Photo of Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling , Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings and/or circumstances. Relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues, depression, anxiety, etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look together at what is distressing you and find the best way forward.
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings and/or circumstances. Relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues, depression, anxiety, etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look together at what is distressing you and find the best way forward.
01242 386010 View 01242 386010
Photo of Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre , Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I have experience with working with adults of all ages, teenagers and younger children on a wide range of issues including: anxiety, identity, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, eating disorders, self-harm, and more.
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
I have experience with working with adults of all ages, teenagers and younger children on a wide range of issues including: anxiety, identity, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, eating disorders, self-harm, and more.
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
01242 339245 View 01242 339245
Photo of Chloé Donohue, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Chloé Donohue
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50  (Online Only)
Consistent with the evidence, I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the core of therapeutic change.
I believe that each person is unique. Therefore, therapy needs to be tailored to the individual. Some people may prefer an open space for them to talk, taking the time to reflect on their experiences, whereas others may need something more structured, with the hope of learning effective coping strategies. Some may want a bit of both. There is not a one size fits all. I draw from evidence-based modalities of therapy, such as CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centered to create a therapeutic plan tailored to the client and their goals.
Consistent with the evidence, I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the core of therapeutic change.
I believe that each person is unique. Therefore, therapy needs to be tailored to the individual. Some people may prefer an open space for them to talk, taking the time to reflect on their experiences, whereas others may need something more structured, with the hope of learning effective coping strategies. Some may want a bit of both. There is not a one size fits all. I draw from evidence-based modalities of therapy, such as CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centered to create a therapeutic plan tailored to the client and their goals.
01993 221193 View 01993 221193
Photo of Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service , Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service is a dedicated provider of support for adults and children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism or ADHD. Our friendly experienced team of therapists, mentors and psychologists, use adapted approaches and specialist tools, to help people overcome their challenges.
Cotswold Neurodevelopmental Service is a dedicated provider of support for adults and children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism or ADHD. Our friendly experienced team of therapists, mentors and psychologists, use adapted approaches and specialist tools, to help people overcome their challenges.
01285 842652 View 01285 842652
Photo of Dr Hayley MacGregor, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr Hayley MacGregor
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cheltenham GL50
Not accepting new clients
Starting therapy takes courage and it may feel daunting given that talking openly about your distress may evoke feelings of vulnerability. The therapeutic relationship is often the vehicle for positive change so finding the right ‘fit’ is important. Therefore, please contact me for a free telephone/video consultation to find out more. As a Clinical Psychologist my job is to listen with compassion to your life story and help you make sense of any troubles or trauma that you are facing within your life, whether that be in your present or reoccurring from your past.
Starting therapy takes courage and it may feel daunting given that talking openly about your distress may evoke feelings of vulnerability. The therapeutic relationship is often the vehicle for positive change so finding the right ‘fit’ is important. Therefore, please contact me for a free telephone/video consultation to find out more. As a Clinical Psychologist my job is to listen with compassion to your life story and help you make sense of any troubles or trauma that you are facing within your life, whether that be in your present or reoccurring from your past.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jamie Maycock, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Jamie Maycock
Psychotherapist, PsychD, BACP
Verified Verified
Gloucester GL1
I am a BACP registered Psychotherapist and have been working with clients since 2013. I offer an integrative approach, working with each person as an individual and using different theory’s to support the client in the best way. I offer an open minded and non judgemental space for clients to explore what’s troubling them. I work with all client issues. My specialist areas of work include offering support to clients with OCD using a range of CBT tools, working with victims of rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence, and working with complex mental health issues. I have completed specialised training for providing psychotherapy.
I am a BACP registered Psychotherapist and have been working with clients since 2013. I offer an integrative approach, working with each person as an individual and using different theory’s to support the client in the best way. I offer an open minded and non judgemental space for clients to explore what’s troubling them. I work with all client issues. My specialist areas of work include offering support to clients with OCD using a range of CBT tools, working with victims of rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence, and working with complex mental health issues. I have completed specialised training for providing psychotherapy.
07588 732617 View 07588 732617

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr Ilan Ben-Zion
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
These are effective in helping people overcome difficulties such as low mood, anxiety, anger, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, coping with the loss a loved one, the impact of trauma or adjusting to new life circumstances.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
These are effective in helping people overcome difficulties such as low mood, anxiety, anger, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, coping with the loss a loved one, the impact of trauma or adjusting to new life circumstances.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
020 3974 2820 View 020 3974 2820
Photo of Lucinda Milne, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Lucinda Milne
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chester CH4
I know how important it is to look after our emotional well being irrespective of age. Stresses, strains and anxieties can hit at anytime. It maybe a current situation or something from our past which impacts on our ability to manage our current situation. Even anticipation of future events can impact on us at an emotional level. There are many reasons why counselling can be beneficial including low self-esteem, low self-confidence, bullying, family issues, bereavement, infant loss, relationship issues, and anger to name but a few, It takes strength and courage to acknowledge you may need help.
I know how important it is to look after our emotional well being irrespective of age. Stresses, strains and anxieties can hit at anytime. It maybe a current situation or something from our past which impacts on our ability to manage our current situation. Even anticipation of future events can impact on us at an emotional level. There are many reasons why counselling can be beneficial including low self-esteem, low self-confidence, bullying, family issues, bereavement, infant loss, relationship issues, and anger to name but a few, It takes strength and courage to acknowledge you may need help.
01244 470196 View 01244 470196
Photo of Kirsty Sanderson Pg Dip, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Kirsty Sanderson Pg Dip
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wrexham LL11
I am qualified to work with a wide range of presenting issues including: anxiety/ depression, bereavement, trauma, bullying, low self-esteem, relationship problems, sexual issues, sexuality, stress, work issues etc.
People turn to counselling with many and varied issues. But despite the variations, you have some things in common and often it is recognition that it is time for change, or a desire to change; a wish to minimise or remove distress and anxiety and a need for a deeper understanding of yourself, your partners, family members or others around you. I am fully Relate trained to work with couples and your relationship issues, however I also work with individuals, young people and families covering the wide range of issues you may encounter on a daily basis. I offer room based therapy in Warrington or outdoor sessions in Wrexham.
I am qualified to work with a wide range of presenting issues including: anxiety/ depression, bereavement, trauma, bullying, low self-esteem, relationship problems, sexual issues, sexuality, stress, work issues etc.
People turn to counselling with many and varied issues. But despite the variations, you have some things in common and often it is recognition that it is time for change, or a desire to change; a wish to minimise or remove distress and anxiety and a need for a deeper understanding of yourself, your partners, family members or others around you. I am fully Relate trained to work with couples and your relationship issues, however I also work with individuals, young people and families covering the wide range of issues you may encounter on a daily basis. I offer room based therapy in Warrington or outdoor sessions in Wrexham.
01925 931071 View 01925 931071
Photo of Clive Terence Henderson, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Clive Terence Henderson
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Haslemere GU27
I have been providing Counselling, Psychotherapy, Supervision and Life Coaching for over 25 years, working with all ages and every issue imaginable. Nothing surprises me or is too strange or difficult. I have worked in Psychiatric Hospitals, Day Programs, Residential Treatment Centres and Out-Patient Therapy Agencies. I work with children and adults, couples, families, and groups. I work within organisations, as well as privately.
I have been providing Counselling, Psychotherapy, Supervision and Life Coaching for over 25 years, working with all ages and every issue imaginable. Nothing surprises me or is too strange or difficult. I have worked in Psychiatric Hospitals, Day Programs, Residential Treatment Centres and Out-Patient Therapy Agencies. I work with children and adults, couples, families, and groups. I work within organisations, as well as privately.
01428 774954 View 01428 774954
Photo of Dr Zara Hosany, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr Zara Hosany
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1  (Online Only)
Do you feel fed up and struggling to achieve your goals? Are you looking for movement and change? Would you like a therapist or supervisor who is understanding and able to help you progress forwards in the direction you would like to move in? I am Dr Zara Hosany, a Principal Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience working in mental health. I offer a range of interventions: individual work with adults, young people, parents, couples, family therapy; supervision for qualified professionals and trainees; coaching and mentoring, consultation work with organisations, and reflective spaces for groups.
Do you feel fed up and struggling to achieve your goals? Are you looking for movement and change? Would you like a therapist or supervisor who is understanding and able to help you progress forwards in the direction you would like to move in? I am Dr Zara Hosany, a Principal Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience working in mental health. I offer a range of interventions: individual work with adults, young people, parents, couples, family therapy; supervision for qualified professionals and trainees; coaching and mentoring, consultation work with organisations, and reflective spaces for groups.
01689 664642 View 01689 664642
Photo of Colleen Smith, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Colleen Smith
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Malmesbury SN16
Trained in Relax Kids, Havening, Couples work enabling me to mould my skills around your needs.
I am a Havening Technique practitioner and qualified counsellor (www.havening.org), a quick and highly effective neuroscience technique. The Havening Techniques is a method, proven through science, which is designed to change the brain to de-traumatize the memory and remove its negative effects from both our psyche and body. I have a long history of working with children/families/parents and carers. I believe that our relationship is key and my focus is based around understanding your needs and that I am led by your pace fuelled with passion, caring and empathy.
Trained in Relax Kids, Havening, Couples work enabling me to mould my skills around your needs.
I am a Havening Technique practitioner and qualified counsellor (www.havening.org), a quick and highly effective neuroscience technique. The Havening Techniques is a method, proven through science, which is designed to change the brain to de-traumatize the memory and remove its negative effects from both our psyche and body. I have a long history of working with children/families/parents and carers. I believe that our relationship is key and my focus is based around understanding your needs and that I am led by your pace fuelled with passion, caring and empathy.
07588 724374 x078594 View 07588 724374 x078594
Photo of JDJCounselling For You!, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
JDJCounselling For You!
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cardiff CF11
Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and individuals.
The overall aim of Counselling and Therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to work towards living by where experiences are more satisfying. The process of Counselling becomes itself one of life's new situations: It offers an opportunity to experience life differently and to extend the range of ways in which you can operate in the world with greater satisfaction. "EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP"!!!!
Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and individuals.
The overall aim of Counselling and Therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to work towards living by where experiences are more satisfying. The process of Counselling becomes itself one of life's new situations: It offers an opportunity to experience life differently and to extend the range of ways in which you can operate in the world with greater satisfaction. "EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP"!!!!
029 2167 3089 View 029 2167 3089
Photo of Embrace Centre for Counselling and Therapy, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Embrace Centre for Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Huntingdon PE29
I have trained with Relate and work with children and young people, (talking therapy and creative therapy), individuals, couples and families.
I have been a counsellor/therapist for the last 18 years. I love my work and I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space so that we can work through difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. My counselling style is varied as it is very much dependent on the individuals or couples needs and concerns. I have felt honoured to work with those who have been my clients. It is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Meet with me for an introductory consultation and we can discover the best ways to help make the changes needed to help you on your journey.
I have trained with Relate and work with children and young people, (talking therapy and creative therapy), individuals, couples and families.
I have been a counsellor/therapist for the last 18 years. I love my work and I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space so that we can work through difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. My counselling style is varied as it is very much dependent on the individuals or couples needs and concerns. I have felt honoured to work with those who have been my clients. It is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Meet with me for an introductory consultation and we can discover the best ways to help make the changes needed to help you on your journey.
01487 801962 View 01487 801962
Photo of Dronfield Psychological Therapies Ltd, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Dronfield Psychological Therapies Ltd
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dronfield S18
Phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, health anxiety, generalised anxiety, insomnia, low self-esteem, eating disorders, bereavement, relationship difficulties, living with long term physical health conditions, bullying, or any other stressful life events.
Dronfield Psychological Therapies is based at Church Street, Dronfield. We offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing, Counselling, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy to both children aged 8+ years and adults. We are a team of 13 psychotherapists with a broad range of therapeutic qualifications. We offer a free (no obligation) consultation to everyone. This enables us to match your own personal requirements to the best possible therapist.
Phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, health anxiety, generalised anxiety, insomnia, low self-esteem, eating disorders, bereavement, relationship difficulties, living with long term physical health conditions, bullying, or any other stressful life events.
Dronfield Psychological Therapies is based at Church Street, Dronfield. We offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing, Counselling, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy to both children aged 8+ years and adults. We are a team of 13 psychotherapists with a broad range of therapeutic qualifications. We offer a free (no obligation) consultation to everyone. This enables us to match your own personal requirements to the best possible therapist.
0114 697 4786 View 0114 697 4786
Photo of Clare Francis, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Clare Francis
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Staines TW18
I have worked as a relationship therapist for over 15 years and I offer insights and can help you find coping strategies. I work with individuals, couples, young people and families. The issues that I work with include anxiety, separation/divorce, putting your relationship back together, escalating rows, communication to name but a few. I am a professionally qualified and experienced therapist with a private practise in Staines and work with a large number of my clients online, including clients in both at home and abroad. I have a Master of Arts degree in Relationship and Family Therapy.
I have worked as a relationship therapist for over 15 years and I offer insights and can help you find coping strategies. I work with individuals, couples, young people and families. The issues that I work with include anxiety, separation/divorce, putting your relationship back together, escalating rows, communication to name but a few. I am a professionally qualified and experienced therapist with a private practise in Staines and work with a large number of my clients online, including clients in both at home and abroad. I have a Master of Arts degree in Relationship and Family Therapy.
01372 677024 View 01372 677024
Photo of Marjorie Reid, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Marjorie Reid
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE6
I specialise in trauma and work with children, adults and couples.
I offer a compassionate, safe and confidential environment that supports the exploration and expression of feelings, thoughts, beliefs and circumstances that may be having an adverse effect on emotional well-being and quality of life. Sometimes we just need a space to be still and reflect, a space where we feel accepted, understood and supported in gaining a deeper awareness into why we behave the way we do, or that can offer us an alternative perspective on challenging life situations. My aim is to support you in making sense of your life and working with you in moving to where you would like to be.
I specialise in trauma and work with children, adults and couples.
I offer a compassionate, safe and confidential environment that supports the exploration and expression of feelings, thoughts, beliefs and circumstances that may be having an adverse effect on emotional well-being and quality of life. Sometimes we just need a space to be still and reflect, a space where we feel accepted, understood and supported in gaining a deeper awareness into why we behave the way we do, or that can offer us an alternative perspective on challenging life situations. My aim is to support you in making sense of your life and working with you in moving to where you would like to be.
020 4538 3734 View 020 4538 3734
Photo of Gayle Ceasey, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Gayle Ceasey
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Maidenhead SL6
I offer work with couples experiencing difficulties due to past hurts, arguing, infidelity, infertility, the challenges of parenting, 'drifting apart'.
Sometimes it's hard to know what to do with our difficult thoughts and feelings and this is when counselling can help. I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist working with couples, adults, young people and children. In a safe and confidential space, both EMDR therapy and counselling offer you the chance to feel accepted and understood. Feeling supported to think and talk about what is going on for you is the first step to being able to move forward. Counselling means that you do not have to work it all out on your own. I will be there to support, guide and help you.
I offer work with couples experiencing difficulties due to past hurts, arguing, infidelity, infertility, the challenges of parenting, 'drifting apart'.
Sometimes it's hard to know what to do with our difficult thoughts and feelings and this is when counselling can help. I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist working with couples, adults, young people and children. In a safe and confidential space, both EMDR therapy and counselling offer you the chance to feel accepted and understood. Feeling supported to think and talk about what is going on for you is the first step to being able to move forward. Counselling means that you do not have to work it all out on your own. I will be there to support, guide and help you.
01494 292797 View 01494 292797
Photo of Matthew Adam, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Matthew Adam
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Chester CH4
Hi, I'm Matthew and I am a Family & Couples Psychotherapist. I have worked with children, families and couples for over 20 years, helping them manage their emotional health and wellbeing. Often individual worries can lead to family issues and I support you individually or together, depending of your needs. I have helped children, young people and their parents and couples work through a range of difficulties including managing challenging behaviour, Autism, social and generalised anxiety, sleeping difficulties, anger management, frequent family clashes, the effects of couple tension, bereavement, and conflict in relationships.
Hi, I'm Matthew and I am a Family & Couples Psychotherapist. I have worked with children, families and couples for over 20 years, helping them manage their emotional health and wellbeing. Often individual worries can lead to family issues and I support you individually or together, depending of your needs. I have helped children, young people and their parents and couples work through a range of difficulties including managing challenging behaviour, Autism, social and generalised anxiety, sleeping difficulties, anger management, frequent family clashes, the effects of couple tension, bereavement, and conflict in relationships.
01829 708157 View 01829 708157
Photo of Chantell Douglas, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Chantell Douglas
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N16
I work with adults/couples experiencing anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout and more.
Hi and welcome, my name is Dr Chantell Douglas. I am a highly experienced clinical psychologist. I have worked in the NHS for over 15 years. I specialise in working with parents, children, families, adults and couples with a range of difficulties, across the lifespan and from a range of diverse backgrounds, identities and cultures. A client said, "the sessions with Chantell have been...so brilliant and a lifeline during a really difficult time for me and my family. I have never had such deep insights and realisations into my past experiences and how they impact my life...These sessions have been a gift and I am truly grateful."
I work with adults/couples experiencing anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout and more.
Hi and welcome, my name is Dr Chantell Douglas. I am a highly experienced clinical psychologist. I have worked in the NHS for over 15 years. I specialise in working with parents, children, families, adults and couples with a range of difficulties, across the lifespan and from a range of diverse backgrounds, identities and cultures. A client said, "the sessions with Chantell have been...so brilliant and a lifeline during a really difficult time for me and my family. I have never had such deep insights and realisations into my past experiences and how they impact my life...These sessions have been a gift and I am truly grateful."
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See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.