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming family dynamics? Many people seek validation, understanding, and practical strategies to navigate life's complexities with resilience and grace, yet often find it elusive. If you're prepared to prioritize your mental and emotional health, overcome challenges, and embrace a more authentic and fulfilling life, rest assured, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(289) 512-0724 View (289) 512-0724
Photo of Melanie Or Edna - About Mind Mental Health Clinic, Registered Psychotherapist
About Mind Mental Health Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A
About Mind Mental Health Clinic focuses on individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, chronic illness, life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Individuals come to About Mind knowing that we will take a nonjudgmental approach and work in collaboration in finding solutions that work for them.
About Mind Mental Health Clinic focuses on individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, chronic illness, life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Individuals come to About Mind knowing that we will take a nonjudgmental approach and work in collaboration in finding solutions that work for them.
(833) 404-5921 View (833) 404-5921
Photo of Laura Winterton, MA, MACP , RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Laura Winterton
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MACP , RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with relationship and parenting issues, chronic illness, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, or depression, I will consistently seek to build a strong and effective therapeutic alliance in supporting you to grow and evolve to discover interpersonal harmony.
Whether you are dealing with relationship and parenting issues, chronic illness, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, or depression, I will consistently seek to build a strong and effective therapeutic alliance in supporting you to grow and evolve to discover interpersonal harmony.
(365) 363-1612 View (365) 363-1612
Photo of Nuvista Mental Health - Toronto - NuVista Mental Health - Toronto, Psychologist
NuVista Mental Health - Toronto
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Are you wanting to feel good and have more ease in your life? Are you a parent worried about your child who may be having challenges? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more lovingly in your relationship? You are in the right place. NuVista Menthal Health - Toronto is a specialized treatment Centre that focuses on both brain based healing approaches and psychotherapy. Most symptoms are directly connected to our brain patterns and the clinic offers multiple forms of treatment to target brain regulation and overall healing. Take a virtual clinic tour here: https://www.youtube.com/
Are you wanting to feel good and have more ease in your life? Are you a parent worried about your child who may be having challenges? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more lovingly in your relationship? You are in the right place. NuVista Menthal Health - Toronto is a specialized treatment Centre that focuses on both brain based healing approaches and psychotherapy. Most symptoms are directly connected to our brain patterns and the clinic offers multiple forms of treatment to target brain regulation and overall healing. Take a virtual clinic tour here: https://www.youtube.com/
(416) 619-0238 View (416) 619-0238
Photo of Marina Riker-Kucic, RP, HBSc, Psych, Registered Psychotherapist
Marina Riker-Kucic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, HBSc, Psych
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
Are you feeling trapped in repetitive, unsatisfying patterns, weighed down by unease, discomfort or self-criticism? Are you longing for a change in how you relate to yourself and others, yearning for more fulfilling connections and inner peace? I am here to offer support and guidance as you navigate your journey toward healing and personal growth, helping you become more aligned with who you truly are. We work together as a team, building a supportive relationship in a safe, open-minded atmosphere. We look at how to unblock issues stuck for years and increase your participation and satisfaction in life.
Are you feeling trapped in repetitive, unsatisfying patterns, weighed down by unease, discomfort or self-criticism? Are you longing for a change in how you relate to yourself and others, yearning for more fulfilling connections and inner peace? I am here to offer support and guidance as you navigate your journey toward healing and personal growth, helping you become more aligned with who you truly are. We work together as a team, building a supportive relationship in a safe, open-minded atmosphere. We look at how to unblock issues stuck for years and increase your participation and satisfaction in life.
(855) 504-3935 View (855) 504-3935
Photo of Leonard Rebick, RP, CAPT, Registered Psychotherapist
Leonard Rebick
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CAPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8Z  (Online Only)
For over 30 years I have helped people resolve the issues of relationship that have kept them from having a fulfilling life.
In 35 years as a practicing psychotherapist I have found the truest way of knowing yourself, relieving the stresses of everyday life and finding true happiness, is through relationship.We tend to think that we should know how to conduct ourselves in relationship and that it should come naturally. Nothing could be further from the truth. Relationship like many other things is a learned skill, much of which depends on your ability to manage your emotions, and know yourself fully, this is where psychotherapy comes in.
For over 30 years I have helped people resolve the issues of relationship that have kept them from having a fulfilling life.
In 35 years as a practicing psychotherapist I have found the truest way of knowing yourself, relieving the stresses of everyday life and finding true happiness, is through relationship.We tend to think that we should know how to conduct ourselves in relationship and that it should come naturally. Nothing could be further from the truth. Relationship like many other things is a learned skill, much of which depends on your ability to manage your emotions, and know yourself fully, this is where psychotherapy comes in.
(647) 493-0834 View (647) 493-0834
Photo of Kennedy McLean - Kennedy McLean Counselling & Psychotherapy, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kennedy McLean Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C  (Online Only)
We work collaboratively with you, focusing on the importance of the therapeutic relationship in creating a safe space.
Accepting New Clients-Virtual Only—You feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you have lost your sense of joy and hope. Past events or traumas have kept you feeling stuck and frustrated, unable to move forward. Things feel out of control and you aren't even sure how you ended up in this place. Life is filled with challenges and it can feel lonely. Maybe you have been too afraid to try therapy before, or you have tried and it didn't seem like a good fit. That's okay, you are here now.
We work collaboratively with you, focusing on the importance of the therapeutic relationship in creating a safe space.
Accepting New Clients-Virtual Only—You feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you have lost your sense of joy and hope. Past events or traumas have kept you feeling stuck and frustrated, unable to move forward. Things feel out of control and you aren't even sure how you ended up in this place. Life is filled with challenges and it can feel lonely. Maybe you have been too afraid to try therapy before, or you have tried and it didn't seem like a good fit. That's okay, you are here now.
(289) 210-7135 View (289) 210-7135
Photo of Kennedy McLean, RP, MACP, CCTP-II, Registered Psychotherapist
Kennedy McLean
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship is critical in successful therapy outcomes.
Your life looks great on the outside. You have all the things that should make you happy but you don’t feel that way. You may be struggling with anxiety, unresolved past trauma, or relationship dissatisfaction. Maybe you've been using substances more than usual to cope with feeling overwhelmed, either on edge or just completely disconnected like you’re running on autopilot. You’re used to handling your own problems so it can be hard to ask for help. Other people don’t understand, they think you are fine.
The therapeutic relationship is critical in successful therapy outcomes.
Your life looks great on the outside. You have all the things that should make you happy but you don’t feel that way. You may be struggling with anxiety, unresolved past trauma, or relationship dissatisfaction. Maybe you've been using substances more than usual to cope with feeling overwhelmed, either on edge or just completely disconnected like you’re running on autopilot. You’re used to handling your own problems so it can be hard to ask for help. Other people don’t understand, they think you are fine.
(647) 557-3171 View (647) 557-3171
Photo of Laura Di Vilio, RP, AOCA, CAPT, Registered Psychotherapist
Laura Di Vilio
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, AOCA, CAPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8Z
Waitlist for new clients
By understanding what lies deep within us, what motivates our behaviour, we come to know how to live more wisely and authentically. By giving ourselves the same kindness we give others and in listening to our embodied wisdom we discover fresh new possibilities.Therapy helps to manage anxiety, deal with emotions such as regret and shame, and dispel fear and worry. Without the veil of negativity and self-doubt we can make choices that lead to a more empowered future. If you find yourself feeling stuck, unhappy, confused or overwhelmed, entering into a psychotherapeutic relationship can help.
By understanding what lies deep within us, what motivates our behaviour, we come to know how to live more wisely and authentically. By giving ourselves the same kindness we give others and in listening to our embodied wisdom we discover fresh new possibilities.Therapy helps to manage anxiety, deal with emotions such as regret and shame, and dispel fear and worry. Without the veil of negativity and self-doubt we can make choices that lead to a more empowered future. If you find yourself feeling stuck, unhappy, confused or overwhelmed, entering into a psychotherapeutic relationship can help.
(289) 271-9533 View (289) 271-9533
Photo of Sarah Lo, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sarah Lo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
I believe that the key to success lies in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that offers trust and allows autonomy and authenticity.
We cannot get through life unscathed, but when we choose to explore our internal motivation and interpersonal relationships with compassion, positive changes can be made. My passion for helping others lies in a person-centered, culturally intuitive, and competent approach where mind and body can be explored safely and inclusively.
I believe that the key to success lies in the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment that offers trust and allows autonomy and authenticity.
We cannot get through life unscathed, but when we choose to explore our internal motivation and interpersonal relationships with compassion, positive changes can be made. My passion for helping others lies in a person-centered, culturally intuitive, and competent approach where mind and body can be explored safely and inclusively.
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Photo of Vaidile Plestyte, MA, RP, Counsellor
Vaidile Plestyte
Counsellor, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
I have 15+ years of experience working in the mental health field and helping individuals, couples and families.
So often we want to feel better about ourselves and to enjoy our life more, but are not sure how to get there or we feel stuck. Life events and life transitions can be overwhelming and stressful, and it helps to have someone who will listen, provide compassion and support and suggest different coping strategies. The main focus in my practice is helping clients learn self-compassion and self-acceptance which I believe to be the foundation for change. My approach is gentle and supportive. I create a safe place for inner exploration, learning and healing.
I have 15+ years of experience working in the mental health field and helping individuals, couples and families.
So often we want to feel better about ourselves and to enjoy our life more, but are not sure how to get there or we feel stuck. Life events and life transitions can be overwhelming and stressful, and it helps to have someone who will listen, provide compassion and support and suggest different coping strategies. The main focus in my practice is helping clients learn self-compassion and self-acceptance which I believe to be the foundation for change. My approach is gentle and supportive. I create a safe place for inner exploration, learning and healing.
(855) 739-2214 View (855) 739-2214
Photo of Zoe Ferguson, BSc, DipTIRP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Zoe Ferguson
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, DipTIRP, RP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of couples and individual clients in my practise, with a range of concerns including; depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, life changes, trauma recovery and PTSD.
If you choose to work with me I will strive to create a safe, respectful and meaningful relationship with you. I will listen carefully, with empathy and without judgement. Sometimes I ask a lot of questions in order to understand, to the best of my ability, what things are like for you. In working together to help me understand your story, usually what happens is that things start to make more sense for you too. Confusion often gives way to clarity. Feelings such as anxiety, anger, depression and isolation often subside as well.
I work with a variety of couples and individual clients in my practise, with a range of concerns including; depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, life changes, trauma recovery and PTSD.
If you choose to work with me I will strive to create a safe, respectful and meaningful relationship with you. I will listen carefully, with empathy and without judgement. Sometimes I ask a lot of questions in order to understand, to the best of my ability, what things are like for you. In working together to help me understand your story, usually what happens is that things start to make more sense for you too. Confusion often gives way to clarity. Feelings such as anxiety, anger, depression and isolation often subside as well.
(844) 331-0252 View (844) 331-0252
Photo of Dan Bevan-Baker, MA, MTA, BMus, Registered Psychotherapist
Dan Bevan-Baker
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTA, BMus
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8Y  (Online Only)
I am a white, queer, cisgender man and settler. I value authenticity and strive to be collaborative, warm, playful, curious, and compassionate in my work with clients. I invite you to also bring any parts of yourself to our shared therapy space - the hurt, the hidden, the hopeful, and whoever else we may discover. My approach to care is rooted in intersectional, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed frameworks. Some specializations of mine include anxiety, depression, grief, perfectionism, relationship challenges, queer experiences, identity exploration, HIV/AIDS, and trauma. I work with children, youth, adults, and older adults.
I am a white, queer, cisgender man and settler. I value authenticity and strive to be collaborative, warm, playful, curious, and compassionate in my work with clients. I invite you to also bring any parts of yourself to our shared therapy space - the hurt, the hidden, the hopeful, and whoever else we may discover. My approach to care is rooted in intersectional, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed frameworks. Some specializations of mine include anxiety, depression, grief, perfectionism, relationship challenges, queer experiences, identity exploration, HIV/AIDS, and trauma. I work with children, youth, adults, and older adults.
(289) 273-7986 View (289) 273-7986
Photo of Natasha Sharma, PsyD, Counsellor
Natasha Sharma
Counsellor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
My team has expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, Relationship/Dating Issues, Marriage, Divorce, Parenting Issues, and Career/Life Transitions.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
My team has expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, Relationship/Dating Issues, Marriage, Divorce, Parenting Issues, and Career/Life Transitions.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
(289) 207-4800 View (289) 207-4800
Photo of Nikki Sedaghat - Sedâ Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Sedâ Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Sedâ Psychotherapy consists of a team of therapists who are available to support you in navigating your individual and relationship challenges. Our therapists provide virtual services to youth (aged 6+), adults, couples, and families in Ontario. Common concerns that we help clients with are anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, children's mental health, 2SLGBTQ+ experiences, identity exploration, perfectionism, sex and sexuality, life transitions, OCD, ADHD, disordered eating, and substance use concerns.
Sedâ Psychotherapy consists of a team of therapists who are available to support you in navigating your individual and relationship challenges. Our therapists provide virtual services to youth (aged 6+), adults, couples, and families in Ontario. Common concerns that we help clients with are anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, children's mental health, 2SLGBTQ+ experiences, identity exploration, perfectionism, sex and sexuality, life transitions, OCD, ADHD, disordered eating, and substance use concerns.
(289) 301-7804 View (289) 301-7804
Photo of Khatiza Bi Individual And Couple Therapy, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Khatiza Bi Bi Individual And Couple Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take charge of your mental health and unleash your true potential? At my practice, I offer comprehensive and professional psychological services tailored to your unique needs. Using my clinical experience and compassionate approach I am here to provide you with the support, guidance, and tools you need to overcome challenges, improve your mental well-being, and achieve your personal and emotional goals. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help.
Are you ready to take charge of your mental health and unleash your true potential? At my practice, I offer comprehensive and professional psychological services tailored to your unique needs. Using my clinical experience and compassionate approach I am here to provide you with the support, guidance, and tools you need to overcome challenges, improve your mental well-being, and achieve your personal and emotional goals. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to help.
(613) 777-0782 View (613) 777-0782

See more therapy options for Etobicoke

Couples Counselling

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.