Couples Counselling in Milton Keynes

Photo of Jennie Canty - Chiltern Talking Therapies, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Chiltern Talking Therapies
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK17
Hi, I'm Jennie! I'm a CBT/EMDR Therapist and owner of Chiltern Talking Therapies. My Associates and I offer face to face or virtual CBT, EMDR, Counselling, Schema and Art Psychotherapy sessions and ADHD Assessments. We can support adults and young people with a wide range of difficulties. We are non-judgemental and have a wealth of experience between us, from working with addictions, offenders, children, clients with brain injuries and couples. I pride our team on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We all hold DBS checks and indemnity insurance, which you can view at any time.
Hi, I'm Jennie! I'm a CBT/EMDR Therapist and owner of Chiltern Talking Therapies. My Associates and I offer face to face or virtual CBT, EMDR, Counselling, Schema and Art Psychotherapy sessions and ADHD Assessments. We can support adults and young people with a wide range of difficulties. We are non-judgemental and have a wealth of experience between us, from working with addictions, offenders, children, clients with brain injuries and couples. I pride our team on being non-judgemental and accepting of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We all hold DBS checks and indemnity insurance, which you can view at any time.
01442 971728 View 01442 971728
Photo of Anh Huntington, MBACP, Counsellor
Anh Huntington
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK10
For couples, I use the Imago relationship therapy method and my role is to help you learn to connect in a way that strengthens your relationship, so that you can express yourself freely with your partner and feel understood.
I offer counselling for individuals and I am also a certified Imago relationship therapist, trained to work with couples and family members. I offer you a safe, confidential space to explore those difficult moments in your life. My work reflects three core beliefs: Being genuine, so you can successfully explore the issues that have brought you to seek help. Being accepting and empathic, giving you the opportunity to increase your self-understanding. Providing a non-judgmental and safe place to share your experiences as we work together. I am warm and understanding towards others. I am also a broad-minded Counsellor.
For couples, I use the Imago relationship therapy method and my role is to help you learn to connect in a way that strengthens your relationship, so that you can express yourself freely with your partner and feel understood.
I offer counselling for individuals and I am also a certified Imago relationship therapist, trained to work with couples and family members. I offer you a safe, confidential space to explore those difficult moments in your life. My work reflects three core beliefs: Being genuine, so you can successfully explore the issues that have brought you to seek help. Being accepting and empathic, giving you the opportunity to increase your self-understanding. Providing a non-judgmental and safe place to share your experiences as we work together. I am warm and understanding towards others. I am also a broad-minded Counsellor.
01788 227951 View 01788 227951
Photo of Sharon Beagles, Psychotherapist
Sharon Beagles
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton Keynes MK13
Deciding to have therapy can be a big step so it is understandable that you may feel nervous or apprehensive. In my practice, my aim is to provide a safe place where we can explore whatever you struggle with at your own pace. I also believe that a trusting relationship, built upon authenticity and free from preconceptions and judgment, is an essential ingredient in any work we do together.
Deciding to have therapy can be a big step so it is understandable that you may feel nervous or apprehensive. In my practice, my aim is to provide a safe place where we can explore whatever you struggle with at your own pace. I also believe that a trusting relationship, built upon authenticity and free from preconceptions and judgment, is an essential ingredient in any work we do together.
01908 015410 View 01908 015410
Photo of Asha Weir, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Asha Weir
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK5
I am a psychologist and counsellor who has spent a very rewarding 19 years building my practice in the beautiful city of Milton Keynes, helping men and women, teenagers and children, couples and families. I deal with a wide variety of issues and situations including couples therapy, relationship counselling, depression, anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, confidence building, teenage and child behaviours, and bullying in the workplace.
I am a psychologist and counsellor who has spent a very rewarding 19 years building my practice in the beautiful city of Milton Keynes, helping men and women, teenagers and children, couples and families. I deal with a wide variety of issues and situations including couples therapy, relationship counselling, depression, anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, confidence building, teenage and child behaviours, and bullying in the workplace.
01908 082329 View 01908 082329
Photo of Anne Kariuki, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Anne Kariuki
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK6
With respect, safety and empathy a therapeutic relationship will be build around you.
My aim is to offer a safe space where we can explore whatever you choose to. Together we can work through any issues you may have. I believe that you are the expert on you and we can work towards a future you decide. ​ You may be facing some personal difficulties or struggles that you wish could be resolved. These might be a persistent low mood, a recurrent anxiety, a recent or past traumatic experience, a lack of meaning or direction in life, an anger issue, the loss of a loved one a relationship breakdown, a feeling of guilt or shame, a difficult life transition, or a more enduring and chronic mental health difficulty. ​
With respect, safety and empathy a therapeutic relationship will be build around you.
My aim is to offer a safe space where we can explore whatever you choose to. Together we can work through any issues you may have. I believe that you are the expert on you and we can work towards a future you decide. ​ You may be facing some personal difficulties or struggles that you wish could be resolved. These might be a persistent low mood, a recurrent anxiety, a recent or past traumatic experience, a lack of meaning or direction in life, an anger issue, the loss of a loved one a relationship breakdown, a feeling of guilt or shame, a difficult life transition, or a more enduring and chronic mental health difficulty. ​
0121 817 7588 View 0121 817 7588
Photo of Doug Stow - DS-Therapia, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
DS-Therapia
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK12
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in four areas: Psychosexual and relationship therapy, for individuals and/or partners also known as couples counselling or sex therapy, Sexual Diversity – Sexual Identity, Paraphillia, BDsM/Kink/Fetish, Escorts, Pornography, Sexual Trauma – Rape (Male & Female), Therapy for sexual addiction and compulsivity for individuals and/or partners.
Hello, my name is Doug Stow. I’m an experienced Psychotherapist, Couples & Relationship Psychotherapist, Psychosexual & Sex Addiction Psychotherapist with over 26+ years experience private practice. • PG. Dip. Psychosexual Therapy, London South Bank University • PG. Cert. Forensic Sexology, University of Central Lancashire • Professional Cert. Association for the Treatment of Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity (ATSAC) • Advance Cert. Psychosexual & Relationship Psychotherapy (COSRT) Accredited Training Course
I specialise in four areas: Psychosexual and relationship therapy, for individuals and/or partners also known as couples counselling or sex therapy, Sexual Diversity – Sexual Identity, Paraphillia, BDsM/Kink/Fetish, Escorts, Pornography, Sexual Trauma – Rape (Male & Female), Therapy for sexual addiction and compulsivity for individuals and/or partners.
Hello, my name is Doug Stow. I’m an experienced Psychotherapist, Couples & Relationship Psychotherapist, Psychosexual & Sex Addiction Psychotherapist with over 26+ years experience private practice. • PG. Dip. Psychosexual Therapy, London South Bank University • PG. Cert. Forensic Sexology, University of Central Lancashire • Professional Cert. Association for the Treatment of Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity (ATSAC) • Advance Cert. Psychosexual & Relationship Psychotherapy (COSRT) Accredited Training Course
01788 227343 View 01788 227343
Photo of Tracy Harvey, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracy Harvey
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK17
I am compassionate, respectful and genuine and will always work with your wellbeing at the heart of our relationship.
As a therapist, I work with clients to help them deal with issues such as depression, anxiety and invasive thoughts. I believe that society is quick to label people and say “whats wrong with you?” whereas, I believe we should be asking “What happened to you?” My clients have included survivors of childhood abuse, neglect, sexual assault and those recovering from traumatic-based experiences that have affected their current quality of life. I offer bereavement counselling to help people navigate their pain and find their own way to make sense of their loss. I recognise that, as each person is unique, so is their grieving process.
I am compassionate, respectful and genuine and will always work with your wellbeing at the heart of our relationship.
As a therapist, I work with clients to help them deal with issues such as depression, anxiety and invasive thoughts. I believe that society is quick to label people and say “whats wrong with you?” whereas, I believe we should be asking “What happened to you?” My clients have included survivors of childhood abuse, neglect, sexual assault and those recovering from traumatic-based experiences that have affected their current quality of life. I offer bereavement counselling to help people navigate their pain and find their own way to make sense of their loss. I recognise that, as each person is unique, so is their grieving process.
01296 929266 View 01296 929266
Photo of Funmi Oni, MBACP, Counsellor
Funmi Oni
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK9
I am a Relationship Counselor and offer a combination of Counselling and Life Coaching. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations that are beyond our control, and this can sometimes overwhelm us. Our power lies not in the matter but deep within us. Are you struggling or stressed out with a job that gives you little or no satisfaction and or stressed by life in general? Are you experiencing constant conflict in your relationship? Does it feel like no one understands you? I will help you deal with: Stress-related issues, conflict in relationships or marriage, miscarriage, low self-esteem or confidence.
I am a Relationship Counselor and offer a combination of Counselling and Life Coaching. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations that are beyond our control, and this can sometimes overwhelm us. Our power lies not in the matter but deep within us. Are you struggling or stressed out with a job that gives you little or no satisfaction and or stressed by life in general? Are you experiencing constant conflict in your relationship? Does it feel like no one understands you? I will help you deal with: Stress-related issues, conflict in relationships or marriage, miscarriage, low self-esteem or confidence.
0161 696 1203 View 0161 696 1203
Photo of Edak E Effiom, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Edak E Effiom
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK10
I work with individuals, couples, groups and families, sensitively.
When you make the decision to talk to a total stranger about your difficulties, it can sometimes provoke anxiety. However, as your therapist, my goal is to not make you feel judged, by providing a safe, confidential space for you to express those difficult feelings that you may never have been able to do. My aim is for you to feel connected with aspects of your self, which might make you feel more able to explore more complex issues of your life experience, so that you can make better sense of your world and your way of being and interacting with the connections you make within that world.
I work with individuals, couples, groups and families, sensitively.
When you make the decision to talk to a total stranger about your difficulties, it can sometimes provoke anxiety. However, as your therapist, my goal is to not make you feel judged, by providing a safe, confidential space for you to express those difficult feelings that you may never have been able to do. My aim is for you to feel connected with aspects of your self, which might make you feel more able to explore more complex issues of your life experience, so that you can make better sense of your world and your way of being and interacting with the connections you make within that world.
01788 228348 View 01788 228348
Photo of Abi Perryman, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Abi Perryman
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK3
Thank you for taking time to read about the services I offer in my practice. With my focus on both Individual and Couples Counselling (any relationship between 2 people that focuses on relational dynamics eg: marital, family dynamics) there are many areas I maybe able to help. If seeking personal counselling, you may be experiencing life events such as Bereavement and Loss, Cycles of addiction/abuse, Anger, Loss of identity. Couples Counselling can help if you are at an in-pass? Something you just can’t move past? Break down of trust? Or do you need to make an impossible compromise of a big life-changing decision?
Thank you for taking time to read about the services I offer in my practice. With my focus on both Individual and Couples Counselling (any relationship between 2 people that focuses on relational dynamics eg: marital, family dynamics) there are many areas I maybe able to help. If seeking personal counselling, you may be experiencing life events such as Bereavement and Loss, Cycles of addiction/abuse, Anger, Loss of identity. Couples Counselling can help if you are at an in-pass? Something you just can’t move past? Break down of trust? Or do you need to make an impossible compromise of a big life-changing decision?
01908 103139 View 01908 103139
Photo of Mat Schencks, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Mat Schencks
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK11
I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, sexuality, anger and all kinds of relationship challenges in a warm and supportive manner.
I offer a caring and non-judgmental relationship in which you can explore the issues, experiences, thoughts and feelings that have brought you to seek help. We will explore the situations and challenges you are facing in your life. Speaking about what is difficult is the beginning of feeling better. Core Process Psychotherapy combines the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism with western approaches to psychology. This compassionate and relational approach emphasises our wholeness, and our inherent resilience and balance - however hidden these qualities may sometimes seem. I work with both individuals and couples.
I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, sexuality, anger and all kinds of relationship challenges in a warm and supportive manner.
I offer a caring and non-judgmental relationship in which you can explore the issues, experiences, thoughts and feelings that have brought you to seek help. We will explore the situations and challenges you are facing in your life. Speaking about what is difficult is the beginning of feeling better. Core Process Psychotherapy combines the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism with western approaches to psychology. This compassionate and relational approach emphasises our wholeness, and our inherent resilience and balance - however hidden these qualities may sometimes seem. I work with both individuals and couples.
01908 015946 View 01908 015946
Photo of Dr Edit Sevic Andrek, PhD, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Edit Sevic Andrek
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling isolated or unheard while facing infertility, miscarriage, or other major life changes? Are you overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next? I provide specialised support for children, individuals and couples navigating these challenges, drawing from personal experience. I understand how these experiences can impact your sense of self, trigger deep fears, and unearth unresolved traumas. I also assist those dealing with anxiety or depression. Together, we can work through these emotions and find a pathway to healing and resilience.
Are you feeling isolated or unheard while facing infertility, miscarriage, or other major life changes? Are you overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next? I provide specialised support for children, individuals and couples navigating these challenges, drawing from personal experience. I understand how these experiences can impact your sense of self, trigger deep fears, and unearth unresolved traumas. I also assist those dealing with anxiety or depression. Together, we can work through these emotions and find a pathway to healing and resilience.
0141 673 7601 View 0141 673 7601
Photo of Monika Dedus-Fanthom, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Monika Dedus-Fanthom
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK1
I am an integrative psychotherapist with specialisation in couple and sexual therapy. I work with all male and female sexual difficulties as well as couple/ relationship difficulties. I also have extensive experience in working with people struggling with mood disorders, depression and anxiety as well as loss and life transitions.
I am an integrative psychotherapist with specialisation in couple and sexual therapy. I work with all male and female sexual difficulties as well as couple/ relationship difficulties. I also have extensive experience in working with people struggling with mood disorders, depression and anxiety as well as loss and life transitions.
01234 675753 View 01234 675753
Photo of Jasmer Chauhan, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Jasmer Chauhan
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK1
Besides the professional aspect of our working relationship, there is also the human connection of feeling safe, held, and heard within the session.
With so many profiles on this site to view, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I appreciate the challenges when trying to find the right therapist. Please let me introduce myself, my name is Jasmer Chauhan, and I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist. Choosing the right therapist is a crucial step in beginning a journey toward personal growth and healing. That is why I offer a free initial consultation. This will allow you an opportunity to talk about your concerns and ask any questions relating to therapy, my approach, and my practice.
Besides the professional aspect of our working relationship, there is also the human connection of feeling safe, held, and heard within the session.
With so many profiles on this site to view, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I appreciate the challenges when trying to find the right therapist. Please let me introduce myself, my name is Jasmer Chauhan, and I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist. Choosing the right therapist is a crucial step in beginning a journey toward personal growth and healing. That is why I offer a free initial consultation. This will allow you an opportunity to talk about your concerns and ask any questions relating to therapy, my approach, and my practice.
01908 103162 View 01908 103162
Photo of Sara Gamba, MBACP, Counsellor
Sara Gamba
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK17
I value the therapeutic relationship in the sense that I believe our rapport to be key to the work.
I work with adults, couples and young people, and with those experiencing a range of various difficulties including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, identity issues and grief. I also have experience working with survivors of trauma and sexual abuse, and the distressing ongoing effects this can have on everyday life. I also work with LGBTQ+ and GSRD (gender, sexuality and relationship diverse) individual and people who are questioning their gender identity, sexual orientation or relationship styles.
I value the therapeutic relationship in the sense that I believe our rapport to be key to the work.
I work with adults, couples and young people, and with those experiencing a range of various difficulties including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, identity issues and grief. I also have experience working with survivors of trauma and sexual abuse, and the distressing ongoing effects this can have on everyday life. I also work with LGBTQ+ and GSRD (gender, sexuality and relationship diverse) individual and people who are questioning their gender identity, sexual orientation or relationship styles.
01442 971871 View 01442 971871
Photo of Dr Jef Jacques, PhD, HCPC-Drama Therap., Psychotherapist
Dr Jef Jacques
Psychotherapist, PhD, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK1
I enormously value the unique relationship that is created through therapy.
You may be facing some personal difficulties or struggles that you wish could be resolved. These may be a persistent low mood, a recurrent anxiety, a recent or past traumatic experience, a lack of meaning or direction in life, an anger issue, the loss of a loved one, a relationship breakdown, a feeling of guilt or shame, a difficult life transition, or a more enduring and chronic mental health difficulty. You may want to seek ways of working through these personal challenges, of alleviating their burden, and of leading a more fulfilling life. Or you may be feeling the psychological and physical impact of long term health conditions.
I enormously value the unique relationship that is created through therapy.
You may be facing some personal difficulties or struggles that you wish could be resolved. These may be a persistent low mood, a recurrent anxiety, a recent or past traumatic experience, a lack of meaning or direction in life, an anger issue, the loss of a loved one, a relationship breakdown, a feeling of guilt or shame, a difficult life transition, or a more enduring and chronic mental health difficulty. You may want to seek ways of working through these personal challenges, of alleviating their burden, and of leading a more fulfilling life. Or you may be feeling the psychological and physical impact of long term health conditions.
01234 866306 View 01234 866306
Photo of Colin Keith Johnson, ACC-AC, Counsellor
Colin Keith Johnson
Counsellor, ACC-AC
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK1
I have 12 years post qualification experience working with adults (young adults to seniors, men in particular), and with individuals and with couples.
Life can at times seem overwhelming and if that's true for you then meeting with a caring, supportive counsellor can really help. Maybe you've experienced a loss or there's a trauma from your past which is still disturbing you. Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, lack of confidence or you just want space to work through your feelings and why you behave in the way you do. You could be someone who doesn’t want to talk in depth about a past event, if so, you could benefit from EMDR therapy where traumatic memories are processed through guided eye movements. Whatever the issue is I am a good listener and want to help if I can.
I have 12 years post qualification experience working with adults (young adults to seniors, men in particular), and with individuals and with couples.
Life can at times seem overwhelming and if that's true for you then meeting with a caring, supportive counsellor can really help. Maybe you've experienced a loss or there's a trauma from your past which is still disturbing you. Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety, lack of confidence or you just want space to work through your feelings and why you behave in the way you do. You could be someone who doesn’t want to talk in depth about a past event, if so, you could benefit from EMDR therapy where traumatic memories are processed through guided eye movements. Whatever the issue is I am a good listener and want to help if I can.
01525 654779 View 01525 654779
Photo of Julie Arnold, DCounsPsych, BACP, Psychotherapist
Julie Arnold
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton Keynes MK18
Relationship issues, Couples, low self-worth, esteem, anxiety, depression.
Hello, I work with a range of issues, including anxiety and depression. Being heard and accepted for being who you truly are, can feel incredibly empowering. When this is taken away, our thoughts can trigger unhelpful behaviours, increasing low mood. Which in turn can play havoc with our emotions. When we feel lonely and isolated, overwhelming feelings can flood our thoughts and fears. I can offer you a safe, warm, and confidential space to explore any issues that may contribute towards your anxiety and depression. I am here to listen to you in an non-judgemental way, and to support you with any changes you wish to make.
Relationship issues, Couples, low self-worth, esteem, anxiety, depression.
Hello, I work with a range of issues, including anxiety and depression. Being heard and accepted for being who you truly are, can feel incredibly empowering. When this is taken away, our thoughts can trigger unhelpful behaviours, increasing low mood. Which in turn can play havoc with our emotions. When we feel lonely and isolated, overwhelming feelings can flood our thoughts and fears. I can offer you a safe, warm, and confidential space to explore any issues that may contribute towards your anxiety and depression. I am here to listen to you in an non-judgemental way, and to support you with any changes you wish to make.
01442 501237 View 01442 501237
Photo of Kath Attwood - Kath Attwood couples & Individual counsellor, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Kath Attwood couples & Individual counsellor
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK1
Taking the first steps to talk can be daunting for anyone, and change is not always easy. Looking at your life and experiences can bring up deep feelings and emotions. But finding the right counsellor for you is so important , as I honestly believe it creates the freedom to self-development and grow as an individual. I am an experienced counsellor in private practice for over 7years . I work as an integrative therapist which means I can draw upon a number of theories and approaches to help me understand my clients needs. I work with couples and individuals exploring , anxiety , loss, trauma, betrayal , addiction, and so much more .
Taking the first steps to talk can be daunting for anyone, and change is not always easy. Looking at your life and experiences can bring up deep feelings and emotions. But finding the right counsellor for you is so important , as I honestly believe it creates the freedom to self-development and grow as an individual. I am an experienced counsellor in private practice for over 7years . I work as an integrative therapist which means I can draw upon a number of theories and approaches to help me understand my clients needs. I work with couples and individuals exploring , anxiety , loss, trauma, betrayal , addiction, and so much more .
01525 307543 View 01525 307543
Photo of Kate Megase, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Kate Megase
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK1
I support individuals, couples and organisations.
I am a psychotherapist specialising in couple and relationship therapy. I also work with individuals and I provide clinical supervision to other therapists. I am the author of a self-help book called Dump the Baggage. I specialise in issues associated with: Couples and relationship therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Trauma, and Low self-esteem. I am committed to providing an excellent service to help my clients: Develop healthy relationships, Fulfil overall therapeutic goals within six sessions, and Provide clear techniques and strategies along with unique ways and ideas to treat stress, anxiety and depression & Improve self-esteem.
I support individuals, couples and organisations.
I am a psychotherapist specialising in couple and relationship therapy. I also work with individuals and I provide clinical supervision to other therapists. I am the author of a self-help book called Dump the Baggage. I specialise in issues associated with: Couples and relationship therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Trauma, and Low self-esteem. I am committed to providing an excellent service to help my clients: Develop healthy relationships, Fulfil overall therapeutic goals within six sessions, and Provide clear techniques and strategies along with unique ways and ideas to treat stress, anxiety and depression & Improve self-esteem.
01798 305047 View 01798 305047
1

See more therapy options for Milton Keynes

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.