Couples Counselling in Central London, London

See all counsellors in Central London, London
Photo of Elaine Conway, Counsellor in Central London, London, England
Elaine Conway
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified
Central London, London EC2M  (Online Only)
You can expect to receive effective, nurturing, honest therapy which will help you make space for a different perspective; I am passionate about relieving the mental distress client's present with. I mainly get contacted by clients who present with anxiety, Depression, relationship issues, trauma and addictions. - Client testimony “As a result of my sessions with Elaine, I’ve made some really positive changes which I wholeheartedly believe I wouldn’t have been capable of without her professional guidance.”
You can expect to receive effective, nurturing, honest therapy which will help you make space for a different perspective; I am passionate about relieving the mental distress client's present with. I mainly get contacted by clients who present with anxiety, Depression, relationship issues, trauma and addictions. - Client testimony “As a result of my sessions with Elaine, I’ve made some really positive changes which I wholeheartedly believe I wouldn’t have been capable of without her professional guidance.”
020 4538 5035 View 020 4538 5035
Photo of space-to-talk.com, Counsellor in Central London, London, England
space-to-talk.com
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified
Central London, London EC1A
When working with individuals struggling with their relationship to food and their bodies, I offer an empathic, individualised and collaborative approach.
I am a BACP accredited counsellor/psychotherapist with a London practice in the heart of the City (EC1). I combine this with working in the NHS where I have experience in a range of different settings including a primary care (IAPT) service, a secondary service specialising in complex mental health difficulties including complex trauma, and many years of working in an eating disorders service where I have specialist expertise.
When working with individuals struggling with their relationship to food and their bodies, I offer an empathic, individualised and collaborative approach.
I am a BACP accredited counsellor/psychotherapist with a London practice in the heart of the City (EC1). I combine this with working in the NHS where I have experience in a range of different settings including a primary care (IAPT) service, a secondary service specialising in complex mental health difficulties including complex trauma, and many years of working in an eating disorders service where I have specialist expertise.
020 8106 2489 View 020 8106 2489
Photo of Dr Natasha Nascimento, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Dr Natasha Nascimento
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified
Central London, London WC1H
I work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples , and families from different backgrounds.
Seeking help is brave, finding the right therapist essential. So, let me tell you about myself. I am passionate about helping families and individuals navigate a range of complexities/dilemmas/relationships. You might be feeling hopeless or too cautious around others. Occasionally we all experience these feelings, but gradually these wear us down. I specialise in helping people affected by emotional/ relationship difficulties to change and reconnect. These include: improving relationships, communication; anxiety/depression; trauma; parenting issues; post-adoption; separation/divorce; loss/grief; education/work issues and other issues
I work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples , and families from different backgrounds.
Seeking help is brave, finding the right therapist essential. So, let me tell you about myself. I am passionate about helping families and individuals navigate a range of complexities/dilemmas/relationships. You might be feeling hopeless or too cautious around others. Occasionally we all experience these feelings, but gradually these wear us down. I specialise in helping people affected by emotional/ relationship difficulties to change and reconnect. These include: improving relationships, communication; anxiety/depression; trauma; parenting issues; post-adoption; separation/divorce; loss/grief; education/work issues and other issues
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Photo of Dr Mana Barnett, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Dr Mana Barnett
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London WC1X
In my years of experience, I have worked for the NHS in a number of settings, including, primary care mental health service, weight management service, and Women’s Health at University Colleague Hospital (providing psychological therapies to people with intersex and complex gynecological conditions, and couples with fertility issues).
I view therapy as a collaborative enterprise between client and therapist, with the shared goal of gaining understanding and facilitating a process of acceptance or change. In recognising that we are all unique, each with our own beliefs, values and attitudes about ourselves, others, and the world, I believe that it is important to tailor therapy to the individual needs of my clients. I work with a range of psychological theories and approaches, including Existential-phenomenological therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Motivational Enhancement therapy, providing both short and longer-term therapy, where appropriate.
In my years of experience, I have worked for the NHS in a number of settings, including, primary care mental health service, weight management service, and Women’s Health at University Colleague Hospital (providing psychological therapies to people with intersex and complex gynecological conditions, and couples with fertility issues).
I view therapy as a collaborative enterprise between client and therapist, with the shared goal of gaining understanding and facilitating a process of acceptance or change. In recognising that we are all unique, each with our own beliefs, values and attitudes about ourselves, others, and the world, I believe that it is important to tailor therapy to the individual needs of my clients. I work with a range of psychological theories and approaches, including Existential-phenomenological therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Motivational Enhancement therapy, providing both short and longer-term therapy, where appropriate.
020 3984 9044 View 020 3984 9044
Photo of Azima Ryan, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Azima Ryan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified
Central London, London WC1V
You might feel stuck in patterns that you can't seem to break free of, or have difficulty connecting with other people, or feeling true intimacy. Or you might have been putting on a 'mask' to go out to work and function in the world, but underneath are living with pain in various forms: depression, anxiety, grief or anger. If you feel motivated to make changes but don't know where to start, then psychotherapy might be right for you. With time, as you start to feel safe enough to talk in depth about the things that have been troubling you, therapy can become a very real relationship of trust and openness.
You might feel stuck in patterns that you can't seem to break free of, or have difficulty connecting with other people, or feeling true intimacy. Or you might have been putting on a 'mask' to go out to work and function in the world, but underneath are living with pain in various forms: depression, anxiety, grief or anger. If you feel motivated to make changes but don't know where to start, then psychotherapy might be right for you. With time, as you start to feel safe enough to talk in depth about the things that have been troubling you, therapy can become a very real relationship of trust and openness.
020 8103 6769 View 020 8103 6769
Photo of Daniel Goldie, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Daniel Goldie
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified
Central London, London WC1H
I've worked with people having facing many challenges; histories of abuse, anxiety, bereavement and loss, depression, trauma, stress at home or in work, sex & relationship issues, questions around sexuality and gender, family difficulties, alcohol or substance misuse, existential issues and more.
I see therapy as an opportunity to explore, to challenge, and to develop new ways of being and relating. I engage with my clients in a real, authentic way, and invite them to do the same with me. I'm an experienced UKCP accredited Psychotherapist with over 14 years experience working in a range of mental health services. I've supported many people in leading richer and more rewarding lives. ​I work in a way that is open, honest, supportive and allows for lightness and challenge. Take a look at my website for more information about how I work.
I've worked with people having facing many challenges; histories of abuse, anxiety, bereavement and loss, depression, trauma, stress at home or in work, sex & relationship issues, questions around sexuality and gender, family difficulties, alcohol or substance misuse, existential issues and more.
I see therapy as an opportunity to explore, to challenge, and to develop new ways of being and relating. I engage with my clients in a real, authentic way, and invite them to do the same with me. I'm an experienced UKCP accredited Psychotherapist with over 14 years experience working in a range of mental health services. I've supported many people in leading richer and more rewarding lives. ​I work in a way that is open, honest, supportive and allows for lightness and challenge. Take a look at my website for more information about how I work.
020 3958 4013 View 020 3958 4013
Photo of Justin David Duwe Bsc Ma Sac Dip Mbacp (Accred), Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Justin David Duwe Bsc Ma Sac Dip Dip Mbacp (Accred)
Psychologist, MA, GMBPsS
Verified
Central London, London WC1X  (Online Only)
My name is Justin Duwe, I am an award winning Psychologist, Sexologist, Columnist and Author working in private practice in Central London. I offer practical, tailored in-person and online counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples and groups. The main body of my work is in the areas of Addiction treatment, Sex/ Relationship Matters, Chemsex, Self-Esteem, Body Image, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Existential issues and more.
My name is Justin Duwe, I am an award winning Psychologist, Sexologist, Columnist and Author working in private practice in Central London. I offer practical, tailored in-person and online counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples and groups. The main body of my work is in the areas of Addiction treatment, Sex/ Relationship Matters, Chemsex, Self-Esteem, Body Image, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Existential issues and more.
020 3962 0374 View 020 3962 0374
Photo of Marek Sarnecki, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Marek Sarnecki
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC4N
My name is Marek and I am a Psychotherapist and a Sex and Relationship Therapist who works in a private practice and in a higher education institution in London. I believe therapy helps people to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships to become free of old patterns, or simply find ways to process pain or memories that have kept them feeling stuck. I strongly believe that we simply repeat what we don't repair. I have a heart and a passion for the work I do in creating effective change. My clinical experience includes working for: NHS, a community counselling services, and a suicidal respite centre.
My name is Marek and I am a Psychotherapist and a Sex and Relationship Therapist who works in a private practice and in a higher education institution in London. I believe therapy helps people to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships to become free of old patterns, or simply find ways to process pain or memories that have kept them feeling stuck. I strongly believe that we simply repeat what we don't repair. I have a heart and a passion for the work I do in creating effective change. My clinical experience includes working for: NHS, a community counselling services, and a suicidal respite centre.
020 3962 2243 View 020 3962 2243
Photo of Erica Eassom, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Erica Eassom
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Central London, London WC1N
I can help if you're struggling in your relationship to yourself or those around you. This might include feeling repeatedly let down, rejected, abandoned; feeling depressed, anxious, ashamed as well as self-critical; lacking in intimacy and trust or even fearing others. I can also help if you have been affected by past trauma. You might struggle with food and eating, self-harming or experience unstable emotions as well as substance abuse. You might have difficulty asserting yourself or consistently finding yourself in vulnerable situations and problematic relationships and have difficulty establishing long-term relationships.
I can help if you're struggling in your relationship to yourself or those around you. This might include feeling repeatedly let down, rejected, abandoned; feeling depressed, anxious, ashamed as well as self-critical; lacking in intimacy and trust or even fearing others. I can also help if you have been affected by past trauma. You might struggle with food and eating, self-harming or experience unstable emotions as well as substance abuse. You might have difficulty asserting yourself or consistently finding yourself in vulnerable situations and problematic relationships and have difficulty establishing long-term relationships.
020 8051 7910 View 020 8051 7910
Photo of Raluca Ursica, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Raluca Ursica
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified
Central London, London EC2V
If you're struggling with depression, anxiety and panic attacks, abuse, trauma, loneliness, stress, work and career issues, burnout, addiction, bereavement, grief, difficult emotions such as anger, frustration, despair, or relationship problems, I can offer you the support you need.
Hello, I understand that taking the first step towards seeking therapy can be daunting, but please know that it's also a courageous and empowering decision. Whether you're looking for support with a particular issue or seeking long-term therapy, talking to someone can be a powerful and life-changing experience. My approach as a therapist is rooted in compassion, empathy, and empowerment. I believe in helping you discover the skills to achieve a sense of inner balance by relying on all the resources you possess through body, spirit, mind, and emotion.
If you're struggling with depression, anxiety and panic attacks, abuse, trauma, loneliness, stress, work and career issues, burnout, addiction, bereavement, grief, difficult emotions such as anger, frustration, despair, or relationship problems, I can offer you the support you need.
Hello, I understand that taking the first step towards seeking therapy can be daunting, but please know that it's also a courageous and empowering decision. Whether you're looking for support with a particular issue or seeking long-term therapy, talking to someone can be a powerful and life-changing experience. My approach as a therapist is rooted in compassion, empathy, and empowerment. I believe in helping you discover the skills to achieve a sense of inner balance by relying on all the resources you possess through body, spirit, mind, and emotion.
020 3319 6334 View 020 3319 6334
Photo of Dr Christopher McCormack, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Dr Christopher McCormack
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Central London, London EC3V
I am a Clinical Psychologist who offers psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of difficulties. In my NHS posts, I work in an HIV & Sexual Health service and a specialist mental health team that provides input to inpatients and outpatients struggling with physical health problems. I am particularly experienced at seeing people and couples presenting with sexual difficulties, such as painful sex or unreliable erections. I also have a specialist interest in anxiety disorders and the application of cognitive behavioural therapy in its treatment.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who offers psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of difficulties. In my NHS posts, I work in an HIV & Sexual Health service and a specialist mental health team that provides input to inpatients and outpatients struggling with physical health problems. I am particularly experienced at seeing people and couples presenting with sexual difficulties, such as painful sex or unreliable erections. I also have a specialist interest in anxiety disorders and the application of cognitive behavioural therapy in its treatment.
01689 668406 View 01689 668406
Photo of Neville Perrett, Counsellor in Central London, London, England
Neville Perrett
Counsellor, MA
Verified
Central London, London EC1N
ISSUES I WORK WITH ▪ Anxiety & panic attacks ▪ Depression ▪ Loneliness & isolation ▪ Low self esteem ▪ Relationship difficulties ▪ Post traumatic stress disorder ▪ Gay & lesbian isuues ▪ Bereavement & loss ▪ Sexual abuse ▪ Domestic abuse ▪ Drug and alcohol dependance THE WAY I WORK I am an integrative counsellor/psychotherapist which means I incor.
Counselling/Psychotherapy can help us understand better how we behave, what motivates us, and how past experiences can affect current behaviour. By expressing whatever is uppermost in our mind, feelings, thoughts, wishes, fears, memories and dreams can be explored within the safety of the therapeutic relationship . The aim being to enable us to find more appropriate ways of coping with our difficulties and to bring about changes in our thinking, feeling and behaviour. Through exploration therapy hopes to enable us to live a more fulfilling life and reach our full potential in the face of life's limitations.
ISSUES I WORK WITH ▪ Anxiety & panic attacks ▪ Depression ▪ Loneliness & isolation ▪ Low self esteem ▪ Relationship difficulties ▪ Post traumatic stress disorder ▪ Gay & lesbian isuues ▪ Bereavement & loss ▪ Sexual abuse ▪ Domestic abuse ▪ Drug and alcohol dependance THE WAY I WORK I am an integrative counsellor/psychotherapist which means I incor.
Counselling/Psychotherapy can help us understand better how we behave, what motivates us, and how past experiences can affect current behaviour. By expressing whatever is uppermost in our mind, feelings, thoughts, wishes, fears, memories and dreams can be explored within the safety of the therapeutic relationship . The aim being to enable us to find more appropriate ways of coping with our difficulties and to bring about changes in our thinking, feeling and behaviour. Through exploration therapy hopes to enable us to live a more fulfilling life and reach our full potential in the face of life's limitations.
020 3984 9843 View 020 3984 9843
Photo of Gloria Simpson, Counsellor in Central London, London, England
Gloria Simpson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Central London, London WC1A  (Online Only)
career, relationship , life journey, negative or outworn behaviour patterns.
I am a sex positive, GSRD, kink knowledgeable practitioner, focusing on LGBTQI, BAME/POC and Kink communities. A qualified Psychosynthesis Counsellor with over 25 years’ experience counselling adults. Specialisms include LGBTQI, BAME/POC, Kink/BDSM, Polyamory/Ethical Non-monogamy, Spirituality. Psychosynthesis is a transpersonal therapy combining Western psychotherapy with Eastern spiritual traditions, exploring the idea of a spiritual component to our existence. The work is holistic, looking at the whole person, not just the presenting issue. I work 1:1 with adult individuals.
career, relationship , life journey, negative or outworn behaviour patterns.
I am a sex positive, GSRD, kink knowledgeable practitioner, focusing on LGBTQI, BAME/POC and Kink communities. A qualified Psychosynthesis Counsellor with over 25 years’ experience counselling adults. Specialisms include LGBTQI, BAME/POC, Kink/BDSM, Polyamory/Ethical Non-monogamy, Spirituality. Psychosynthesis is a transpersonal therapy combining Western psychotherapy with Eastern spiritual traditions, exploring the idea of a spiritual component to our existence. The work is holistic, looking at the whole person, not just the presenting issue. I work 1:1 with adult individuals.
020 3984 8382 View 020 3984 8382
Photo of Martyn Bignold, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Martyn Bignold
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Central London, London EC3V
As a doctor of psychology, I provide a safe space where you can explore what is troubling you and start to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. I offer short-term and long-term therapy, using psychological models with a proven track record, to address anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, workplace stresses, addictions, trauma and grief. Ultimately, our goal may be for you to become your own therapist. After all, you know the client better than anyone.
As a doctor of psychology, I provide a safe space where you can explore what is troubling you and start to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. I offer short-term and long-term therapy, using psychological models with a proven track record, to address anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, workplace stresses, addictions, trauma and grief. Ultimately, our goal may be for you to become your own therapist. After all, you know the client better than anyone.
020 3984 7533 View 020 3984 7533
Photo of Ian Anderson, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Ian Anderson
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Central London, London EC1V
I also offer couples counselling focused upon relationship difficulties with each of you in a separate location if you choose.
I am a Chartered Psychologist registered with the HCPC with over 30 years of experience. I have worked in private practice with over two thousand patients and supervised more than 100 therapists. I am separately qualified in various fields of applied Psychology including Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Counselling Psychology and Occupational Psychology. I now deliver all my counselling and therapy by the following methods: video conferencing; telephone sessions; real-time online chat; and email. I believe that matching the right therapy delivered by the right therapist to an individual is the key to therapeutic success.
I also offer couples counselling focused upon relationship difficulties with each of you in a separate location if you choose.
I am a Chartered Psychologist registered with the HCPC with over 30 years of experience. I have worked in private practice with over two thousand patients and supervised more than 100 therapists. I am separately qualified in various fields of applied Psychology including Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Counselling Psychology and Occupational Psychology. I now deliver all my counselling and therapy by the following methods: video conferencing; telephone sessions; real-time online chat; and email. I believe that matching the right therapy delivered by the right therapist to an individual is the key to therapeutic success.
020 3879 4351 View 020 3879 4351
Photo of Nicola Corrigan, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Nicola Corrigan
Psychotherapist, BPC
Verified
Central London, London EC2A
I am a qualified psychodynamic psychotherapist offering a compassionate and confidential space for you to be listened to, and where we can explore your thoughts, emotions, experiences and any challenges you may be facing. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals who seek a deeper understanding of themselves or require support in navigating various difficulties such as anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, perinatal mental health, relationship difficulties and bereavement.
I am a qualified psychodynamic psychotherapist offering a compassionate and confidential space for you to be listened to, and where we can explore your thoughts, emotions, experiences and any challenges you may be facing. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals who seek a deeper understanding of themselves or require support in navigating various difficulties such as anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, perinatal mental health, relationship difficulties and bereavement.
020 3856 8377 View 020 3856 8377
Photo of Elizabeth Blaise, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Elizabeth Blaise
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified
Central London, London WC1X
I'm a UKCP and BACP registered psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EMDR therapist. My approach is integrative and draws on a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, Existential, Jungian & Transpersonal. For trauma/PTSD and early relational/attachment issues, I offer EMDR, may include body-centred work (mindfulness/therapeutic yoga/Qi Gong) and draw on relevant trauma treatment models, including sensorimotor psychotherapy. I work with individuals and couples and offer therapy as a safe, non-judgmental and empathic space in which you can talk in confidence about whatever is troubling you. Zoom sessions also possible.
I'm a UKCP and BACP registered psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EMDR therapist. My approach is integrative and draws on a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, Existential, Jungian & Transpersonal. For trauma/PTSD and early relational/attachment issues, I offer EMDR, may include body-centred work (mindfulness/therapeutic yoga/Qi Gong) and draw on relevant trauma treatment models, including sensorimotor psychotherapy. I work with individuals and couples and offer therapy as a safe, non-judgmental and empathic space in which you can talk in confidence about whatever is troubling you. Zoom sessions also possible.
020 3984 9469 View 020 3984 9469
Photo of Reeta Kauppinen, Counsellor in Central London, London, England
Reeta Kauppinen
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified
Central London, London EC4N
I am a fully qualified and experienced BACP registered psychotherapy and counselling practitioner in individual therapy with extensive knowledge working with adults experiencing mental health difficulties, depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and crises. For over ten years I managed a welfare service for NHS and for Mind in Hackney running projects for Community Mental Health Team and clients who used psychiatric services. Part of my role was also to train social work students as a practice educator. For the last 9 years I have worked in private practice.
I am a fully qualified and experienced BACP registered psychotherapy and counselling practitioner in individual therapy with extensive knowledge working with adults experiencing mental health difficulties, depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and crises. For over ten years I managed a welfare service for NHS and for Mind in Hackney running projects for Community Mental Health Team and clients who used psychiatric services. Part of my role was also to train social work students as a practice educator. For the last 9 years I have worked in private practice.
020 3870 3479 View 020 3870 3479
Photo of Blue River Psychology, Psychologist in Central London, London, England
Blue River Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified
Central London, London EC1A
Hello, I am Dr Rima Lamba. I'm a feminist counselling psychologist with an interest in the unique experiences of women from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I work closely with women who have struggled with self esteem & identity, relationship issues, difficulties in motherhood, life transitions, attachment and early trauma, and transgenerational trauma. I am particularly interested in the structural power differences that impact people, so I work closely on issues to do with patriarchy, race, culture and more. I also work with a team of therapists who can support clients, including adult families.
Hello, I am Dr Rima Lamba. I'm a feminist counselling psychologist with an interest in the unique experiences of women from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I work closely with women who have struggled with self esteem & identity, relationship issues, difficulties in motherhood, life transitions, attachment and early trauma, and transgenerational trauma. I am particularly interested in the structural power differences that impact people, so I work closely on issues to do with patriarchy, race, culture and more. I also work with a team of therapists who can support clients, including adult families.
0161 696 1620 View 0161 696 1620
Photo of Stéphane Gérard Mayoux, Psychotherapist in Central London, London, England
Stéphane Gérard Mayoux
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified
Central London, London EC1R
Not accepting new clients
Our lives can sometimes feel overwhelming. Therapy is a time and a space to be heard, to build awareness, strength and spontaneity. The conversations between client and therapist are unique and precious. Beyond techniques, tools and training, research shows that a successful therapy tends to be based on a relationship , on trust, collaboration and true listening. As a psychotherapist, I am inviting you to explore your own story, in the presence of an attentive and reflective fellow traveller. I work both in English and in French, with clients from diverse countries, ethnicities and cultures.
Our lives can sometimes feel overwhelming. Therapy is a time and a space to be heard, to build awareness, strength and spontaneity. The conversations between client and therapist are unique and precious. Beyond techniques, tools and training, research shows that a successful therapy tends to be based on a relationship , on trust, collaboration and true listening. As a psychotherapist, I am inviting you to explore your own story, in the presence of an attentive and reflective fellow traveller. I work both in English and in French, with clients from diverse countries, ethnicities and cultures.
020 3962 1248 View 020 3962 1248

See more therapy options for Central London, London

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.