Photo of Muriel Gold Morris, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Muriel Gold Morris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
My 30 years experience as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has taught me that people who are suffering need an approach that considers them as whole people in the context of their entire lives, their private concerns, family, work, and relationship experiences and problems, and not just for their symptom complexes. As a medical doctor originally, and in my teaching of others, I have always focussed on and addressed the clients' anxieties, depressions, and physical ailments from this broad viewpoint and as a result have found that physical health and well-being improve along with emotional improvement.
My 30 years experience as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has taught me that people who are suffering need an approach that considers them as whole people in the context of their entire lives, their private concerns, family, work, and relationship experiences and problems, and not just for their symptom complexes. As a medical doctor originally, and in my teaching of others, I have always focussed on and addressed the clients' anxieties, depressions, and physical ailments from this broad viewpoint and as a result have found that physical health and well-being improve along with emotional improvement.
(646) 583-1949 View (646) 583-1949
Photo of Aretha E Hamlin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Aretha E Hamlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals of all backgrounds and ages (14+) to adults. My primary focus is on symptom reduction and empowering individuals to reclaim control over their lives. I believe in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship where patients feel heard, supported and respected. I aim to instill hope and resilience by emphasizing that no one is alone in their journey towards mental well-being.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals of all backgrounds and ages (14+) to adults. My primary focus is on symptom reduction and empowering individuals to reclaim control over their lives. I believe in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship where patients feel heard, supported and respected. I aim to instill hope and resilience by emphasizing that no one is alone in their journey towards mental well-being.
(646) 956-1448 View (646) 956-1448
Photo of Victoriya Slavich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Victoriya Slavich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
Victoriya has experience in working with individuals, couples and families of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, compulsive behaviors, ADHD/ADD, relationship conflicts, sexual issues, life transitions, professional difficulties, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, substance abuse and addiction.
Victoriya utilizes a culturally competent and holistic approach that is tailored to each client’s individual needs, understanding that everyone’s path to wellbeing is a unique journey. She combines her knowledge of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to provide each client with a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. She strives to create a safe space for clients to feel empowered to be active participants in their mental health care. She utilizes rational emotive behavior therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing alongside medication management to tailor each client’s treatment plan.
Victoriya has experience in working with individuals, couples and families of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, compulsive behaviors, ADHD/ADD, relationship conflicts, sexual issues, life transitions, professional difficulties, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, substance abuse and addiction.
Victoriya utilizes a culturally competent and holistic approach that is tailored to each client’s individual needs, understanding that everyone’s path to wellbeing is a unique journey. She combines her knowledge of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to provide each client with a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. She strives to create a safe space for clients to feel empowered to be active participants in their mental health care. She utilizes rational emotive behavior therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing alongside medication management to tailor each client’s treatment plan.
(646) 776-3647 View (646) 776-3647
Photo of Kafilat Y.Ojo, MD PC, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Kafilat Y.Ojo, MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Other Conditions treated includes: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, relationship/marital problems and variety of other mental health and wellness issues.
Are you seeking guidance and/or extra support due to a challenging situation?. Are you interested in self growth and awareness? If so, I look forward to working with you! My practice is geared towards providing both psychopharmacology (Medication) and /or psychotherapy (Talk Therapy) to functioning individuals. I also focus on individuals seeking to improve their self awareness and confidence.
Other Conditions treated includes: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, relationship/marital problems and variety of other mental health and wellness issues.
Are you seeking guidance and/or extra support due to a challenging situation?. Are you interested in self growth and awareness? If so, I look forward to working with you! My practice is geared towards providing both psychopharmacology (Medication) and /or psychotherapy (Talk Therapy) to functioning individuals. I also focus on individuals seeking to improve their self awareness and confidence.
(646) 969-3687 View (646) 969-3687
Photo of Maureen Laffey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Maureen Laffey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10031  (Online Only)
Maureen has over 25 years of experience in health care. She is a graduate of Niagara University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing, then a master’s degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Hunter College. She has worked as a consultant for those experiencing adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, conflict, relationship issues, and others. Her professional skills include critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication. Maureen will collaborate with you, and if needed, she will present and prescribe a medication regimen that can benefit you towards moving forward and succeeding.
Maureen has over 25 years of experience in health care. She is a graduate of Niagara University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing, then a master’s degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Hunter College. She has worked as a consultant for those experiencing adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, conflict, relationship issues, and others. Her professional skills include critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication. Maureen will collaborate with you, and if needed, she will present and prescribe a medication regimen that can benefit you towards moving forward and succeeding.
(646) 480-6738 View (646) 480-6738
Photo of William Nguyen, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
William Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
My therapeutic style is an eclectic blend of relational and classical psychodynamic thinking, helping my patients toward greater introspection of their relationship and lives.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. My virtual private practice is a friendly, comfortable and safe space where one can come get help for a wide range of psychological struggles and emotional issues. I have a genuine desire to understand each individual and listen with an empathic, nonjudgmental and warm approach. I provide personalized, evidence-based treatments, incorporating psychotherapy and the judicious use of medications to alleviate symptoms to restore you back to emotional wellness.
My therapeutic style is an eclectic blend of relational and classical psychodynamic thinking, helping my patients toward greater introspection of their relationship and lives.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. My virtual private practice is a friendly, comfortable and safe space where one can come get help for a wide range of psychological struggles and emotional issues. I have a genuine desire to understand each individual and listen with an empathic, nonjudgmental and warm approach. I provide personalized, evidence-based treatments, incorporating psychotherapy and the judicious use of medications to alleviate symptoms to restore you back to emotional wellness.
(646) 647-3297 View (646) 647-3297
Photo of Brian Yudhistira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Brian Yudhistira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I believe the healing journey starts with creating a strong therapeutic relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with several years of experience in nursing and healthcare. My expertise lies in the treatment of psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. My practice is especially focused on addressing the mental health needs of those with ADHD, family trauma, relationship issues, and underserved communities, providing compassionate and understanding care for the diverse challenges they face. I believe in personalized, holistic patient care, crafting treatment plans that are uniquely tailored to each individual's specific needs and circumstances.
I believe the healing journey starts with creating a strong therapeutic relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with several years of experience in nursing and healthcare. My expertise lies in the treatment of psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. My practice is especially focused on addressing the mental health needs of those with ADHD, family trauma, relationship issues, and underserved communities, providing compassionate and understanding care for the diverse challenges they face. I believe in personalized, holistic patient care, crafting treatment plans that are uniquely tailored to each individual's specific needs and circumstances.
(332) 378-1878 View (332) 378-1878
Photo of James Dusenbury, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
James Dusenbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
James’ commitment to build a relationship with his patients and to connect with them makes him stand out in the field of psychiatry.
James Dusenbury, offers medication assessment and management. HE is licensed as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York State. Additionally, he holds a National Board Certification in Psychiatry from the ANCC. James has over 15 years of experience in psychiatry and started his own private practice, Different Approach Therapy, inc. . He has worked in both clinical and administrative roles at Bellevue and Mount Sinai Hospitals, and Jacobi Medical Center. James has also worked in the psychiatric emergency room at Coney Island Hospital.
James’ commitment to build a relationship with his patients and to connect with them makes him stand out in the field of psychiatry.
James Dusenbury, offers medication assessment and management. HE is licensed as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York State. Additionally, he holds a National Board Certification in Psychiatry from the ANCC. James has over 15 years of experience in psychiatry and started his own private practice, Different Approach Therapy, inc. . He has worked in both clinical and administrative roles at Bellevue and Mount Sinai Hospitals, and Jacobi Medical Center. James has also worked in the psychiatric emergency room at Coney Island Hospital.
(833) 717-0437 View (833) 717-0437
Photo of Healthy Minds NYC | Dr. Travis Meadows, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Healthy Minds NYC | Dr. Travis Meadows
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
Meadows has specialized training in the assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction, both for individuals and couples as well as the assessment and treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder using both exposure and response prevention (ERP) psychotherapy and medication management.
VIDEO SESSIONS AVAILABLE NOW. Dr. Travis Meadows is skilled in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders using a variety of therapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Schema therapy, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Meadows has specialized training in the assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction, both for individuals and couples as well as the assessment and treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder using both exposure and response prevention (ERP) psychotherapy and medication management.
VIDEO SESSIONS AVAILABLE NOW. Dr. Travis Meadows is skilled in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders using a variety of therapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Schema therapy, and Psychodynamic therapy.
(845) 977-0670 View (845) 977-0670
Photo of Elizabeth Janssen, Psychiatric Nurse in New York, NY
Elizabeth Janssen
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, NP, PMHCNS, BC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious with life or a relationship? Or more shut down or depressed? Unable to keep up with your daily routine? Patterns develop while growing up in our families of origin that no longer work or produce symptoms. We work on understanding those attachment patterns historically and in the present in order to reflect and change them. I teach tools to help people process the energy from feeling states in their nervous systems so a wider range of feelings can be experienced without flooding or shutting down. Then we reprocess the traumatic memories that feed the symptoms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious with life or a relationship? Or more shut down or depressed? Unable to keep up with your daily routine? Patterns develop while growing up in our families of origin that no longer work or produce symptoms. We work on understanding those attachment patterns historically and in the present in order to reflect and change them. I teach tools to help people process the energy from feeling states in their nervous systems so a wider range of feelings can be experienced without flooding or shutting down. Then we reprocess the traumatic memories that feed the symptoms.
(646) 600-5132 View (646) 600-5132
Photo of LocalMD Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
LocalMD Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
“Here to help” is an understatement at LocalMD. Our mission is to make sure that your mental and physical health can be improved in order to provide a better quality of life. We know that mental afflictions are just as serious as the physical ones, which is why we have a number of mental health services to make sure your mind is as sound as your body. We have an array of specialties here to serve your every need. Our Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. Our Therapists are here to assist patients in reducing stress, improving emotionally, personal and relationship problems, and more!
“Here to help” is an understatement at LocalMD. Our mission is to make sure that your mental and physical health can be improved in order to provide a better quality of life. We know that mental afflictions are just as serious as the physical ones, which is why we have a number of mental health services to make sure your mind is as sound as your body. We have an array of specialties here to serve your every need. Our Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. Our Therapists are here to assist patients in reducing stress, improving emotionally, personal and relationship problems, and more!
(332) 239-6214 View (332) 239-6214
Photo of Elias Tsambis, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Elias Tsambis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
Specializing in evaluation and medication management During these difficult time we are offering phone sessions to our current and new patients 15 min free consultation will be done by lcsw I am a board certified psychiatrist practing for over 35 Years I work with individuals couples and famlies providing therapy evaluations and medication management for the treatment of depression anxiety panic and bipolar disorder. Why suffer needlessly we can help we have a psychiatrist and lcsw
Specializing in evaluation and medication management During these difficult time we are offering phone sessions to our current and new patients 15 min free consultation will be done by lcsw I am a board certified psychiatrist practing for over 35 Years I work with individuals couples and famlies providing therapy evaluations and medication management for the treatment of depression anxiety panic and bipolar disorder. Why suffer needlessly we can help we have a psychiatrist and lcsw
(480) 332-4646 View (480) 332-4646
Photo of Peter R. Bourque Jr. Np, Psychiatric Nurse in New York, NY
Peter R. Bourque Jr. Np
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I am devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services. I pride myself in my expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believe that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. I take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
I am devoted to providing quality comprehensive psychiatric services. I pride myself in my expertise with both the diagnosis and treatment of the occurrence of mental illness and believe that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. I take a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
(516) 585-2713 View (516) 585-2713
Photo of Danielle Esposito, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Danielle Esposito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036
I work with those struggling to be heard, valued, understood, and accepted. I aim to affirm and respect everyone's life journey as perceived by the individual, while assisting them through their wellness journey. Everyone deserves an emotionally and culturally safe space that allows free-flowing communication to occur, thus, encouraging personal development and emotional healing. I guide client-focused conversations and act as a partner in the use of therapeutic techniques to facilitate empowerment and triumph over one's aversions.
I work with those struggling to be heard, valued, understood, and accepted. I aim to affirm and respect everyone's life journey as perceived by the individual, while assisting them through their wellness journey. Everyone deserves an emotionally and culturally safe space that allows free-flowing communication to occur, thus, encouraging personal development and emotional healing. I guide client-focused conversations and act as a partner in the use of therapeutic techniques to facilitate empowerment and triumph over one's aversions.
(716) 466-0529 View (716) 466-0529
Photo of Mind and Body Wellness Medical Center, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Mind and Body Wellness Medical Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
At Mind and Body Wellness we are a true partner and fully committed to our patients recovery.
We are a privately owned medical center that offers both psychotherapy and psychophramacology to the community. We provide individual, family and group counseling services in a professional and comfortable environment. Our staff of psychiatrists' and therapists specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults. We work as a team to help our clients achieve real and lasting change.
At Mind and Body Wellness we are a true partner and fully committed to our patients recovery.
We are a privately owned medical center that offers both psychotherapy and psychophramacology to the community. We provide individual, family and group counseling services in a professional and comfortable environment. Our staff of psychiatrists' and therapists specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults. We work as a team to help our clients achieve real and lasting change.
(347) 609-7769 View (347) 609-7769
Photo of Elizabeth F Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Elizabeth F Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH-BC, BSN, BFA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am also trained in Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT).
Tired of waiting weeks to be seen? Give me a call today and lets get you feeling better soon, on the right medication, and with the least side effects! My clinical style is friendly & direct. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my care is always thorough and evidence-based. We work collaboratively to bring you short and long-term symptom relief so you can live fully engaged and get back to life. Compassionate and thorough, with a bit of humor thrown in when we can- I have years of experience that enhance my ability to help you, effectively & quickly.
I am also trained in Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT).
Tired of waiting weeks to be seen? Give me a call today and lets get you feeling better soon, on the right medication, and with the least side effects! My clinical style is friendly & direct. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my care is always thorough and evidence-based. We work collaboratively to bring you short and long-term symptom relief so you can live fully engaged and get back to life. Compassionate and thorough, with a bit of humor thrown in when we can- I have years of experience that enhance my ability to help you, effectively & quickly.
(410) 609-9365 View (410) 609-9365
Photo of Remi's Room, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Remi's Room, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NE-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10032  (Online Only)
Let Remi's Room partner with you in achieving your best life.
As individuals, we are very much influenced by what our eyes have seen, our ears have heard, and what our hearts have felt. With over 25 years of healthcare experience in various clinical settings I understand the need for care that is individualized, delivered with cultural competence and designed to empower. I am a provider who understands stress, coping and the beauty of transformation.
Let Remi's Room partner with you in achieving your best life.
As individuals, we are very much influenced by what our eyes have seen, our ears have heard, and what our hearts have felt. With over 25 years of healthcare experience in various clinical settings I understand the need for care that is individualized, delivered with cultural competence and designed to empower. I am a provider who understands stress, coping and the beauty of transformation.
(609) 757-9016 View (609) 757-9016
Photo of Alexander Ivan Gumbs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Alexander Ivan Gumbs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Gumbs will partner with you to meet your goals.
Alexander Gumbs, FNP/PMHNP-BC is a dual board-certified practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine. Mr. Gumbs uses an integrative holistic approach to treat the bodies and minds of his patients. He is proficient in treating those across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and seniors). Community focus is his passion. He has experience treating disadvantaged populations, such as the homeless and those in the criminal justice system transitioning back to civilian life. Mr. Gumbs treats those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, autism, insomnia, dementia, and postpartum depression.
Gumbs will partner with you to meet your goals.
Alexander Gumbs, FNP/PMHNP-BC is a dual board-certified practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine. Mr. Gumbs uses an integrative holistic approach to treat the bodies and minds of his patients. He is proficient in treating those across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and seniors). Community focus is his passion. He has experience treating disadvantaged populations, such as the homeless and those in the criminal justice system transitioning back to civilian life. Mr. Gumbs treats those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, autism, insomnia, dementia, and postpartum depression.
(516) 464-3006 View (516) 464-3006
Photo of I- View Psychiatric NP Behavioral Therapy PC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
I- View Psychiatric NP Behavioral Therapy PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC, FPMHNP, NPP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10032
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my primary focus is on providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care to empower individuals like you on your journey towards well-being. My dedication to this field stems from a genuine passion for understanding the unique challenges each person faces and tailoring treatment plans to suit your specific needs. I firmly believe that fostering trust and a strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of successful mental health care. My approach is centered on active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental support. Together, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns,
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my primary focus is on providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care to empower individuals like you on your journey towards well-being. My dedication to this field stems from a genuine passion for understanding the unique challenges each person faces and tailoring treatment plans to suit your specific needs. I firmly believe that fostering trust and a strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of successful mental health care. My approach is centered on active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental support. Together, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns,
(315) 599-1904 View (315) 599-1904
Photo of Our Wellness Project - Kevin Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Our Wellness Project - Kevin Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018
By going beyond the issues that can bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more satisfaction in your life.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my experience includes multiple behavioral health outpatient clinics as well as substance abuse clinics throughout New York City. Through these experiences, I have always felt a calling to assist individuals with mental health issues. My training crosses a life-span while utilizing Evidence-Based Practice. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as utilizing various treatment modalities to adequately treat each individual client. I am capable of helping individuals who are experiencing difficulties with the ability to physically function, due to the inability to manage their emotions.
By going beyond the issues that can bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more satisfaction in your life.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my experience includes multiple behavioral health outpatient clinics as well as substance abuse clinics throughout New York City. Through these experiences, I have always felt a calling to assist individuals with mental health issues. My training crosses a life-span while utilizing Evidence-Based Practice. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as utilizing various treatment modalities to adequately treat each individual client. I am capable of helping individuals who are experiencing difficulties with the ability to physically function, due to the inability to manage their emotions.
(718) 736-2261 View (718) 736-2261
Couples Counseling Psychiatrists

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.