Couples Counselling in Aylesford

Photo of Jane Collings, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Jane Collings
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Aylesford ME20
If you're ready to make a change to how you're feeling, either about yourself or in a relationship, get in touch with me to arrange a free phone consultation or a first session.
Are you feeling worried, stuck, or held back by something that happened in the past? Maybe you feel inadequate in some way, or self conscious. Whatever your problem I'm here to help you feel better about yourself, and more deserving of the life you really want. It's surprising what can be achieved by simply devoting time to talking about your problems with someone who is trained to help you reflect. I'm an integrative counsellor which means that while we mainly talk about the here and now, I sometimes invite you to talk about your past too, in order for you to identify patterns - Your unique experiences effect how you see life.
If you're ready to make a change to how you're feeling, either about yourself or in a relationship, get in touch with me to arrange a free phone consultation or a first session.
Are you feeling worried, stuck, or held back by something that happened in the past? Maybe you feel inadequate in some way, or self conscious. Whatever your problem I'm here to help you feel better about yourself, and more deserving of the life you really want. It's surprising what can be achieved by simply devoting time to talking about your problems with someone who is trained to help you reflect. I'm an integrative counsellor which means that while we mainly talk about the here and now, I sometimes invite you to talk about your past too, in order for you to identify patterns - Your unique experiences effect how you see life.
01622 321730 View 01622 321730
Photo of Dawn Bell, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Dawn Bell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aylesford ME20
Are you feeling anxious/depressed, alone? Do you feel that you may have been the victim of narcissistic abuse or domestic violence? Maybe you are still in this relationship and finding it difficult to leave? Searching for a counsellor can be a tough process. I know you may find it extremely difficult to make that first contact, especially when you feel at your most vulnerable. I will help to put you at ease by providing a safe and confidential environment, where you will be listened to. This will be a space for you to explore your feelings without being judged or given advice. I will support you and help you to find some clarity.
Are you feeling anxious/depressed, alone? Do you feel that you may have been the victim of narcissistic abuse or domestic violence? Maybe you are still in this relationship and finding it difficult to leave? Searching for a counsellor can be a tough process. I know you may find it extremely difficult to make that first contact, especially when you feel at your most vulnerable. I will help to put you at ease by providing a safe and confidential environment, where you will be listened to. This will be a space for you to explore your feelings without being judged or given advice. I will support you and help you to find some clarity.
01622 239674 View 01622 239674
Photo of Jennifer Cornish, Psychotherapist in Aylesford, England
Jennifer Cornish
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Aylesford ME20
I feel that my experience and collaborative and empathic manner allows me to build up a relationship of trust and respect very quickly with you.
I am a fully accredited cognitive behavioural psychotherapist and psychodynamic counsellor. I have worked extensively in both the NHS and charitable sectors as a manager, supervisor and lecturer. I offer specialist interventions for both assessments and treatments. I work autonomously within the ethical guidelines of both the BABCP and the BACP. I offer therapy for depression and anxiety and related and co-morbid disorders. I am an empathic, caring and non judgemental therapist who is keen to support you to meet your goals and feel better. I am actively engaged in keeping up to date with developments in my field.
I feel that my experience and collaborative and empathic manner allows me to build up a relationship of trust and respect very quickly with you.
I am a fully accredited cognitive behavioural psychotherapist and psychodynamic counsellor. I have worked extensively in both the NHS and charitable sectors as a manager, supervisor and lecturer. I offer specialist interventions for both assessments and treatments. I work autonomously within the ethical guidelines of both the BABCP and the BACP. I offer therapy for depression and anxiety and related and co-morbid disorders. I am an empathic, caring and non judgemental therapist who is keen to support you to meet your goals and feel better. I am actively engaged in keeping up to date with developments in my field.
01622 322391 View 01622 322391

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Natalie Edwards-Moss, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Natalie Edwards-Moss
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14
The most important aspects are that the counselling is guided by you, the client, and that I facilitate a therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor built on mutual respect, trust and clear boundaries.
I strive to be an approachable, warm and accepting counsellor who can offer you a confidential, safe and non-judgemental space to talk about whatever it is that is troubling you. I work integratively, but I do so from a philosophically person-centered standpoint, in a relaxed yet respectful environment. I can help restore past issues and facilitate positive change, often in as few as six sessions, using a Solution Focused/CBT approach that focuses on overcoming life obstacles and moving away from feeling 'stuck'. I can help you with building confidence, resilience and focusing on new achievements and becoming goal oriented.
The most important aspects are that the counselling is guided by you, the client, and that I facilitate a therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor built on mutual respect, trust and clear boundaries.
I strive to be an approachable, warm and accepting counsellor who can offer you a confidential, safe and non-judgemental space to talk about whatever it is that is troubling you. I work integratively, but I do so from a philosophically person-centered standpoint, in a relaxed yet respectful environment. I can help restore past issues and facilitate positive change, often in as few as six sessions, using a Solution Focused/CBT approach that focuses on overcoming life obstacles and moving away from feeling 'stuck'. I can help you with building confidence, resilience and focusing on new achievements and becoming goal oriented.
01233 228713 View 01233 228713
Photo of Angela Christie, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Angela Christie
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14
I provide short-term or open ended contracts in a safe, confidential space, to promote the development of a trusting and respectful relationship.
Feeling overwhelmed and struggling to make sense of stressful and emotional anguish from current or past experiences? As a counsellor, my help with you would be to explore these issues, enable you to find your answers and recognise the choices that are available to you.
I provide short-term or open ended contracts in a safe, confidential space, to promote the development of a trusting and respectful relationship.
Feeling overwhelmed and struggling to make sense of stressful and emotional anguish from current or past experiences? As a counsellor, my help with you would be to explore these issues, enable you to find your answers and recognise the choices that are available to you.
07479 273211 View 07479 273211
Photo of Brenda Mackie, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Brenda Mackie
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Gillingham ME7
I'm a therapeutic counsellor qualified to diploma level with over 12 years experience in helping adults, young people and children in Medway Towns. I provide a safe, nurturing space for you to explore and make sense of how past trauma, relationship fails, bereavement or obsessive behaviours are affecting how you feel about yourself, your life and the lives of those around you. Please call me to discuss how I might be of help to you or email me to arrange an initial assessment.
I'm a therapeutic counsellor qualified to diploma level with over 12 years experience in helping adults, young people and children in Medway Towns. I provide a safe, nurturing space for you to explore and make sense of how past trauma, relationship fails, bereavement or obsessive behaviours are affecting how you feel about yourself, your life and the lives of those around you. Please call me to discuss how I might be of help to you or email me to arrange an initial assessment.
01747 448683 View 01747 448683
Photo of Sally Cloke Counselling, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Sally Cloke Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14
Are you an individual looking to feel listened to, or a couple or are unsure if you want to separate or work on your relationship? Or are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other difficult situation you are going through a loss or bereavement? We are social beings and born to be connected. When we are disconnected, we can feel lonely and experience pain and distress. Are you looking to gain a deeper understanding and meaning in life? Please contact me, and let's see how we can work together to create a happier and more content way of living.
Are you an individual looking to feel listened to, or a couple or are unsure if you want to separate or work on your relationship? Or are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other difficult situation you are going through a loss or bereavement? We are social beings and born to be connected. When we are disconnected, we can feel lonely and experience pain and distress. Are you looking to gain a deeper understanding and meaning in life? Please contact me, and let's see how we can work together to create a happier and more content way of living.
01233 542575 View 01233 542575
Photo of Ashford Relationship Therapy, Psychotherapist in Aylesford, England
Ashford Relationship Therapy
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14
If you are an individual or part of a couple that have issues around your relationship, or sexual relationship then please do get in contact. Perhaps your relationship is currently in crisis and nothing has changed, or perhaps you want to seek some help now before it gets any worse. It isn't always easy to sort these matters out by yourself and Couples Therapy can help you get your relationship back on track. I also specialise in sexual issues and compulsive sexual behaviour, which can also negatively affect your relationship, and I can help you to identify what these issues are and work towards helping you change this.
If you are an individual or part of a couple that have issues around your relationship, or sexual relationship then please do get in contact. Perhaps your relationship is currently in crisis and nothing has changed, or perhaps you want to seek some help now before it gets any worse. It isn't always easy to sort these matters out by yourself and Couples Therapy can help you get your relationship back on track. I also specialise in sexual issues and compulsive sexual behaviour, which can also negatively affect your relationship, and I can help you to identify what these issues are and work towards helping you change this.
01233 800837 View 01233 800837
Photo of Janet Bullen, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Janet Bullen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14
I have many years’ experience of working with stress, trauma, self-identity, depression, domestic abuse relationship problems, self-esteem, emotional abuse, anger management, post traumatic stress disorder, self-harm, addiction, loss, bereavement, sexual abuse, sexuality, anxiety, low self confidence, personality disorders and spirituality.
Hi I am person centred counsellor, this means I accept and support you to explore ways to help you overcome any uncomfortable or traumatic emotions you may be experiencing. Sometimes we have experiences in life that can be overwhelming or we just can’t make sense of the events that may have happened to us. Many people may need answers from others and this may never happen, therefore exploring these questions within in a safe place can allow us to have acceptance to help start the healing process and give us back a sense of empowerment.
I have many years’ experience of working with stress, trauma, self-identity, depression, domestic abuse relationship problems, self-esteem, emotional abuse, anger management, post traumatic stress disorder, self-harm, addiction, loss, bereavement, sexual abuse, sexuality, anxiety, low self confidence, personality disorders and spirituality.
Hi I am person centred counsellor, this means I accept and support you to explore ways to help you overcome any uncomfortable or traumatic emotions you may be experiencing. Sometimes we have experiences in life that can be overwhelming or we just can’t make sense of the events that may have happened to us. Many people may need answers from others and this may never happen, therefore exploring these questions within in a safe place can allow us to have acceptance to help start the healing process and give us back a sense of empowerment.
07716 140370 View 07716 140370
Photo of Mel Burgess, Psychotherapist in Aylesford, England
Mel Burgess
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Tonbridge TN12
I am a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist, supervisor and tutor, and offer a range of therapies to suit client’s needs. I work with individuals and couples on a short and long-term basis, online and face to face from my private practice. I am passionate about psychotherapy and believe that it enables people to make meaning out of their problems so that they can take informed decisions about what they want to do to bring about change in their lives. I have undergone extensive and rigorous psychotherapy training, I have a Diploma in Counselling and over 30 years’ experience of working in health, including 20 years of hospice experience.
I am a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist, supervisor and tutor, and offer a range of therapies to suit client’s needs. I work with individuals and couples on a short and long-term basis, online and face to face from my private practice. I am passionate about psychotherapy and believe that it enables people to make meaning out of their problems so that they can take informed decisions about what they want to do to bring about change in their lives. I have undergone extensive and rigorous psychotherapy training, I have a Diploma in Counselling and over 30 years’ experience of working in health, including 20 years of hospice experience.
01732 496773 View 01732 496773
Photo of Henzy Tanrien-Sawyer Counselling Service, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Henzy Tanrien-Sawyer Counselling Service
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gillingham ME7
Welcome to a safe space. I offer Counselling & Clinical Supervision addressing emotional & psychological distresses which can sometimes feel overwhelming and burdensome. No matter what it is, I am here to listen, accept and support you in confidence as you share your feelings & thoughts in a safe space. I am a registered accredited and experienced Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor with 25+ years working experience of supporting clients in various sectors to improve their mental & emotional well-being. I provide In-Person, Online & Telephone therapy to Adults, Christians, Couples, Families & Groups using an Integrative Approach.
Welcome to a safe space. I offer Counselling & Clinical Supervision addressing emotional & psychological distresses which can sometimes feel overwhelming and burdensome. No matter what it is, I am here to listen, accept and support you in confidence as you share your feelings & thoughts in a safe space. I am a registered accredited and experienced Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor with 25+ years working experience of supporting clients in various sectors to improve their mental & emotional well-being. I provide In-Person, Online & Telephone therapy to Adults, Christians, Couples, Families & Groups using an Integrative Approach.
01689 661625 View 01689 661625
Photo of Helen Mia Harris, Psychotherapist in Aylesford, England
Helen Mia Harris
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Underriver TN15
Are you living alone together? Is Your Relationship/Marriage in Crisis or facing difficult challenges at this time? Rekindle emotional closeness, trust and warmth. Do you have Marital Problems? I offer Couples Therapy, Marriage Counselling & Individual Relationship Therapy and Coaching. My sessions include two Communication & Empathy PDFs which I will send to you after our session. – My sessions will help you both to strengthen appreciation, trust and emotional closeness by recognising the triggers and dynamics that are at play between you. I am passionate about the work I do with relationships and know I can help you both.
Are you living alone together? Is Your Relationship/Marriage in Crisis or facing difficult challenges at this time? Rekindle emotional closeness, trust and warmth. Do you have Marital Problems? I offer Couples Therapy, Marriage Counselling & Individual Relationship Therapy and Coaching. My sessions include two Communication & Empathy PDFs which I will send to you after our session. – My sessions will help you both to strengthen appreciation, trust and emotional closeness by recognising the triggers and dynamics that are at play between you. I am passionate about the work I do with relationships and know I can help you both.
01622 938347 View 01622 938347
Photo of Joanna Taylor, Psychologist in Aylesford, England
Joanna Taylor
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Gillingham ME7
I am a highly experienced counselling psychologist who really enjoys helping people. I have a great deal of empathy and compassion for the struggles we face as human beings. If you are finding life tough or feeling like you want to make changes, I would love to try and help. I like to draw on a range of approaches to help you and I highly value a good therapeutic relationship together. Within this I use interventions so that you can understand yourself better and identify ways forward. It’s important for me to discover what YOU want to be different and my ideal client is only someone who works hard in allowing me to help you.
I am a highly experienced counselling psychologist who really enjoys helping people. I have a great deal of empathy and compassion for the struggles we face as human beings. If you are finding life tough or feeling like you want to make changes, I would love to try and help. I like to draw on a range of approaches to help you and I highly value a good therapeutic relationship together. Within this I use interventions so that you can understand yourself better and identify ways forward. It’s important for me to discover what YOU want to be different and my ideal client is only someone who works hard in allowing me to help you.
01634 959282 View 01634 959282
Photo of Annabel Tucker, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Annabel Tucker
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME18
Although relationship counselling and psycho sexual therapy are my specialities, I also have experience and training with depression, bereavement, anxiety, low self esteem, bullying, jealousy, lonliness, postnatal depression and trauma.
I have worked as a counsellor and psycho sexual therapist for over 20 years and I still find it as fascinating and rewarding now as when I started. I am COSRT and Relate accredited. I work with individuals, couples, families. I aim to support my clients to clarify the issues that are hindering their development and relationships in an effective way, while developing a greater understanding of the causes of their current problems and issues. In some cases the counselling can be quite specific and goal orientated; yet with others it can be more exploratory and pastoral. Most often it can include both, depending on the need.
Although relationship counselling and psycho sexual therapy are my specialities, I also have experience and training with depression, bereavement, anxiety, low self esteem, bullying, jealousy, lonliness, postnatal depression and trauma.
I have worked as a counsellor and psycho sexual therapist for over 20 years and I still find it as fascinating and rewarding now as when I started. I am COSRT and Relate accredited. I work with individuals, couples, families. I aim to support my clients to clarify the issues that are hindering their development and relationships in an effective way, while developing a greater understanding of the causes of their current problems and issues. In some cases the counselling can be quite specific and goal orientated; yet with others it can be more exploratory and pastoral. Most often it can include both, depending on the need.
07792 975443 View 07792 975443
Photo of Brigitte Buss Counselling Services, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Brigitte Buss Counselling Services
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wateringbury ME18
Every person has their own unique therapeutic experience. No two experiences are the same because no two people and their stories are the same. Your therapeutic experience will be what you make of it, however the process is made easier by the type of relationship you have with your therapist. It is therefore essential that you find the right person with whom you share your therapeutic journey. Rather than applying a “one-size-fits-all” approach, I tailor my approach to the person that you are.
Every person has their own unique therapeutic experience. No two experiences are the same because no two people and their stories are the same. Your therapeutic experience will be what you make of it, however the process is made easier by the type of relationship you have with your therapist. It is therefore essential that you find the right person with whom you share your therapeutic journey. Rather than applying a “one-size-fits-all” approach, I tailor my approach to the person that you are.
01732 905522 View 01732 905522
Photo of Beverley Beckett. Addiction Complex Trauma Adhd And Relationships, Psychotherapist in Aylesford, England
Beverley Beckett. Addiction Complex Trauma Adhd And Relationships
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14
I regularly work across a number of different areas and can support you if you are struggling with: addiction, trauma, abuse, bereavement, neurodiversity, bullying and relationship issues, gender conflict, self-harm, depression, anxiety or suicide.
Person-centred counselling puts you at the centre of our sessions, while I guide our discussions and support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to provide structure to your thinking. The guiding purpose is to allow you to discover the best way forward for you as an individual - we are all unique. There are a number of reasons why you might want to engage in therapy and often our conversations can cover unexpected topics. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, registered with the BACP and NCPS.
I regularly work across a number of different areas and can support you if you are struggling with: addiction, trauma, abuse, bereavement, neurodiversity, bullying and relationship issues, gender conflict, self-harm, depression, anxiety or suicide.
Person-centred counselling puts you at the centre of our sessions, while I guide our discussions and support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to provide structure to your thinking. The guiding purpose is to allow you to discover the best way forward for you as an individual - we are all unique. There are a number of reasons why you might want to engage in therapy and often our conversations can cover unexpected topics. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, registered with the BACP and NCPS.
07401 263192 View 07401 263192
Photo of Ronke Adeyemi (MA, MBACP) Individual & Couple, Psychotherapist in Aylesford, England
Ronke Adeyemi (MA, MBACP) Individual & Couple
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Kent Street ME18  (Online Only)
I offer counselling to Individual, Couples, premarital & Family.
Are you feeling Anxious, Depressed or stuck in your personal or professional life? Are you experiencing a profound loss due to Bereavement or a Traumatic /PTSD that causes you sleeplessness? or going through Relationship, Domestic Abuse/ Violence, Spiritual, Identity or Cultural issues? Are you struggling with feeling of shame, guilt, abandonment or looking for healing due to unresolved past hurt and disappointment? I have personal experience of how it felt to be trapped and joy to be liberated. We will collaboratively work together with empathy and respect to gain confidence you need to live a happy and fulfilling life with .
I offer counselling to Individual, Couples, premarital & Family.
Are you feeling Anxious, Depressed or stuck in your personal or professional life? Are you experiencing a profound loss due to Bereavement or a Traumatic /PTSD that causes you sleeplessness? or going through Relationship, Domestic Abuse/ Violence, Spiritual, Identity or Cultural issues? Are you struggling with feeling of shame, guilt, abandonment or looking for healing due to unresolved past hurt and disappointment? I have personal experience of how it felt to be trapped and joy to be liberated. We will collaboratively work together with empathy and respect to gain confidence you need to live a happy and fulfilling life with .
01689 663148 View 01689 663148
Photo of Kirstie Eames, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Kirstie Eames
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester ME1  (Online Only)
I can support you with most difficulties including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship problems, Trauma, all forms of abuse, Anger management, Stress, Family difficulties.
My name is Kirstie Eames and I’m here to help and support you to gain the skills you need to make a positive move forward. I offer one to one Integrative and Trauma counselling in a safe, confidential, Empathetic, non-judgemental space for you to be able to promote healing, build self-awareness, build self-esteem and to be heard to help you move forward in your life. As a trauma informed therapist I can provide a grounded presence where you can begin to explore your trauma while feeling safe, listened to, and held. I also work with more generalised mental health such as depression, all anxiety, PD's, behaviour disorders and OCD
I can support you with most difficulties including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship problems, Trauma, all forms of abuse, Anger management, Stress, Family difficulties.
My name is Kirstie Eames and I’m here to help and support you to gain the skills you need to make a positive move forward. I offer one to one Integrative and Trauma counselling in a safe, confidential, Empathetic, non-judgemental space for you to be able to promote healing, build self-awareness, build self-esteem and to be heard to help you move forward in your life. As a trauma informed therapist I can provide a grounded presence where you can begin to explore your trauma while feeling safe, listened to, and held. I also work with more generalised mental health such as depression, all anxiety, PD's, behaviour disorders and OCD
01268 202997 View 01268 202997
Photo of Olivia Hope Counselling (Online), Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Olivia Hope Counselling (Online)
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME14  (Online Only)
Anxiety, stress, past or current trauma, relationship difficulties and low self-esteem can hugely impact our well-being, our sense of safety and our confidence. It can be confusing trying to figure ourselves out, and as for figuring out others? Also challenging. Counselling and Psychotherapy provides a place of safety to explore our inner world, our external circumstances and the relationships we sometimes find so hard to navigate. We will work to develop new insights and tools that foster personal growth and fulfilment in a new and profound way. If you would like to take the next step, do get in touch for a free online consultation
Anxiety, stress, past or current trauma, relationship difficulties and low self-esteem can hugely impact our well-being, our sense of safety and our confidence. It can be confusing trying to figure ourselves out, and as for figuring out others? Also challenging. Counselling and Psychotherapy provides a place of safety to explore our inner world, our external circumstances and the relationships we sometimes find so hard to navigate. We will work to develop new insights and tools that foster personal growth and fulfilment in a new and profound way. If you would like to take the next step, do get in touch for a free online consultation
01843 260628 View 01843 260628
Photo of Beccy Jackson, Counsellor in Aylesford, England
Beccy Jackson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME18  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to make sense of life? Feeling sad, anxious, confused, depressed, overwhelmed or numb? Have you experienced a negative relationship or been subjected to abuse? Do you lack self esteem or find it hard to trust your own judgment? Counselling may help, for these and many other concerns. As a humanistic and integrative counsellor, I offer a safe, confidential, and welcoming space for you to focus on your needs either face to face in Sittingbourne or via telephone, online sessions. i can also offer chat sessions via teams.
Are you struggling to make sense of life? Feeling sad, anxious, confused, depressed, overwhelmed or numb? Have you experienced a negative relationship or been subjected to abuse? Do you lack self esteem or find it hard to trust your own judgment? Counselling may help, for these and many other concerns. As a humanistic and integrative counsellor, I offer a safe, confidential, and welcoming space for you to focus on your needs either face to face in Sittingbourne or via telephone, online sessions. i can also offer chat sessions via teams.
01622 234665 View 01622 234665
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.