Photo of Ericka Jennings, Pre-Licensed Professional in 20878, MD
Ericka Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Creating a space that is safe, non-judgmental, and supportive for my clients is my utmost priority. Navigating through painful emotions can be a solitary journey, but together, we can embark on a path of healing and discovery. My approach is holistic and collaborative. At the heart of successful therapy is a robust therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client, which I believe is a cornerstone for a lasting and transformative experience. Understanding our history offers us profound insights into unresolved issues and internal conflicts.
Creating a space that is safe, non-judgmental, and supportive for my clients is my utmost priority. Navigating through painful emotions can be a solitary journey, but together, we can embark on a path of healing and discovery. My approach is holistic and collaborative. At the heart of successful therapy is a robust therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client, which I believe is a cornerstone for a lasting and transformative experience. Understanding our history offers us profound insights into unresolved issues and internal conflicts.
(240) 895-9258 View (240) 895-9258
Photo of Carol Keller, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Carol Keller
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I enjoy working with both couples and individuals and have been trained in many therapy modalities.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or a life transition? Feeling anxious or depressed? I offer therapy in a safe, warm, non-judgemental environment. There are so many influences in this world that shape the way we think about ourselves and others. Sometimes our thinking has become so negative that it is hard to see our situation as hopeful or positive. I see therapy as a collaborative effort between the therapist and the client. No matter what you are struggling with, I can help you make a fresh start and renew your thinking, and make positive changes!
I enjoy working with both couples and individuals and have been trained in many therapy modalities.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or a life transition? Feeling anxious or depressed? I offer therapy in a safe, warm, non-judgemental environment. There are so many influences in this world that shape the way we think about ourselves and others. Sometimes our thinking has become so negative that it is hard to see our situation as hopeful or positive. I see therapy as a collaborative effort between the therapist and the client. No matter what you are struggling with, I can help you make a fresh start and renew your thinking, and make positive changes!
(301) 683-5122 View (301) 683-5122
Photo of Taylor (Ledrea Taylor), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Taylor (Ledrea Taylor)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for individual and couples counseling in Maryland and Virginia! Every journey begins with one step, even if you don't know where you're going. I'll meet you where you are, with compassion and without judgement. My goal is to provide tools, through self-awareness and education, which can be used to produce a version of yourself that you can be proud of. I work primarily from a cognitive behavioral perspective (CBT) and solution-focused approach, while also incorporating elements of trauma informed and person-centered therapy. I work as early as 8am and offer late evening appointments.
Accepting new clients for individual and couples counseling in Maryland and Virginia! Every journey begins with one step, even if you don't know where you're going. I'll meet you where you are, with compassion and without judgement. My goal is to provide tools, through self-awareness and education, which can be used to produce a version of yourself that you can be proud of. I work primarily from a cognitive behavioral perspective (CBT) and solution-focused approach, while also incorporating elements of trauma informed and person-centered therapy. I work as early as 8am and offer late evening appointments.
(301) 895-9542 View (301) 895-9542
Photo of Matthew Christian Johnson, Psychologist in 20878, MD
Matthew Christian Johnson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I value the relationship as the most important agent of change and therefore seek to form a safe environment so that we might try new, less rigid ways of being.
Oftentimes we find ourselves struggling to break from long-standing patterns that force us to be rigid in the ways we relate to the world around us and the world within in us. These patterns, which seek consistent expression in our daily lives inhibit us from experiencing true presence during the most precious moments of our existence while hindering our pursuit of success. I work with individuals, couples, and families who seek to free themselves from these damaging patterns so that a more flexible, authentic way of relating to the world can emerge.
I value the relationship as the most important agent of change and therefore seek to form a safe environment so that we might try new, less rigid ways of being.
Oftentimes we find ourselves struggling to break from long-standing patterns that force us to be rigid in the ways we relate to the world around us and the world within in us. These patterns, which seek consistent expression in our daily lives inhibit us from experiencing true presence during the most precious moments of our existence while hindering our pursuit of success. I work with individuals, couples, and families who seek to free themselves from these damaging patterns so that a more flexible, authentic way of relating to the world can emerge.
(202) 804-9651 View (202) 804-9651
Photo of John Gotlewski, Psychologist in 20878, MD
John Gotlewski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
While maintaining professional boundaries, I develop close collaborative working relationship with my patients.
Thank you for visiting my profile page. I hope that you will allow me to help you improve your life. Since 1997, I have treated people with a wide variety of mental health conditions and life situations. That is by design. My broad clinical experience enables me to continually hone my professional skills and, therefore, better assist my patients.
While maintaining professional boundaries, I develop close collaborative working relationship with my patients.
Thank you for visiting my profile page. I hope that you will allow me to help you improve your life. Since 1997, I have treated people with a wide variety of mental health conditions and life situations. That is by design. My broad clinical experience enables me to continually hone my professional skills and, therefore, better assist my patients.
(301) 852-6119 View (301) 852-6119
Photo of Perla Lay, Counselor in 20878, MD
Perla Lay
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients from childhood to early adulthood, in addition to couples and families who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, self-harm, stress, grief, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. I have a particular interest in helping clients navigate life transitions, such as identity searching, career changes, and loss, and helping clients find meaning and purpose in their lives. I work to create a safe and supportive space where people can explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I will help you to find your path forward.
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients from childhood to early adulthood, in addition to couples and families who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, self-harm, stress, grief, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. I have a particular interest in helping clients navigate life transitions, such as identity searching, career changes, and loss, and helping clients find meaning and purpose in their lives. I work to create a safe and supportive space where people can explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I will help you to find your path forward.
(301) 450-6576 View (301) 450-6576
Photo of Tamar Barnett, Counselor in 20878, MD
Tamar Barnett
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples impacted by chronic stress, anxiety, and relationship disconnection.
Accepting New Clients! If you experience frequent stress and anxiety in your everyday life, you are not alone. Worrying and feeling overwhelmed can leave you exhausted. If you are tired of feeling this way, counseling can help. I will work to understand your needs and to support you, guiding you towards living with more calmness and connection in your relationships. Prioritizing a nurturing and warm environment in the therapy sessions, we can work collaboratively to help you to access your strengths, and to cultivate more self-compassion and greater self-awareness. Our work together can help you to feel more at ease with yourself.
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples impacted by chronic stress, anxiety, and relationship disconnection.
Accepting New Clients! If you experience frequent stress and anxiety in your everyday life, you are not alone. Worrying and feeling overwhelmed can leave you exhausted. If you are tired of feeling this way, counseling can help. I will work to understand your needs and to support you, guiding you towards living with more calmness and connection in your relationships. Prioritizing a nurturing and warm environment in the therapy sessions, we can work collaboratively to help you to access your strengths, and to cultivate more self-compassion and greater self-awareness. Our work together can help you to feel more at ease with yourself.
(240) 226-3321 View (240) 226-3321
Photo of Pauliann Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Pauliann Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I help clients develop skills for emotional literacy as a certified PAIRS (Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills) and PEERS Instructor in both office and workshop settings, and have specialized training in Attachment Theory, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, Substance Abuse, Adolescence and Trauma.
Are you feeling off-center, frustrated, overwhelmed, stuck? Want support in balancing the challenges in your life? Does negativity or anger undermine healthy relationships within your family? Maybe you wish for more effective ways of communicating, or the means to improve your outlook and energy level. Are you experiencing divorce, or the loss of a loved one, and need assistance in moving through the grieving process? Are you in the throes of a major life transition or crisis? I will assist you in developing insight, understanding, and strategies to address your particular issues and help you move toward overall well-being.
I help clients develop skills for emotional literacy as a certified PAIRS (Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills) and PEERS Instructor in both office and workshop settings, and have specialized training in Attachment Theory, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, Substance Abuse, Adolescence and Trauma.
Are you feeling off-center, frustrated, overwhelmed, stuck? Want support in balancing the challenges in your life? Does negativity or anger undermine healthy relationships within your family? Maybe you wish for more effective ways of communicating, or the means to improve your outlook and energy level. Are you experiencing divorce, or the loss of a loved one, and need assistance in moving through the grieving process? Are you in the throes of a major life transition or crisis? I will assist you in developing insight, understanding, and strategies to address your particular issues and help you move toward overall well-being.
(240) 339-4737 View (240) 339-4737
Photo of Restorative Focus Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Restorative Focus Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! Restorative Focus Counseling Services has a passionate commitment for helping others make positive changes in their lives. The primary passions are helping individuals work through their problems and issues utilizing positive self-talk, mindfulness and grounding. We believe establishing a strong therapeutic rapport with her clients fosters a trusting, collaborative relationship in which clients begin to overcome their obstacles, developing positive coping skills, and achieve their goals.
Currently accepting new clients! Restorative Focus Counseling Services has a passionate commitment for helping others make positive changes in their lives. The primary passions are helping individuals work through their problems and issues utilizing positive self-talk, mindfulness and grounding. We believe establishing a strong therapeutic rapport with her clients fosters a trusting, collaborative relationship in which clients begin to overcome their obstacles, developing positive coping skills, and achieve their goals.
(240) 873-2385 View (240) 873-2385
Photo of Jing Yang, Counselor in 20878, MD
Jing Yang
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I work with many cross cultural couples and individuals looking at their cultures from birth and those they are submerged in today.
Accepting New Clients! Perhaps you are experiencing more anxiety or depression and just want to feel better. Or may be or you want to work on improving your relationships, argue less and connect more. I work with individuals and couples who want to change and grow. I can offer you support, tools and understanding to help you feel better yourself and improve your relationships, communication issues or difficulties with parenting styles. I can also help guide you through life transitions and processing trauma and grief. I will listen to your specific situation and tailor my approach and recommendations to meet your needs.
I work with many cross cultural couples and individuals looking at their cultures from birth and those they are submerged in today.
Accepting New Clients! Perhaps you are experiencing more anxiety or depression and just want to feel better. Or may be or you want to work on improving your relationships, argue less and connect more. I work with individuals and couples who want to change and grow. I can offer you support, tools and understanding to help you feel better yourself and improve your relationships, communication issues or difficulties with parenting styles. I can also help guide you through life transitions and processing trauma and grief. I will listen to your specific situation and tailor my approach and recommendations to meet your needs.
(240) 913-6354 View (240) 913-6354
Photo of Amy L Hooper in 20878, MD
Amy L Hooper
LCSW-C, CEAP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Accepting New Clients! Is your mind spinning with worries and endless "to-do" lists? Are you critical of yourself and you never feel good enough? If you have lost touch with who you really are or what you really want out of life, counseling can help you find yourself. If you are someone who usually takes care of everyone else, let me help you start taking care of yourself as well. My clients are regular, everyday women who struggle with life's overwhelming issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self esteem, difficulty being assertive, past trauma, insecurities, people pleasing and difficult life transitions.
Accepting New Clients! Is your mind spinning with worries and endless "to-do" lists? Are you critical of yourself and you never feel good enough? If you have lost touch with who you really are or what you really want out of life, counseling can help you find yourself. If you are someone who usually takes care of everyone else, let me help you start taking care of yourself as well. My clients are regular, everyday women who struggle with life's overwhelming issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self esteem, difficulty being assertive, past trauma, insecurities, people pleasing and difficult life transitions.
(240) 557-3275 View (240) 557-3275
Photo of Lisa Makstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Lisa Makstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
In addition, I have also developed a specialty helping divorcing and/or separating couples find an amicable way of resolving their differences.
As a psychotherapist for the past 30+ years, I feel passionate about helping people experience more joy and contentment in their relationships and in their lives. I believe that every crisis or problem that arises also provides an opportunity for healing and growth. Whether you are depressed, anxious, having marital conflicts, parenting difficulties, recovering from a traumatic experience, or in the midst of a life transition, we can problem-solve together and discover new possibilities for you. My style can best be described as interactive and engaging. I am a supportive listener, yet give honest feedback and offer suggestions for positive actions.
In addition, I have also developed a specialty helping divorcing and/or separating couples find an amicable way of resolving their differences.
As a psychotherapist for the past 30+ years, I feel passionate about helping people experience more joy and contentment in their relationships and in their lives. I believe that every crisis or problem that arises also provides an opportunity for healing and growth. Whether you are depressed, anxious, having marital conflicts, parenting difficulties, recovering from a traumatic experience, or in the midst of a life transition, we can problem-solve together and discover new possibilities for you. My style can best be described as interactive and engaging. I am a supportive listener, yet give honest feedback and offer suggestions for positive actions.
(301) 485-6939 View (301) 485-6939
Photo of Micah Brady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Micah Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CTC, CCATP, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I will help you or your child in a non judgmental way, understand where the stress, anxiety and/or relationship issues come from, and collaborate with you to take measurable, concrete steps towards a better quality of life.
*Currently have limited in person and virtual openings* I am easy to talk to and believe in collaborative and evidence-based treatment.
I will help you or your child in a non judgmental way, understand where the stress, anxiety and/or relationship issues come from, and collaborate with you to take measurable, concrete steps towards a better quality of life.
*Currently have limited in person and virtual openings* I am easy to talk to and believe in collaborative and evidence-based treatment.
(240) 816-3637 View (240) 816-3637
Photo of Lee Tomkin Stern, Counselor in 20878, MD
Lee Tomkin Stern
Counselor, LCPC, MS, CPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I believe in order for a therapeutic relationship to be successful, we need to have a solid foundation first.
My name is Lee Tomkin Stern. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Maryland and have received my training from Johns Hopkins University. I have experience working with tweens, teens, adults and families. Now, more than ever, mental health care is needed desperately. I specialize in a cognitive behavioral approach to help my clients become aware of negative or inaccurate thinking patterns so that they can better cope and respond to them in a more effective way. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful when treating symptoms from anxiety.
I believe in order for a therapeutic relationship to be successful, we need to have a solid foundation first.
My name is Lee Tomkin Stern. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Maryland and have received my training from Johns Hopkins University. I have experience working with tweens, teens, adults and families. Now, more than ever, mental health care is needed desperately. I specialize in a cognitive behavioral approach to help my clients become aware of negative or inaccurate thinking patterns so that they can better cope and respond to them in a more effective way. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful when treating symptoms from anxiety.
(240) 800-1607 View (240) 800-1607
Photo of Amy Whaling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Amy Whaling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in Maryland! My practice style is rooted in our human need to not go through life on our own. Within our sessions, you can expect a space that will promote creativity and honesty. This will help us build a working relationship to reach goals and lasting change through an analysis of environments, relationships, and thoughts. Our first few sessions will include an intake and discussion to determine the end goals. From there we will use these goals, both short-term and long-term, to tailor the sessions. My main focus is to stay abreast with techniques and make sure my clients feel prioritized during our sessions.
Accepting new clients in Maryland! My practice style is rooted in our human need to not go through life on our own. Within our sessions, you can expect a space that will promote creativity and honesty. This will help us build a working relationship to reach goals and lasting change through an analysis of environments, relationships, and thoughts. Our first few sessions will include an intake and discussion to determine the end goals. From there we will use these goals, both short-term and long-term, to tailor the sessions. My main focus is to stay abreast with techniques and make sure my clients feel prioritized during our sessions.
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Photo of Janice N. Vassallo, MA, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Janice N. Vassallo, MA, LCPC, NCC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! Please feel free to call me for a free 15-minute telephone consultation to discuss your needs and goals and to make the best decision to start therapy. I am committed to creating an emotionally safe, confidential, healing environment with you to successfully make the changes you most desire in your life. My integral psychotherapy approach activates the change process by addressing all aspects of one's individual, relationship (couples, families, peers) and work needs including cognitive/intellectual functioning, emotional health, physical health, spiritual outlook and environmental influences.
Hello and welcome! Please feel free to call me for a free 15-minute telephone consultation to discuss your needs and goals and to make the best decision to start therapy. I am committed to creating an emotionally safe, confidential, healing environment with you to successfully make the changes you most desire in your life. My integral psychotherapy approach activates the change process by addressing all aspects of one's individual, relationship (couples, families, peers) and work needs including cognitive/intellectual functioning, emotional health, physical health, spiritual outlook and environmental influences.
(240) 348-6049 View (240) 348-6049
Photo of Lisa M Joy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Lisa M Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Lisa is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical & a board-approved clinical supervisor. With thirty years of eclectic clinical experience & eighteen years of behavioral health leadership experience, Lisa has helped a variety of people with diverse needs. This includes children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, parents, groups, communities, students, & professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, life changes, & workplace challenges. Empathy, compassion, trust, and unconditional regard are the foundation of the therapeutic relationship with Lisa.
Accepting New Clients! Lisa is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical & a board-approved clinical supervisor. With thirty years of eclectic clinical experience & eighteen years of behavioral health leadership experience, Lisa has helped a variety of people with diverse needs. This includes children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, parents, groups, communities, students, & professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, life changes, & workplace challenges. Empathy, compassion, trust, and unconditional regard are the foundation of the therapeutic relationship with Lisa.
(240) 734-2379 View (240) 734-2379
Photo of Heidi Vanderwalde, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Heidi Vanderwalde
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
As relationships are at the heart of most issues, I work with individuals to address relationships in all areas of their lives including the relationship with oneself.
As a therapist of more than 20 years, I have worked with individuals from all backgrounds & stages of life to help achieve their goals & experience more personal fulfillment. I have provided treatment to individuals anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, & trauma. Since the link between stress and the impact upon the body has been well documented, I incorporate mind-body techniques such as meditation, imagery and other stress management strategies into my practice. I operate from a strength-based perspective to move clients forward toward resolving issues. I listen attentively and customize the therapy to the unique needs of the individual.
As relationships are at the heart of most issues, I work with individuals to address relationships in all areas of their lives including the relationship with oneself.
As a therapist of more than 20 years, I have worked with individuals from all backgrounds & stages of life to help achieve their goals & experience more personal fulfillment. I have provided treatment to individuals anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, & trauma. Since the link between stress and the impact upon the body has been well documented, I incorporate mind-body techniques such as meditation, imagery and other stress management strategies into my practice. I operate from a strength-based perspective to move clients forward toward resolving issues. I listen attentively and customize the therapy to the unique needs of the individual.
(301) 761-1009 View (301) 761-1009
Photo of Karen E Sherwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Karen E Sherwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Curious about your complex challenges? Feeling cut off from your full capability? I’m interested in helping you uncover what you’re not able to see on your own. I’m highly trained as both a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst and I can help you live more freely. The collaborative process of therapeutic change is fascinating, containing and transforming. I’m fortunate and grateful to help people learn and grow. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults, and couples. I value uniqueness and diversity. Contact me to see if we could be a good fit.
Curious about your complex challenges? Feeling cut off from your full capability? I’m interested in helping you uncover what you’re not able to see on your own. I’m highly trained as both a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst and I can help you live more freely. The collaborative process of therapeutic change is fascinating, containing and transforming. I’m fortunate and grateful to help people learn and grow. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults, and couples. I value uniqueness and diversity. Contact me to see if we could be a good fit.
(240) 435-4354 View (240) 435-4354
Photo of Jonathan Ladd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Jonathan Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
(301) 278-8681 View (301) 278-8681
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.