Photo of Madlyn Bookatz, Counselor in 44122, OH
Madlyn Bookatz
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am a master at enhancing the quality of relationships primarily with yourself AND when in a marriage or partnership. I will guide you to improve the relationship you have with yourself to increase confidence and well being. I offer a concrete structure to enhance your personal relationship and will give you insight to your relationship patterns. I am a direct, insightful, empathetic, and solution focussed therapist and give you specific action steps in a short amount of time to help you get your relationship on track. I am an in- network provider covered by most insurances. Will respond to email, phone, or text.
I am a master at enhancing the quality of relationships primarily with yourself AND when in a marriage or partnership. I will guide you to improve the relationship you have with yourself to increase confidence and well being. I offer a concrete structure to enhance your personal relationship and will give you insight to your relationship patterns. I am a direct, insightful, empathetic, and solution focussed therapist and give you specific action steps in a short amount of time to help you get your relationship on track. I am an in- network provider covered by most insurances. Will respond to email, phone, or text.
(440) 296-3233 View (440) 296-3233
Photo of Alyssa M Mitchell, Counselor in 44122, OH
Alyssa M Mitchell
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who obtained my Master's of Arts in Counseling from John Carroll University in 2002. I have practiced in agency,forensic and private practice settings in Cleveland over the course of the past ten years. I offer therapy sessions for adolescents, adults, couples and families using Cognitive Behavioral Techniques to help clients make desired and meaningful changes in their lives by helping them identify and reach their therapeutic goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who obtained my Master's of Arts in Counseling from John Carroll University in 2002. I have practiced in agency,forensic and private practice settings in Cleveland over the course of the past ten years. I offer therapy sessions for adolescents, adults, couples and families using Cognitive Behavioral Techniques to help clients make desired and meaningful changes in their lives by helping them identify and reach their therapeutic goals.
(216) 220-8267 View (216) 220-8267
Photo of Marirhetta Crosby, Marriage & Family Therapist in 44122, OH
Marirhetta Crosby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LIMFT, LPCC, NBCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am passionate helping clients in premarital/ couples and family counseling, with parenting issues, and thinking disorders.
Welcome! Are you feeling sad but you’re too ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone about it? Do you force a smile on your face but inside you’re feeling despair and depression? Do you feel completely confused because your life looks good on paper? Are you surrounded by people that are envious or jealous of your life, which makes you feel guilty about not enjoying it? Together, you and I will figure out what’s really going on. There is a reason for your sadness and I want to discover where it’s coming from with you. I’ll help you shed light on your discontent so that you don’t have to feel like a fraud or a crazy person.
I am passionate helping clients in premarital/ couples and family counseling, with parenting issues, and thinking disorders.
Welcome! Are you feeling sad but you’re too ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone about it? Do you force a smile on your face but inside you’re feeling despair and depression? Do you feel completely confused because your life looks good on paper? Are you surrounded by people that are envious or jealous of your life, which makes you feel guilty about not enjoying it? Together, you and I will figure out what’s really going on. There is a reason for your sadness and I want to discover where it’s coming from with you. I’ll help you shed light on your discontent so that you don’t have to feel like a fraud or a crazy person.
(216) 677-4882 View (216) 677-4882
Photo of Keri Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 44122, OH
Keri Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Do you have a teen resistant to therapy? Is this also affecting you? Feeling anxious, resentful and depressed? I work with teens, adult, couples, parent and family issues with eclectic therapeutic techniques including EMDR.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, and anger? Are you unhappy in your relationships? Discover what patterns of thinking and behaving are keeping you in this rut. Explore what fears, anger and emotional injuries are keeping you from being your best self. Together, we can address the symptoms that are manifesting so that you feel better. You CAN change the way you feel. I connect and build rapport with clients who have not had much success in therapy prior and focus on building a trusting, therapeutic relationship. Call me to see if I am the right therapist for you!
Do you have a teen resistant to therapy? Is this also affecting you? Feeling anxious, resentful and depressed? I work with teens, adult, couples, parent and family issues with eclectic therapeutic techniques including EMDR.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, and anger? Are you unhappy in your relationships? Discover what patterns of thinking and behaving are keeping you in this rut. Explore what fears, anger and emotional injuries are keeping you from being your best self. Together, we can address the symptoms that are manifesting so that you feel better. You CAN change the way you feel. I connect and build rapport with clients who have not had much success in therapy prior and focus on building a trusting, therapeutic relationship. Call me to see if I am the right therapist for you!
(314) 899-2065 View (314) 899-2065
Photo of Cynthia E. Woods, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 44122, OH
Cynthia E. Woods
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
With extensive years of experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of areas such as but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Grief, PTSD, Adoption-related Attachment issues.
Frustration, heartache, and distress are painful and challenging situations that affect everyone at some point in his or her life. Making the decision to seek help is a courageous one and Foundational Counseling Services is here to give you the support you are seeking. The Foundational Approach provides a caring supportive environment in which you can identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of a more rewarding life leading to greater fulfillments. The Foundational Purpose is to empower you to develop insight and tools to help you move pass painful experiences and disappointing aspects of life.
With extensive years of experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of areas such as but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Grief, PTSD, Adoption-related Attachment issues.
Frustration, heartache, and distress are painful and challenging situations that affect everyone at some point in his or her life. Making the decision to seek help is a courageous one and Foundational Counseling Services is here to give you the support you are seeking. The Foundational Approach provides a caring supportive environment in which you can identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of a more rewarding life leading to greater fulfillments. The Foundational Purpose is to empower you to develop insight and tools to help you move pass painful experiences and disappointing aspects of life.
(216) 415-6612 View (216) 415-6612
Photo of Amini B Dais, Marriage & Family Therapist in 44122, OH
Amini B Dais
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their relationships.
My ideal client is someone who wants to overcome their situation and live their very best life. Often times we become stuck in our circumstances, and with healing comes freedom. My clients want to understand their experiences and gain strength to overcome them. They desire a life filled with joy, peace, and happiness. I work with clients to help them process, understand and heal from what's holding them down. I listen to and guide my clients through planning and creating goals to get them to the life they desire .
I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their relationships.
My ideal client is someone who wants to overcome their situation and live their very best life. Often times we become stuck in our circumstances, and with healing comes freedom. My clients want to understand their experiences and gain strength to overcome them. They desire a life filled with joy, peace, and happiness. I work with clients to help them process, understand and heal from what's holding them down. I listen to and guide my clients through planning and creating goals to get them to the life they desire .
(216) 877-9152 View (216) 877-9152
Photo of Deborah Ross, Psychologist in 44122, OH
Deborah Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy should be individually tailored to the client. With over 40 years experience, I have several techniques to use to help people achieve their goals. Successful therapy depends upon an open and trusting relationship. I am trained in hypnosis, EMDR, Energy psychology, and crisis intervention as well as traditional techniques. Special areas of expertise include fears and anxiety, OCD, relationships, and trauma. I use hypnosis for relaxation training, smoking cessation, and other issues. My office is a small, quiet and private one, not a part of a big practice.
Therapy should be individually tailored to the client. With over 40 years experience, I have several techniques to use to help people achieve their goals. Successful therapy depends upon an open and trusting relationship. I am trained in hypnosis, EMDR, Energy psychology, and crisis intervention as well as traditional techniques. Special areas of expertise include fears and anxiety, OCD, relationships, and trauma. I use hypnosis for relaxation training, smoking cessation, and other issues. My office is a small, quiet and private one, not a part of a big practice.
(440) 497-0990 View (440) 497-0990
Photo of Johnita Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 44122, OH
Johnita Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues? Are you looking for a safe and judgement-free environment where you can share your problems and concerns? If so, then let’s get to work!!! Life is too short to surrender to toxic relationships, let trauma consume you, continue to be anxious or be depressed. You deserve to live a life full of peace and joy. Let’s work together to help you develop healthy coping skills and find meaningful purpose in your family, friendships, work, spirituality, and all other life areas.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues? Are you looking for a safe and judgement-free environment where you can share your problems and concerns? If so, then let’s get to work!!! Life is too short to surrender to toxic relationships, let trauma consume you, continue to be anxious or be depressed. You deserve to live a life full of peace and joy. Let’s work together to help you develop healthy coping skills and find meaningful purpose in your family, friendships, work, spirituality, and all other life areas.
(216) 307-7765 View (216) 307-7765
Photo of Beth Steinberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 44122, OH
Beth Steinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSSA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I have experience working with children, adolescent, and adults; individually, in couples and as families.
Many of the answers we need for healing come from within ourselves. I will work collaboratively with you to identify and remove obstacles that currently hinder you from accessing your inner wisdom and ability to heal.Because no two people are exactly alike there is no one therapy method that can address the needs of every person. To honor your individuality I utilize an integrative approach with emphasis from client-centered, strength based, mindfulness based and somatic methods. I am a level 2 graduate of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. I am currently pursuing my certification in Sensorimotor Psychotherpy.
I have experience working with children, adolescent, and adults; individually, in couples and as families.
Many of the answers we need for healing come from within ourselves. I will work collaboratively with you to identify and remove obstacles that currently hinder you from accessing your inner wisdom and ability to heal.Because no two people are exactly alike there is no one therapy method that can address the needs of every person. To honor your individuality I utilize an integrative approach with emphasis from client-centered, strength based, mindfulness based and somatic methods. I am a level 2 graduate of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. I am currently pursuing my certification in Sensorimotor Psychotherpy.
(440) 345-7092 View (440) 345-7092
Photo of Ellen F Casper, Psychologist in 44122, OH
Ellen F Casper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44122
Our clients are diverse, and range in age from 0 to 110. We serve all populations and a wide range of personal, couples, and family problems. Our practice is focussed upon each individual client's needs. We emphasize matching the client concerns with the specialty and expertise of one of our highly trained therapists. Client satisfaction and responsive service is our goal. We have high visibility in our community, are respected, well-known, long-established, and with high integrity.
Our clients are diverse, and range in age from 0 to 110. We serve all populations and a wide range of personal, couples, and family problems. Our practice is focussed upon each individual client's needs. We emphasize matching the client concerns with the specialty and expertise of one of our highly trained therapists. Client satisfaction and responsive service is our goal. We have high visibility in our community, are respected, well-known, long-established, and with high integrity.
(216) 365-8728 View (216) 365-8728
Photo of Angela Tarantino, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 44122, OH
Angela Tarantino
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, stress, and marriage/relationship challenges.
What if you could feel calm and confident, free from overwhelm and uncertainty? Struggling to prioritize your needs, make decisions, and voice your opinions? Seeking direction and motivation while navigating changing relationships and marital challenges? You're here for answers, feeling trapped in your mind, desperate for a way out. Even though you might look successful on the outside, you still have doubts inside, feeling like you have to be perfect all the time. But change is possible – you're ready to reclaim confidence, clarity, and to rediscover what makes you truly happy so you can live a joyful life.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, stress, and marriage/relationship challenges.
What if you could feel calm and confident, free from overwhelm and uncertainty? Struggling to prioritize your needs, make decisions, and voice your opinions? Seeking direction and motivation while navigating changing relationships and marital challenges? You're here for answers, feeling trapped in your mind, desperate for a way out. Even though you might look successful on the outside, you still have doubts inside, feeling like you have to be perfect all the time. But change is possible – you're ready to reclaim confidence, clarity, and to rediscover what makes you truly happy so you can live a joyful life.
(440) 276-8188 View (440) 276-8188
Photo of Warm Embrace Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 44122, OH
Warm Embrace Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Whatever brings you to therapy, know that it is my goal to partner with you and support you as you work toward healing, growth and wellness to sustain a healthy life with meaning and purpose.
Breathe, this is just a chapter, not your whole story. We all have things that we may struggle with from time to time, and it is important to find a professional that you can relate to when you need help. I enjoy helping people work through the difficulties of life, with a warm and non-judgmental attitude. My approach to therapy is laid-back and down to earth. Your sessions with me will very much be directed by you. What's hindering you? depression, stress, anxiety, anger, self esteem? Do these issues leave you feeling impaired? Just Know, how you deal with the valley can have a lasting effect well after the storm has passed.
Whatever brings you to therapy, know that it is my goal to partner with you and support you as you work toward healing, growth and wellness to sustain a healthy life with meaning and purpose.
Breathe, this is just a chapter, not your whole story. We all have things that we may struggle with from time to time, and it is important to find a professional that you can relate to when you need help. I enjoy helping people work through the difficulties of life, with a warm and non-judgmental attitude. My approach to therapy is laid-back and down to earth. Your sessions with me will very much be directed by you. What's hindering you? depression, stress, anxiety, anger, self esteem? Do these issues leave you feeling impaired? Just Know, how you deal with the valley can have a lasting effect well after the storm has passed.
(216) 238-0153 View (216) 238-0153
Photo of Anna Novak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 44122, OH
Anna Novak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Waitlist for new clients
My 20+ years as a mental health therapist has allowed me to support others unbiasedly, while allowing them the space to become the best version of themselves. I value the therapeutic relationships I build with my clients and work believe the foundation of therapy is a relationship built on trust and respect, where each person is the expert of their own life.
My 20+ years as a mental health therapist has allowed me to support others unbiasedly, while allowing them the space to become the best version of themselves. I value the therapeutic relationships I build with my clients and work believe the foundation of therapy is a relationship built on trust and respect, where each person is the expert of their own life.
(216) 716-2536 x11 View (216) 716-2536 x11
Photo of Rosanna O Zavarella, Psychologist in 44122, OH
Rosanna O Zavarella
Psychologist, PhD, BCC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I believe we have the innate ability to heal ourselves, whether the issue is fear, anxiety, relationship difficulties, communication problems, chronic illness, or even a major life transition. Whether it is emotional / psychological / relationship, I view these as a call for change, growth and development. My approach with my clients is through a partnership and collaboration that fosters a healing journey, new skills, and a plan for wellness and self development. As a life coach, my specialty areas are: individuals experiencing major life transitions, promoting health and wellness, and recovery from childhood trauma.
I believe we have the innate ability to heal ourselves, whether the issue is fear, anxiety, relationship difficulties, communication problems, chronic illness, or even a major life transition. Whether it is emotional / psychological / relationship, I view these as a call for change, growth and development. My approach with my clients is through a partnership and collaboration that fosters a healing journey, new skills, and a plan for wellness and self development. As a life coach, my specialty areas are: individuals experiencing major life transitions, promoting health and wellness, and recovery from childhood trauma.
(216) 245-3763 x1 View (216) 245-3763 x1
Photo of Ascension Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 44122, OH
Ascension Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-T
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
focus on anxiety, anger, depression, and trauma and of course – relationships! I enjoy working with couples and adults along with adolescents and young children too.
Are you ready to experience freedom? Do you feel it is time to begin to change some things in your life in order to meet your true goals? Are you ready for change? If you are tired of the same problems tripping you up you’ve come to the right place. If you are ready to start your journey towards true freedom – physically, emotionally, and spiritually we are ready to help you. At Ascension Counseling, we really enjoy working with clients to help them reach their full potential and live the life they’ve always imagined for themselves.
focus on anxiety, anger, depression, and trauma and of course – relationships! I enjoy working with couples and adults along with adolescents and young children too.
Are you ready to experience freedom? Do you feel it is time to begin to change some things in your life in order to meet your true goals? Are you ready for change? If you are tired of the same problems tripping you up you’ve come to the right place. If you are ready to start your journey towards true freedom – physically, emotionally, and spiritually we are ready to help you. At Ascension Counseling, we really enjoy working with clients to help them reach their full potential and live the life they’ve always imagined for themselves.
(216) 859-3835 View (216) 859-3835
Photo of Melissa A. Sharper, Marriage & Family Therapist in 44122, OH
Melissa A. Sharper
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Ms. Sharper is an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to serving her clients with compassion and magnetic optimism. She aids individuals in the interruption of unhealthy, generational patterns and strategies to combat codependency. Self worth and boundary setting are a focus. She provides couples therapy to foster positive communication skills and implement unique techniques that foster a deeper level of emotional intimacy. Melissa also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and treats clients with anxiety and depression. Melissa desires that clients develop self empowerment and wholeness one conversation at a time.
Ms. Sharper is an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to serving her clients with compassion and magnetic optimism. She aids individuals in the interruption of unhealthy, generational patterns and strategies to combat codependency. Self worth and boundary setting are a focus. She provides couples therapy to foster positive communication skills and implement unique techniques that foster a deeper level of emotional intimacy. Melissa also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and treats clients with anxiety and depression. Melissa desires that clients develop self empowerment and wholeness one conversation at a time.
(216) 238-2697 View (216) 238-2697
Photo of Kaleigh Turick, Licensed Professional Counselor in 44122, OH
Kaleigh Turick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
We specialize in working with teenagers, parents, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Catharsis Counseling CLE wants to help you create balance, peace, and healthier, more fulfilling relationships in your life. While this process can be challenging, filled with doubt and uncertainty, it can also be an opportunity for growth. You can change the way you handle life's challenges and improve the relationships that matter most to you. We are here to help! We enjoy challenging current ways of thinking to move you forward, towards your goals. Let us support you in taking those first steps toward wellness and the best version of you.
We specialize in working with teenagers, parents, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Catharsis Counseling CLE wants to help you create balance, peace, and healthier, more fulfilling relationships in your life. While this process can be challenging, filled with doubt and uncertainty, it can also be an opportunity for growth. You can change the way you handle life's challenges and improve the relationships that matter most to you. We are here to help! We enjoy challenging current ways of thinking to move you forward, towards your goals. Let us support you in taking those first steps toward wellness and the best version of you.
(216) 223-8817 View (216) 223-8817
Photo of Jessica M Wolfal, Licensed Professional Counselor in 44122, OH
Jessica M Wolfal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Life changes are difficult. We all go through things in life that are overwhelming. Some people seeking help are struggling with the loss of a loved one. At the same time, others are dealing with changes in family dynamics and family stressors. My goal is to help address these emotions and experiences. I work with a variety of mental health and emotional issues, including anxiety, anger, depression, relationship transitions, separation/divorce, new marriage, new parents/ step-parents, loss of family member or friend, family of military and active-duty members, and deployment transitions.
Life changes are difficult. We all go through things in life that are overwhelming. Some people seeking help are struggling with the loss of a loved one. At the same time, others are dealing with changes in family dynamics and family stressors. My goal is to help address these emotions and experiences. I work with a variety of mental health and emotional issues, including anxiety, anger, depression, relationship transitions, separation/divorce, new marriage, new parents/ step-parents, loss of family member or friend, family of military and active-duty members, and deployment transitions.
(216) 859-1373 View (216) 859-1373
Photo of Nia Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in 44122, OH
Nia Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, CT
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Nia invites you to partner with her on a journey of restoration of self at Restored Minds.
Nia offers a warm, welcoming, and supportive therapeutic space for clients who are struggling with maintaining and establishing good overall mental health and wellness. Nia's focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, stress management, personal growth and development, child and adolescent counseling, relationship and couples counseling,
Nia invites you to partner with her on a journey of restoration of self at Restored Minds.
Nia offers a warm, welcoming, and supportive therapeutic space for clients who are struggling with maintaining and establishing good overall mental health and wellness. Nia's focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, stress management, personal growth and development, child and adolescent counseling, relationship and couples counseling,
(216) 616-7232 View (216) 616-7232
Photo of Lisa Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 44122, OH
Lisa Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, alcohol/drug issues or those affected by someone’s addiction, trauma/grief, obsessive-compulsive, bipolar, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, coping skills, anger management, parenting and adjustment issues.
Reaching out for help takes a lot of courage and insight. I am here to help. I have worked in the counseling field for the last 20 years in private practice, treatment centers and in Higher Education. I enjoy helping others work through life situations and difficulties to regain their sense of self and worth. I utilize the treatment modality that fits your personality and comfort level. I bring with me a wealth of knowledge, empathy and a belief that no situation is hopeless.
I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, alcohol/drug issues or those affected by someone’s addiction, trauma/grief, obsessive-compulsive, bipolar, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, coping skills, anger management, parenting and adjustment issues.
Reaching out for help takes a lot of courage and insight. I am here to help. I have worked in the counseling field for the last 20 years in private practice, treatment centers and in Higher Education. I enjoy helping others work through life situations and difficulties to regain their sense of self and worth. I utilize the treatment modality that fits your personality and comfort level. I bring with me a wealth of knowledge, empathy and a belief that no situation is hopeless.
(216) 304-3944 View (216) 304-3944
Couples Counseling Therapists

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.