Couples Counselling Therapists in Hamilton, ON

Photo of Stardust Therapeutic Collective, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Stardust Therapeutic Collective
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RSSW, SSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8M
Stardust is a queer-owned collective of mental health workers trying to make counselling more accessible and affirming to folks experiencing systemic oppression. All of our team members have lived experience with mental health issues and/or neurodivergence, and we recognize the role that oppression plays in causing and aggravating mental health stuff. We work from a trauma-informed, intersectional and social justice-focused framework. We believe in harm reduction and are strongly sex and sex-worker positive, kink positive, familiar with non-traditional relationship dynamics, body-positive, and anti-capitalist.
Stardust is a queer-owned collective of mental health workers trying to make counselling more accessible and affirming to folks experiencing systemic oppression. All of our team members have lived experience with mental health issues and/or neurodivergence, and we recognize the role that oppression plays in causing and aggravating mental health stuff. We work from a trauma-informed, intersectional and social justice-focused framework. We believe in harm reduction and are strongly sex and sex-worker positive, kink positive, familiar with non-traditional relationship dynamics, body-positive, and anti-capitalist.
(365) 800-6201 View (365) 800-6201
Photo of Jennifer Joseph in Hamilton, ON
Jennifer Joseph
MSN, BSN, RN, CPMHN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8J
It's not just you. You're not alone! The last few years have been extra hard. Having a safe place to decompress, receive validation and learn new skills can make things easier. We all have the ability to heal ourselves, but any kind of therapy is hard work. I work with families experiencing relational issues and couples who need to learn or relearn how to work together. The end goal is different for each client, but we will work together to get you to a spot where you feel at ease. For those suffering with trauma or anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is offered as well.
It's not just you. You're not alone! The last few years have been extra hard. Having a safe place to decompress, receive validation and learn new skills can make things easier. We all have the ability to heal ourselves, but any kind of therapy is hard work. I work with families experiencing relational issues and couples who need to learn or relearn how to work together. The end goal is different for each client, but we will work together to get you to a spot where you feel at ease. For those suffering with trauma or anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is offered as well.
(289) 312-8692 View (289) 312-8692
Photo of Chad David Tomlinson, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Chad David Tomlinson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTS, MEd, Rev
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
I have had success helping people individually and as couples ranging from teenagers to older adults.
Chad is an award winning therapist who doesn't actually enjoy writing in the third person. My main goal is to help people know how to be emotionally healthy using a combination of tools I've created through life experience and modalities like solution focused therapy, CBT, EFT, and DBT. I tend to be a bit different than traditional therapists as I often have more laughs than tears in my office, but either way, my hope is to help people feel cared about and safe enough to share their lives. Men (or anyone) who are nervous about therapy or people who have had a bad experience with it tend to really like my down to earth style.
I have had success helping people individually and as couples ranging from teenagers to older adults.
Chad is an award winning therapist who doesn't actually enjoy writing in the third person. My main goal is to help people know how to be emotionally healthy using a combination of tools I've created through life experience and modalities like solution focused therapy, CBT, EFT, and DBT. I tend to be a bit different than traditional therapists as I often have more laughs than tears in my office, but either way, my hope is to help people feel cared about and safe enough to share their lives. Men (or anyone) who are nervous about therapy or people who have had a bad experience with it tend to really like my down to earth style.
(289) 210-5263 View (289) 210-5263
Photo of Eliora Wolfe, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Eliora Wolfe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MFT, MEd, EXA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
As a couples therapist, I use techniques that invite partners to improve communication, increase intimacy, and deepen their connection.
Welcome :) I am a registered psychotherapist - qualifying (RP-Q) and Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Hamilton, Ontario. I specialize in couples counseling and supporting individuals to build and strengthen their personal relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions, work through challenges, and develop new ways of relating to themselves and others. My background includes training in Expressive Arts Therapy and often I will incorporate the arts into my therapy sessions when appropriate.
As a couples therapist, I use techniques that invite partners to improve communication, increase intimacy, and deepen their connection.
Welcome :) I am a registered psychotherapist - qualifying (RP-Q) and Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Hamilton, Ontario. I specialize in couples counseling and supporting individuals to build and strengthen their personal relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions, work through challenges, and develop new ways of relating to themselves and others. My background includes training in Expressive Arts Therapy and often I will incorporate the arts into my therapy sessions when appropriate.
(365) 675-0760 View (365) 675-0760
Photo of Barbara A Smith, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Barbara A Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, MFA, GIT, MS, CRPO
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Therapy is often about exploring outdated core beliefs to see if they are useful and, if not, create new neuropathways that lead to new, more healthy behavior and responses. I meet each client where they are in their life and/or situation and explore what works for them to meet their therapeutic needs. I"m trained with Dr Stan Tatkin, Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy for over 5 years. I am certified in EMDR. I am a trained Mindful Self Compassion Teacher and teach through McMaster University Faculty Development Mindfulness programs. I am on the executive for Mindfulness Hamilton.
Therapy is often about exploring outdated core beliefs to see if they are useful and, if not, create new neuropathways that lead to new, more healthy behavior and responses. I meet each client where they are in their life and/or situation and explore what works for them to meet their therapeutic needs. I"m trained with Dr Stan Tatkin, Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy for over 5 years. I am certified in EMDR. I am a trained Mindful Self Compassion Teacher and teach through McMaster University Faculty Development Mindfulness programs. I am on the executive for Mindfulness Hamilton.
(877) 958-8508 View (877) 958-8508
Photo of Janine Davies, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Janine Davies
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
I believe everyone is the expert in their own life, they may just need some help to navigate life's challenges. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to clients meeting their goals, and I strive to create a space where pre-teens to adults feel safe to talk, share and explore challenges they are facing. I value collaboration and tailor treatment to each individual/ family/ relationship, and I utilize a number of evidence-based techniques to help clients work through obstacles, develop healthy coping habits, and flourish in their life.
I believe everyone is the expert in their own life, they may just need some help to navigate life's challenges. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to clients meeting their goals, and I strive to create a space where pre-teens to adults feel safe to talk, share and explore challenges they are facing. I value collaboration and tailor treatment to each individual/ family/ relationship, and I utilize a number of evidence-based techniques to help clients work through obstacles, develop healthy coping habits, and flourish in their life.
(365) 661-4409 View (365) 661-4409
Photo of The Thoughts, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Hamilton, ON
The Thoughts
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ACWD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
The Thoughts, assists individuals, couples and families to resolve problems that affect their day-to-day lives within the context of their families, communities and workplaces with a believe that the root cause of every problem is in our thoughts and the solution to these problems is also hidden in our thoughts.
The Thoughts is an outpatient rehab services where help is provided through counselling and therapy to those who need help to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger issues. The Thoughts helps its clients of all age groups to identify their triggers and develop coping skills to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger.
The Thoughts, assists individuals, couples and families to resolve problems that affect their day-to-day lives within the context of their families, communities and workplaces with a believe that the root cause of every problem is in our thoughts and the solution to these problems is also hidden in our thoughts.
The Thoughts is an outpatient rehab services where help is provided through counselling and therapy to those who need help to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger issues. The Thoughts helps its clients of all age groups to identify their triggers and develop coping skills to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger.
(647) 930-1467 View (647) 930-1467
Photo of Angela Hevey, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Angela Hevey
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8W
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist providing integrated and holistic individual therapy for trauma and stress-related disorders; relationships; grief and loss; depression; anxiety; anger; complex mental health; as well as couples therapy. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental and safe environment for sharing and growth based on your individual needs. Together we will work towards building an understanding of areas that have become problematic to you and examine how they have shaped your experiences.
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist providing integrated and holistic individual therapy for trauma and stress-related disorders; relationships; grief and loss; depression; anxiety; anger; complex mental health; as well as couples therapy. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental and safe environment for sharing and growth based on your individual needs. Together we will work towards building an understanding of areas that have become problematic to you and examine how they have shaped your experiences.
(289) 206-0542 View (289) 206-0542
Photo of Jan Caceres, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Jan Caceres
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma, grief, low self-esteem and life transitions. Therapy can heal old wounds, change unwanted thoughts or behaviors and improve relationships with yourself and others. I offer a safe, respectful and nonjudgmental environment, where you may expect to be treated with compassion and empathy. My eclectic approach allows me to utilize the best methods and techniques of treatment to fit each individual client or couple. We will work together as a team to reach your goals and bring about needed change.
I work with individuals and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma, grief, low self-esteem and life transitions. Therapy can heal old wounds, change unwanted thoughts or behaviors and improve relationships with yourself and others. I offer a safe, respectful and nonjudgmental environment, where you may expect to be treated with compassion and empathy. My eclectic approach allows me to utilize the best methods and techniques of treatment to fit each individual client or couple. We will work together as a team to reach your goals and bring about needed change.
(365) 800-0964 View (365) 800-0964
Photo of Joel Richard Ten Brinke, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Joel Richard Ten Brinke
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MTS, RP, CPC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8N
My practice offers individual, couples, and family therapy either in the clinic or virtual.
Welcome, you have taken a significant step in visiting this site. I am a non-judgmental client-centred therapist who is here to help and support you no matter what your counselling goals are, and no matter where you are in your journey of discovery, coping, or healing. I approach each client with compassion, empathy, and clinical experience. I have worked with a variety of matters and populations, including but not limited to, adolescents, youth, adults, couples, and families, struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, sexuality, stress management, emotion regulation, family issues, grief and loss, and so much more.
My practice offers individual, couples, and family therapy either in the clinic or virtual.
Welcome, you have taken a significant step in visiting this site. I am a non-judgmental client-centred therapist who is here to help and support you no matter what your counselling goals are, and no matter where you are in your journey of discovery, coping, or healing. I approach each client with compassion, empathy, and clinical experience. I have worked with a variety of matters and populations, including but not limited to, adolescents, youth, adults, couples, and families, struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, sexuality, stress management, emotion regulation, family issues, grief and loss, and so much more.
(226) 702-2388 View (226) 702-2388
Photo of Alexia Wensing, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Alexia Wensing
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N  (Online Only)
Having worked in both private and psychiatric spaces with adults and teens, my experiences have provided me a strong foundation to work with clients to understand trauma, help find meaning, and create a sense of control in a judgement-free relationship.
Accepting NEW Clients – Do you find feeling stuck, anxious, or wishing you had more confidence or self-esteem? Are you interested in understanding yourself or your choices more and in digging into the roots of why you feel the way you do? Are you interested in looking at your past, taking your power back over experiences, and learning coping skills or tools? Together, we can look at your past, present, and future goals, and provide you with an understanding of what this means to you.
Having worked in both private and psychiatric spaces with adults and teens, my experiences have provided me a strong foundation to work with clients to understand trauma, help find meaning, and create a sense of control in a judgement-free relationship.
Accepting NEW Clients – Do you find feeling stuck, anxious, or wishing you had more confidence or self-esteem? Are you interested in understanding yourself or your choices more and in digging into the roots of why you feel the way you do? Are you interested in looking at your past, taking your power back over experiences, and learning coping skills or tools? Together, we can look at your past, present, and future goals, and provide you with an understanding of what this means to you.
(289) 723-1259 View (289) 723-1259
Photo of Couples and Relationship Therapy Roots in Wellness, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Couples and Relationship Therapy Roots in Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
Are you and your partner(s) struggling to manage conflict or communicate effectively? Are you hoping to deepen your connection or work through life transitions together? Are you navigating a shift in relationship dynamics? Relationships can be difficult to navigate as we all shift and change through time, sometimes it takes a little extra work to shift and change together. At Roots in Wellness, we will support you through whatever shifts are occurring your relationship(s) to help you find common ground in order to move forward positively.
Are you and your partner(s) struggling to manage conflict or communicate effectively? Are you hoping to deepen your connection or work through life transitions together? Are you navigating a shift in relationship dynamics? Relationships can be difficult to navigate as we all shift and change through time, sometimes it takes a little extra work to shift and change together. At Roots in Wellness, we will support you through whatever shifts are occurring your relationship(s) to help you find common ground in order to move forward positively.
(289) 275-9342 View (289) 275-9342
Photo of Nadine Cortez, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Nadine Cortez
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples.
Accepting NEW Clients! - Hoping to feel less anxious or explore building strategies to cope? Maybe you feel low, unmotivated, or stressed more than you used to and you'd like that to change. Are you curious about learning more about yourself or working on building confidence? Is there an experience in the present or the past that you feel held back by and that you'd like to better understand? Do you find yourself often trying to figure out who you are, or whats important to you? Together we'll look at what your therapy goals are, and increase self-awareness, stability, and understanding in the process.
I work with individuals and couples.
Accepting NEW Clients! - Hoping to feel less anxious or explore building strategies to cope? Maybe you feel low, unmotivated, or stressed more than you used to and you'd like that to change. Are you curious about learning more about yourself or working on building confidence? Is there an experience in the present or the past that you feel held back by and that you'd like to better understand? Do you find yourself often trying to figure out who you are, or whats important to you? Together we'll look at what your therapy goals are, and increase self-awareness, stability, and understanding in the process.
(289) 274-0493 View (289) 274-0493
Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8L  (Online Only)
We also offer couples counselling and therapy for partners looking for support.
Disconnected? Lost? Stuck? Hopeless? Feeling "broken"? Wondering what your purpose or meaning is in life? You may question whether you are a good father, son, or partner. Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, poor relationships, OCD, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. It's time to normalize men seeking support. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website" button to learn more.
We also offer couples counselling and therapy for partners looking for support.
Disconnected? Lost? Stuck? Hopeless? Feeling "broken"? Wondering what your purpose or meaning is in life? You may question whether you are a good father, son, or partner. Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, poor relationships, OCD, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. It's time to normalize men seeking support. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website" button to learn more.
(365) 364-0830 View (365) 364-0830
Photo of Gerry Lapenta, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Gerry Lapenta
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MTh, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
As a psychotherapist, I seek to provide you with a life transforming experience to help you deal with the difficult issues in your life, such as relationship troubles, depression, anxiety, low self esteem, or grief. I offer you an authentic human relational encounter that fosters growth, support and change. Life growth and transformation can be a beautiful experience, and it is my goal to help you experience what others have previously experienced with me. Finding happiness in life does not need to be out of reach, or seem impossible for you.
As a psychotherapist, I seek to provide you with a life transforming experience to help you deal with the difficult issues in your life, such as relationship troubles, depression, anxiety, low self esteem, or grief. I offer you an authentic human relational encounter that fosters growth, support and change. Life growth and transformation can be a beautiful experience, and it is my goal to help you experience what others have previously experienced with me. Finding happiness in life does not need to be out of reach, or seem impossible for you.
(289) 272-8543 View (289) 272-8543
Photo of RD Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
RD Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, MScF(c)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
We provide Sex Therapy for those looking to work on their relationship or sexual issues.
The practice of RD Psychotherapy is located in Hamilton, ON. Clients can utilize virtual sessions or in person sessions. We provide services for individuals, families, couples and group sessions. We provide services to the general population and specialize with Military and Veteran community, as well as the Indigenous population. Services available in English, Spanish, Italian and Polish.
We provide Sex Therapy for those looking to work on their relationship or sexual issues.
The practice of RD Psychotherapy is located in Hamilton, ON. Clients can utilize virtual sessions or in person sessions. We provide services for individuals, families, couples and group sessions. We provide services to the general population and specialize with Military and Veteran community, as well as the Indigenous population. Services available in English, Spanish, Italian and Polish.
(647) 496-0784 View (647) 496-0784
Photo of BeWell Hamilton Health Centre, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
BeWell Hamilton Health Centre
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8N
Fiona is a Registered Social Worker who is passionate about helping people navigate their past while being mindful of the present, so they can obtain the future they desire. She has experience working with young parents and their children and is currently working in domestic violence with individuals who have used abusive behaviour. Fiona works from a restorative lens and believes that helping one individual heal can strengthen families, intimate-partner relationships, neighbourhoods, and society.
Fiona is a Registered Social Worker who is passionate about helping people navigate their past while being mindful of the present, so they can obtain the future they desire. She has experience working with young parents and their children and is currently working in domestic violence with individuals who have used abusive behaviour. Fiona works from a restorative lens and believes that helping one individual heal can strengthen families, intimate-partner relationships, neighbourhoods, and society.
(289) 723-1580 View (289) 723-1580
Photo of Nicole Dellamora, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Nicole Dellamora
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology, am an EFT couples therapist and have training and experience treating trauma.
Maybe you're ready to make a change, but don't feel you can on your own. Or perhaps you're wanting to take the next right step, but feel completely lost. Everyone needs support at times, and we each have our own unique story and support needs. Perhaps you're navigating an earth-shaking change, seeking insight into unpleasant thoughts and emotions or wanting to make sense of difficult experiences. Maybe you're with your partner(s), wanting to process, heal and grow together. Whichever path you came on, I am happy you're here. I'd like to offer a safe space where we can work together to bring you relief.
I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology, am an EFT couples therapist and have training and experience treating trauma.
Maybe you're ready to make a change, but don't feel you can on your own. Or perhaps you're wanting to take the next right step, but feel completely lost. Everyone needs support at times, and we each have our own unique story and support needs. Perhaps you're navigating an earth-shaking change, seeking insight into unpleasant thoughts and emotions or wanting to make sense of difficult experiences. Maybe you're with your partner(s), wanting to process, heal and grow together. Whichever path you came on, I am happy you're here. I'd like to offer a safe space where we can work together to bring you relief.
View
Photo of Pamela Grace Raddatz, Registered Social Service Worker in Hamilton, ON
Pamela Grace Raddatz
Registered Social Service Worker , RSSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9H
I work with adolescents, adults, couples & families who need support in various areas: relationship healing, past trauma, communication, emotional awareness, mental health & addictions, life transitions, and growth.
Hi there. Looking for the right fit for a therapist may feel a bit overwhelming. I invite you to take a moment to inhale deeply and slowly exhale, releasing tension as you do. Imagine... a space where you can go to share what needs to be heard. feel your way through complex emotions, process the blocks that hold you back and learn healthy ways of coping. Here, you will be supported as you lean into yourself. " Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it." -Rumi
I work with adolescents, adults, couples & families who need support in various areas: relationship healing, past trauma, communication, emotional awareness, mental health & addictions, life transitions, and growth.
Hi there. Looking for the right fit for a therapist may feel a bit overwhelming. I invite you to take a moment to inhale deeply and slowly exhale, releasing tension as you do. Imagine... a space where you can go to share what needs to be heard. feel your way through complex emotions, process the blocks that hold you back and learn healthy ways of coping. Here, you will be supported as you lean into yourself. " Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it." -Rumi
(289) 768-7815 View (289) 768-7815
Photo of Rachel Hammerton, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Rachel Hammerton
Registered Psychotherapist, MA(Ed) , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R
Hi there, and welcome to my profile! You may be here because you feel stuck and lonely. Maybe you’d like to learn how to love yourself, but you’re not sure of where to start. You may feel anxious all the time but can’t seem to figure out why or what to do about it. You and your partner may be fighting a lot and you long to feel connected to each other again, but don’t know how. I hear you and your frustrations, and I’m here to help! I work with people who are ready for a change in their lives and who are looking to find the voice they need to face depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood abuse, and low self-esteem.
Hi there, and welcome to my profile! You may be here because you feel stuck and lonely. Maybe you’d like to learn how to love yourself, but you’re not sure of where to start. You may feel anxious all the time but can’t seem to figure out why or what to do about it. You and your partner may be fighting a lot and you long to feel connected to each other again, but don’t know how. I hear you and your frustrations, and I’m here to help! I work with people who are ready for a change in their lives and who are looking to find the voice they need to face depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood abuse, and low self-esteem.
(289) 272-7352 View (289) 272-7352

See more therapy options for Hamilton


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.