Photo of Sarah Webber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Sarah Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
As a sex positive, gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist I enjoy working with both individuals and couples facing a multitude of different life challenges.
I am here to create a safe and trusting environment that allows clients to unload their thoughts and emotions. Empowering them in a genuine, straightforward, and relaxed atmosphere to step into the brave space where they are able to find their truth, speak it, and live it. My integrative approach is tailored to each client. During this process the client learns how to accept where they are in this moment. Then identifying and making changes to get to where they want to be. This allows them to free themselves from the persistent negative thoughts and societal pressures holding them back from living the life they have always wanted.
As a sex positive, gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist I enjoy working with both individuals and couples facing a multitude of different life challenges.
I am here to create a safe and trusting environment that allows clients to unload their thoughts and emotions. Empowering them in a genuine, straightforward, and relaxed atmosphere to step into the brave space where they are able to find their truth, speak it, and live it. My integrative approach is tailored to each client. During this process the client learns how to accept where they are in this moment. Then identifying and making changes to get to where they want to be. This allows them to free themselves from the persistent negative thoughts and societal pressures holding them back from living the life they have always wanted.
(240) 213-9338 View (240) 213-9338
Photo of Brittany Spencer, Counselor in 21201, MD
Brittany Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
(202) 759-6027 View (202) 759-6027
Photo of Kim Witkowski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21201, MD
Kim Witkowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MEd, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Dr. Kim Witkowski, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor providing services for clients in Maryland ,South Carolina and New Jersey. With 30 years of clinical experience. Dr. Witkowski is working with clients to resolve; Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally specialties include Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Perfectionism ,OCD and Work-Life Balance. Relationship counseling is offered to include: Effective Communication for Marriage and long- term partnerships, ending codependency and ACOA issues, trauma bonding , learning the characteristics of healthy relationships and attachment styles.
Dr. Kim Witkowski, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor providing services for clients in Maryland ,South Carolina and New Jersey. With 30 years of clinical experience. Dr. Witkowski is working with clients to resolve; Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally specialties include Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Perfectionism ,OCD and Work-Life Balance. Relationship counseling is offered to include: Effective Communication for Marriage and long- term partnerships, ending codependency and ACOA issues, trauma bonding , learning the characteristics of healthy relationships and attachment styles.
(410) 346-5978 x161 View (410) 346-5978 x161
Photo of Celestial Hope Rising Services , Counselor in 21201, MD
Celestial Hope Rising Services
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
I aim to foster an environment of sincerity, openness, warmth, and trust. I aim to partner with those pursuing self-discovery and self-confidence. I prefer an atmosphere of discussion and engagement, with room for creativity and gentle challenge.
I aim to foster an environment of sincerity, openness, warmth, and trust. I aim to partner with those pursuing self-discovery and self-confidence. I prefer an atmosphere of discussion and engagement, with room for creativity and gentle challenge.
(443) 429-1431 View (443) 429-1431
Photo of Diana Harden, Counselor in 21201, MD
Diana Harden
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I offer therapeutic interventions with adult individuals (18 years old+) and couples.
It is my personal belief that everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to unravel their thoughts and be present in the moment. With all of the aspects of day-to-day life that keep us occupied, I hope that I can help you take a moment (or several moments) for yourself that you very much deserve. My goal is to listen to my client's personal experiences and use that to shape the person you want to be- or the person you already are, just the most authentic version of yourself. Everyone's experience that brings a client to therapy is unique and our goals together will always be unique to your growth.
I offer therapeutic interventions with adult individuals (18 years old+) and couples.
It is my personal belief that everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to unravel their thoughts and be present in the moment. With all of the aspects of day-to-day life that keep us occupied, I hope that I can help you take a moment (or several moments) for yourself that you very much deserve. My goal is to listen to my client's personal experiences and use that to shape the person you want to be- or the person you already are, just the most authentic version of yourself. Everyone's experience that brings a client to therapy is unique and our goals together will always be unique to your growth.
(443) 665-8301 View (443) 665-8301
Photo of Lorena P Lues, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Lorena P Lues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C , RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Weekend appointments available. I appreciate an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
Weekend appointments available. I appreciate an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
(410) 835-9351 View (410) 835-9351
Photo of Susan Stork, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21201, MD
Susan Stork
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMH, CST
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Relationship sessions range from 90 mins to 6 hours, fostering authentic connection.
In the intricate web of modern existence, where complexity thrives and our social circles contract, the vitality of our relationships, partnerships, and unions is elevated to unprecedented significance. As a practitioner deeply immersed in contemporary Jungian insights and inspired by the relational wisdom of Ester Perel, I serve as a guide—a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist—committed to navigating individuals, couples, and families toward the realization of profound and nourishing connections.
Relationship sessions range from 90 mins to 6 hours, fostering authentic connection.
In the intricate web of modern existence, where complexity thrives and our social circles contract, the vitality of our relationships, partnerships, and unions is elevated to unprecedented significance. As a practitioner deeply immersed in contemporary Jungian insights and inspired by the relational wisdom of Ester Perel, I serve as a guide—a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist—committed to navigating individuals, couples, and families toward the realization of profound and nourishing connections.
(443) 355-4740 View (443) 355-4740
Photo of Francine Bouyett, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21201, MD
Francine Bouyett
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CMAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
I believe in building a trusting relationship that leads to the empowerment and growth of the client.
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
I believe in building a trusting relationship that leads to the empowerment and growth of the client.
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
(410) 650-6344 View (410) 650-6344
Photo of Michelle Pearce, Psychologist in 21201, MD
Michelle Pearce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging and leave us feeling overwhelmed. Maybe an important relationship just ended (or needs to end) and you are limping through life. Or maybe you lost your job, your health, or your sense of direction in life, leaving you feeling anxious, unsafe, and lacking control. When you go through difficulties, it’s important to have a safe space to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment or shame. You need someone who believes that healing and growth are possible for everyone—no matter what they’ve been through—and who has the tools and training to help you get back to a place of wholeness.
Life can be challenging and leave us feeling overwhelmed. Maybe an important relationship just ended (or needs to end) and you are limping through life. Or maybe you lost your job, your health, or your sense of direction in life, leaving you feeling anxious, unsafe, and lacking control. When you go through difficulties, it’s important to have a safe space to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment or shame. You need someone who believes that healing and growth are possible for everyone—no matter what they’ve been through—and who has the tools and training to help you get back to a place of wholeness.
(443) 730-5880 View (443) 730-5880
Photo of Whitney Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Whitney Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
I also work with couples, families, and groups as well.
Throughout our lives, we often need support in overcoming personal and/or environmental challenges and addressing issues that prevent us from being successful, feeling fulfilled, and living healthy lives. Using a warm, genuine, and empathic approach, I work with clients to build trusting and collaborative relationships that help them gain a deeper understanding of themselves, experience emotional relief, and feel empowered to make profound change. By creating a safe and accepting environment, we will explore difficult or confusing experiences together with the goal of making sense of difficulties and where they may have originated.
I also work with couples, families, and groups as well.
Throughout our lives, we often need support in overcoming personal and/or environmental challenges and addressing issues that prevent us from being successful, feeling fulfilled, and living healthy lives. Using a warm, genuine, and empathic approach, I work with clients to build trusting and collaborative relationships that help them gain a deeper understanding of themselves, experience emotional relief, and feel empowered to make profound change. By creating a safe and accepting environment, we will explore difficult or confusing experiences together with the goal of making sense of difficulties and where they may have originated.
(443) 815-4927 View (443) 815-4927
Photo of Dr. Kathryn Ellis, Occupational Therapist in 21201, MD
Dr. Kathryn Ellis
Occupational Therapist, AASECT-, SC, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I am a holistic therapist and draw on frameworks from both occupational therapy approaches and from sex and couples therapy.
Sex Therapy for Better Sex. Get curious, have fun, change your approach, and make difficult conversations easier. My clients want sex to be better & more fulfilling. They are seeking strategies to modify, adapt, & change what they are doing so they can engage in satisfying sexual experiences and strengthen intimate relationships. They want to enjoy great sex again or maybe even for the first time. I specialize in low desire and lack of sexual enjoyment with common factors including postpartum, menopause, erectile dysfunction, cancer, physical disabilities, depression, anxiety, PTSD, veterans health, religious trauma, sexual trauma.
I am a holistic therapist and draw on frameworks from both occupational therapy approaches and from sex and couples therapy.
Sex Therapy for Better Sex. Get curious, have fun, change your approach, and make difficult conversations easier. My clients want sex to be better & more fulfilling. They are seeking strategies to modify, adapt, & change what they are doing so they can engage in satisfying sexual experiences and strengthen intimate relationships. They want to enjoy great sex again or maybe even for the first time. I specialize in low desire and lack of sexual enjoyment with common factors including postpartum, menopause, erectile dysfunction, cancer, physical disabilities, depression, anxiety, PTSD, veterans health, religious trauma, sexual trauma.
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Photo of Christopher Shea, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 21201, MD
Christopher Shea
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CAC-AD, CRAT, ADS, LCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with work-life balance, relationship issues, or personal growth, I will work with you to find the best solutions.
I'm accepting new clients. NEWS ... I'm now a Certified First Responder Supporter, trained in guiding first responders through their unique struggles. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or unsure of how to cope with recent life changes? Are you struggling with addiction? I'm here for you with 30 years' experience. My services empower you to live and create a life you truly love. I focus on unlocking your full potential so that you can achieve your goals and dreams. Combining mindfulness and life coaching will help you gain clarity, focus, and purpose. I offer flexible and economical ONLINE sessions.
Whether you're struggling with work-life balance, relationship issues, or personal growth, I will work with you to find the best solutions.
I'm accepting new clients. NEWS ... I'm now a Certified First Responder Supporter, trained in guiding first responders through their unique struggles. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or unsure of how to cope with recent life changes? Are you struggling with addiction? I'm here for you with 30 years' experience. My services empower you to live and create a life you truly love. I focus on unlocking your full potential so that you can achieve your goals and dreams. Combining mindfulness and life coaching will help you gain clarity, focus, and purpose. I offer flexible and economical ONLINE sessions.
(240) 587-7854 View (240) 587-7854
Photo of Lynn B. Davies, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21201, MD
Lynn B. Davies
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have experience working with adults and adolescents, addressing: anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship problems, trauma, sexuality, eating disorders, self-mutilation, grief, parenting concerns, and self-care. In your first session, we will talk about what has led you to seek treatment and what you hope to gain. I believe that trust and respect are earned; I am committed to building a warm, safe, compassionate therapy relationship so that you can explore with me the truth of your life, your thoughts and emotions, and your relationships.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have experience working with adults and adolescents, addressing: anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship problems, trauma, sexuality, eating disorders, self-mutilation, grief, parenting concerns, and self-care. In your first session, we will talk about what has led you to seek treatment and what you hope to gain. I believe that trust and respect are earned; I am committed to building a warm, safe, compassionate therapy relationship so that you can explore with me the truth of your life, your thoughts and emotions, and your relationships.
(443) 957-4155 View (443) 957-4155
Photo of Hartwell's Wheelhouse and Counseling Service, LLC, Counselor in 21201, MD
Hartwell's Wheelhouse and Counseling Service, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
As a National Certified Counselor and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I am trained and qualified to work with Individuals, Groups, Couples and Families.
I am motivated and committed to assisting clients in reaching their greatest and most powerful life success outcomes, by providing therapeutic and coaching services that ensure optimal mental and emotional well-being. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and substance abuse. I work mostly with an adult population but will provide services to adolescents. I also work with public, private and faith based communities, providing life skills workshops and training. I currently accept insurances through Maryland Medicaid, Aetna and Care First Blue Cross Blue Shield.
As a National Certified Counselor and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I am trained and qualified to work with Individuals, Groups, Couples and Families.
I am motivated and committed to assisting clients in reaching their greatest and most powerful life success outcomes, by providing therapeutic and coaching services that ensure optimal mental and emotional well-being. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and substance abuse. I work mostly with an adult population but will provide services to adolescents. I also work with public, private and faith based communities, providing life skills workshops and training. I currently accept insurances through Maryland Medicaid, Aetna and Care First Blue Cross Blue Shield.
(410) 286-1825 View (410) 286-1825
Photo of Khameelah L Tomlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Khameelah L Tomlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping clients who struggle with childhood trauma and family issues, manifesting as anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. They desire a deeper understanding of their past, effective coping mechanisms, and paths to healing. My approach, rooted in empathy and practical strategies, aims to empower them with resilience and self-awareness, guiding them towards a life of clarity, growth, and fulfillment.
I specialize in helping clients who struggle with childhood trauma and family issues, manifesting as anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. They desire a deeper understanding of their past, effective coping mechanisms, and paths to healing. My approach, rooted in empathy and practical strategies, aims to empower them with resilience and self-awareness, guiding them towards a life of clarity, growth, and fulfillment.
(301) 307-5594 View (301) 307-5594
Photo of Sarah Hofsommer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Sarah Hofsommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Waitlist for new clients
With couples, I focus on problematic patterns of interaction that are used to deal with natural differences, underlying sensitivities, and life stressors.
Are symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma or stress causing you to feel stuck? Do you want to improve your relationship? Together, we can increase your awareness of the thoughts and behaviors that prevent you from living your fullest life. We can explore important experiences which have informed your beliefs about yourself and the world. I will assist you in developing healthy coping skills and support you in moving away from less effective, short-term coping strategies. We will use your strengths to empower you to live in a way that is consistent with your values.
With couples, I focus on problematic patterns of interaction that are used to deal with natural differences, underlying sensitivities, and life stressors.
Are symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma or stress causing you to feel stuck? Do you want to improve your relationship? Together, we can increase your awareness of the thoughts and behaviors that prevent you from living your fullest life. We can explore important experiences which have informed your beliefs about yourself and the world. I will assist you in developing healthy coping skills and support you in moving away from less effective, short-term coping strategies. We will use your strengths to empower you to live in a way that is consistent with your values.
(443) 384-7366 View (443) 384-7366
Photo of Katy Shaffer, Psychologist in 21201, MD
Katy Shaffer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, MD06725
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
Hi! I'm Katy, a licensed psychologist. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is there a difficult relationship in your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, or stress? Do you feel stuck in relationship cycles or unhelpful patterns? Do you want to find more fulfillment and happiness in your life? I would like to help. My clients are curious about their emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships and they're looking for help to move toward more happiness. You don't have to figure it all out alone. If you are looking for a safe space for collaborative exploration, healing, and problem-solving, I can offer help.
Hi! I'm Katy, a licensed psychologist. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is there a difficult relationship in your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, or stress? Do you feel stuck in relationship cycles or unhelpful patterns? Do you want to find more fulfillment and happiness in your life? I would like to help. My clients are curious about their emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships and they're looking for help to move toward more happiness. You don't have to figure it all out alone. If you are looking for a safe space for collaborative exploration, healing, and problem-solving, I can offer help.
(443) 998-8668 View (443) 998-8668
Photo of Lauren Alexander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Lauren Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Lauren provides individual, couples, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in a non-judgmental space where they can feel safe and truly heard.
Lauren believes that trust and respect are the keys to developing the kind of relationships that allow her to reach and help her clients through therapy. Throughout her career as a therapist, Lauren has fostered these dynamics with clients across the age and socio-economic spectrum, tailoring her therapeutic style and techniques to the needs of each individual. She digs deep with her clients to engage with the issues underlying their struggles, and she works with them to develop the tools that they need to live healthier, more productive, and self-actualized lives.
Lauren provides individual, couples, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in a non-judgmental space where they can feel safe and truly heard.
Lauren believes that trust and respect are the keys to developing the kind of relationships that allow her to reach and help her clients through therapy. Throughout her career as a therapist, Lauren has fostered these dynamics with clients across the age and socio-economic spectrum, tailoring her therapeutic style and techniques to the needs of each individual. She digs deep with her clients to engage with the issues underlying their struggles, and she works with them to develop the tools that they need to live healthier, more productive, and self-actualized lives.
(443) 241-7202 View (443) 241-7202
Photo of Daniel Puchala, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21201, MD
Daniel Puchala
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Daniel works with a variety of client populations, including young children through older adults, and with individuals, couples and families.
Daniel is an experienced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who is committed to practicing unconditional positive regard for every client, including recognizing and meeting each client where they are. Daniel strives to support each client in accomplishing their goals effectively and in a genuine manner, finding ways to thrive.
Daniel works with a variety of client populations, including young children through older adults, and with individuals, couples and families.
Daniel is an experienced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who is committed to practicing unconditional positive regard for every client, including recognizing and meeting each client where they are. Daniel strives to support each client in accomplishing their goals effectively and in a genuine manner, finding ways to thrive.
(240) 451-8535 View (240) 451-8535
Photo of Shayne Couch-Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21201, MD
Shayne Couch-Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Peace, I’m Shayne. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to providing inclusive and affirming mental health support for individuals within the QTBIPOC community. As a Black TransMasc person, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that QTBIPOC individuals may face, and I strive to create a safe and accepting space for all clients. I have extensive experience working with clients across various identities within the 2SLGBTQ+ folx in addition to couples.
Peace, I’m Shayne. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to providing inclusive and affirming mental health support for individuals within the QTBIPOC community. As a Black TransMasc person, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that QTBIPOC individuals may face, and I strive to create a safe and accepting space for all clients. I have extensive experience working with clients across various identities within the 2SLGBTQ+ folx in addition to couples.
(410) 888-0683 View (410) 888-0683
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.