Couples Counseling Therapists in 48104

Photo of Felicia A Brabec, Psychologist in 48104, MI
Felicia A Brabec
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Since 1995, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, couples and families on a variety of issues including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders, grief and loss, issues related to gender and sexual orientation, sport psychology, and couple and family issues.
Thank you for choosing to visit my page. I am a fully licensed psychologist and social worker. I enjoy working with individuals who are open to change and willing to do the difficult emotional work that often needs to be done to effect that change. Most importantly, for therapy to be successful, I believe that you must feel comfortable with me as your therapist. The fit needs to be a good one! Please feel free to contact me to see if you might be interested in us working together.
Since 1995, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, couples and families on a variety of issues including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders, grief and loss, issues related to gender and sexual orientation, sport psychology, and couple and family issues.
Thank you for choosing to visit my page. I am a fully licensed psychologist and social worker. I enjoy working with individuals who are open to change and willing to do the difficult emotional work that often needs to be done to effect that change. Most importantly, for therapy to be successful, I believe that you must feel comfortable with me as your therapist. The fit needs to be a good one! Please feel free to contact me to see if you might be interested in us working together.
(734) 606-4919 View (734) 606-4919
Photo of LaTonya Demps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
LaTonya Demps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I provide compassionate services to energize individuals, couples, professionals, and those in helping fields who need a safe space to process the problems they are most likely facing today including: complex trauma, perfectionism, burnout, struggles with self-acceptance, relationship concerns, microaggressions, people-pleasing, depression, and anxiety. I believe that people have a remarkable ability to change their lives, especially in the face of adversity. You will not be alone in your journey to cope and heal.
I provide compassionate services to energize individuals, couples, professionals, and those in helping fields who need a safe space to process the problems they are most likely facing today including: complex trauma, perfectionism, burnout, struggles with self-acceptance, relationship concerns, microaggressions, people-pleasing, depression, and anxiety. I believe that people have a remarkable ability to change their lives, especially in the face of adversity. You will not be alone in your journey to cope and heal.
(734) 212-8560 View (734) 212-8560
Photo of Nicholas Holterman, Pre-Licensed Professional in 48104, MI
Nicholas Holterman
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I'm particularly interested in working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, and non-monogamous partners who experience anxiety, disordered eating, depression, & questions of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Hello! I'm Nicholas. As a graduate student therapist, my goal is to provide you with the time, space, respect, and consideration you need to feel safe, listened to, and accepted unconditionally. My approach to therapy is free of judgment, focused on empowerment, and informed by each client's identities and positionalities. Here, I want to acknowledge my own personal identities as a queer, white, cisgender man and to note that I build upon my training by attending to points of intersectionality, privilege, oppression, and social justice in my praxis; I believe all our unique life experiences are shaped by our multiple identities.
I'm particularly interested in working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, and non-monogamous partners who experience anxiety, disordered eating, depression, & questions of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Hello! I'm Nicholas. As a graduate student therapist, my goal is to provide you with the time, space, respect, and consideration you need to feel safe, listened to, and accepted unconditionally. My approach to therapy is free of judgment, focused on empowerment, and informed by each client's identities and positionalities. Here, I want to acknowledge my own personal identities as a queer, white, cisgender man and to note that I build upon my training by attending to points of intersectionality, privilege, oppression, and social justice in my praxis; I believe all our unique life experiences are shaped by our multiple identities.
(734) 415-6399 View (734) 415-6399
Photo of Jose Jimenez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Jose Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about working with couples, young adults (who are trying to navigate the blindsiding and mundane parts of being an adult) and mature adults. For the last 15 years of practice, I've enthusiastically partnered with people to help them pursue and build lives that reflect their values and aspirations. We will navigate the complex challenges of life with groundedness and compassion.
I'm passionate about working with couples, young adults (who are trying to navigate the blindsiding and mundane parts of being an adult) and mature adults. For the last 15 years of practice, I've enthusiastically partnered with people to help them pursue and build lives that reflect their values and aspirations. We will navigate the complex challenges of life with groundedness and compassion.
(734) 808-3630 View (734) 808-3630
Photo of Anna Konigsberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Anna Konigsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I believe that the most important factor to successful therapy outcomes is the relationship between a client and their therapist.
In my private practice, I specialize in working with the transgender and non-binary community: adults, teens and children who identify as transgender and parents with a child or adult child who identifies as transgender or non-binary. While trans identified individuals face many of the same challenges as cisgender people, such as depression, anxiety and relationship concerns, I am also aware of the challenges unique to transgender and non-binary people and their loved ones including discrimination, stigma, rejection, and oppression.
I believe that the most important factor to successful therapy outcomes is the relationship between a client and their therapist.
In my private practice, I specialize in working with the transgender and non-binary community: adults, teens and children who identify as transgender and parents with a child or adult child who identifies as transgender or non-binary. While trans identified individuals face many of the same challenges as cisgender people, such as depression, anxiety and relationship concerns, I am also aware of the challenges unique to transgender and non-binary people and their loved ones including discrimination, stigma, rejection, and oppression.
(734) 215-6159 View (734) 215-6159
Photo of Josie Barnard, Licensed Professional Counselor in 48104, MI
Josie Barnard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Whether we are facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, a significant life transition, debilitatingly low self-esteem, grief, or other mental health concerns, we all need people in our corner to provide empathy, compassion, and support as we seek growth and healing. I love to be one of these people in my clients' lives. I use an integrative approach that draws from various evidence-based treatments including CBT, ACT, DBT, nervous-system focused and trauma-informed theories, and more, depending on a client's needs and goals.
Whether we are facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, a significant life transition, debilitatingly low self-esteem, grief, or other mental health concerns, we all need people in our corner to provide empathy, compassion, and support as we seek growth and healing. I love to be one of these people in my clients' lives. I use an integrative approach that draws from various evidence-based treatments including CBT, ACT, DBT, nervous-system focused and trauma-informed theories, and more, depending on a client's needs and goals.
(734) 336-1354 x15 View (734) 336-1354 x15
Photo of Miles Day, Licensed Professional Counselor in 48104, MI
Miles Day
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing issues relating to trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics by implementing interventions from Emotionally-Focused, Acceptance Commitment, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Sensorimotor Therapies.
Have you ever felt stuck in the same cycle over and over no matter how hard you try to break away? These type of patterns can often make it feel impossible to stay connected, be at peace, and thrive. I want you to know there is hope. Together we can explore how past patterns and trauma affect the present while building on your strengths to manifest a feeling of inner strength and freedom. I value creating an affirming therapeutic space where clients of LGBTQ+ identities, kink/sex-positive practices, and polyamorous relationships are safe and welcomed.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing issues relating to trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics by implementing interventions from Emotionally-Focused, Acceptance Commitment, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Sensorimotor Therapies.
Have you ever felt stuck in the same cycle over and over no matter how hard you try to break away? These type of patterns can often make it feel impossible to stay connected, be at peace, and thrive. I want you to know there is hope. Together we can explore how past patterns and trauma affect the present while building on your strengths to manifest a feeling of inner strength and freedom. I value creating an affirming therapeutic space where clients of LGBTQ+ identities, kink/sex-positive practices, and polyamorous relationships are safe and welcomed.
(734) 436-3273 View (734) 436-3273
Photo of James Plunkett, Psychologist in 48104, MI
James Plunkett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I have extensive experience working with adults, couples, children, adolescents and families.
Welcome. I use an empathic and interactive approach to my work, tailoring it to each unique situation. I seek to help my clients reduce stress and conflict, manage strong emotions, improve relationships, and navigate life transitions, such as divorce, new parenthood, grief, post-college, retirement. I draw on a range of approaches including insight oriented treatment, CBT, coaching, and principles and practices of mindfulness. I am very interested in providing supervision and consultation to younger clinicians as they work to establish their practice.
I have extensive experience working with adults, couples, children, adolescents and families.
Welcome. I use an empathic and interactive approach to my work, tailoring it to each unique situation. I seek to help my clients reduce stress and conflict, manage strong emotions, improve relationships, and navigate life transitions, such as divorce, new parenthood, grief, post-college, retirement. I draw on a range of approaches including insight oriented treatment, CBT, coaching, and principles and practices of mindfulness. I am very interested in providing supervision and consultation to younger clinicians as they work to establish their practice.
(734) 265-0960 View (734) 265-0960
Photo of Nicole Turcotte-Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Nicole Turcotte-Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I work with clients to address relationship problems, grief/loss, low self-esteem, academic/employment difficulties, etc.
Sometimes our job (as therapists) is to carry the hope for our clients until they can carry it themselves. The fact that you are considering therapy means that you want to believe that your situation can improve. While hope is not always easy to come by, human beings are resilient, we are survivors, and it is okay to seek help when the load gets too heavy to carry on our own. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. I will work with you to develop the insight and skills needed to overcome challenges so that you can live a healthier/happier life.
I work with clients to address relationship problems, grief/loss, low self-esteem, academic/employment difficulties, etc.
Sometimes our job (as therapists) is to carry the hope for our clients until they can carry it themselves. The fact that you are considering therapy means that you want to believe that your situation can improve. While hope is not always easy to come by, human beings are resilient, we are survivors, and it is okay to seek help when the load gets too heavy to carry on our own. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. I will work with you to develop the insight and skills needed to overcome challenges so that you can live a healthier/happier life.
(734) 217-4339 View (734) 217-4339
Wendy L Thompson
Psychologist, PhD, LP, Fully, License
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Are you feeling sad, depressed, worried, fighting, arguing, anxious, feeling stuck, unhappy, having communication issues, inattention, concentration problems, social skills problems, low self confidence, relationship problems, or need crisis intervention? Have you experienced trauma? Do you want to enhance peek performance in sports or everyday life with the development of mental skills (concentration, imagery, self talk, etc.)? I worked with a diversity of problems including parenting skills, child behavior disorders, autism, marital discord, job finding skills, fears and nervous habits, stress, depression, assertiveness training, panic disorder, phobias, social skills deficit, emotional and behavioral problems. I specialize in cognitive behavior therapy.
Are you feeling sad, depressed, worried, fighting, arguing, anxious, feeling stuck, unhappy, having communication issues, inattention, concentration problems, social skills problems, low self confidence, relationship problems, or need crisis intervention? Have you experienced trauma? Do you want to enhance peek performance in sports or everyday life with the development of mental skills (concentration, imagery, self talk, etc.)? I worked with a diversity of problems including parenting skills, child behavior disorders, autism, marital discord, job finding skills, fears and nervous habits, stress, depression, assertiveness training, panic disorder, phobias, social skills deficit, emotional and behavioral problems. I specialize in cognitive behavior therapy.
(734) 720-8574 View (734) 720-8574
Photo of James Rust, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
James Rust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I enjoy working with adolescent males, adults,LGBT and questioning, couples, and with men's issues.
As my client, you will be heard, understood, respected, and valued. Your challenges and concerns are important and are the focus of our collaboration. I have had good success assisting clients in how they feel while also increasing their understanding of the how and why of their difficulties. My services are compassionate, clinically based, ethical, and confidential. I provide a safe environment, which balances supporting you and challenging you emotionally. My office is in a convenient Downtown Ann Arbor Location with reimbursed parking. Together we rediscover your assets, strengths, and accomplishments and utilize these in the present.
I enjoy working with adolescent males, adults,LGBT and questioning, couples, and with men's issues.
As my client, you will be heard, understood, respected, and valued. Your challenges and concerns are important and are the focus of our collaboration. I have had good success assisting clients in how they feel while also increasing their understanding of the how and why of their difficulties. My services are compassionate, clinically based, ethical, and confidential. I provide a safe environment, which balances supporting you and challenging you emotionally. My office is in a convenient Downtown Ann Arbor Location with reimbursed parking. Together we rediscover your assets, strengths, and accomplishments and utilize these in the present.
(734) 606-0885 View (734) 606-0885
Photo of Glenn Burdick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Glenn Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Since 1993 when I was trained by Harville Hendrix, PhD I have been working a great deal of the time with couples.
Being a human being can be quite challenging! There's a saying about the mind: 'the mind is a good servant, but a cruel taskmaster!' Many of us never learned how to calm our minds, limit our worrying, and self-soothe. Mindfulness training is one of the most researched methods for learning to do this. My work with individuals helps them to become skilled in this way, and to lessen the grip of attitudes and beliefs that limit us in significant ways. I work with individuals in this way, as well as with groups.
Since 1993 when I was trained by Harville Hendrix, PhD I have been working a great deal of the time with couples.
Being a human being can be quite challenging! There's a saying about the mind: 'the mind is a good servant, but a cruel taskmaster!' Many of us never learned how to calm our minds, limit our worrying, and self-soothe. Mindfulness training is one of the most researched methods for learning to do this. My work with individuals helps them to become skilled in this way, and to lessen the grip of attitudes and beliefs that limit us in significant ways. I work with individuals in this way, as well as with groups.
(734) 606-0126 View (734) 606-0126
Photo of Dr. Alexandra Lawall, Psychologist in 48104, MI
Dr. Alexandra Lawall
Psychologist, PsyD, MHA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I am a generalist psychologist with areas of emphasis including: anxiety/social anxiety, ADHD, stress management, life transitions, school stress, depression, PTSD/trauma, parenting, and relationship problems.
The challenges we experience everyday can be overwhelming. I believe that therapy can be a safe environment to help foster growth, healing, and support. I strive to provide that safe therapeutic space where we can work collaboratively to allow you to freely explore, question, and process to help you achieve the quality of life that you desire and deserve. My research has been in parenting. I enjoy working with parents, helping them understand their current parenting styles, and working together to constructively modify their skills to help them build a stronger, positive relationship with their children.
I am a generalist psychologist with areas of emphasis including: anxiety/social anxiety, ADHD, stress management, life transitions, school stress, depression, PTSD/trauma, parenting, and relationship problems.
The challenges we experience everyday can be overwhelming. I believe that therapy can be a safe environment to help foster growth, healing, and support. I strive to provide that safe therapeutic space where we can work collaboratively to allow you to freely explore, question, and process to help you achieve the quality of life that you desire and deserve. My research has been in parenting. I enjoy working with parents, helping them understand their current parenting styles, and working together to constructively modify their skills to help them build a stronger, positive relationship with their children.
(734) 849-3773 View (734) 849-3773
Photo of Ann Arbor Psychological Services, Psychologist in 48104, MI
Ann Arbor Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
For over 20 years, Dr. Stephen Purcell has been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families improve their relationships; cope with stress, anxiety and depression; work through trauma, grief, and loss; overcome addictions; and navigate major life transitions like divorce and career change. Whether you are currently facing a crisis or simply want to improve the way you function in everyday life, Dr. Purcell has the training, skills and experience to assist you.
For over 20 years, Dr. Stephen Purcell has been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families improve their relationships; cope with stress, anxiety and depression; work through trauma, grief, and loss; overcome addictions; and navigate major life transitions like divorce and career change. Whether you are currently facing a crisis or simply want to improve the way you function in everyday life, Dr. Purcell has the training, skills and experience to assist you.
(734) 619-8125 View (734) 619-8125
Photo of Ananda Jatel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Ananda Jatel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Through building a therapeutic relationship, I can help guide you through the journey of positive change which can be a very rewarding experience for you.
It is wonderful that you decided to begin the process of finding a therapist. I think that it is vital that you find someone that is a good fit for you. It is important to create an environment that is free of judgment so that you can feel safe expressing yourself. The way we form our identity is complex, many roles play a factor including our environment, family history, current relationships, and lifestyle. Through the journey of life, events both positive and painful help to mold us. The path of healing and exploration into yourself can lead to a stronger, happier, healthier you.
Through building a therapeutic relationship, I can help guide you through the journey of positive change which can be a very rewarding experience for you.
It is wonderful that you decided to begin the process of finding a therapist. I think that it is vital that you find someone that is a good fit for you. It is important to create an environment that is free of judgment so that you can feel safe expressing yourself. The way we form our identity is complex, many roles play a factor including our environment, family history, current relationships, and lifestyle. Through the journey of life, events both positive and painful help to mold us. The path of healing and exploration into yourself can lead to a stronger, happier, healthier you.
(734) 456-6358 View (734) 456-6358
Photo of Rani S Dronamraju, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Rani S Dronamraju
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LMSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals, Couples and families.
Life is a journey and there are many ups and downs that confront us. The most optimal way to resolve situations is to seek the strength that is within and bring out its positive energy. I have over 25 years of experience working in the field of mental health. With simple holistic methods I offer solutions to enhance your life by helping you resolve your concerns. Whether it's your children, career, your relationships that is important to you, you will be helped to develop habits and skills to effectively deal with the challenges you may encounter in life.
I have experience working with individuals, Couples and families.
Life is a journey and there are many ups and downs that confront us. The most optimal way to resolve situations is to seek the strength that is within and bring out its positive energy. I have over 25 years of experience working in the field of mental health. With simple holistic methods I offer solutions to enhance your life by helping you resolve your concerns. Whether it's your children, career, your relationships that is important to you, you will be helped to develop habits and skills to effectively deal with the challenges you may encounter in life.
(734) 823-6940 View (734) 823-6940
Photo of Lori Hollander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Lori Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
A Couples/Sex Therapist in Michigan, I specialize in resolving intimacy and relationship problems.
Do you want to feel more intimate with your partner? More deeply connected? More attraction, more desire, a more intense level of loving sexual intimacy? I want to help. I love helping couples get the deep emotional and sexual intimacy they want in their relationship. When sexual problems occur, it can seem to signal a problem with the relationship or with you. But that's NOT true! In fact, the kind of intense real intimacy that lasts for years is not usually automatic. In fact, a good road map makes all the difference.
A Couples/Sex Therapist in Michigan, I specialize in resolving intimacy and relationship problems.
Do you want to feel more intimate with your partner? More deeply connected? More attraction, more desire, a more intense level of loving sexual intimacy? I want to help. I love helping couples get the deep emotional and sexual intimacy they want in their relationship. When sexual problems occur, it can seem to signal a problem with the relationship or with you. But that's NOT true! In fact, the kind of intense real intimacy that lasts for years is not usually automatic. In fact, a good road map makes all the difference.
(734) 666-3989 View (734) 666-3989
Photo of Dr. Sherri Newpol, Psychologist in 48104, MI
Dr. Sherri Newpol
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, HSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
The most challenging step in seeking help is making the first appointment, and I understand it might be anxiety provoking. I provide individual and couples' therapy utilizing cognitive-behavioral theories within a solution-focused framework. This allows for some relief to happen quickly for depression, anxiety, panic, grief, PTSD, phobias, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, care giver stress, career counseling, eating disorders, substance abuse, trichotillomania, infertility, LGBTQQIAAP issues, and neuropsychological (head injury, dementias, amnesia). ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS CURRENTLY.
The most challenging step in seeking help is making the first appointment, and I understand it might be anxiety provoking. I provide individual and couples' therapy utilizing cognitive-behavioral theories within a solution-focused framework. This allows for some relief to happen quickly for depression, anxiety, panic, grief, PTSD, phobias, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, care giver stress, career counseling, eating disorders, substance abuse, trichotillomania, infertility, LGBTQQIAAP issues, and neuropsychological (head injury, dementias, amnesia). ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS CURRENTLY.
(734) 550-4971 View (734) 550-4971
Photo of Lindsay Brennan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48104, MI
Lindsay Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I see both individuals and couples in my practice.
Making the choice to seek and begin therapy can take a lot of courage, yet it is often the first step towards resolving those issues in our lives that take away from the happiness and fulfillment that we deserve. I strongly feel that effective therapy is dependent on a good fit between a client and clinician where collaboration is encouraged. I believe it is best to tailor my therapeutic approach based on the individual's goals, personality, and lifestyle. It is my priority to create a safe space and nonjudgmental environment where people can gain clarity, self- awarenss, empowerment and overcome personal challenges.
I see both individuals and couples in my practice.
Making the choice to seek and begin therapy can take a lot of courage, yet it is often the first step towards resolving those issues in our lives that take away from the happiness and fulfillment that we deserve. I strongly feel that effective therapy is dependent on a good fit between a client and clinician where collaboration is encouraged. I believe it is best to tailor my therapeutic approach based on the individual's goals, personality, and lifestyle. It is my priority to create a safe space and nonjudgmental environment where people can gain clarity, self- awarenss, empowerment and overcome personal challenges.
(734) 469-5133 View (734) 469-5133
Photo of Barbara Cornblath, Psychologist in 48104, MI
Barbara Cornblath
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Deciding to call a therapist and seek help can be difficult. I work with clients to establish a strong working relationship. Together, we can work to identify obstacles that block you from reaching your potential in different areas of your life. My style balances insight-oriented talk-therapy with common sense -- and some humor when possible.
Deciding to call a therapist and seek help can be difficult. I work with clients to establish a strong working relationship. Together, we can work to identify obstacles that block you from reaching your potential in different areas of your life. My style balances insight-oriented talk-therapy with common sense -- and some humor when possible.
(734) 646-2683 View (734) 646-2683
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.