Couples Counselling in Warrington

Photo of Michael Rimmer, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Michael Rimmer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
I believe the therapeutic process, works best when these human qualities are present in the therapeutic relationship; consequently, my clients tell me they value my 'realness'.
There is a broad spectrum of reasons why people seek and can benefit from counselling. The reasons may seem clear, or may feel somewhat out of reach, yet there is a sense that talking to someone may help? Counselling can help us to better understand the source of our distress, find resolutions and move forward in ways that serve us better as individuals. I consider it a privilege to work with people in this endeavour and recognise that it is important that you find the right person to talk to.
I believe the therapeutic process, works best when these human qualities are present in the therapeutic relationship; consequently, my clients tell me they value my 'realness'.
There is a broad spectrum of reasons why people seek and can benefit from counselling. The reasons may seem clear, or may feel somewhat out of reach, yet there is a sense that talking to someone may help? Counselling can help us to better understand the source of our distress, find resolutions and move forward in ways that serve us better as individuals. I consider it a privilege to work with people in this endeavour and recognise that it is important that you find the right person to talk to.
01925 377333 View 01925 377333
Photo of Kirsty Sanderson Pg Dip, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Kirsty Sanderson Pg Dip
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA4
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 Sandra Hurree, Psychotherapist in Warrington, England
Sandra Hurree
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I can offer you that therapeutic relationship, built on trust and our mutual commitment to working towards finding the answers that will set you free from the everyday, exhaustive struggles, to allow working towards a more positive outlook in life.
I am a qualified BACP Accredited and experienced Person Centred Counsellor, and CPCAB qualified Therapeutic Counselling Supervisor following the Hawkins & Shohet's 7 Eyed Model of Supervision, and my aim is to help, support, guide and mentor individuals in overcoming their most difficult challenges, and empower clients to find their own path and facilitate positive change and personal growth. My aim is to commit to providing a safe and confidential space, offering a non-judgemental approach, believing in your ability to self-heal, whilst I walk alongside you as you explore your inner world and journey of self-exploration.
I can offer you that therapeutic relationship, built on trust and our mutual commitment to working towards finding the answers that will set you free from the everyday, exhaustive struggles, to allow working towards a more positive outlook in life.
I am a qualified BACP Accredited and experienced Person Centred Counsellor, and CPCAB qualified Therapeutic Counselling Supervisor following the Hawkins & Shohet's 7 Eyed Model of Supervision, and my aim is to help, support, guide and mentor individuals in overcoming their most difficult challenges, and empower clients to find their own path and facilitate positive change and personal growth. My aim is to commit to providing a safe and confidential space, offering a non-judgemental approach, believing in your ability to self-heal, whilst I walk alongside you as you explore your inner world and journey of self-exploration.
01925 598664 View 01925 598664
Photo of Hannah Nicholson, Psychologist in Warrington, England
Hannah Nicholson
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
The services we provide include: Individual therapy and group or family-based therapy, including couples; psychological consultation; tailored teaching and training to teams and organisations; and clinical or therapeutic supervision and coaching.
Our aim at Springdale is to support any adult, child, young person, family or organisation to maximise their potential and effectively manage the difficulties that life often brings. We believe that by building an understanding of your social, emotional, psychological and physical needs, you can be supported to feel safe, ready to cope and able to achieve the goals that matter to you. Our aim will be to help you to explore your needs, to better understand the difficulties you face and to provide tailored psychological support, based on a wide range of evidence based interventions to help develop solutions that work for you.
The services we provide include: Individual therapy and group or family-based therapy, including couples; psychological consultation; tailored teaching and training to teams and organisations; and clinical or therapeutic supervision and coaching.
Our aim at Springdale is to support any adult, child, young person, family or organisation to maximise their potential and effectively manage the difficulties that life often brings. We believe that by building an understanding of your social, emotional, psychological and physical needs, you can be supported to feel safe, ready to cope and able to achieve the goals that matter to you. Our aim will be to help you to explore your needs, to better understand the difficulties you face and to provide tailored psychological support, based on a wide range of evidence based interventions to help develop solutions that work for you.
01925 989031 View 01925 989031
Photo of Claire Bee Counselling, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Claire Bee Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA2
Do you feel stuck, maybe with low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or with things from your past holding you back? Do you feel lonely, lost, uncertain or unable to make decisions for fear of making the wrong choice? Do you need support to see clearly and communicate effectively? Are you struggling with addiction, anxiety or depression? Are you feeling low or worthless? Are you finding it hard to come to terms with grief, loss, divorce, infidelity, or abuse? I have supported clients through these and other issues, and I will be with you in a non-judgemental, supportive way though whatever you're facing.
Do you feel stuck, maybe with low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or with things from your past holding you back? Do you feel lonely, lost, uncertain or unable to make decisions for fear of making the wrong choice? Do you need support to see clearly and communicate effectively? Are you struggling with addiction, anxiety or depression? Are you feeling low or worthless? Are you finding it hard to come to terms with grief, loss, divorce, infidelity, or abuse? I have supported clients through these and other issues, and I will be with you in a non-judgemental, supportive way though whatever you're facing.
01925 361824 View 01925 361824
Photo of Hear4U Counselling, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Hear4U Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
Welcome to my profile. My number one aim, passion and priority is to make a positive difference to your life. For me, counselling is a process that supports, empowers and facilitates well-being. A space that you can trust with no judgement or criticism for you to feel free to express and explore what’s important to you. I offer an empathic nurturing relationship so that you are supported to achieve your goals, whether it would be personal development and self-actualisation or to overcome distressing/traumatic events, thoughts or feelings. Attentively, I actively listen to you so I understand deeply, you and your lived experiences.
Welcome to my profile. My number one aim, passion and priority is to make a positive difference to your life. For me, counselling is a process that supports, empowers and facilitates well-being. A space that you can trust with no judgement or criticism for you to feel free to express and explore what’s important to you. I offer an empathic nurturing relationship so that you are supported to achieve your goals, whether it would be personal development and self-actualisation or to overcome distressing/traumatic events, thoughts or feelings. Attentively, I actively listen to you so I understand deeply, you and your lived experiences.
01628 904151 View 01628 904151
Photo of Heather Budzynski, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Heather Budzynski
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
The decision to attend counselling can be difficult and sometimes overwhelming. It is the quality of the 'therapeutic relationship' that is key to progress, so that you feel supported and comfortable to talk about what matters to you. I believe passionately in the counselling process, and for me the promotion of positive mental health and well-being is at the core of our work together.
The decision to attend counselling can be difficult and sometimes overwhelming. It is the quality of the 'therapeutic relationship' that is key to progress, so that you feel supported and comfortable to talk about what matters to you. I believe passionately in the counselling process, and for me the promotion of positive mental health and well-being is at the core of our work together.
01244 667128 View 01244 667128
Photo of Anna Palin-Swift, Psychotherapist in Warrington, England
Anna Palin-Swift
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
I am an experienced integrative Psychotherapist working face to face and online. I have experience helping couples and individuals with Relationship support, whether that is support following an affair, help with communication or arguments or wider family situations. I also support individuals with issues like anxiety and self esteem. You may find it difficult to understand just what your problems are – you just know you feel awful and your life is not happy. Talking to a professionally trained & experienced counsellor or therapist really does allow you to explore these difficult areas and, together, draw up a workable action plan.
I am an experienced integrative Psychotherapist working face to face and online. I have experience helping couples and individuals with Relationship support, whether that is support following an affair, help with communication or arguments or wider family situations. I also support individuals with issues like anxiety and self esteem. You may find it difficult to understand just what your problems are – you just know you feel awful and your life is not happy. Talking to a professionally trained & experienced counsellor or therapist really does allow you to explore these difficult areas and, together, draw up a workable action plan.
01942 932418 View 01942 932418
Photo of Jade Scott, Psychologist in Warrington, England
Jade Scott
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
The services we provide include: Individual therapy and group or family-based therapy, including couples; psychological consultation; tailored teaching and training to teams and organisations; and clinical or therapeutic supervision and coaching.
Our aim at Springdale is to support any adult, child, young person, family or organisation to maximise their potential and effectively manage the difficulties that life often brings. We believe that by building an understanding of your social, emotional, psychological and physical needs, you can be supported to feel safe, ready to cope and able to achieve the goals that matter to you. Our aim will be to help you to explore your needs, to better understand the difficulties you face and to provide tailored psychological support, based on a wide range of evidence based interventions to help develop solutions that work for you.
The services we provide include: Individual therapy and group or family-based therapy, including couples; psychological consultation; tailored teaching and training to teams and organisations; and clinical or therapeutic supervision and coaching.
Our aim at Springdale is to support any adult, child, young person, family or organisation to maximise their potential and effectively manage the difficulties that life often brings. We believe that by building an understanding of your social, emotional, psychological and physical needs, you can be supported to feel safe, ready to cope and able to achieve the goals that matter to you. Our aim will be to help you to explore your needs, to better understand the difficulties you face and to provide tailored psychological support, based on a wide range of evidence based interventions to help develop solutions that work for you.
01925 933380 View 01925 933380
Photo of Dawn Brearley, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Dawn Brearley
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
As a relationship counsellor, I trained with Relate working for several national charities & in private practice in this specialist area.
When was the last time that you checked in with yourself? We can be there to support our loved ones and just get on with the day to day but sometimes forget to look after ourselves. We can feel lost, overwhelmed, scared or angry at the curveballs that life throws at us. As a person-centred therapist, I know how important it is to feel comfortable and accepted in counselling sessions. We can build up trust together and so empower you to explore difficult feelings and find a way forward. I’m happy to work in a shorter-term solution focussed way or explore deeper issues, which have been troubling you for a while, over the longer term.
As a relationship counsellor, I trained with Relate working for several national charities & in private practice in this specialist area.
When was the last time that you checked in with yourself? We can be there to support our loved ones and just get on with the day to day but sometimes forget to look after ourselves. We can feel lost, overwhelmed, scared or angry at the curveballs that life throws at us. As a person-centred therapist, I know how important it is to feel comfortable and accepted in counselling sessions. We can build up trust together and so empower you to explore difficult feelings and find a way forward. I’m happy to work in a shorter-term solution focussed way or explore deeper issues, which have been troubling you for a while, over the longer term.
01925 948682 View 01925 948682
Photo of Dr Liddy Carver, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Dr Liddy Carver
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
Online Counselling/Psychotherapy available via Zoom or Skype. Based in Warrington,Cheshire, I am a highly qualified therapist with a PhD in Counselling and MSc in Clinical Counselling. As an experienced BACP Registered and Accredited Person-Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I provide a safe, professional and confidential talking therapy service for individuals, couples and families. My work is influenced by the Person-Centred Approach based on acceptance, empathy and genuineness. I am also a qualified practitioner in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Regulation) and a Clinical Supervisor trained at postgraduate level.
Online Counselling/Psychotherapy available via Zoom or Skype. Based in Warrington,Cheshire, I am a highly qualified therapist with a PhD in Counselling and MSc in Clinical Counselling. As an experienced BACP Registered and Accredited Person-Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I provide a safe, professional and confidential talking therapy service for individuals, couples and families. My work is influenced by the Person-Centred Approach based on acceptance, empathy and genuineness. I am also a qualified practitioner in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Regulation) and a Clinical Supervisor trained at postgraduate level.
01925 938935 View 01925 938935
Photo of Donna Court, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Donna Court
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I run a practice in Warrington and surrounding areas offering counselling to individuals, couples, Children and adolescents.
Hi, I am a qualified Person Centred and CBT therapist with experience in counselling and coaching adults, adolescents and children. If you are stressed, anxious, depressed or maybe you have a sense of wanting something better, I can help. In counselling, I will work closely with you to explore any issues you bring and help you to identify any barriers to your happiness. I will help you to recognise your own strengths and resources and find new coping strategies to make choices to create the life you desire.
I run a practice in Warrington and surrounding areas offering counselling to individuals, couples, Children and adolescents.
Hi, I am a qualified Person Centred and CBT therapist with experience in counselling and coaching adults, adolescents and children. If you are stressed, anxious, depressed or maybe you have a sense of wanting something better, I can help. In counselling, I will work closely with you to explore any issues you bring and help you to identify any barriers to your happiness. I will help you to recognise your own strengths and resources and find new coping strategies to make choices to create the life you desire.
01925 933384 x078079 View 01925 933384 x078079
Julie Ashworth
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
I work with individuals, couples and families with experience in managing anxiety & stress, bereavement, depression, relationship/family issues, child/adolescent clients, cancer support, post traumatic stress disorder/trauma, pregnancy & birth, abuse, addiction, sexual and transgender, anger & self harm.
Hi, my name is Julie. I am a professional Counsellor and Supervisor and an member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling Society. I provide a confidential, counselling service to meet your individual needs providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can work at your own pace in a place of safety and comfort where your feelings and emotions can be expressed and explored. I offer support and understanding in a non-critical way and appreciate and respect differences and diversity in culture, ethnicity, race, gender, sexuality, physical ability and spirituality
I work with individuals, couples and families with experience in managing anxiety & stress, bereavement, depression, relationship/family issues, child/adolescent clients, cancer support, post traumatic stress disorder/trauma, pregnancy & birth, abuse, addiction, sexual and transgender, anger & self harm.
Hi, my name is Julie. I am a professional Counsellor and Supervisor and an member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling Society. I provide a confidential, counselling service to meet your individual needs providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can work at your own pace in a place of safety and comfort where your feelings and emotions can be expressed and explored. I offer support and understanding in a non-critical way and appreciate and respect differences and diversity in culture, ethnicity, race, gender, sexuality, physical ability and spirituality
01925 938944 View 01925 938944
Photo of Julie Pomfret, Psychotherapist in Warrington, England
Julie Pomfret
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA5
I am an integrative therapist who is able to offer a range of approaches. I specialise in Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Bibliotherapy, Body Image, Confidence with Communication, Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purpose, Depression, Existential Therapy, Expressive Writing Therapy, Identity Issues, Narrative Therapy and Resilience Building. I offer face-to-face therapy as I believe it is the most effective way to build a good, solid, therapeutic relationship. The experience of being in a safe therapy space helps to build a stronger, more trusting connection with your therapist, which, in turn, brings the best results.
I am an integrative therapist who is able to offer a range of approaches. I specialise in Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Bibliotherapy, Body Image, Confidence with Communication, Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purpose, Depression, Existential Therapy, Expressive Writing Therapy, Identity Issues, Narrative Therapy and Resilience Building. I offer face-to-face therapy as I believe it is the most effective way to build a good, solid, therapeutic relationship. The experience of being in a safe therapy space helps to build a stronger, more trusting connection with your therapist, which, in turn, brings the best results.
01925 986779 View 01925 986779
Photo of Dave Cooper Counselling, Psychotherapist in Warrington, England
Dave Cooper Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, ACC-AC
Verified Verified
Warrington WA2
I work with every kind of addiction and dependence. Unlike residential approaches, I work with you whilst you are at home and at work. In your real life. Issues that I consider my approach successful with are - alcohol, cocaine and other drugs. internet based dependencies such as social media and gaming. Workaholism and relationship depndency. Sexual and relationship addiction. prescription medication dependency. Comfort eating and overeating as well as restricting and self starving.
I work with every kind of addiction and dependence. Unlike residential approaches, I work with you whilst you are at home and at work. In your real life. Issues that I consider my approach successful with are - alcohol, cocaine and other drugs. internet based dependencies such as social media and gaming. Workaholism and relationship depndency. Sexual and relationship addiction. prescription medication dependency. Comfort eating and overeating as well as restricting and self starving.
01925 989871 View 01925 989871
Photo of Dr Heather Boland, Psychologist in Warrington, England
Dr Heather Boland
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I support individuals (from children to adults), couples, parents and families.
We all dream of the way we want our life to be. Then life happens and sometimes it can feel like we are stuck in a pattern of living that we do not want to be in. Or we live through painful experiences that days, months, or years later continue to influence how we feel, think and act. Or maybe our family life and relationships feel out of balance, we may feel out of control, overwhelmed or disconnected from our loved ones. I am here to listen to your story, your difficulties and your dreams of how you wish your life, relationships, work, and family to be. Therapy can help you feel unstuck, so you can enjoy being who you are.
I support individuals (from children to adults), couples, parents and families.
We all dream of the way we want our life to be. Then life happens and sometimes it can feel like we are stuck in a pattern of living that we do not want to be in. Or we live through painful experiences that days, months, or years later continue to influence how we feel, think and act. Or maybe our family life and relationships feel out of balance, we may feel out of control, overwhelmed or disconnected from our loved ones. I am here to listen to your story, your difficulties and your dreams of how you wish your life, relationships, work, and family to be. Therapy can help you feel unstuck, so you can enjoy being who you are.
01983 219162 View 01983 219162
Photo of Kerry Thorpe Therapy, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Kerry Thorpe Therapy
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
Are you a couple looking for support with enhancing your communication and the quality of your connection with your partner? Are you an individual looking for an experienced counsellor who can work with a wide range of issues? Perhaps you have experienced difficulty in your relationship or life and want to work through, heal from and process this in therapy. Perhaps you are looking for growth and forward movement, individually, or with your partner. You may want to feel more enjoyment in life and be able to respond to stressful situations in a different way?
Are you a couple looking for support with enhancing your communication and the quality of your connection with your partner? Are you an individual looking for an experienced counsellor who can work with a wide range of issues? Perhaps you have experienced difficulty in your relationship or life and want to work through, heal from and process this in therapy. Perhaps you are looking for growth and forward movement, individually, or with your partner. You may want to feel more enjoyment in life and be able to respond to stressful situations in a different way?
01942 559573 View 01942 559573
Photo of Paula Kennedy Psychotherapy: PKFSP, Psychotherapist in Warrington, England
Paula Kennedy Psychotherapy: PKFSP
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
As an experienced, UKCP registered, professional Systemic Psychotherapist working in Merseyside, your mental health and well-being is at the heart of my practice. I offer individual, couples and family work with children, young people, adults and/or the wider family network. With 27 years experience in the field of mental health care, across a range of services, I am able to offer assessment, formulation and tailored interventions for all those I work with.
As an experienced, UKCP registered, professional Systemic Psychotherapist working in Merseyside, your mental health and well-being is at the heart of my practice. I offer individual, couples and family work with children, young people, adults and/or the wider family network. With 27 years experience in the field of mental health care, across a range of services, I am able to offer assessment, formulation and tailored interventions for all those I work with.
0151 453 6366 View 0151 453 6366
Photo of Clare Tighe, Psychotherapist in Warrington, England
Clare Tighe
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I'm an experienced Psychotherapist qualified to Level 7 (Masters degree) and a BACP registered Couples Psychotherapist Counsellor. I have a Masters in counselling, relationship therapy. I work with a variety of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, ADHD, Transgendered issues, Affairs and Couples Counselling, Anger management, Grief, Suicide and Self Harm. I also work with relationship issues such as communication problems, conflict, affairs, divorce and separation, post natal depression, loss of intimacy, trauma and I work with same sex relationships.
I'm an experienced Psychotherapist qualified to Level 7 (Masters degree) and a BACP registered Couples Psychotherapist Counsellor. I have a Masters in counselling, relationship therapy. I work with a variety of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, ADHD, Transgendered issues, Affairs and Couples Counselling, Anger management, Grief, Suicide and Self Harm. I also work with relationship issues such as communication problems, conflict, affairs, divorce and separation, post natal depression, loss of intimacy, trauma and I work with same sex relationships.
01925 598064 View 01925 598064
Photo of Life's Journey Counselling, Counsellor in Warrington, England
Life's Journey Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Are you ready to embrace change and regain your life? I am a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stressed?You CAN create choices, gain new skills/strategies to cope. Whether it’s loneliness, relationship/family or something else. You CAN achieve positive change, together we will overcome whatever is holding you back, leaving nothing unresolved. Counselling can be scary, taking that first step to make contact is very brave. I am certain once you meet me, you will feel comfortable and safe, and trust in the therapeutic process, as a result of this I now receive many client referrals
Are you ready to embrace change and regain your life? I am a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stressed?You CAN create choices, gain new skills/strategies to cope. Whether it’s loneliness, relationship/family or something else. You CAN achieve positive change, together we will overcome whatever is holding you back, leaving nothing unresolved. Counselling can be scary, taking that first step to make contact is very brave. I am certain once you meet me, you will feel comfortable and safe, and trust in the therapeutic process, as a result of this I now receive many client referrals
01928 249651 View 01928 249651

See more therapy options for Warrington


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.