Photo of Catherine M Blake, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Catherine M Blake, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004
She is certified in EMDR therapy and has specialized training in Somatic Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Body-Mind Psychotherapy, and Couples Communication.
Cathy is a highly sensitive, warm, and heart-focused person. Her passion is helping people find happiness by harmonizing mind and body, deepening relationships, and assisting the highly sensitive person to thrive. If trauma is troubling you, she can help you lessen the scars and regain emotional equilibrium. Cathy can help you overcome obstacles to achieve a fulfilling and satisfying life. Cathy maintains a high level of confidentiality, ethical standards, and professionalism. She enjoys working with a diverse clientele, especially highly sensitive people, trauma survivors, and the neurologically challenged.
She is certified in EMDR therapy and has specialized training in Somatic Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Body-Mind Psychotherapy, and Couples Communication.
Cathy is a highly sensitive, warm, and heart-focused person. Her passion is helping people find happiness by harmonizing mind and body, deepening relationships, and assisting the highly sensitive person to thrive. If trauma is troubling you, she can help you lessen the scars and regain emotional equilibrium. Cathy can help you overcome obstacles to achieve a fulfilling and satisfying life. Cathy maintains a high level of confidentiality, ethical standards, and professionalism. She enjoys working with a diverse clientele, especially highly sensitive people, trauma survivors, and the neurologically challenged.
(720) 893-8102 View (720) 893-8102
Photo of Scarlett Betters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80004, CO
Scarlett Betters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my role is to guide you to achieving your personal treatment goals to live a happy & fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma and use EMDR therapy for treatment. I also have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes & transitions such as divorce, school/job changes, relocations, & friendship/relationship challenges. I meet you where you are in your journey & determine the therapeutic modality after getting to know you & your needs. I have been a Psychotherapist for over 15 years & am passionate about helping people reach their full potential in life!
As a therapist, my role is to guide you to achieving your personal treatment goals to live a happy & fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma and use EMDR therapy for treatment. I also have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes & transitions such as divorce, school/job changes, relocations, & friendship/relationship challenges. I meet you where you are in your journey & determine the therapeutic modality after getting to know you & your needs. I have been a Psychotherapist for over 15 years & am passionate about helping people reach their full potential in life!
(720) 740-8625 View (720) 740-8625
Photo of Kasey Clark, Counselor in 80004, CO
Kasey Clark
Counselor, LPCC, CPCC, ORSCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I'm deeply passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families thrive in their relationships. I want you to know that you are a necessary, important, and powerful person with unique strengths. Often, we underestimate our own potential and forget our worth, but I'm here to remind you that you deserve love and belonging, no matter what. Your journey towards self-discovery and healthier relationships begins with embracing your inherent value. In therapy, you will always feel heard, seen, loved, and completely understood. This is a place where your thoughts, emotions, and experiences matter, where judgment has no room.
I'm deeply passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families thrive in their relationships. I want you to know that you are a necessary, important, and powerful person with unique strengths. Often, we underestimate our own potential and forget our worth, but I'm here to remind you that you deserve love and belonging, no matter what. Your journey towards self-discovery and healthier relationships begins with embracing your inherent value. In therapy, you will always feel heard, seen, loved, and completely understood. This is a place where your thoughts, emotions, and experiences matter, where judgment has no room.
(720) 807-2330 View (720) 807-2330
Photo of Connections Counseling, Counselor in 80004, CO
Connections Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004
We are a unique group of highly trained practitioners specializing in trauma and childhood wounds and the lasting effects they can have on our lives and relationships. We each have different styles and expertise ensuring one of our providers will fit your individual needs and the needs of your family. Our experienced clinicians treat most mental health and family related issues, depression and anxiety, parenting concerns and marital conflict, attachment and adoption issues, and severe trauma and PTSD. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, massage therapy, and neurofeedback for mind-body-spirit healing.
We are a unique group of highly trained practitioners specializing in trauma and childhood wounds and the lasting effects they can have on our lives and relationships. We each have different styles and expertise ensuring one of our providers will fit your individual needs and the needs of your family. Our experienced clinicians treat most mental health and family related issues, depression and anxiety, parenting concerns and marital conflict, attachment and adoption issues, and severe trauma and PTSD. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, massage therapy, and neurofeedback for mind-body-spirit healing.
(720) 707-2914 View (720) 707-2914
Photo of Whole Hearts Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Whole Hearts Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you've hit a wall? You're spinning in circles? You keep reliving past experiences? Or perhaps you and your partner are having the same fights repeatedly with no resolution. Maybe you're a parent floating along in a sea of chaos that you can't ever seem to bring order to. Feeling alone, lost, or ashamed that you 'can't handle this' or you 'should know what to do' - everyone else seems to be doing just fine. There is no Life Manual, no Relationship Guide, no Parenting Handbook given at birth to navigate your life.
Do you feel like you've hit a wall? You're spinning in circles? You keep reliving past experiences? Or perhaps you and your partner are having the same fights repeatedly with no resolution. Maybe you're a parent floating along in a sea of chaos that you can't ever seem to bring order to. Feeling alone, lost, or ashamed that you 'can't handle this' or you 'should know what to do' - everyone else seems to be doing just fine. There is no Life Manual, no Relationship Guide, no Parenting Handbook given at birth to navigate your life.
(720) 336-5770 View (720) 336-5770
Photo of Stacy Sheridan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Stacy Sheridan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
And, ultimately the relationship and present moment experience occurring in the room can be the repair that naturally needs to happen.
Trauma and wounds from childhood impact all of us, even therapists and other healers, and recovering can be a difficult process. My expertise involves working primarily with clinicians and other providers who have experienced various forms of wounding, including sexual abuse, physical & emotional abuse, domestic violence, neglect and have found minimal healing from other therapy. We will collaborate through the process of healing and in the end, you will feel a sense of control & relief and be able to continue on your journey with strength and momentum.
And, ultimately the relationship and present moment experience occurring in the room can be the repair that naturally needs to happen.
Trauma and wounds from childhood impact all of us, even therapists and other healers, and recovering can be a difficult process. My expertise involves working primarily with clinicians and other providers who have experienced various forms of wounding, including sexual abuse, physical & emotional abuse, domestic violence, neglect and have found minimal healing from other therapy. We will collaborate through the process of healing and in the end, you will feel a sense of control & relief and be able to continue on your journey with strength and momentum.
(303) 647-1832 View (303) 647-1832
Photo of Kathi Hall - Hope for the Journey Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80004, CO
Kathi Hall - Hope for the Journey Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I'm an authentic, empathetic, warm therapist that can help you feel like yourself again, and enjoy your relationship with your partner.
I have immediate availability for in-person sessions, and online via telehealth anywhere in Colorado. If you and your partner are struggling...If you're scared that your relationship isn't going to work out...if you feel lonely...and your mind is working overtime, leaving you exhausted...Or if you feel that something is missing in your life, I'm here to help.
I'm an authentic, empathetic, warm therapist that can help you feel like yourself again, and enjoy your relationship with your partner.
I have immediate availability for in-person sessions, and online via telehealth anywhere in Colorado. If you and your partner are struggling...If you're scared that your relationship isn't going to work out...if you feel lonely...and your mind is working overtime, leaving you exhausted...Or if you feel that something is missing in your life, I'm here to help.
(720) 606-6053 View (720) 606-6053
Photo of Nicholas (Nick) Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Nicholas (Nick) Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LD, MSEE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I have much experience counseling adult men & couples.
I promote improvement in my client's quality of life related to moods, relationships & sense of purpose. I approach clients where they are in their lives, relationships & moods in a manner that is accepting and encouraging. I believe people are their own best resource for understanding their present state, how they have arrived there, & having resilience to heal & move toward their goals. When clients are very stuck in negative moods, behaviors & relational patterns, I help them engage these through mindfulness, emotionally-focused & trauma healing therapies, which are based on understanding natural processes of healing & growth.
I have much experience counseling adult men & couples.
I promote improvement in my client's quality of life related to moods, relationships & sense of purpose. I approach clients where they are in their lives, relationships & moods in a manner that is accepting and encouraging. I believe people are their own best resource for understanding their present state, how they have arrived there, & having resilience to heal & move toward their goals. When clients are very stuck in negative moods, behaviors & relational patterns, I help them engage these through mindfulness, emotionally-focused & trauma healing therapies, which are based on understanding natural processes of healing & growth.
(720) 608-4539 View (720) 608-4539
Photo of Dylan Rivard, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Dylan Rivard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004
Together we can change the relationship with your criticism and anxiety, and we can unlock your inner inspiration.
If you feel overwhelmed by the state of the world, and find yourself thinking "A cloud of worry and criticism seems to follow me wherever I go. I have a decent job, most of my problems seem small compared to others, and yet that doesn't change the fact that most days I want to give up. My free time is a minefield of avoidance, distraction, and overwhelm. The things I really want to do with my life feel far away, and mustering the motivation to do something about it can feel impossible. I'm terrified that my whole life will be one long, crushing disappointment. Why does it have to be so hard?" I can help. We can do this together.
Together we can change the relationship with your criticism and anxiety, and we can unlock your inner inspiration.
If you feel overwhelmed by the state of the world, and find yourself thinking "A cloud of worry and criticism seems to follow me wherever I go. I have a decent job, most of my problems seem small compared to others, and yet that doesn't change the fact that most days I want to give up. My free time is a minefield of avoidance, distraction, and overwhelm. The things I really want to do with my life feel far away, and mustering the motivation to do something about it can feel impossible. I'm terrified that my whole life will be one long, crushing disappointment. Why does it have to be so hard?" I can help. We can do this together.
(720) 891-4783 View (720) 891-4783
Photo of Hishara Jansz, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80004, CO
Hishara Jansz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Hishara is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who works with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples from diverse cultures. She uses a holistic, client-centered, cultural-oriented and strength-based perspective in her work. Hishara will also engage in animal assisted therapy with her "official" side-kick Lava, when it is therapeutically appropriate. She treats a wide range of individual and relational issues, meets people where they're at in their journey towards healing and works within their reality to help them recognize and build on their own strengths to face and overcome challenges.
Hishara is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who works with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples from diverse cultures. She uses a holistic, client-centered, cultural-oriented and strength-based perspective in her work. Hishara will also engage in animal assisted therapy with her "official" side-kick Lava, when it is therapeutically appropriate. She treats a wide range of individual and relational issues, meets people where they're at in their journey towards healing and works within their reality to help them recognize and build on their own strengths to face and overcome challenges.
(720) 386-4714 View (720) 386-4714
Photo of Healing Connections: Therapy Collective, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Healing Connections: Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Our team is trained in a variety of modalities such as EMDR, somatic experiencing, polyvagal theory, attachment work with couples/families, and skill acquisition.
We are a Colorado-based collective of therapists bringing our rich backgrounds together to help clients integrate and move through challenges. We provide diverse approaches to meet our clients needs and support them where they are. Our therapists support clients of all ages working with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, chronic illness, recovery, grief, as well as other challenges that can arise in everyday life. Each therapist brings their own unique perspective and experience to the therapeutic relationship, and all of our providers are dedicated to client-centered, trauma-informed care.
Our team is trained in a variety of modalities such as EMDR, somatic experiencing, polyvagal theory, attachment work with couples/families, and skill acquisition.
We are a Colorado-based collective of therapists bringing our rich backgrounds together to help clients integrate and move through challenges. We provide diverse approaches to meet our clients needs and support them where they are. Our therapists support clients of all ages working with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, chronic illness, recovery, grief, as well as other challenges that can arise in everyday life. Each therapist brings their own unique perspective and experience to the therapeutic relationship, and all of our providers are dedicated to client-centered, trauma-informed care.
(970) 715-8506 View (970) 715-8506
Photo of Conscious Pathways Trauma Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80004, CO
Conscious Pathways Trauma Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Conscious Pathways is a collective of Licensed Therapists, specializing in trauma resolution therapy and couples therapy.
Did your family trigger the hell out of you over the holidays? Maybe you noticed things about your family dynamics you never noticed before. Perhaps they even brought out some of the traits you don't like so much about yourself. Maybe some of the trauma you've been through feels super edgy and close to the surface right now. We can help you. Trauma resolution is about moving the stuck gunk of trauma out of your body, mind, and heart. Getting relief from the constant state of anxiety... or a state of being totally checked out. We can help you face the hard stuff to bring peace and safety back to your nervous system.
Conscious Pathways is a collective of Licensed Therapists, specializing in trauma resolution therapy and couples therapy.
Did your family trigger the hell out of you over the holidays? Maybe you noticed things about your family dynamics you never noticed before. Perhaps they even brought out some of the traits you don't like so much about yourself. Maybe some of the trauma you've been through feels super edgy and close to the surface right now. We can help you. Trauma resolution is about moving the stuck gunk of trauma out of your body, mind, and heart. Getting relief from the constant state of anxiety... or a state of being totally checked out. We can help you face the hard stuff to bring peace and safety back to your nervous system.
(720) 702-1835 View (720) 702-1835
Photo of Grae Roda, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80004, CO
Grae Roda
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
My commitment extends to assisting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, couples, and families, who may struggle with anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional turbulence, or neurodiversity.
Schedule a free consultation through my website link in my bio today! I'm Grae. My goal is to establish a welcoming environment characterized by genuine compassion, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and profound respect for diversity, ensuring that everyone feels seen and valued. Another goal is to help others heal and overcome life stressors so they can build a healthy perception of themselves and strengthen their relationships with others and to build emotional awareness for heightened regulation and increased mental wellbeing.
My commitment extends to assisting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, couples, and families, who may struggle with anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional turbulence, or neurodiversity.
Schedule a free consultation through my website link in my bio today! I'm Grae. My goal is to establish a welcoming environment characterized by genuine compassion, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and profound respect for diversity, ensuring that everyone feels seen and valued. Another goal is to help others heal and overcome life stressors so they can build a healthy perception of themselves and strengthen their relationships with others and to build emotional awareness for heightened regulation and increased mental wellbeing.
(720) 730-8503 View (720) 730-8503
Photo of Benediction Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Benediction Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Exhale - Heal - Thrive. Welcome! We are a therapy group of skilled and sensitive therapists who are focused on helping our clients exhale, heal and thrive. We believe in the healing power of a knowledgeable and empowering therapeutic relationship. We are especially equipped to help clients who are managing depression and/or anxiety, grieving the loss of a loved one, struggle because of highly sensitivity, and those who are recovering from trauma. Our therapy team is dedicated to culturally inclusive care. Whether you are wanting to work through parts of your past, present or future, we would love to connect with you and support you!
Exhale - Heal - Thrive. Welcome! We are a therapy group of skilled and sensitive therapists who are focused on helping our clients exhale, heal and thrive. We believe in the healing power of a knowledgeable and empowering therapeutic relationship. We are especially equipped to help clients who are managing depression and/or anxiety, grieving the loss of a loved one, struggle because of highly sensitivity, and those who are recovering from trauma. Our therapy team is dedicated to culturally inclusive care. Whether you are wanting to work through parts of your past, present or future, we would love to connect with you and support you!
(303) 647-4740 View (303) 647-4740
Photo of Jeannie Cole, Pre-Licensed Professional in 80004, CO
Jeannie Cole
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Couples and individuals bring unique challenges to counseling. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, I respect your expertise and life experiences. I encourage openness, acceptance, and creative problem-solving when addressing mental health and relationship issues.
Couples and individuals bring unique challenges to counseling. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, I respect your expertise and life experiences. I encourage openness, acceptance, and creative problem-solving when addressing mental health and relationship issues.
(844) 958-1823 View (844) 958-1823
Photo of Cordelia Tafoya, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 80004, CO
Cordelia Tafoya
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I am especially interested in working with couples and families as our relationships are an incredibly important part of our lives that impact us in ways both deep and impactful.
Browsing through these profiles, you are probably looking to begin a journey towards healing, health, personal or relational growth, or, perhaps even, all four. I am here to walk alongside you in YOUR journey, a journey I know is unique and has incredible potential not only to lead you towards a better life, but a life that is both fulfilling and enriching.
I am especially interested in working with couples and families as our relationships are an incredibly important part of our lives that impact us in ways both deep and impactful.
Browsing through these profiles, you are probably looking to begin a journey towards healing, health, personal or relational growth, or, perhaps even, all four. I am here to walk alongside you in YOUR journey, a journey I know is unique and has incredible potential not only to lead you towards a better life, but a life that is both fulfilling and enriching.
(720) 477-6848 View (720) 477-6848
Photo of Sarah Swedlow, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80004, CO
Sarah Swedlow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Schedule instantly through my website in my bio! Sarah earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling with a specialization in art therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally from Austin, Texas, she has a deep appreciation for art, music, and all other modalities of expression. Sarah works to provide a welcoming space for adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a client-centered approach to ensure you are receiving the kind of care you desire.
Schedule instantly through my website in my bio! Sarah earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling with a specialization in art therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally from Austin, Texas, she has a deep appreciation for art, music, and all other modalities of expression. Sarah works to provide a welcoming space for adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a client-centered approach to ensure you are receiving the kind of care you desire.
(303) 529-1703 View (303) 529-1703
Photo of Steffanne Ferris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80004, CO
Steffanne Ferris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem making you feel like there must be more to life than what you are currently experiencing? Has your relationship with your partner, spouse, or children left you wanting more from these connections? Sometimes the monotony of life gets in the way of us becoming the people we want to be. I believe each individual, couple, and family have particular gifts and qualities that make them unique and I love exploring and harnessing these strengths with you to become the best version of yourself.
Anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem making you feel like there must be more to life than what you are currently experiencing? Has your relationship with your partner, spouse, or children left you wanting more from these connections? Sometimes the monotony of life gets in the way of us becoming the people we want to be. I believe each individual, couple, and family have particular gifts and qualities that make them unique and I love exploring and harnessing these strengths with you to become the best version of yourself.
(720) 707-1106 View (720) 707-1106
Photo of Jesse Bean, Counselor in 80004, CO
Jesse Bean
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I invite you to come find peace and joy again, and to live wholeheartedly in relationship with those you love.
Just a few years ago I was caught up in a cycle of self-doubt, shame, and failure. I was early on in adulthood and already I felt completely worn out; convinced my life would end in ruins. Eventually I was able to seek counseling, and this became a major factor in helping me find a new sense of hope and freedom. I became a counselor out of a desire to share this gift with others. I seek to create a safe space where my clients can find new hope in their journey. When you walk into my office, I want you to know that you are welcome here; you belong, and you matter.
I invite you to come find peace and joy again, and to live wholeheartedly in relationship with those you love.
Just a few years ago I was caught up in a cycle of self-doubt, shame, and failure. I was early on in adulthood and already I felt completely worn out; convinced my life would end in ruins. Eventually I was able to seek counseling, and this became a major factor in helping me find a new sense of hope and freedom. I became a counselor out of a desire to share this gift with others. I seek to create a safe space where my clients can find new hope in their journey. When you walk into my office, I want you to know that you are welcome here; you belong, and you matter.
(720) 727-6102 View (720) 727-6102
Photo of Alexa Ashworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80004, CO
Alexa Ashworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I believe that couples and families have great resiliency through pain and hold the ability to change their current story to one that better supports a life worth living and fighting for.
As a Couple and Family Therapist Candidate, I specialize in working with a broad composition of dyadic and dynamic relationships. Whether you are thinking about marriage, in a long-term relationship, or have relational repairs to focus on with other members in the family, I am here to help you navigate your most recent concerns. I recognize each person has their own ideals and divergent paths toward changing perspective, while developing more consistent habits. This is your time to explore various topics, question the grey areas, find clarity, re-discover who you are, and conquer inner battles that have prevented previous growth.
I believe that couples and families have great resiliency through pain and hold the ability to change their current story to one that better supports a life worth living and fighting for.
As a Couple and Family Therapist Candidate, I specialize in working with a broad composition of dyadic and dynamic relationships. Whether you are thinking about marriage, in a long-term relationship, or have relational repairs to focus on with other members in the family, I am here to help you navigate your most recent concerns. I recognize each person has their own ideals and divergent paths toward changing perspective, while developing more consistent habits. This is your time to explore various topics, question the grey areas, find clarity, re-discover who you are, and conquer inner battles that have prevented previous growth.
(720) 707-0055 View (720) 707-0055
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.