Photo of Atar Stav, Counselor in 20878, MD
Atar Stav
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Has your partner become a roommate instead of a romantic partner? Do one or both of you lack physical desire for each other? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Or perhaps you want to work individually, feel empowered, and have more joy and pleasure in your life? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
Has your partner become a roommate instead of a romantic partner? Do one or both of you lack physical desire for each other? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Or perhaps you want to work individually, feel empowered, and have more joy and pleasure in your life? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
(240) 202-2410 View (240) 202-2410
Photo of Erin Severe, Psychologist in 20878, MD
Erin Severe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy for couples and individuals looking to benefit from a supportive and collaborative environment.
Is it difficult to communicate with your partner? Do you feel like you are drifting apart from each other and don’t enjoy spending time together like you used to? Are you coping with emotional or physical trauma? I help individuals and couples who are facing challenges in their relationships, struggling with mood or anxiety issues, coping with trauma, or managing the symptoms and effects of attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) so that they can lead happier and more satisfying lives. I also provide required psychological assessments for those seeking bariatric surgery procedures.
Psychotherapy for couples and individuals looking to benefit from a supportive and collaborative environment.
Is it difficult to communicate with your partner? Do you feel like you are drifting apart from each other and don’t enjoy spending time together like you used to? Are you coping with emotional or physical trauma? I help individuals and couples who are facing challenges in their relationships, struggling with mood or anxiety issues, coping with trauma, or managing the symptoms and effects of attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) so that they can lead happier and more satisfying lives. I also provide required psychological assessments for those seeking bariatric surgery procedures.
(240) 887-0565 View (240) 887-0565
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 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 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 Ruchi Bhargava, Psychologist in 20878, MD
Ruchi Bhargava
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I work with children, adolescents, young adults and adults, including couples and families.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients. It may have been hard for you to take this first step in seeking help. I want to ease your mind. I believe that treating the whole person is essential to providing the best care. I provide a multifaceted collaborative approach to treatment and concentrate on an individual strengths. Many times we go through life feeling stuck or in a state of limbo, but when we begin to explore the reasons and underlying issues, it can become clear what exactly is standing between oneself and the goal. I provide both therapeutic and assessment services.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults and adults, including couples and families.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients. It may have been hard for you to take this first step in seeking help. I want to ease your mind. I believe that treating the whole person is essential to providing the best care. I provide a multifaceted collaborative approach to treatment and concentrate on an individual strengths. Many times we go through life feeling stuck or in a state of limbo, but when we begin to explore the reasons and underlying issues, it can become clear what exactly is standing between oneself and the goal. I provide both therapeutic and assessment services.
(301) 205-5386 View (301) 205-5386
Photo of John Danna, Psychologist in 20878, MD
John Danna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Potomac, MD 20878
I work with individuals and couples who present with a variety of mental health concerns including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, eating disorders, life transitions, and LGBTQ issues.
It is imperative for me to provide my clients with a warm, safe, and comfortable therapeutic space in which they will be invited to share, explore, and grow. Building a healthy collaborative relationship with my clients provides a foundation for our work together. I not only seek to alleviate symptoms and foster self-understanding, but I also encourage my clients to learn from their symptoms. I have found that increasing one's sense of awareness and balance can be helpful in many situations. At the same time, I do my best to meet clients where they are in their lives and work at their pace.
I work with individuals and couples who present with a variety of mental health concerns including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, eating disorders, life transitions, and LGBTQ issues.
It is imperative for me to provide my clients with a warm, safe, and comfortable therapeutic space in which they will be invited to share, explore, and grow. Building a healthy collaborative relationship with my clients provides a foundation for our work together. I not only seek to alleviate symptoms and foster self-understanding, but I also encourage my clients to learn from their symptoms. I have found that increasing one's sense of awareness and balance can be helpful in many situations. At the same time, I do my best to meet clients where they are in their lives and work at their pace.
(240) 297-0116 View (240) 297-0116
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 Lev Grotel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Lev Grotel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just stuck? It is easy to become annoyed with your partner or yourself, during these difficult times. Maybe you are concerned about communication, parenting, infidelity, or intimacy. Perhaps you want to learn from the previous relationships to improve current or future ones. If you are struggling with any of these types of issues, therapy and counseling can help. My approach, in working with couples and individuals, is empathic, non-judgmental, insightful, collaborative, engaging, and supportive.
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just stuck? It is easy to become annoyed with your partner or yourself, during these difficult times. Maybe you are concerned about communication, parenting, infidelity, or intimacy. Perhaps you want to learn from the previous relationships to improve current or future ones. If you are struggling with any of these types of issues, therapy and counseling can help. My approach, in working with couples and individuals, is empathic, non-judgmental, insightful, collaborative, engaging, and supportive.
(240) 293-3603 View (240) 293-3603
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 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 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 Sierra Hartsfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Sierra Hartsfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment, to build a healthy and strong therapeutic relationship in order to start the healing process. By working together you will explore and process feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify personal goals to improve problem areas in your life. I work with adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating numerous presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, life transitions and bipolar disorder.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment, to build a healthy and strong therapeutic relationship in order to start the healing process. By working together you will explore and process feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify personal goals to improve problem areas in your life. I work with adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating numerous presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, life transitions and bipolar disorder.
(240) 455-4597 View (240) 455-4597
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 Terry Johnson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Terry Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Terry provides therapy for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, career conflicts, and other areas of concern.
*** CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Terry Johnson, LCPC, NCC, is a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Maryland & North Carolina. Terry earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina. Terry has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, couples, & families. He takes an integrative approach to therapy utilizing various clinical techniques & interventions to assist clients in obtaining their personal, professional, & emotional goals.
Terry provides therapy for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, career conflicts, and other areas of concern.
*** CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Terry Johnson, LCPC, NCC, is a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Maryland & North Carolina. Terry earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina. Terry has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, couples, & families. He takes an integrative approach to therapy utilizing various clinical techniques & interventions to assist clients in obtaining their personal, professional, & emotional goals.
(240) 266-0534 View (240) 266-0534
Photo of Nicole Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Nicole Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I am ready to help you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, childhood/religious trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and adoption/foster care.
I believe that effective therapy is built on trust and unconditional empathy. My treatment approach is rooted in the importance of the individual, using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Somatic skills. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, judgment free space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to taking the time to truly get to know you, so that I can incorporate your interests into treatment in creative ways. I want you to not only process your past, but be equipped with practical tools to fuel your future.
I am ready to help you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, childhood/religious trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and adoption/foster care.
I believe that effective therapy is built on trust and unconditional empathy. My treatment approach is rooted in the importance of the individual, using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Somatic skills. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, judgment free space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to taking the time to truly get to know you, so that I can incorporate your interests into treatment in creative ways. I want you to not only process your past, but be equipped with practical tools to fuel your future.
(301) 591-6086 View (301) 591-6086
Photo of Melisa Patel, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Melisa Patel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I use a blend of therapies to tailor treatment to each individual, while also creating a strong therapeutic relationship.
Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, and finding a space where you can unburden yourself without judgment is crucial. I am here to offer you that space - a warm, empathetic environment where your voice is heard and your concerns are met with understanding and care. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing can be daunting, but not one you have to walk alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and kindness, ensuring a safe space for exploration and healing.
I use a blend of therapies to tailor treatment to each individual, while also creating a strong therapeutic relationship.
Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, and finding a space where you can unburden yourself without judgment is crucial. I am here to offer you that space - a warm, empathetic environment where your voice is heard and your concerns are met with understanding and care. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing can be daunting, but not one you have to walk alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and kindness, ensuring a safe space for exploration and healing.
(855) 796-2633 View (855) 796-2633
Photo of Alia A Merraro, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Alia A Merraro
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
We all face challenges in our lives that we may have difficulty navigating through. It may be feeling depressed or anxious, experiencing relational/family conflict and grief, or adjusting to life transitions. Sometimes we need another person to help us along the way outside of our loved ones. That's where I come in. I strive to help you work through adversities, build upon your strengths, and empower you to create new, meaningful, and fulfilling chapters in your life. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18-30+ and couples.
We all face challenges in our lives that we may have difficulty navigating through. It may be feeling depressed or anxious, experiencing relational/family conflict and grief, or adjusting to life transitions. Sometimes we need another person to help us along the way outside of our loved ones. That's where I come in. I strive to help you work through adversities, build upon your strengths, and empower you to create new, meaningful, and fulfilling chapters in your life. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18-30+ and couples.
(301) 965-1040 View (301) 965-1040
Photo of Sonja Chestnut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20878, MD
Sonja Chestnut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE My ideal client is someone who is coping with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, ADHD, grief, troubled relationship and family dynamics, developmental delays, LGBTQ and trauma issues. Any of these listed conditions or situations can negatively impact my clients’ ability to navigate daily living. So a successful client would be open to change and willing to try new approaches to collaborate with me in order to identify and verbalize their needs and goals and develop a plan to obtain these goals.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE My ideal client is someone who is coping with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, ADHD, grief, troubled relationship and family dynamics, developmental delays, LGBTQ and trauma issues. Any of these listed conditions or situations can negatively impact my clients’ ability to navigate daily living. So a successful client would be open to change and willing to try new approaches to collaborate with me in order to identify and verbalize their needs and goals and develop a plan to obtain these goals.
(240) 255-9878 View (240) 255-9878
Photo of Nicole Rollins-Lamar, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20878, MD
Nicole Rollins-Lamar
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878
TELETHERAPY For more than 15 years I've worked with adults, couples, families, and adolescents in Illinois, DC, and Maryland. I often use a diverse and ethnically sensitive and relevant approach to treatment. It is my goal to provide a non-judgmental and welcoming space for clients to ultimately experience joy, develop more effective coping strategies, and best understand their life's purpose. I value the therapeutic connection and relationship that includes a non judgmental and empathetic environment.
TELETHERAPY For more than 15 years I've worked with adults, couples, families, and adolescents in Illinois, DC, and Maryland. I often use a diverse and ethnically sensitive and relevant approach to treatment. It is my goal to provide a non-judgmental and welcoming space for clients to ultimately experience joy, develop more effective coping strategies, and best understand their life's purpose. I value the therapeutic connection and relationship that includes a non judgmental and empathetic environment.
(301) 433-7895 View (301) 433-7895
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.