Photo of Suzanne Fortnum, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22314, VA
Suzanne Fortnum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you feeling stuck? Do you have a desire for change, but are unsure where to start? Let’s be honest for a moment. Life is hard. Sometimes we need extra support. My passion has always been to work with individuals seeking to live their best lives. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, and pregnancy (perinatal, infertility, pregnancy loss and postpartum issues.) I have a special interest in women’s issues. I have had a corporate career, and particularly enjoy helping women navigate the challenges of balancing multiple roles and life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you have a desire for change, but are unsure where to start? Let’s be honest for a moment. Life is hard. Sometimes we need extra support. My passion has always been to work with individuals seeking to live their best lives. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, and pregnancy (perinatal, infertility, pregnancy loss and postpartum issues.) I have a special interest in women’s issues. I have had a corporate career, and particularly enjoy helping women navigate the challenges of balancing multiple roles and life transitions.
(571) 462-6370 View (571) 462-6370
Photo of Crystal Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Crystal Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you feeling off balance? Have your relationship issues reached a new peak? Are you struggling to manage day to day tasks and relationships? These are common questions which have developed from the current climate. I am committed to helping individuals address these emotions and feelings to improve their overall well-being. As a clinician, I strive to meet my clients where they are by providing a nonjudgmental and safe space. I aim to empower individuals to overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and develop coping skills to deal with the challenges that life may bring along.
Are you feeling off balance? Have your relationship issues reached a new peak? Are you struggling to manage day to day tasks and relationships? These are common questions which have developed from the current climate. I am committed to helping individuals address these emotions and feelings to improve their overall well-being. As a clinician, I strive to meet my clients where they are by providing a nonjudgmental and safe space. I aim to empower individuals to overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and develop coping skills to deal with the challenges that life may bring along.
(571) 982-8476 View (571) 982-8476
Photo of Nyrisha Hall, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22314, VA
Nyrisha Hall
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
If you're facing mental health issues, substance abuse, or developmental challenges, I'm here to help. As Nyrisha Hall, I offer a personalized, empathetic approach to therapy, focusing on your unique needs and goals. My dedication to compassionate care and commitment to a nurturing environment stand me apart. Whether it's improving mental well-being, overcoming addiction, enhancing life quality, finding stable employment, or healing trauma, together we can navigate and achieve your desired outcomes. Choose to partner with me in your journey towards a healthier, happier life.
If you're facing mental health issues, substance abuse, or developmental challenges, I'm here to help. As Nyrisha Hall, I offer a personalized, empathetic approach to therapy, focusing on your unique needs and goals. My dedication to compassionate care and commitment to a nurturing environment stand me apart. Whether it's improving mental well-being, overcoming addiction, enhancing life quality, finding stable employment, or healing trauma, together we can navigate and achieve your desired outcomes. Choose to partner with me in your journey towards a healthier, happier life.
(703) 783-9450 View (703) 783-9450
Photo of Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services , Counselor in 22314, VA
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services
Counselor, Dr, Dinelly, Holder, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Facing relationship issues? Anxieties of life? Life transitional issues? You will find a supportive and collaborative approach through the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, relational therapy and solution-focused therapy in helping you to understand the importance of lowering stress and anxiety levels as individuals, couples and families.
Feeling stressed? Experiencing high anxiety or tired of stress? Sometimes it can be difficult to overcome stressors and anxieties on our own. If you are having difficulties handling life stressors, there are ways to overcome and alleviate what you are going through. We will begin with the problem, then strategies to resolve your issue, then you will learn how to solve a variety of stressful issues in your life. If you are committed to lowering stress and anxiety levels in your life, CLICK on our website to request an appointment. Additionally, you can contact us thru text/phone at 571.946.8115 or info@higherlifepathways.com
Facing relationship issues? Anxieties of life? Life transitional issues? You will find a supportive and collaborative approach through the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, relational therapy and solution-focused therapy in helping you to understand the importance of lowering stress and anxiety levels as individuals, couples and families.
Feeling stressed? Experiencing high anxiety or tired of stress? Sometimes it can be difficult to overcome stressors and anxieties on our own. If you are having difficulties handling life stressors, there are ways to overcome and alleviate what you are going through. We will begin with the problem, then strategies to resolve your issue, then you will learn how to solve a variety of stressful issues in your life. If you are committed to lowering stress and anxiety levels in your life, CLICK on our website to request an appointment. Additionally, you can contact us thru text/phone at 571.946.8115 or info@higherlifepathways.com
(571) 458-1428 View (571) 458-1428
Photo of Chrishonna Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Chrishonna Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in relationship enhancement techniques, child development, and trauma-informed interventions.
Are you feeling discontent in your relationships, overwhelmed by life, or having difficulty adjusting to a recent change in your life? Seeking help is an amazing demonstration of self-awareness. It is also a demonstration of your intentional choice to heal and improve your emotional health. As your therapist, I will help you to see how challenging circumstances arise to show you areas in your life that require attention and resolve. Together, we will co-create multiple pathways to well-being, with the ultimate goal of creating healing for your mind, body, and spirit.
I have extensive training in relationship enhancement techniques, child development, and trauma-informed interventions.
Are you feeling discontent in your relationships, overwhelmed by life, or having difficulty adjusting to a recent change in your life? Seeking help is an amazing demonstration of self-awareness. It is also a demonstration of your intentional choice to heal and improve your emotional health. As your therapist, I will help you to see how challenging circumstances arise to show you areas in your life that require attention and resolve. Together, we will co-create multiple pathways to well-being, with the ultimate goal of creating healing for your mind, body, and spirit.
(703) 215-3574 View (703) 215-3574
Photo of Edward Michael Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist in 22314, VA
Edward Michael Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, MAC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am licensed psychotherapist with more than twenty years of experience working with adults and adolescents offering counseling and therapy for a variety of issues to a diverse client base in Virginia and Washington, DC. I provide treatment for individuals, couples and families, and lead a number of therapy groups. My work combines cognitive behavioral techniques with other effective and evidence-based therapies, such as DBT, to help you to actualize your strengths and manage your behaviors in a safe, supportive and solution-focused context. I have extensive experience working with life's transitions, aging, illness, and loss and grief, particularly with the LGBT community.
I am licensed psychotherapist with more than twenty years of experience working with adults and adolescents offering counseling and therapy for a variety of issues to a diverse client base in Virginia and Washington, DC. I provide treatment for individuals, couples and families, and lead a number of therapy groups. My work combines cognitive behavioral techniques with other effective and evidence-based therapies, such as DBT, to help you to actualize your strengths and manage your behaviors in a safe, supportive and solution-focused context. I have extensive experience working with life's transitions, aging, illness, and loss and grief, particularly with the LGBT community.
(703) 401-1424 View (703) 401-1424
Photo of Fox Vernon, Psychologist in 22314, VA
Fox Vernon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
As a therapist and musician, I work to create a space that welcomes and inspires you to see new possibilities, discover your inner voice, create deeper connections in your life, and move steadily toward your dreams. I offer individual and couples therapy, and I run general process groups as well as Creative Expression and Dungeons and Dragons groups. I specialize in using relational perspectives to help you get unstuck.
As a therapist and musician, I work to create a space that welcomes and inspires you to see new possibilities, discover your inner voice, create deeper connections in your life, and move steadily toward your dreams. I offer individual and couples therapy, and I run general process groups as well as Creative Expression and Dungeons and Dragons groups. I specialize in using relational perspectives to help you get unstuck.
(703) 957-7601 View (703) 957-7601
Photo of Rebecca Hecht-Lewis, Psychologist in 22314, VA
Rebecca Hecht-Lewis
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Learning new ways to communicate with your spouse, organize your time, and worry productively, can make huge differences at home and at work.
For more than twenty years, clients have taught me about frustration, worry, sadness and striving to feel better. I work with clients who want to be happier and less anxious, who want to improve their performance, and who want to interact positively in important relationships. Working together, we identify and increase patterns of behavior and ways of thinking that are most productive, eliminating unhealthy behaviors. I also share tools for growth, updating my clients about research findings pertinent to their concerns. Solution-oriented therapy allows clients to set and achieve their goals, becoming happier and more optimistic in the process.
Learning new ways to communicate with your spouse, organize your time, and worry productively, can make huge differences at home and at work.
For more than twenty years, clients have taught me about frustration, worry, sadness and striving to feel better. I work with clients who want to be happier and less anxious, who want to improve their performance, and who want to interact positively in important relationships. Working together, we identify and increase patterns of behavior and ways of thinking that are most productive, eliminating unhealthy behaviors. I also share tools for growth, updating my clients about research findings pertinent to their concerns. Solution-oriented therapy allows clients to set and achieve their goals, becoming happier and more optimistic in the process.
(703) 722-8042 View (703) 722-8042
Photo of Sean Maloney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Sean Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Whether you are an executive working to find your rhythm in leadership, a member of the armed services struggling with return from deployment, a young adult questioning your sexual orientation, a couple trying to inspire the next phase of your relationship, or an athlete trying to push through a frustrating plateau, my solution-focused approach will help you accomplish your therapeutic goals. Relying on humor, frank dialogue, compassion, and strong interpersonal skills, I work quickly to break down barriers of discomfort and vulnerability to create a safe space for people from any walk of life.
Whether you are an executive working to find your rhythm in leadership, a member of the armed services struggling with return from deployment, a young adult questioning your sexual orientation, a couple trying to inspire the next phase of your relationship, or an athlete trying to push through a frustrating plateau, my solution-focused approach will help you accomplish your therapeutic goals. Relying on humor, frank dialogue, compassion, and strong interpersonal skills, I work quickly to break down barriers of discomfort and vulnerability to create a safe space for people from any walk of life.
(571) 458-1801 View (571) 458-1801
Photo of Sophie Conklin, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in 22314, VA
Sophie Conklin
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Sophie Conklin. I work with A Rhaea Hope Mental Health Agency to provide therapy to those seeking counseling regarding but not limited to: LGBTQ+ topics, Women's Issues, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Trauma Recovery, Relationship Issues (romantic or plutonic), Anxiety, and Depression. I also work with clients on subjects like Body Image, Self Esteem, Stress, and PTSD. If you're seeking to arrive at tranquility or a content state of mind and body, I would love to take steps together to enhance your prosperity.
Hi, my name is Sophie Conklin. I work with A Rhaea Hope Mental Health Agency to provide therapy to those seeking counseling regarding but not limited to: LGBTQ+ topics, Women's Issues, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Trauma Recovery, Relationship Issues (romantic or plutonic), Anxiety, and Depression. I also work with clients on subjects like Body Image, Self Esteem, Stress, and PTSD. If you're seeking to arrive at tranquility or a content state of mind and body, I would love to take steps together to enhance your prosperity.
(571) 570-9503 View (571) 570-9503
Photo of Nailah Turner, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22314, VA
Nailah Turner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I help bridge the gap between partners to create better communication and build intimacy. I want to encourage you and your partner(s) to be vulnerable with each other in order to come to mutual conclusions. Whether you are considering the higher commitment of marriage or rekindling your connection after difficult life events/transitions, I am here to provide the trained third party perspective that you seek to get back on the same page. When you're ready to get started, please reach out to schedule a free 10-minute consultation
I help bridge the gap between partners to create better communication and build intimacy. I want to encourage you and your partner(s) to be vulnerable with each other in order to come to mutual conclusions. Whether you are considering the higher commitment of marriage or rekindling your connection after difficult life events/transitions, I am here to provide the trained third party perspective that you seek to get back on the same page. When you're ready to get started, please reach out to schedule a free 10-minute consultation
(703) 562-9220 View (703) 562-9220
Photo of Christopher Boler, Resident in Counseling in 22314, VA
Christopher Boler
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I provide individual and relationship counseling to adults 18+.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
I provide individual and relationship counseling to adults 18+.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
(571) 418-6281 View (571) 418-6281
Photo of Leslie Jerkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Leslie Jerkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in adolescent/young adult concerns, couples therapy, working within the LGBTQ+ communities and other nontraditional relationships.
This is a difficult time in the world. We all need support and a safe space to be heard and to discover new tools and skills to move forward in a more wholistic way. I work in collaboration with clients, honoring that we each have the resources within us to move forward with intention and self compassion.
I specialize in adolescent/young adult concerns, couples therapy, working within the LGBTQ+ communities and other nontraditional relationships.
This is a difficult time in the world. We all need support and a safe space to be heard and to discover new tools and skills to move forward in a more wholistic way. I work in collaboration with clients, honoring that we each have the resources within us to move forward with intention and self compassion.
(703) 291-6419 View (703) 291-6419
Photo of John-Paul James, Resident in Counseling in 22314, VA
John-Paul James
Resident in Counseling, PhD, DMin, DACBN
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are people with individual, health issues, parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, premartial, marriage, family, relationship, and sex challenges, body dysmorphia, psycho-social issues, chronic illness, chronic pain, chronic emotional difficulties, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders. The client is willing to have consistent dialogue about how to improve this area of their life and is willing to try new ideas and/or behaviors suggested during their sessions within their daily life. My ability to establish a quick rapport, understanding, and genuineness are keys to my success with my clients.
My ideal clients are people with individual, health issues, parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, premartial, marriage, family, relationship, and sex challenges, body dysmorphia, psycho-social issues, chronic illness, chronic pain, chronic emotional difficulties, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders. The client is willing to have consistent dialogue about how to improve this area of their life and is willing to try new ideas and/or behaviors suggested during their sessions within their daily life. My ability to establish a quick rapport, understanding, and genuineness are keys to my success with my clients.
(571) 200-6935 View (571) 200-6935
Photo of Hugh K Marr, Psychologist in 22314, VA
Hugh K Marr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice formerly (pre-covid) in Old Town, Alexandria, VA; all sessions are now via secure telehealth. I provide consultation and supervision to other mental health professionals; and I consult to healthcare facilities. I have taught courses in trauma therapy, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling to graduate students in psychology and counseling. Although I specialize in helping people with issues of trauma, substance use, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. I help people understand and change their life stories.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice formerly (pre-covid) in Old Town, Alexandria, VA; all sessions are now via secure telehealth. I provide consultation and supervision to other mental health professionals; and I consult to healthcare facilities. I have taught courses in trauma therapy, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling to graduate students in psychology and counseling. Although I specialize in helping people with issues of trauma, substance use, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. I help people understand and change their life stories.
(703) 468-8284 View (703) 468-8284
Photo of Dynamic Health Partners, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Let us partner with you, on your wellness journey.
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help address client's issues with anxiety, depression, addiction, Severe Mental Illness, family discord, marital problems, academic support, ADHD, behavioral problems in children and a variety of other stress related issues. Clients can expect a solution focused, holistic, evidenced based and functional approach to mental health wellness. All clinicians are independently licensed in the state of Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey!
Let us partner with you, on your wellness journey.
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help address client's issues with anxiety, depression, addiction, Severe Mental Illness, family discord, marital problems, academic support, ADHD, behavioral problems in children and a variety of other stress related issues. Clients can expect a solution focused, holistic, evidenced based and functional approach to mental health wellness. All clinicians are independently licensed in the state of Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey!
(202) 946-2567 View (202) 946-2567
Photo of Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services, Counselor in 22314, VA
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services provides counseling services to individuals, couples and families. Our counselors are committed to ensuring that you gain the coping skills and strategies to improve your specific circumstance. We are here as a resource to help you get to the heart of the matter to help you to an improved way of thinking and living.
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services provides counseling services to individuals, couples and families. Our counselors are committed to ensuring that you gain the coping skills and strategies to improve your specific circumstance. We are here as a resource to help you get to the heart of the matter to help you to an improved way of thinking and living.
(571) 450-9881 View (571) 450-9881
Photo of Marian W Horton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Marian W Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Using my skills as a certified PAIRS (Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills) instructor, I offer group workshops, psycho education classes, and group therapy for couples.
Does your life occur like a cloudy day? Do those clouds show up in the form of anger, anxiety, depression, low energy, fear, and no clear understanding of what's happening to you? Do you feel as if the clouds will never lift? Help is available. Sometimes YOU need a caring and compassionate person to listen to your issues. My vision is to provide a space for YOU to sort through your situation that is CARING, PEACEFUL, SUPPORTIVE, and NON-JUDGMENTAL. My mission is to help each individual experience the sunshine in their life.
Using my skills as a certified PAIRS (Practical Application of Intimate Relationship Skills) instructor, I offer group workshops, psycho education classes, and group therapy for couples.
Does your life occur like a cloudy day? Do those clouds show up in the form of anger, anxiety, depression, low energy, fear, and no clear understanding of what's happening to you? Do you feel as if the clouds will never lift? Help is available. Sometimes YOU need a caring and compassionate person to listen to your issues. My vision is to provide a space for YOU to sort through your situation that is CARING, PEACEFUL, SUPPORTIVE, and NON-JUDGMENTAL. My mission is to help each individual experience the sunshine in their life.
(703) 549-9554 x2 View (703) 549-9554 x2
Photo of Dr. Anita Payne- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22314, VA
Dr. Anita Payne- Comprehensive Clinical Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am here to help you no matter what you are going through! With over 20 years experience including expertise with Anxiety Anger Management, Depression Domestic Violence, Trauma Treatment (PTSD), Narcissism, Gender Issues, Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss Life Stressors, Sexual Issues Mood disorders Relationship challenges, couples and families.
My mission is to provide the highest quality and compassionate behavior health care to our clients, families and people in need through a comprehensive arrangement of services and effective clinical care. If you have found yourself feeling down lately and nothing seems to be going your way, making it difficult to lift your spirits, It might be time to seek help from a licensed professional. My Individual Therapy sessions help clients develop positive attitudes towards life’s most complex and challenging circumstances. All sessions are tailored to client's individual needs.
I am here to help you no matter what you are going through! With over 20 years experience including expertise with Anxiety Anger Management, Depression Domestic Violence, Trauma Treatment (PTSD), Narcissism, Gender Issues, Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss Life Stressors, Sexual Issues Mood disorders Relationship challenges, couples and families.
My mission is to provide the highest quality and compassionate behavior health care to our clients, families and people in need through a comprehensive arrangement of services and effective clinical care. If you have found yourself feeling down lately and nothing seems to be going your way, making it difficult to lift your spirits, It might be time to seek help from a licensed professional. My Individual Therapy sessions help clients develop positive attitudes towards life’s most complex and challenging circumstances. All sessions are tailored to client's individual needs.
(301) 273-1964 View (301) 273-1964
Photo of Daniel Menely, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22314, VA
Daniel Menely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, BCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I counsel many young to mid-career professionals and creatives, especially those navigating career and relationship challenges.
As your therapist, I'm here to provide a warm and supportive space where you can talk freely without being judged. I won't just sit quietly – instead, I'll ask questions, offer suggestions, and reflect on what you share. Together, we'll work on dealing with the things that might be bothering you in your everyday life, whether that be challenges with relationships, work, or family. Our goal is to help you feel better, be true to who you are, and improve your relationships. And along the way, you'll get valuable skills to reduce stress and move your life forward.
I counsel many young to mid-career professionals and creatives, especially those navigating career and relationship challenges.
As your therapist, I'm here to provide a warm and supportive space where you can talk freely without being judged. I won't just sit quietly – instead, I'll ask questions, offer suggestions, and reflect on what you share. Together, we'll work on dealing with the things that might be bothering you in your everyday life, whether that be challenges with relationships, work, or family. Our goal is to help you feel better, be true to who you are, and improve your relationships. And along the way, you'll get valuable skills to reduce stress and move your life forward.
(703) 596-2818 View (703) 596-2818

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.