Couples Counseling Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Francisco Romero, Pre-Licensed Professional
Francisco Romero
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
I'm also trained in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1).
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck, struggling to find direction or meaning? I'm here to help. As a compassionate and non-judgmental counselor, I'll work collaboratively with you to understand and overcome the challenges holding you back. In a safe and supportive environment, you'll find the space to explore, grow, and move forward.
I'm also trained in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1).
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck, struggling to find direction or meaning? I'm here to help. As a compassionate and non-judgmental counselor, I'll work collaboratively with you to understand and overcome the challenges holding you back. In a safe and supportive environment, you'll find the space to explore, grow, and move forward.
(520) 779-8991 View (520) 779-8991
Photo of Make'da Webb, MA, LAC, Counselor
Make'da Webb
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with persistent anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or seeking support in your journey as an LGBTQ individual, I'm here to support you! Therapy with me is collaborative.
Now Accepting New Clients! I truly care about what you are experiencing. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, struggling with relationship concerns, or navigating the unique challenges of being part of the LGBTQIA+ community can be incredibly difficult. You don’t have to face these struggles alone. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, understand your experiences, and develop effective tools to manage life's challenges. My approach is tailored to your needs, ensuring that we work together to understand the root causes of your concerns and create a path towards a more balanced you.
Whether you're dealing with persistent anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or seeking support in your journey as an LGBTQ individual, I'm here to support you! Therapy with me is collaborative.
Now Accepting New Clients! I truly care about what you are experiencing. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, struggling with relationship concerns, or navigating the unique challenges of being part of the LGBTQIA+ community can be incredibly difficult. You don’t have to face these struggles alone. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, understand your experiences, and develop effective tools to manage life's challenges. My approach is tailored to your needs, ensuring that we work together to understand the root causes of your concerns and create a path towards a more balanced you.
(623) 887-5674 View (623) 887-5674
Photo of Dr. Dwan Reed, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Dwan Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
I help couples work through their conflicts and achieve the kind of relationship they desire.
I am certified in anxiety and trauma (EMDR). I am also a relationship expert with a PhD in marriage and family therapy and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-S, LICSW). I have over 19 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, groups, and families. I'm the author of the relationship survival book at Hatemymarriage.com. Many of my clients choose alternative methods for dealing with anxiety and depression instead of prescription medication. I am also a certified herbalist and a practitioner of yoga. I'm not just EMDR "trained", but also certified with advanced hours in trauma.
I help couples work through their conflicts and achieve the kind of relationship they desire.
I am certified in anxiety and trauma (EMDR). I am also a relationship expert with a PhD in marriage and family therapy and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-S, LICSW). I have over 19 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, groups, and families. I'm the author of the relationship survival book at Hatemymarriage.com. Many of my clients choose alternative methods for dealing with anxiety and depression instead of prescription medication. I am also a certified herbalist and a practitioner of yoga. I'm not just EMDR "trained", but also certified with advanced hours in trauma.
(520) 200-3830 View (520) 200-3830
Photo of Yisroel Loeb - Empower Mental Health, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Empower Mental Health, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
We employ psychologists and therapists who are highly trained and specialize working with individuals of all ages, couples and families struggling with issues to include substance use addictions, behavioral addictions, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, educational/vocational challenges and deeper personality/characterological issues.
Welcome to Empower Mental Health. Our guiding principal is to empower our clients to thrive well past the time when counseling is concluded. From the first session we focus on working ourselves out of a job. A focus we take pride in is working with veterans and their families. We accept insurances to include Optum/United, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Medicare and Triwest. We are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Services can be scheduled outside of business hours including mornings, nights, and weekends. Please take a look at our website: https://empowermh.co
We employ psychologists and therapists who are highly trained and specialize working with individuals of all ages, couples and families struggling with issues to include substance use addictions, behavioral addictions, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, educational/vocational challenges and deeper personality/characterological issues.
Welcome to Empower Mental Health. Our guiding principal is to empower our clients to thrive well past the time when counseling is concluded. From the first session we focus on working ourselves out of a job. A focus we take pride in is working with veterans and their families. We accept insurances to include Optum/United, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Medicare and Triwest. We are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Services can be scheduled outside of business hours including mornings, nights, and weekends. Please take a look at our website: https://empowermh.co
(602) 755-3800 View (602) 755-3800
Photo of Jennifer Monninger, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Monninger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
My primary focus is working on spiritual sexual shame, discrepancies in sexual desire among couples, sexual trauma, sexual pain, reclaiming sexuality after medical issues, out of control sexual behavior, polyamory, BDSM, and pregnancy related or postpartum mood and sexuality concerns.
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
My primary focus is working on spiritual sexual shame, discrepancies in sexual desire among couples, sexual trauma, sexual pain, reclaiming sexuality after medical issues, out of control sexual behavior, polyamory, BDSM, and pregnancy related or postpartum mood and sexuality concerns.
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
(602) 755-3230 View (602) 755-3230
Photo of Patrick K Varney - Phoenix Foundations Recovery/ Patrick Varney PLLC, MA, MS, LISAC, LAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Phoenix Foundations Recovery/ Patrick Varney PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MS, LISAC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Accepting United Healthcare Insurance- In Network. Accepting New Clients! Serving Arizona Families, Couples & Individuals, Specializing in Addictions, Process Addictions & Mental Health Issues. Today can be the beginning of Change, “Let’s Get Started”. If you are feeling distressed and frustrated over having lost some or all control over gambling, shopping, obsessive & compulsive behaviors, sex, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances in your life or the lives of loved ones? Are you feeling despair, isolation, anxiety, loneliness or depression? " Let's start Healing Today".
Accepting United Healthcare Insurance- In Network. Accepting New Clients! Serving Arizona Families, Couples & Individuals, Specializing in Addictions, Process Addictions & Mental Health Issues. Today can be the beginning of Change, “Let’s Get Started”. If you are feeling distressed and frustrated over having lost some or all control over gambling, shopping, obsessive & compulsive behaviors, sex, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances in your life or the lives of loved ones? Are you feeling despair, isolation, anxiety, loneliness or depression? " Let's start Healing Today".
(623) 323-3260 View (623) 323-3260
Photo of Beverly Sue Mahaffey, MA, LPC, Counselor
Beverly Sue Mahaffey
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I have been especially helpful to people experiencing the following challenges: relationship difficulties including couple, family and work issues, grief/loss, parenting, teen and young adult issues. Each person/couple is viewed from a place of deep respect for their history, struggles and victories. My style is individualized, collaborative and designed to access the wisdom and strength within every person. Couples have felt that therapy helped them reestablish their emotional connection. My specialty is determining the core issues underneath conflict within any relationship including with self. I will serve as clinician, teacher, guide and encourager as you experience growth/healing.
I have been especially helpful to people experiencing the following challenges: relationship difficulties including couple, family and work issues, grief/loss, parenting, teen and young adult issues. Each person/couple is viewed from a place of deep respect for their history, struggles and victories. My style is individualized, collaborative and designed to access the wisdom and strength within every person. Couples have felt that therapy helped them reestablish their emotional connection. My specialty is determining the core issues underneath conflict within any relationship including with self. I will serve as clinician, teacher, guide and encourager as you experience growth/healing.
(602) 903-7147 View (602) 903-7147
Photo of Cary Gauna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cary Gauna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I work with adult individuals and couples.
Are you having difficulty navigating life's challenges and finding a way back to thriving rather than surviving? I can help. My approach comes from empowering people to see the strength and uniqueness within themselves.
I work with adult individuals and couples.
Are you having difficulty navigating life's challenges and finding a way back to thriving rather than surviving? I can help. My approach comes from empowering people to see the strength and uniqueness within themselves.
(602) 962-2358 View (602) 962-2358
Photo of Amy Davidson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I specialize in relationship problems, addictions of all kind, and the depression that makes life difficult.
Welcome! I'm am independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) treating clients in AZ. I grew up in Chicago and have been practicing for 17 years.
I specialize in relationship problems, addictions of all kind, and the depression that makes life difficult.
Welcome! I'm am independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) treating clients in AZ. I grew up in Chicago and have been practicing for 17 years.
(928) 414-8204 View (928) 414-8204
Photo of Asa R Aramburo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asa R Aramburo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Asa Aramburo , I am a LCSW an am currently Licensed to work with those in Oregon and Arizona. I have MSW from Portland State University in Social Work and have been working with Children and Families for over 30 years. I enjoy working with all ages and stages and have a vast experience in working with family systems issues. I value building rapport and trust in the client-therapist relationship and working with my clients to achieve their desired goals in their therapeutic journey.
I'm Asa Aramburo , I am a LCSW an am currently Licensed to work with those in Oregon and Arizona. I have MSW from Portland State University in Social Work and have been working with Children and Families for over 30 years. I enjoy working with all ages and stages and have a vast experience in working with family systems issues. I value building rapport and trust in the client-therapist relationship and working with my clients to achieve their desired goals in their therapeutic journey.
(602) 892-0369 View (602) 892-0369
Photo of Jason Fierstein | Phoenix Men's Counseling, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jason Fierstein | Phoenix Men's Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My practice works with men to help them enjoy better, more fulfilling relationships, and also help guys figure out how to find the right relationship for them.
Welcome! I'm Jason, and I specialize in working with men and couples. My practice, Phoenix Men's Counseling, helps work with men just like you (or your husband, partner, or relative) with the issues that guys struggle with most, such as stress, depression, cheating, marriage/ relationship issues, "nice guy" syndrome (guys who have a hard time saying 'no'), anger, and emotional intimacy, among others. As a guy, I know what men deal with, and work to create a counseling environment that men can relate to, feel heard and find new solutions to their problems. I have 20 years experience working with men.
My practice works with men to help them enjoy better, more fulfilling relationships, and also help guys figure out how to find the right relationship for them.
Welcome! I'm Jason, and I specialize in working with men and couples. My practice, Phoenix Men's Counseling, helps work with men just like you (or your husband, partner, or relative) with the issues that guys struggle with most, such as stress, depression, cheating, marriage/ relationship issues, "nice guy" syndrome (guys who have a hard time saying 'no'), anger, and emotional intimacy, among others. As a guy, I know what men deal with, and work to create a counseling environment that men can relate to, feel heard and find new solutions to their problems. I have 20 years experience working with men.
(602) 309-0568 View (602) 309-0568
Photo of Virginia Keller, MC, LPC, Counselor
Virginia Keller
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
I work well with children and adolescents, parenting issues, adults of all ages, and couples.
Everyone experiences life's ups and downs. Many of us though, experience issues in which we get "stuck", become ill, or which affect our relationships. In my 30+ years in practice as a therapist, I have encountered people whose problems run the gamut of life's experiences. In my professional training, I have learned many tools and concepts to help me help people. I believe the relationship that a person has with their therapist is one of those most important tools. I provide a safe, supportive therapeutic environment to listen and and to find ways to solve the problems people bring to therapy.
I work well with children and adolescents, parenting issues, adults of all ages, and couples.
Everyone experiences life's ups and downs. Many of us though, experience issues in which we get "stuck", become ill, or which affect our relationships. In my 30+ years in practice as a therapist, I have encountered people whose problems run the gamut of life's experiences. In my professional training, I have learned many tools and concepts to help me help people. I believe the relationship that a person has with their therapist is one of those most important tools. I provide a safe, supportive therapeutic environment to listen and and to find ways to solve the problems people bring to therapy.
(602) 346-9428 View (602) 346-9428
Photo of Cassidy Pavelich, LAC, MS, Counselor
Cassidy Pavelich
Counselor, LAC, MS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85007
I specialize in treating anxiety, self-esteem issues, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or maybe navigating a new life transition? I know how daunting that can be, and I'm here to walk that path with you. I’m truly passionate about creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. We'll work together to define your goals and check in to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need throughout your therapy journey. As a therapist, I bring a warm, down-to-earth vibe to our sessions, making it easier to tackle the tough stuff at a pace that feels right for you.
I specialize in treating anxiety, self-esteem issues, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or maybe navigating a new life transition? I know how daunting that can be, and I'm here to walk that path with you. I’m truly passionate about creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. We'll work together to define your goals and check in to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need throughout your therapy journey. As a therapist, I bring a warm, down-to-earth vibe to our sessions, making it easier to tackle the tough stuff at a pace that feels right for you.
(602) 854-9780 View (602) 854-9780
Photo of Jane Ellen Fendelman - Jane Fendelman, MC, MC
Jane Fendelman, MC
MC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I specialize in Individual, Couples & Family Therapy.
What you say to yourself about yourself, determines your place in this world. I am honored to serve, by empowering people to face their fears and realize their full potential. Access your power, strength, authentic self and laser focus to achieve your dreams and meet your goals. I will assist you in plugging into the power of the Universe... the same power that creates the planets and Supernovas and keeps them in orbit is the very power that floods through you. Wield the energy that is your birthright to master and utilize. Easily accessible that infinite power to create exactly life that you want. NOW.
I specialize in Individual, Couples & Family Therapy.
What you say to yourself about yourself, determines your place in this world. I am honored to serve, by empowering people to face their fears and realize their full potential. Access your power, strength, authentic self and laser focus to achieve your dreams and meet your goals. I will assist you in plugging into the power of the Universe... the same power that creates the planets and Supernovas and keeps them in orbit is the very power that floods through you. Wield the energy that is your birthright to master and utilize. Easily accessible that infinite power to create exactly life that you want. NOW.
(602) 881-1991 View (602) 881-1991
Photo of Kristi Fowler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristi Fowler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
I am accepting new clients in Arizona (in person or virtual), California, South Dakota Tennessee, Ohio, or Michigan! With over 25 years of experience, I will help you (or you and your partner) navigate life’s complexities with compassion and directness. I guide clients to uncover answers within themselves, fostering growth, healing, and meaningful change. My approach is rooted in mindfulness, helping people break patterns, improve relationships, and live more authentic lives with self-awareness and empowerment.
I am accepting new clients in Arizona (in person or virtual), California, South Dakota Tennessee, Ohio, or Michigan! With over 25 years of experience, I will help you (or you and your partner) navigate life’s complexities with compassion and directness. I guide clients to uncover answers within themselves, fostering growth, healing, and meaningful change. My approach is rooted in mindfulness, helping people break patterns, improve relationships, and live more authentic lives with self-awareness and empowerment.
(928) 232-4535 View (928) 232-4535
Photo of Karyn Romo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karyn Romo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and groups and strive to provide caring, client-centered, relation-based therapy.
You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. I believe that the therapeutic journey can be an important part of helping you understand those experiences. I am passionate for getting to know people and providing support as you navigate through transitions in life. I desire to help individuals build healthy self-esteem, heal from traumatic experiences, and live a purposeful life. Life moves forward quickly and we are served best by finding what works, modifying what doesn't, and incorporating those changes to achieve our goals.
I work with individuals, couples, and groups and strive to provide caring, client-centered, relation-based therapy.
You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. I believe that the therapeutic journey can be an important part of helping you understand those experiences. I am passionate for getting to know people and providing support as you navigate through transitions in life. I desire to help individuals build healthy self-esteem, heal from traumatic experiences, and live a purposeful life. Life moves forward quickly and we are served best by finding what works, modifying what doesn't, and incorporating those changes to achieve our goals.
(602) 483-4977 View (602) 483-4977
Photo of Sharon Therapist, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
I specialize in areas of Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Families in Crisis, Relationship challenges, Trauma, Grief & Loss, LGBT, and more.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck in situations that continue to occur over and over, or are you struggling with not really knowing who you are? Maybe there are some things about yourself that you would like to feel differently about, or learn better ways to manage areas in your personal life? Do you experience intense feelings at times and do not understand why? Coming to Therapy is one of the first steps you can take towards finding these answers and taking steps towards the positive changes you would like to experience. Together, we will work on reaching the Goals you set for yourself. "If you change nothing, nothing changes!"
I specialize in areas of Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Families in Crisis, Relationship challenges, Trauma, Grief & Loss, LGBT, and more.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck in situations that continue to occur over and over, or are you struggling with not really knowing who you are? Maybe there are some things about yourself that you would like to feel differently about, or learn better ways to manage areas in your personal life? Do you experience intense feelings at times and do not understand why? Coming to Therapy is one of the first steps you can take towards finding these answers and taking steps towards the positive changes you would like to experience. Together, we will work on reaching the Goals you set for yourself. "If you change nothing, nothing changes!"
(602) 677-7858 View (602) 677-7858
Rachel Staben
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
I also believe that the relationship with your therapist, (feeling respected, understood, and cared for), is the backbone to any good therapy.
Are you ready to find a safe place to explore what is leading to the pain and concerns in your life, while finding your true self along the way? Do you want real effective ways to transform depression, anxiety, and other experiences into internal spaciousness, calm, and joy? Do you feel that your past continues to affect your present feelings and beliefs about yourself and the world? Do you feel that something within you is getting in the way of having the relationships you desire? Do you simply feel alone in your suffering? I would love to join you on your journey to finding greater freedom.
I also believe that the relationship with your therapist, (feeling respected, understood, and cared for), is the backbone to any good therapy.
Are you ready to find a safe place to explore what is leading to the pain and concerns in your life, while finding your true self along the way? Do you want real effective ways to transform depression, anxiety, and other experiences into internal spaciousness, calm, and joy? Do you feel that your past continues to affect your present feelings and beliefs about yourself and the world? Do you feel that something within you is getting in the way of having the relationships you desire? Do you simply feel alone in your suffering? I would love to join you on your journey to finding greater freedom.
(928) 599-7162 View (928) 599-7162
Photo of Mercy Mwangi, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mercy Mwangi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
Living a life where life challenges don't hold us back from having deeper healthy relationships with others and worry less is everyone's dream. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), we can think about our issues from a different lens and empower ourselves to enact change. I work towards developing a trusting relationship in which you feel heard and supported. I offer couples, relationships challenges, teens & trauma counseling.
Living a life where life challenges don't hold us back from having deeper healthy relationships with others and worry less is everyone's dream. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), we can think about our issues from a different lens and empower ourselves to enact change. I work towards developing a trusting relationship in which you feel heard and supported. I offer couples, relationships challenges, teens & trauma counseling.
(623) 294-3813 View (623) 294-3813
Photo of Gretchen Snyder, MSPC, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Gretchen Snyder
Counselor, MSPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a licensed associate counselor (LAC) and licensed American sign language (ASL) interpreter who moved to Phoenix, AZ from New York, NY. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families as well as groups and couples. I have dedicated myself to excellence in care through trauma-informed integration of treatments including EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, expressive art therapy, play therapy, among other therapeutic modalities.
I am a licensed associate counselor (LAC) and licensed American sign language (ASL) interpreter who moved to Phoenix, AZ from New York, NY. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families as well as groups and couples. I have dedicated myself to excellence in care through trauma-informed integration of treatments including EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, expressive art therapy, play therapy, among other therapeutic modalities.
(480) 780-3429 View (480) 780-3429
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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.