Photo of Johna Hansen, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johna Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Dr. Johna Hansen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Right now you may be dealing with a lot of stress at home and need a place to process your thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult to share space with a partner, work/hunt for a job, tend to children, and/or stress out about not having anyone living with you. Please feel free to contact me as I can help you process the various emotions and thoughts that may be rushing through your mind and body at this time.
Welcome! I’m Dr. Johna Hansen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Right now you may be dealing with a lot of stress at home and need a place to process your thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult to share space with a partner, work/hunt for a job, tend to children, and/or stress out about not having anyone living with you. Please feel free to contact me as I can help you process the various emotions and thoughts that may be rushing through your mind and body at this time.
(718) 568-6768 View (718) 568-6768
Photo of Debra Bergerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Bergerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I have helped adults of all ages and couples increase their understanding of themselves and in doing so, overcome life hurdles preventing them from finding joy and fulfillment in their daily lives.
Many of us find ourselves confronted with challenges, sadness and/or destructive patterns that require increased self-awareness to overcome. I use a varied approach to address the individual needs of my patients in a compassionate, nonjudgemental, and empathic environment. I have helped people struggling with issues spanning anxiety, depression, eating disorders, transitions, loss, and trauma, among others. We will work together to explore the root of your struggles through guided questions and by challenging prior assumptions.
I have helped adults of all ages and couples increase their understanding of themselves and in doing so, overcome life hurdles preventing them from finding joy and fulfillment in their daily lives.
Many of us find ourselves confronted with challenges, sadness and/or destructive patterns that require increased self-awareness to overcome. I use a varied approach to address the individual needs of my patients in a compassionate, nonjudgemental, and empathic environment. I have helped people struggling with issues spanning anxiety, depression, eating disorders, transitions, loss, and trauma, among others. We will work together to explore the root of your struggles through guided questions and by challenging prior assumptions.
(646) 600-8178 View (646) 600-8178
Photo of Adrienne Gorman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Gorman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I believe therapy is a relationship that helps the client to overcome the challenges which, in the past, have held you back.
Adrienne was trained in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that attempts to understand how past events affect current feelings and behavior. In addition to her foundation in traditional psychotherapies, she also utilizes more current, evidence based modalities, such as CBT, to help clients reframe various experiences that are causing discomfort. Adrienne has worked with various populations and diagnoses, starting her career working with people grappling with issues of substance abuse, and transitioning to working with those suffering from disordered eating.
I believe therapy is a relationship that helps the client to overcome the challenges which, in the past, have held you back.
Adrienne was trained in psychoanalytic and psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that attempts to understand how past events affect current feelings and behavior. In addition to her foundation in traditional psychotherapies, she also utilizes more current, evidence based modalities, such as CBT, to help clients reframe various experiences that are causing discomfort. Adrienne has worked with various populations and diagnoses, starting her career working with people grappling with issues of substance abuse, and transitioning to working with those suffering from disordered eating.
(929) 284-2206 View (929) 284-2206
Photo of Brittani Ulloa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittani Ulloa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
My style is active, empathetic, and non-judgmental which allows for a trusting and collaborative partnership.
Understanding the value that therapy can bring to a person’s health and wellbeing, I strive to provide a safe space for everyone who enters my office. I have experience working with a diverse population providing individual, couples and family therapy. Although I may be an expert in the field, I know my clients are experts in their own lives. By working together, I hope changes can be made and for their goals to be reached.
My style is active, empathetic, and non-judgmental which allows for a trusting and collaborative partnership.
Understanding the value that therapy can bring to a person’s health and wellbeing, I strive to provide a safe space for everyone who enters my office. I have experience working with a diverse population providing individual, couples and family therapy. Although I may be an expert in the field, I know my clients are experts in their own lives. By working together, I hope changes can be made and for their goals to be reached.
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Photo of Bart Gardy, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bart Gardy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am a licensed clinical social worker, certified psychoanalyst and certified group psychotherapist practicing in New York for over twenty years. My style is interactive and direct. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, addiction/compulsive disorders, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, certified psychoanalyst and certified group psychotherapist practicing in New York for over twenty years. My style is interactive and direct. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, addiction/compulsive disorders, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties.
(212) 447-4478 View (212) 447-4478
Photo of Richard Sackett, PhD, Psychologist
Richard Sackett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
For over 30 years I’ve practiced CBT with individuals for stress, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors and relationship and career difficulties.
Hello. Have you been curious about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and if it might be of help to you? Have you heard about mindfulness-based therapy approaches but not sure if that’s what you’re looking for? These approaches can help in breaking out of those patterns you might find yourself stuck in, both inside your own head and in your relationships. You might find, like many people do, that they help you to find a way to greater peace of mind, where you’re more able to bring out the parts of yourself that will lead to fulfillment in life.
For over 30 years I’ve practiced CBT with individuals for stress, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors and relationship and career difficulties.
Hello. Have you been curious about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and if it might be of help to you? Have you heard about mindfulness-based therapy approaches but not sure if that’s what you’re looking for? These approaches can help in breaking out of those patterns you might find yourself stuck in, both inside your own head and in your relationships. You might find, like many people do, that they help you to find a way to greater peace of mind, where you’re more able to bring out the parts of yourself that will lead to fulfillment in life.
(929) 531-6975 View (929) 531-6975
Photo of Scott Graybow, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Graybow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I’m a psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive post-graduate training. I offer individual therapy, psychoanalysis, and couples counseling. People who work with me are often seeking help for depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, and coping with the challenges of life. Whether you are seeking individual or couples therapy, I help you understand yourself so you can be more effective and cope better with the problems that bring you to therapy.
I’m a psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive post-graduate training. I offer individual therapy, psychoanalysis, and couples counseling. People who work with me are often seeking help for depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, and coping with the challenges of life. Whether you are seeking individual or couples therapy, I help you understand yourself so you can be more effective and cope better with the problems that bring you to therapy.
(917) 994-9570 View (917) 994-9570
Photo of Chuck Munn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chuck Munn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Working with individuals and couples to help honestly assess their relationship with themselves or with their partner, identifying goals for treatment as they express their needs and desires for a life of not just existing but also a life in which they are thriving.
It can start with a question. Why do I feel so...? How do I stop doing...? Do I have to settle for...? For many of us there may come a time when we ask ourselves do I need help? Asking for help is, arguably, the most difficult thing for people to do and maybe you're thinking about taking that step. There are many reasons why someone would seek therapy. If you are an individual or a couple and that journey has led you here, welcome.
Working with individuals and couples to help honestly assess their relationship with themselves or with their partner, identifying goals for treatment as they express their needs and desires for a life of not just existing but also a life in which they are thriving.
It can start with a question. Why do I feel so...? How do I stop doing...? Do I have to settle for...? For many of us there may come a time when we ask ourselves do I need help? Asking for help is, arguably, the most difficult thing for people to do and maybe you're thinking about taking that step. There are many reasons why someone would seek therapy. If you are an individual or a couple and that journey has led you here, welcome.
(917) 877-0479 View (917) 877-0479
Photo of Andreau E Charles - Andreau Charles, Areale Counseling & Wellness, LLC, LMSW, PhD(s), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andreau Charles, Areale Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PhD(s)
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
As a depth-oriented therapist and life coach, I offer a safe, emotionally warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space for individuals and couples to examine behavioral patterns, explore and develop strategies for issues of anxiety, depression, confidence, shame, self-worth, self-esteem, grief, life transitions, and dating. I provide a safe and warm space for men, LGBTQ, multicultural, and diasporic identities to express and process their issues and concerns. We will collaborate and explore mindful ways to remove potential barriers to the marital or professional relationship, career, or academic progress you can achieve.
As a depth-oriented therapist and life coach, I offer a safe, emotionally warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space for individuals and couples to examine behavioral patterns, explore and develop strategies for issues of anxiety, depression, confidence, shame, self-worth, self-esteem, grief, life transitions, and dating. I provide a safe and warm space for men, LGBTQ, multicultural, and diasporic identities to express and process their issues and concerns. We will collaborate and explore mindful ways to remove potential barriers to the marital or professional relationship, career, or academic progress you can achieve.
(917) 905-4463 View (917) 905-4463
Photo of Emily Joslin-Roher, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Joslin-Roher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I have particular expertise in working with individuals who are part of transgender, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities or exploring their relationship to those identities.
The decision to begin therapy is rarely easy, but once you begin you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported, and challenged is central to this process. I've been fortunate to work with a wide range of people, including those dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, sexual issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, health concerns, artistic blockages, addiction, parenting, and fertility issues.
I have particular expertise in working with individuals who are part of transgender, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities or exploring their relationship to those identities.
The decision to begin therapy is rarely easy, but once you begin you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported, and challenged is central to this process. I've been fortunate to work with a wide range of people, including those dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, sexual issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, health concerns, artistic blockages, addiction, parenting, and fertility issues.
(347) 514-8182 View (347) 514-8182
Photo of Jocelyn Lee, EdM, MA
Jocelyn Lee
EdM, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I believe that meaningful therapy requires trust and a collaborative therapeutic relationship between client and therapist in a safe and supportive environment.
Hi, I am Jocelyn and I am a bilingual (English and Chinese) therapist in NYC! I have experience working with individuals and families of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, relational issues, self-esteem, ADHD, cultural identity. Having a double master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Spirituality, Mind, Body practices, I am specialized in holistic approaches to healing. I provide culturally sensitive individual and family psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families.
I believe that meaningful therapy requires trust and a collaborative therapeutic relationship between client and therapist in a safe and supportive environment.
Hi, I am Jocelyn and I am a bilingual (English and Chinese) therapist in NYC! I have experience working with individuals and families of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, relational issues, self-esteem, ADHD, cultural identity. Having a double master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Spirituality, Mind, Body practices, I am specialized in holistic approaches to healing. I provide culturally sensitive individual and family psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(347) 696-4331 View (347) 696-4331
Photo of Janna Taradash, LMHC, Counselor
Janna Taradash
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Treatment might include developing language to express and bear difficult thoughts and emotions, identifying strengths, helping to bring awareness to how the past effects emotional life in the present and partnering to explore narratives and self-protective ways of being that are no longer needed and get in the way of healing, wholeness and authenticity.
Do you find yourself repeating unwanted patterns or behaviors that block you from feeling joy and contentment? Are you struggling to heal from loss or trauma? I have experience working with adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship and intimacy issues. Our work together would focus on finding relief while gaining a deeper understanding of what is troubling you.
Treatment might include developing language to express and bear difficult thoughts and emotions, identifying strengths, helping to bring awareness to how the past effects emotional life in the present and partnering to explore narratives and self-protective ways of being that are no longer needed and get in the way of healing, wholeness and authenticity.
Do you find yourself repeating unwanted patterns or behaviors that block you from feeling joy and contentment? Are you struggling to heal from loss or trauma? I have experience working with adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship and intimacy issues. Our work together would focus on finding relief while gaining a deeper understanding of what is troubling you.
(646) 793-4536 View (646) 793-4536
Photo of Scott Ostrowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Ostrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
In addition to working with couples and families, I also provide trauma resolution for individuals using modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), seamlessly blending them with conventional person-centered, solution-focused, and CBT-based interventions.
I have a deep appreciation for the transformative power embedded within relational dynamics. Early in my educational journey, I immersed myself in family systems theory and practice, unveiling the unique potency residing in healing connections. I find a special resonance in my work with couples and families and use an integrative approach to relational healing, drawing upon the wisdom of John and Julie Gottman, Esther Perel and Terry Real among others. I recognize that the experiences of trauma and adversity often have relational aspects to them. But so too does our capacity for healing and building resilience.
In addition to working with couples and families, I also provide trauma resolution for individuals using modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), seamlessly blending them with conventional person-centered, solution-focused, and CBT-based interventions.
I have a deep appreciation for the transformative power embedded within relational dynamics. Early in my educational journey, I immersed myself in family systems theory and practice, unveiling the unique potency residing in healing connections. I find a special resonance in my work with couples and families and use an integrative approach to relational healing, drawing upon the wisdom of John and Julie Gottman, Esther Perel and Terry Real among others. I recognize that the experiences of trauma and adversity often have relational aspects to them. But so too does our capacity for healing and building resilience.
(347) 657-5417 View (347) 657-5417
Photo of Mark Mineo - Mark Mineo - Anxiety, Trauma, LGBTQ+ Affirming, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Mineo - Anxiety, Trauma, LGBTQ+ Affirming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
You will find that my queer identity has deepened my knowledge of relationship challenges, gender-sexual experiences, and how couples can work through challenges.
Are you feeling stuck in aspects of your life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or stress? Need help sorting out your gender and sexual identities, or other LGBTQIA+ issues? We will work together towards short-term relief while building lifelong coping skills. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, move past anxiety, and create healthy habits. You can heal from trauma and develop practical tools for living a more balanced, focused life. I offer affordable in-person therapy in Midtown and online therapy for residents of New York. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
You will find that my queer identity has deepened my knowledge of relationship challenges, gender-sexual experiences, and how couples can work through challenges.
Are you feeling stuck in aspects of your life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or stress? Need help sorting out your gender and sexual identities, or other LGBTQIA+ issues? We will work together towards short-term relief while building lifelong coping skills. You can recover from mental health challenges, build self-esteem, move past anxiety, and create healthy habits. You can heal from trauma and develop practical tools for living a more balanced, focused life. I offer affordable in-person therapy in Midtown and online therapy for residents of New York. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
(917) 909-4310 View (917) 909-4310
Photo of Marina Lenderman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Lenderman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am a trained family and couples therapist who works with various dyads to deal with difficult affect in order to reach a shared understanding.
Are you experiencing new emotional distress - like the discovery of a mood disorder, career transition or relationships stressors? Are you interested in learning about your response to these changes and developing tools to help you cope? My goal is to provide a collaborative atmosphere in which people can openly explore their feelings, better understand their personalities, and reach new resolutions. Using a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and strengths-based approaches, I can help you identify solutions that will help you lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
I am a trained family and couples therapist who works with various dyads to deal with difficult affect in order to reach a shared understanding.
Are you experiencing new emotional distress - like the discovery of a mood disorder, career transition or relationships stressors? Are you interested in learning about your response to these changes and developing tools to help you cope? My goal is to provide a collaborative atmosphere in which people can openly explore their feelings, better understand their personalities, and reach new resolutions. Using a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and strengths-based approaches, I can help you identify solutions that will help you lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
(332) 239-1787 View (332) 239-1787
Photo of Danica Mitchell - Danica Mitchell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danica Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I am experienced in working with both individuals and couples, and utilizes a variety of approaches depending on your needs - these include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic and Mindfulness.
I am an interactive, warm therapist who specializes in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, work/life balance, career pressures and concerns, and relationships. I also work with couples who are experiencing relational distress and intimacy concerns. My goal is to provide a safe place for you as you take steps to create lasting change in your life.
I am experienced in working with both individuals and couples, and utilizes a variety of approaches depending on your needs - these include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic and Mindfulness.
I am an interactive, warm therapist who specializes in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, work/life balance, career pressures and concerns, and relationships. I also work with couples who are experiencing relational distress and intimacy concerns. My goal is to provide a safe place for you as you take steps to create lasting change in your life.
(212) 335-0511 View (212) 335-0511
Photo of Tom Rigg, PhD, Psychologist
Tom Rigg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? So often we focus only on symptoms and diagnoses and my goal in our work together is to improve both your symptoms and your relationship with yourself. I work with clients from all backgrounds including LGBTQ+, multiracial, and immigrant identities and one of my main goals in therapy is to provide a safe, affirming space for you to be yourself.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? So often we focus only on symptoms and diagnoses and my goal in our work together is to improve both your symptoms and your relationship with yourself. I work with clients from all backgrounds including LGBTQ+, multiracial, and immigrant identities and one of my main goals in therapy is to provide a safe, affirming space for you to be yourself.
(929) 416-3169 View (929) 416-3169
Photo of Amy Gladstone, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Gladstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Discover the transformative power of working with a seasoned therapist who has dedicated their career to helping individuals and couples thrive. With extensive expertise in evidence-based interventions, I guide clients through the complexities of emotional reactivity and personal growth. Much of my practice is devoted to relationships, the source of our greatest joy as well as our most intense pain. I will help you get out of stuck patterns and then practice new skills that bring trust, intimacy and creativity back into your life. Central to my approach are empathy and attunement, vital therapeutic tools.
Discover the transformative power of working with a seasoned therapist who has dedicated their career to helping individuals and couples thrive. With extensive expertise in evidence-based interventions, I guide clients through the complexities of emotional reactivity and personal growth. Much of my practice is devoted to relationships, the source of our greatest joy as well as our most intense pain. I will help you get out of stuck patterns and then practice new skills that bring trust, intimacy and creativity back into your life. Central to my approach are empathy and attunement, vital therapeutic tools.
(212) 243-1540 View (212) 243-1540
Photo of Anushua Arif - Anushua Arif, MFT-LP , Pre-Licensed Professional
Anushua Arif
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
The therapeutic journey is not about fixing yourself but about discovering your wholeness, which has been there all along. I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, stress, and interpersonal conflicts to help you navigate life’s complexities. As your therapist, I will collaborate with you to explore your inner world and rediscover your best self to achieve deep healing and emotional growth. I offer you a warm and non-judgmental environment to help you learn more about yourself and question the life stories that no longer serve you.
The therapeutic journey is not about fixing yourself but about discovering your wholeness, which has been there all along. I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, stress, and interpersonal conflicts to help you navigate life’s complexities. As your therapist, I will collaborate with you to explore your inner world and rediscover your best self to achieve deep healing and emotional growth. I offer you a warm and non-judgmental environment to help you learn more about yourself and question the life stories that no longer serve you.
(929) 297-8218 View (929) 297-8218
Photo of Ray Zhang, LMHC, Counselor
Ray Zhang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Ray helps clients overcome various challenges, such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship conflicts, trauma, bereavement, emotion dysregulation, addiction, and deficits in coping skills.
Ray has experience in providing individual and group therapy for individuals of various ages and backgrounds. She utilizes an eclectic approach that integrates Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, Person-centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and CBT. Ray operates from a multicultural and trauma-informed background, that enables her to meet you where you are. She cultivates a secure environment and therapeutic alliance with warmth and unconditional positive regard.
Ray helps clients overcome various challenges, such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship conflicts, trauma, bereavement, emotion dysregulation, addiction, and deficits in coping skills.
Ray has experience in providing individual and group therapy for individuals of various ages and backgrounds. She utilizes an eclectic approach that integrates Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, Person-centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and CBT. Ray operates from a multicultural and trauma-informed background, that enables her to meet you where you are. She cultivates a secure environment and therapeutic alliance with warmth and unconditional positive regard.
(646) 791-1296 View (646) 791-1296
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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.