Couples Counseling Therapists in Tempe, AZ

Photo of Rachel Hamel, LMFT, CCTS-I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Hamel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I have experience working with a variety of issues including trauma, family stressors, relationship concerns, life changes and transitions, anxiety, stress, depression symptoms, self-esteem concerns, work/life balance, work stressors, interpersonal conflicts, multicultural concerns, adjustment, maladaptive behaviors, and attachment issues.
As a therapist I try to cultivate a space of safety and non-judgment that allows individuals to experience and express the most vulnerable parts of themselves! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in couples, family, and adults services with experience working with and treating the full spectrum of the life span. I am an Experiential Somatic Therapist. I also utilize expressive art modalities and other creative interventions. Other therapies and modalities I utilize in my practice are CBT, DBT, Family Systemic Therapy, Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory.
I have experience working with a variety of issues including trauma, family stressors, relationship concerns, life changes and transitions, anxiety, stress, depression symptoms, self-esteem concerns, work/life balance, work stressors, interpersonal conflicts, multicultural concerns, adjustment, maladaptive behaviors, and attachment issues.
As a therapist I try to cultivate a space of safety and non-judgment that allows individuals to experience and express the most vulnerable parts of themselves! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in couples, family, and adults services with experience working with and treating the full spectrum of the life span. I am an Experiential Somatic Therapist. I also utilize expressive art modalities and other creative interventions. Other therapies and modalities I utilize in my practice are CBT, DBT, Family Systemic Therapy, Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory.
(480) 605-3853 x716 View (480) 605-3853 x716
Photo of Dr. Brian Sillanpaa, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Brian Sillanpaa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Regardless of what's on your mind, from relationship issues, to job stress, addiction, generalized anxiety, to just about anything else, I am confident we can work together to find that next big breakthrough!.
We all have challenges. Admittedly some are objectively harder than others but our own challenges are unique to each of us and can seem devastating from our perspective. I would like to help you work through yours. I am not going to give you platitudes. Instead, I want to help you learn to accept, cope, cry if you need to, and then get back up! It’s not easy, but you can do hard things! As a college professor, and my background in medicine, my natural instinct is to make sure you understand both the biological and psychological reasons behind your troubles and then we work together to put YOU back in control of your life.
Regardless of what's on your mind, from relationship issues, to job stress, addiction, generalized anxiety, to just about anything else, I am confident we can work together to find that next big breakthrough!.
We all have challenges. Admittedly some are objectively harder than others but our own challenges are unique to each of us and can seem devastating from our perspective. I would like to help you work through yours. I am not going to give you platitudes. Instead, I want to help you learn to accept, cope, cry if you need to, and then get back up! It’s not easy, but you can do hard things! As a college professor, and my background in medicine, my natural instinct is to make sure you understand both the biological and psychological reasons behind your troubles and then we work together to put YOU back in control of your life.
(480) 568-2784 x101 View (480) 568-2784 x101
Photo of Patricia Bonnay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Bonnay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship and knowing what to expect is so important.
Hello and welcome to my profile. After many years in the corporate sector I changed careers, graduating from Tulane University in 1999, to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Helping others work through life challenges has been a goal of mine since high school. Since 2000, I have worked as a Clinical Social Worker in a variety of settings (high schools, agencies, private practice, the VA and military installations around the world) with people aged 13 - 75.
The therapeutic relationship and knowing what to expect is so important.
Hello and welcome to my profile. After many years in the corporate sector I changed careers, graduating from Tulane University in 1999, to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Helping others work through life challenges has been a goal of mine since high school. Since 2000, I have worked as a Clinical Social Worker in a variety of settings (high schools, agencies, private practice, the VA and military installations around the world) with people aged 13 - 75.
(480) 933-1849 View (480) 933-1849
Photo of Amy Dye, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Dye
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
I use many different approaches to therapy including individual, couples, and family therapy.
My therapy style focuses on my belief that you are competent and capable. I believe you are more aware of what needs to happen for change to occur, than the you may realize. At times, people become stuck in unproductive ways of doing things and have trouble seeing other options. I also feel that people sometimes continually hear that they are not capable or create a negative story about the situation. It than makes it difficult to view their lives from another perspective.
I use many different approaches to therapy including individual, couples, and family therapy.
My therapy style focuses on my belief that you are competent and capable. I believe you are more aware of what needs to happen for change to occur, than the you may realize. At times, people become stuck in unproductive ways of doing things and have trouble seeing other options. I also feel that people sometimes continually hear that they are not capable or create a negative story about the situation. It than makes it difficult to view their lives from another perspective.
(480) 300-4349 View (480) 300-4349
Photo of Teri Ehlers, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teri Ehlers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284  (Online Only)
When we are experiencing difficulties in relationship with ourselves or important others it can impact our daily living.
Parenting doesn't come naturally to all of us, and that is OK! Are you finding yourself filled with fear? Or thinking you are not a good parent? If you answered yes, you are not alone! One in 6 moms describe symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety and 1 in 10 Dads. When I was a new Mom I experienced PPD without available resources. This is not true for today! I want to share tools to help you thrive during this important time. The skills you aquire will help you today and throughout your life.
When we are experiencing difficulties in relationship with ourselves or important others it can impact our daily living.
Parenting doesn't come naturally to all of us, and that is OK! Are you finding yourself filled with fear? Or thinking you are not a good parent? If you answered yes, you are not alone! One in 6 moms describe symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety and 1 in 10 Dads. When I was a new Mom I experienced PPD without available resources. This is not true for today! I want to share tools to help you thrive during this important time. The skills you aquire will help you today and throughout your life.
(480) 470-3796 View (480) 470-3796
Photo of Betsy Leavitt, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betsy Leavitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
I have extensive experience working with clients and families who have past trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship stressors, family conflict, and more.
My role as your therapist is to offer compassion and a calm, safe space for healing. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, working at your pace toward your identified goals. I focus on offering support, tools, and resources as we work together. Each client has a unique situation and services are tailored to fit those needs. We will work together to achieve what is important to you.
I have extensive experience working with clients and families who have past trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship stressors, family conflict, and more.
My role as your therapist is to offer compassion and a calm, safe space for healing. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, working at your pace toward your identified goals. I focus on offering support, tools, and resources as we work together. Each client has a unique situation and services are tailored to fit those needs. We will work together to achieve what is important to you.
(480) 470-3632 View (480) 470-3632
Photo of Tammar Hirsch, Counselor
Tammar Hirsch
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My practice is focused on working with couples and with individual clients on anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, adjustment difficulties, self-esteem issues and stress management. I aim to cultivate a collaboration between client and counselor to create a positive, safe environment where change and healing can begin.
My practice is focused on working with couples and with individual clients on anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, adjustment difficulties, self-esteem issues and stress management. I aim to cultivate a collaboration between client and counselor to create a positive, safe environment where change and healing can begin.
(480) 553-9528 View (480) 553-9528
Photo of Carlos Garcia - Carlos Garcia - Arukah Healthcare, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Garcia - Arukah Healthcare, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85288  (Online Only)
For this reason, I focus on building trust and creating rapport, resulting in making the healing process more comfortable and productive for families, couples, and individuals.
Do you frequently feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsatisfied? Are your relationships suffering? I’m passionate about helping clients navigate difficult situations and committed to helping you create strong and healthy relationships so that you can start living a thriving life. Clients enjoy returning to sessions because I allow them to speak openly about their challenges while creating a collaborative unique treatment plan. This allows individuals to view their problems differently, promote change more effectively, and balance empathy with authenticity, humor, and accountability.
For this reason, I focus on building trust and creating rapport, resulting in making the healing process more comfortable and productive for families, couples, and individuals.
Do you frequently feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsatisfied? Are your relationships suffering? I’m passionate about helping clients navigate difficult situations and committed to helping you create strong and healthy relationships so that you can start living a thriving life. Clients enjoy returning to sessions because I allow them to speak openly about their challenges while creating a collaborative unique treatment plan. This allows individuals to view their problems differently, promote change more effectively, and balance empathy with authenticity, humor, and accountability.
(623) 343-0483 View (623) 343-0483
Photo of Evalyn Vasquez - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Tempe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Tempe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Heidi Lasser, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Lasser
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
I have been providing counseling for children, teens, adults, families, and couples for over 39 years.
I believe that counseling should be a partnership and that most people have the ability within themselves to work through their struggles. As a counselor I am here to be a real, authentic person, helping put the pieces of the puzzle together with you, and providing needed tools to help you live your best possible life. I would like to help you through and support you during any of your current or past challenges. My Master of Arts degree is in Guidance and Counseling, Community Counseling from Eastern Michigan University. I am a mother of two adult children, and have lived in the Detroit area, Boise, and now happily in Phoenix.
I have been providing counseling for children, teens, adults, families, and couples for over 39 years.
I believe that counseling should be a partnership and that most people have the ability within themselves to work through their struggles. As a counselor I am here to be a real, authentic person, helping put the pieces of the puzzle together with you, and providing needed tools to help you live your best possible life. I would like to help you through and support you during any of your current or past challenges. My Master of Arts degree is in Guidance and Counseling, Community Counseling from Eastern Michigan University. I am a mother of two adult children, and have lived in the Detroit area, Boise, and now happily in Phoenix.
(928) 563-4848 View (928) 563-4848
Photo of Vickey L Simmons-Hart, MA, MS, Counselor
Vickey L Simmons-Hart
Counselor, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
I take pride in offering an all-inclusive and affirming environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics, including sex positivity, kink positivity, and consensual non-monogamy/alternative relationships.
As a dedicated mental health counselor, I am unwaveringly committed to serving underrepresented communities, particularly the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. I take pride in offering an all-inclusive and affirming environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics, including sex positivity, kink positivity, and consensual non-monogamy/alternative relationships. I’ve been privileged to accompany individuals of all ages and backgrounds on their healing and personal growth paths.
I take pride in offering an all-inclusive and affirming environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics, including sex positivity, kink positivity, and consensual non-monogamy/alternative relationships.
As a dedicated mental health counselor, I am unwaveringly committed to serving underrepresented communities, particularly the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. I take pride in offering an all-inclusive and affirming environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics, including sex positivity, kink positivity, and consensual non-monogamy/alternative relationships. I’ve been privileged to accompany individuals of all ages and backgrounds on their healing and personal growth paths.
(623) 624-8701 View (623) 624-8701
Photo of Susan Spehling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Spehling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in grief/loss, Mood Disorders, Addictions and Chemical Dependency, Chronic/Terminal Illness, Relationship counseling.
My name is Susan Spehling. a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, currently licensed in Arizona, California, Oregon and Nevada, licensed since 2007 and in Private Practice since 2012. My work history includes, California Department of Corrections (CDCR) since 2005 as a clinical psychotherapist, Probation, Hospice, Hospitals, and Clinics, with extensive experience treating clients from a variety of cultures. I am also trained in disaster mental health intervention
I have extensive training in grief/loss, Mood Disorders, Addictions and Chemical Dependency, Chronic/Terminal Illness, Relationship counseling.
My name is Susan Spehling. a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, currently licensed in Arizona, California, Oregon and Nevada, licensed since 2007 and in Private Practice since 2012. My work history includes, California Department of Corrections (CDCR) since 2005 as a clinical psychotherapist, Probation, Hospice, Hospitals, and Clinics, with extensive experience treating clients from a variety of cultures. I am also trained in disaster mental health intervention
(480) 470-6231 View (480) 470-6231
Photo of Heidi M Clapham, MC, LPC, LISAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi M Clapham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
The decision to seek therapy is usually at a difficult time in ones life. It isn't always easy, but can be life changing. As a therapist my main goal is establish a healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients. In my practice I work primarily with addictions (gambling/alcohol) and the effects on the individual and the family. I also work with individuals dealing depression, anxiety, women's issues, as well as those struggling in their relationship/marriage. I use cognitive behavioral therapy with my clients and I truly put forth the effort to individualize each therapeutic session to fit my clients needs.
The decision to seek therapy is usually at a difficult time in ones life. It isn't always easy, but can be life changing. As a therapist my main goal is establish a healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients. In my practice I work primarily with addictions (gambling/alcohol) and the effects on the individual and the family. I also work with individuals dealing depression, anxiety, women's issues, as well as those struggling in their relationship/marriage. I use cognitive behavioral therapy with my clients and I truly put forth the effort to individualize each therapeutic session to fit my clients needs.
(480) 418-4179 View (480) 418-4179
Photo of Holly Garnett, Counselor
Holly Garnett
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My role as a therapist is to offer a safe space in which you can explore life’s challenges. Utilizing an integrated approach, we can work to identify and build upon your own strengths and address current needs. Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I strive to be compassionate and culturally sensitive while helping you work toward your goals. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, or self-esteem challenges, I invite you into a non-judgmental space to work through your struggles.
My role as a therapist is to offer a safe space in which you can explore life’s challenges. Utilizing an integrated approach, we can work to identify and build upon your own strengths and address current needs. Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I strive to be compassionate and culturally sensitive while helping you work toward your goals. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, or self-esteem challenges, I invite you into a non-judgmental space to work through your struggles.
(480) 637-3620 View (480) 637-3620
Photo of Edward Callirgos, MAS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edward Callirgos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Together, we will then seek to restore you and your relationship to a place of truth and peace.
Thank you for reaching out and seeking therapy. I specialize in working with High Conflict couples struggling with infidelity, violations of love/trust & narcissistic behaviors. I also work with individuals who have experienced trauma (recent, adult hood or childhood). In addition to working with the above I also work with athletes and leaders of organization and CEOs of various companies who looking to improve their performance and also improve their personal lives. I am here and I am ready to get to work. Let's do this! HEAL. RESTORE. LEARN
Together, we will then seek to restore you and your relationship to a place of truth and peace.
Thank you for reaching out and seeking therapy. I specialize in working with High Conflict couples struggling with infidelity, violations of love/trust & narcissistic behaviors. I also work with individuals who have experienced trauma (recent, adult hood or childhood). In addition to working with the above I also work with athletes and leaders of organization and CEOs of various companies who looking to improve their performance and also improve their personal lives. I am here and I am ready to get to work. Let's do this! HEAL. RESTORE. LEARN
(480) 428-2607 View (480) 428-2607
Photo of Holly Essler - Empowering You Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Empowering You Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Our team at Empowering You Therapy treats children ages 7 and up, teens, adults, couples, and families.
It's time to start loving yourself again. Seeking out help can be the hardest step in this journey. We believe in an Empowering Approach. We can be our own toughest critics. Even though you may not realize it, you have many skills and strengths within you that I build upon and use in reaching your goals. You deserve it and owe it to yourself to gain back control of your life and live to your fullest potential. Regardless of what brings you to seek therapy services we are here to help in your journey. We provide individual therapy to adults and adolescents. Schedule a free phone consultation with me today.
Our team at Empowering You Therapy treats children ages 7 and up, teens, adults, couples, and families.
It's time to start loving yourself again. Seeking out help can be the hardest step in this journey. We believe in an Empowering Approach. We can be our own toughest critics. Even though you may not realize it, you have many skills and strengths within you that I build upon and use in reaching your goals. You deserve it and owe it to yourself to gain back control of your life and live to your fullest potential. Regardless of what brings you to seek therapy services we are here to help in your journey. We provide individual therapy to adults and adolescents. Schedule a free phone consultation with me today.
(480) 605-2384 View (480) 605-2384
Photo of Marlon Blanks - Resolutions Behavioral Health Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Resolutions Behavioral Health Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
Today's Depression, Anxiety, Anger, and Trauma stems from a historical place. My goal as your therapist is to process, unprocessed memory that's holding you back from living your best life. Let's explore your challenges with insecurities, lack of confidence, and fear. Let's explore what identifies your purpose. Welcome couples! Let's explore what is affecting communication and intimacy.
Today's Depression, Anxiety, Anger, and Trauma stems from a historical place. My goal as your therapist is to process, unprocessed memory that's holding you back from living your best life. Let's explore your challenges with insecurities, lack of confidence, and fear. Let's explore what identifies your purpose. Welcome couples! Let's explore what is affecting communication and intimacy.
(480) 725-6001 View (480) 725-6001
Photo of Megan Gamber, MAS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan Gamber
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I see couples, families, and individuals of all ages with a variety of presenting problems.
I pride myself in my ability to develop positive relationships with my clients. I am really good at asking thought provoking and mind-challenging questions to help my clients see things in ways they may not have previously thought about. I believe homework assignments are the key to helping clients enact positive change at home, outside of the therapy room. I embrace the values of authenticity, compassion, and humor in my work. I aim to connect with my clients where they are, and strive to help them works towards the place they want to be.
I see couples, families, and individuals of all ages with a variety of presenting problems.
I pride myself in my ability to develop positive relationships with my clients. I am really good at asking thought provoking and mind-challenging questions to help my clients see things in ways they may not have previously thought about. I believe homework assignments are the key to helping clients enact positive change at home, outside of the therapy room. I embrace the values of authenticity, compassion, and humor in my work. I aim to connect with my clients where they are, and strive to help them works towards the place they want to be.
(928) 597-4496 View (928) 597-4496
Photo of Jose Bucio, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jose Bucio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
I'll tailor my approach to your unique needs, offering individual, couples, or group therapy as needed.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
I'll tailor my approach to your unique needs, offering individual, couples, or group therapy as needed.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(480) 618-7463 View (480) 618-7463
Photo of Shelly L Schultz Kona Counseling, MSc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelly L Schultz Kona Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
NOW Accepting New Clients! We have 15+ open spots this coming week. My Name is Shelly Schultz, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I own and operate Kona Counseling. I'm very proud and excited about the services we're able to provide in Arizona. We currently have 14 therapists with diverse backgrounds and various specialties that can meet almost anyone's needs. We have therapists that work with toddlers, children, teens, and adults. We also offer individual, couples, and family therapy.
NOW Accepting New Clients! We have 15+ open spots this coming week. My Name is Shelly Schultz, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I own and operate Kona Counseling. I'm very proud and excited about the services we're able to provide in Arizona. We currently have 14 therapists with diverse backgrounds and various specialties that can meet almost anyone's needs. We have therapists that work with toddlers, children, teens, and adults. We also offer individual, couples, and family therapy.
(520) 200-8160 View (520) 200-8160
1
...
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.