Photo of Adam Gelinas - First Step Men's Therapy, BA, MACP, ASAT, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, ASAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L  (Online Only)
Our specializations include: sexual addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, grief, life transitions, divorce, parenting, trauma, PTSD, anger management, sex therapy, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, and men's issues.
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, grief, 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"!
Our specializations include: sexual addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, grief, life transitions, divorce, parenting, trauma, PTSD, anger management, sex therapy, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, and men's issues.
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, grief, 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"!
(289) 796-3676 View (289) 796-3676
Photo of Matthew Mascioli - First Step Men's Therapy, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L  (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 Edward Murray, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Edward Murray
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7K
Edward provides counselling and psychotherapy to adults, couples, families, adolescents, and children. He has a doctorate degree in clinical psychology, a master’s degree in counselling psychology, and he is a registered psychologist in the provinces of Ontario and New Brunswick.
Edward provides counselling and psychotherapy to adults, couples, families, adolescents, and children. He has a doctorate degree in clinical psychology, a master’s degree in counselling psychology, and he is a registered psychologist in the provinces of Ontario and New Brunswick.
(613) 912-4637 View (613) 912-4637
Photo of Brent McKay - McKay Psychotherapy, RN, BScN, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
McKay Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, BScN, MACP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K0H
I believe that the road to finding happiness and freedom begins with a simple principle, understanding that some things are within our control and some things are not. Whether you are controlled by anxiety, dreading the “what ifs” of the future. Or you are stuck in the past and find it difficult to move on, I believe I can help. I am dedicated to building a therapeutic alliance with my clients and working on an individual basis to help each, and every person realize their strengths to find their own solutions. I work with clients 18 and over to support them in recovering from anxiety, depression, addictions and relationship issues.
I believe that the road to finding happiness and freedom begins with a simple principle, understanding that some things are within our control and some things are not. Whether you are controlled by anxiety, dreading the “what ifs” of the future. Or you are stuck in the past and find it difficult to move on, I believe I can help. I am dedicated to building a therapeutic alliance with my clients and working on an individual basis to help each, and every person realize their strengths to find their own solutions. I work with clients 18 and over to support them in recovering from anxiety, depression, addictions and relationship issues.
(343) 338-5333 View (343) 338-5333
Photo of Andrew Alkenbrack - Evolve Neurofeedback & Psychotherapy Clinic, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Evolve Neurofeedback & Psychotherapy Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
Sometimes life gets overwhelming, and it becomes difficult to see the forest for the trees. Whether it’s work, relationships or historical issues that are causing you stress, psychotherapy can help make things clearer and help you adjust your perspectives to make sense out of your experiences. Other times there is no "sense" to make, but through therapy we can learn coping strategies to get through difficult times. Our approach to therapy is client-centered, with the focus on guiding clients to identify and reach their goals.
Sometimes life gets overwhelming, and it becomes difficult to see the forest for the trees. Whether it’s work, relationships or historical issues that are causing you stress, psychotherapy can help make things clearer and help you adjust your perspectives to make sense out of your experiences. Other times there is no "sense" to make, but through therapy we can learn coping strategies to get through difficult times. Our approach to therapy is client-centered, with the focus on guiding clients to identify and reach their goals.
(855) 439-7091 View (855) 439-7091

Online Therapists

Photo of David Bateman - Ottawa Men's Counseling, RPC-C, Counsellor
Ottawa Men's Counseling
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
Ottawa Men's Counseling helps men and those who care for them navigate trauma and difficult situations. My ideal client is someone looking for solutions given with a practical, realistic application in a goal focused manner. The focus is on providing healthy ways to improve your mental well being you can manage and relate to. Whether online or in-person, I can give you genuine ways to improve your situation and somebody to be a partner providing insight into your struggles. Stop suffering in silence and reach out.
Ottawa Men's Counseling helps men and those who care for them navigate trauma and difficult situations. My ideal client is someone looking for solutions given with a practical, realistic application in a goal focused manner. The focus is on providing healthy ways to improve your mental well being you can manage and relate to. Whether online or in-person, I can give you genuine ways to improve your situation and somebody to be a partner providing insight into your struggles. Stop suffering in silence and reach out.
(343) 453-4500 View (343) 453-4500
Photo of Rory Batchilder - Rory Batchilder, BSc, MEd, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Rory Batchilder
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Helping Individuals and Couples.
Private practice 20 yrs. Instructed at Counsellor Training Institute (CTI) for two years. Postgraduate Diploma in Couples Therapy in addition to Master's Degree. Your story will emerge . . . your goals and passions. Depression, anxiety, conflict, anger, addictions, self-esteem, spiritual searching, communication, relationship and intimacy issues. Familiar with complementary healing; mindfulness, inner-child, ego-states, positive psychology, visualization & meditation. Certified by: College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario ( 002563) & CCPA ( 8192). Fully Insured.
Helping Individuals and Couples.
Private practice 20 yrs. Instructed at Counsellor Training Institute (CTI) for two years. Postgraduate Diploma in Couples Therapy in addition to Master's Degree. Your story will emerge . . . your goals and passions. Depression, anxiety, conflict, anger, addictions, self-esteem, spiritual searching, communication, relationship and intimacy issues. Familiar with complementary healing; mindfulness, inner-child, ego-states, positive psychology, visualization & meditation. Certified by: College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario ( 002563) & CCPA ( 8192). Fully Insured.
(613) 777-0637 View (613) 777-0637
Photo of Sam Boulazreg @ Psychotherapy For You, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sam Boulazreg @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychotherapist (qualifying) with a master's degree in counseling psychology. I have been working in the mental health field and have experience helping individuals of all ages navigate various challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (qualifying) with a master's degree in counseling psychology. I have been working in the mental health field and have experience helping individuals of all ages navigate various challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma.
(343) 633-3766 View (343) 633-3766
Photo of Rahul James, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rahul James
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kanata, ON K2L
My ideal client is someone who has experienced the depth of life's challenges, perhaps grappling with Trauma, PTSD, Grief, or Relationship Issues. They could be facing anxieties, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts stemming from diverse issues. These challenges have shaped them, but they haven’t defined them. Their goal? To find clarity, healing, and empowerment. They seek a therapeutic space that is both culturally sensitive and technically adept. They want to be seen, heard, and understood. They yearn for resilience, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced the depth of life's challenges, perhaps grappling with Trauma, PTSD, Grief, or Relationship Issues. They could be facing anxieties, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts stemming from diverse issues. These challenges have shaped them, but they haven’t defined them. Their goal? To find clarity, healing, and empowerment. They seek a therapeutic space that is both culturally sensitive and technically adept. They want to be seen, heard, and understood. They yearn for resilience, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
(587) 842-0132 View (587) 842-0132
Photo of Nate Venema - Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
(343) 805-0202 View (343) 805-0202
Photo of Jay Walker, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Jay Walker
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H
Waitlist for new clients
I work with folks who struggle with issues related to PTSD/trauma, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, exercise & body image, relationship anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.
Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, & emotional difficulties can be extremely isolating, leading to feelings of shame and secrecy. Everyday "normal" functions might feel tough. Things as necessary as eating, moving, & relationships might feel confusing, overwhelming, or scary. It may feel like your nervous system is hijacked & you react in unintended ways. One's inner world feels chaotic, while those outside say "it's in your head". Trauma informed therapy recognizes that experiences shape our symptoms/coping/survival strategies, and relationships. Together we may work to calm your system, heal, and discover new ways of being.
I work with folks who struggle with issues related to PTSD/trauma, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, exercise & body image, relationship anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.
Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, & emotional difficulties can be extremely isolating, leading to feelings of shame and secrecy. Everyday "normal" functions might feel tough. Things as necessary as eating, moving, & relationships might feel confusing, overwhelming, or scary. It may feel like your nervous system is hijacked & you react in unintended ways. One's inner world feels chaotic, while those outside say "it's in your head". Trauma informed therapy recognizes that experiences shape our symptoms/coping/survival strategies, and relationships. Together we may work to calm your system, heal, and discover new ways of being.
(647) 696-0706 View (647) 696-0706
Photo of Myles Chisholm, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Myles Chisholm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9J  (Online Only)
I have specialized expertise in couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and facilitating therapeutic groups.
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
I have specialized expertise in couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and facilitating therapeutic groups.
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
(365) 645-9181 View (365) 645-9181
Photo of Martin Rovers, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Martin Rovers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
Dr. Martin Rovers, Ph.D., Psychologist, and his Capital Choice Counselling Associates work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems approach. Martin's therapy approach includes family of origin, attachment in family therapy (AFT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with emphasis on creating secure attachments within the relationship. Martin works within Capital Choice Counselling Group. CCCG is a well established counselling company consisting of over 40 experienced, professional psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers and counsellors who can often see you within 1-2 weeks.
Dr. Martin Rovers, Ph.D., Psychologist, and his Capital Choice Counselling Associates work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems approach. Martin's therapy approach includes family of origin, attachment in family therapy (AFT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with emphasis on creating secure attachments within the relationship. Martin works within Capital Choice Counselling Group. CCCG is a well established counselling company consisting of over 40 experienced, professional psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers and counsellors who can often see you within 1-2 weeks.
(844) 402-2025 View (844) 402-2025
Photo of Adam Gelinas - First Step Men's Therapy, RP, ASAT, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ASAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H  (Online Only)
Are you feeling disconnected to yourself, loved ones, or society? Do you question whether you are a good father, son, or partner? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, powerless, guilty, or "not normal". 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, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. You are not alone! First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free consultation today at firststepmenstherapy.com!
Are you feeling disconnected to yourself, loved ones, or society? Do you question whether you are a good father, son, or partner? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, powerless, guilty, or "not normal". 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, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. You are not alone! First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free consultation today at firststepmenstherapy.com!
(249) 490-4522 View (249) 490-4522
Photo of Patrick Turcotte - First Step Men's Therapy (Eng/Fre), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
First Step Men's Therapy (Eng/Fre)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Feeling disconnected lately? Doubting your role as a father, son, or partner? Maybe you're dealing with anger, feeling stuck, or overwhelmed, and it's starting to weigh on you. You're not alone in this struggle. We understand! We know that men face unique challenges and sometimes find it hard to reach out for help. But staying silent can lead to even bigger issues like addiction, anxiety, or depression. Don't let these feelings control you. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Our therapy sessions offer a safe, supportive environment for you to heal & grow. Click "Website" for a free consultation. Services en français!
Feeling disconnected lately? Doubting your role as a father, son, or partner? Maybe you're dealing with anger, feeling stuck, or overwhelmed, and it's starting to weigh on you. You're not alone in this struggle. We understand! We know that men face unique challenges and sometimes find it hard to reach out for help. But staying silent can lead to even bigger issues like addiction, anxiety, or depression. Don't let these feelings control you. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Our therapy sessions offer a safe, supportive environment for you to heal & grow. Click "Website" for a free consultation. Services en français!
(343) 307-9734 View (343) 307-9734
Photo of Rick Goodwin - Men & Healing: Psychotherapy for Men, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Men & Healing: Psychotherapy for Men
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
Welcome to Ontario's online therapy centre specifically designed for men and their families. All of our services are professionally facilitated by accredited psychotherapists who are experts in the field. We tailor our individual services to specifically meet men's needs in a way that speaks to men. Our widely known and respected men's group therapy programs include Anger Management, Childhood Trauma Recovery, Emotional Integrity and Sexual Integrity. Living a healthier and happier life is possible. People can change. Therapy can help.
Welcome to Ontario's online therapy centre specifically designed for men and their families. All of our services are professionally facilitated by accredited psychotherapists who are experts in the field. We tailor our individual services to specifically meet men's needs in a way that speaks to men. Our widely known and respected men's group therapy programs include Anger Management, Childhood Trauma Recovery, Emotional Integrity and Sexual Integrity. Living a healthier and happier life is possible. People can change. Therapy can help.
(855) 248-7258 View (855) 248-7258
Photo of Jay Rao, BSc, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jay Rao
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Charles Dickens once remarked that “a wonderful fact to reflect upon is that every human is a profound secret and mystery to every other." Despite how unique we all are, we often tend to spend much of our lives suffering, searching for happiness in places we struggle to ever find. Our wounds are the gateways to the most sacred parts of us and when we are open to new possibilities, we find what we had hoped for. It would be my honour to help make those possibilities your present realities.
Charles Dickens once remarked that “a wonderful fact to reflect upon is that every human is a profound secret and mystery to every other." Despite how unique we all are, we often tend to spend much of our lives suffering, searching for happiness in places we struggle to ever find. Our wounds are the gateways to the most sacred parts of us and when we are open to new possibilities, we find what we had hoped for. It would be my honour to help make those possibilities your present realities.
(587) 604-0868 View (587) 604-0868
Photo of William L (Larry) Mcmechan, MAC, CCC, BEd, Registered Psychotherapist
William L (Larry) Mcmechan
Registered Psychotherapist, MAC, CCC, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9J
My philosophy of treatment is to listen deeply to what has happened. I ask pertinent questions, not to judge what you have experienced, but to assist me in understanding what has happened and how it is affecting you now. We will embark on a journey together to unravel the reasons and answers that have eluded you so far. I use a client-centred approach, which means that you are the expert and I am the assistant. I will not try to fix you, but together, we will deconstruct what has happened and work towards creating the outcomes that you want.
My philosophy of treatment is to listen deeply to what has happened. I ask pertinent questions, not to judge what you have experienced, but to assist me in understanding what has happened and how it is affecting you now. We will embark on a journey together to unravel the reasons and answers that have eluded you so far. I use a client-centred approach, which means that you are the expert and I am the assistant. I will not try to fix you, but together, we will deconstruct what has happened and work towards creating the outcomes that you want.
(365) 398-5849 View (365) 398-5849
Photo of Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A  (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
(867) 731-0384 View (867) 731-0384
Photo of Ghassan Arabieh, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ghassan Arabieh
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the opportunity to work in hospitals and community-based health care settings providing counselling and psychotherapy. I have worked cross-culturally with clients who are dealing with a wide array of psychosocial issues. My clinical experience includes working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, acculturation stress, war trauma, childhood abuse, anger management and conflict with the law.
I have had the opportunity to work in hospitals and community-based health care settings providing counselling and psychotherapy. I have worked cross-culturally with clients who are dealing with a wide array of psychosocial issues. My clinical experience includes working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, acculturation stress, war trauma, childhood abuse, anger management and conflict with the law.
(343) 321-1380 View (343) 321-1380

See more therapy options for Kingston

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.