Couples Counseling Therapists in 90275

Photo of Ann Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90275, CA
Ann Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
I am a Board Certified psychotherapist. Many clients simply need help in handling a family or personal crisis, or guidance through a transitional period in their lives. I encourage goal setting, specific objectives, strategies and time frames. I also have extensive experience responding to the needs of women, men and couples who are having difficulty juggling family, finances, work stress and intimate relationships.
I am a Board Certified psychotherapist. Many clients simply need help in handling a family or personal crisis, or guidance through a transitional period in their lives. I encourage goal setting, specific objectives, strategies and time frames. I also have extensive experience responding to the needs of women, men and couples who are having difficulty juggling family, finances, work stress and intimate relationships.
(310) 956-1059 View (310) 956-1059
Photo of Lora Uglesic, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Lora Uglesic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello & thank you for taking the time to consider me for your mental health needs. I provide psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, & families. My core belief is that the foundation to successful treatment is the creation of a safe & trusting environment where therapist & client work collaboratively to address treatment goals. The development of a strong therapeutic relationship becomes the cornerstone to lasting & meaningful change. I strive to create holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual using an eclectic integrative approach, by blending different theories & techniques to address presenting symptoms.
Hello & thank you for taking the time to consider me for your mental health needs. I provide psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, & families. My core belief is that the foundation to successful treatment is the creation of a safe & trusting environment where therapist & client work collaboratively to address treatment goals. The development of a strong therapeutic relationship becomes the cornerstone to lasting & meaningful change. I strive to create holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual using an eclectic integrative approach, by blending different theories & techniques to address presenting symptoms.
(310) 697-8928 View (310) 697-8928
Christy Israel
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
I have worked with a wide variety of clients including, children, adolescents, Individual adult clients, couples, and families.
Hello! My name is Christy Israel, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe, as psychologist, Carl Rogers stated, "that each individual has within him or herself vast resources for self-understanding, for altering his or her self-concept, attitudes, and self-directed behavior." I take great joy in partnering with my clients, eliciting their strengths, in order for them to heal, grow, achieve their goals, and live the life of their dreams. I really love to match people with the most appropriate form of therapy for them.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients including, children, adolescents, Individual adult clients, couples, and families.
Hello! My name is Christy Israel, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe, as psychologist, Carl Rogers stated, "that each individual has within him or herself vast resources for self-understanding, for altering his or her self-concept, attitudes, and self-directed behavior." I take great joy in partnering with my clients, eliciting their strengths, in order for them to heal, grow, achieve their goals, and live the life of their dreams. I really love to match people with the most appropriate form of therapy for them.
(424) 587-3709 View (424) 587-3709
Photo of Christina Morse, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Christina Morse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Whether you are facing an immediate life stressor or looking for intentional ways to manage your life, talking with a culturally sensitive and experienced clinician can help you in your journey. I have worked with individuals and families for over 30 years in various capacities and bring expertise in the areas of anxiety and relationship conflict in couples and families. The ways in which I support clients is holistic, individually designed and stems from Humanistic and Mindfulness based approaches. I look forward to supporting your healing, growth and overall wellness.
Whether you are facing an immediate life stressor or looking for intentional ways to manage your life, talking with a culturally sensitive and experienced clinician can help you in your journey. I have worked with individuals and families for over 30 years in various capacities and bring expertise in the areas of anxiety and relationship conflict in couples and families. The ways in which I support clients is holistic, individually designed and stems from Humanistic and Mindfulness based approaches. I look forward to supporting your healing, growth and overall wellness.
(424) 699-3064 View (424) 699-3064
Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in 90275, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Carol Francis provides psychotherapy for children, teens, parents, individuals & couples.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Carol Francis provides psychotherapy for children, teens, parents, individuals & couples.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Mirna Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Mirna Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
My name is Mirna Johnson. I am a Mexican American, Army Veteran and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I have experience helping individuals and families navigate difficult times. My unique background and cultural sensitivity allow me to connect with clients on a deeper level. I am passionate about empowering people to find healing and restoration in their relationships. Empowering individuals couples and families to foster healthy relationships, overcome challenges, and cultivate resilience.
My name is Mirna Johnson. I am a Mexican American, Army Veteran and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I have experience helping individuals and families navigate difficult times. My unique background and cultural sensitivity allow me to connect with clients on a deeper level. I am passionate about empowering people to find healing and restoration in their relationships. Empowering individuals couples and families to foster healthy relationships, overcome challenges, and cultivate resilience.
(424) 799-3160 View (424) 799-3160
Photo of Jeanne Quilling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Jeanne Quilling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Thanks for viewing my professional profile. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 19 years experience, including working in hospitals, private clinics, and as the Clinical Director of an in-patient residential facility. My experience includes treating a broad range of issues including addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, divorce, parenting children with special needs, post-partum depression and schizophrenia.
Thanks for viewing my professional profile. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 19 years experience, including working in hospitals, private clinics, and as the Clinical Director of an in-patient residential facility. My experience includes treating a broad range of issues including addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, divorce, parenting children with special needs, post-partum depression and schizophrenia.
(310) 807-2295 View (310) 807-2295
Photo of Centered Soul Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Centered Soul Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Nicole Williams, LMFT! I'm so happy you're taking the first step in reaching out to find a therapist! Are you experiencing relationship challenges, looking to improve communication or heal from infidelity? Would you like to explore your gender identity? Would you like to discuss dynamics around navigating your consensually non-monogamous relationship? Are you unhappy with your sex life? Do you want to improve your sexual health or increase your sexual knowledge? Would you like to heal from past sexual trauma? I can help! You deserve to live a sexually fulfilling life!
Hi! I'm Nicole Williams, LMFT! I'm so happy you're taking the first step in reaching out to find a therapist! Are you experiencing relationship challenges, looking to improve communication or heal from infidelity? Would you like to explore your gender identity? Would you like to discuss dynamics around navigating your consensually non-monogamous relationship? Are you unhappy with your sex life? Do you want to improve your sexual health or increase your sexual knowledge? Would you like to heal from past sexual trauma? I can help! You deserve to live a sexually fulfilling life!
(310) 742-0974 View (310) 742-0974
Photo of Kelly Rice, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Kelly Rice, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I know that sometimes, you may just need someone to listen and walk through a difficult season in life with you. You may find yourself in need of a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings about dating, a significant relationship or a life transition. You may be coping with pain in ways that are self-destructive, or feeling "stuck", sad, and/or overwhelmed by worry. I offer understanding and caring, compassionate feedback. My goal is to help you tap into your own inner wisdom, so that you can heal, grow, and thrive- ultimately living a more fulfilling life.
As a therapist, I know that sometimes, you may just need someone to listen and walk through a difficult season in life with you. You may find yourself in need of a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings about dating, a significant relationship or a life transition. You may be coping with pain in ways that are self-destructive, or feeling "stuck", sad, and/or overwhelmed by worry. I offer understanding and caring, compassionate feedback. My goal is to help you tap into your own inner wisdom, so that you can heal, grow, and thrive- ultimately living a more fulfilling life.
(949) 390-6056 View (949) 390-6056
Photo of Jeanette Buller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90275, CA
Jeanette Buller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Patients with symptoms/diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, Anger Management, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, Family/Marital Stressors, Forensic (criminal history, or involvement with authorities).
Hi there, I'm Jeanette Buller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Jeanette's approach to therapy includes seeing you as a whole person, taking into account who you are now and the version of yourself you wish to achieve. Together, we will work on strategies to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful connections to what is most important for you. I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you in our therapy session.
Patients with symptoms/diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, Anger Management, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, Family/Marital Stressors, Forensic (criminal history, or involvement with authorities).
Hi there, I'm Jeanette Buller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Jeanette's approach to therapy includes seeing you as a whole person, taking into account who you are now and the version of yourself you wish to achieve. Together, we will work on strategies to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful connections to what is most important for you. I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you in our therapy session.
(424) 373-8452 View (424) 373-8452
Photo of Dr. Sara Rabinovitch Phd, Psychologist in 90275, CA
Dr. Sara Rabinovitch Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling with obsessions/compulsions, rumination, control issues, social anxiety, PTSD/trauma or coping behaviors that cause shame? You're in the right place. Common problems that often co-exist with the above: rigid thinking, workaholism, perfectionism, relationship strain, suppressed anger, shame with sex interests, all-or-nothing relationship to food & substances, chronic pain & insomnia. I am often the last stop for clients struggling for a long time, and for whom past therapy has only been partially effective. Evidence-based therapy works. Good therapy is focused & time-limited. Let's roll up our sleeves & get you unstuck.
Struggling with obsessions/compulsions, rumination, control issues, social anxiety, PTSD/trauma or coping behaviors that cause shame? You're in the right place. Common problems that often co-exist with the above: rigid thinking, workaholism, perfectionism, relationship strain, suppressed anger, shame with sex interests, all-or-nothing relationship to food & substances, chronic pain & insomnia. I am often the last stop for clients struggling for a long time, and for whom past therapy has only been partially effective. Evidence-based therapy works. Good therapy is focused & time-limited. Let's roll up our sleeves & get you unstuck.
(714) 710-8520 View (714) 710-8520
Photo of Carol Ann Francis, Psychologist in 90275, CA
Carol Ann Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MFTT, CHT
Verified Verified
Individuals, couples, children or adults, who are not satisfied with how their life is progressing due to stressors, anxieties, depression, rough circumstances, major transitions, stubborn habits, or simply not knowing how to improve relationships, careers or personal successes find the many approaches I use very exciting & helpful.
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
Individuals, couples, children or adults, who are not satisfied with how their life is progressing due to stressors, anxieties, depression, rough circumstances, major transitions, stubborn habits, or simply not knowing how to improve relationships, careers or personal successes find the many approaches I use very exciting & helpful.
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
(424) 570-2143 View (424) 570-2143
Photo of Melissa F. Pedersen Ma Mft Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Melissa F. Pedersen Ma Mft Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
My team treats a number of different populations such as children, teens, families, adults, senior citizens, couples and people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties.
Hello and welcome! My name is Melissa Pedersen and I am a local therapist in the San Pedro area. The goal of my team is to provide all clients with a comfortable, confidential, and non-judgmental setting where concerns can be explored and addressed. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other issues.
My team treats a number of different populations such as children, teens, families, adults, senior citizens, couples and people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties.
Hello and welcome! My name is Melissa Pedersen and I am a local therapist in the San Pedro area. The goal of my team is to provide all clients with a comfortable, confidential, and non-judgmental setting where concerns can be explored and addressed. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other issues.
(424) 258-5115 View (424) 258-5115
Photo of Archelena McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90275, CA
Archelena McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
My name is Archelena McDonald (the preferred name is Dee Dee), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I currently work with adults and specialize in providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, grief and loss, PTSD, and couples/family counseling. Therapy is never a "one size fits all," so I try to partner with my client to help identify desired areas of growth.
My name is Archelena McDonald (the preferred name is Dee Dee), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I currently work with adults and specialize in providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, grief and loss, PTSD, and couples/family counseling. Therapy is never a "one size fits all," so I try to partner with my client to help identify desired areas of growth.
(747) 318-3534 View (747) 318-3534
Photo of Kelly Laney-Holstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Kelly Laney-Holstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in therapy for individuals and couples and focus on improving relationships, self-esteem and mood. I combine Cognitive-Behavioral and Family Systems approaches into counseling. There is also a great emphasis on increasing participation in hobbies and interests as well as diet and exercise while doing mental health work in therapy. Referrals, resources, and recommendations may be given in order to support couples or individuals in this.
I specialize in therapy for individuals and couples and focus on improving relationships, self-esteem and mood. I combine Cognitive-Behavioral and Family Systems approaches into counseling. There is also a great emphasis on increasing participation in hobbies and interests as well as diet and exercise while doing mental health work in therapy. Referrals, resources, and recommendations may be given in order to support couples or individuals in this.
(424) 294-8843 View (424) 294-8843
Photo of Amber Robison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90275, CA
Amber Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MS
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
(310) 919-4252 View (310) 919-4252
Photo of Robin L Kusilka, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90275, CA
Robin L Kusilka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
There are times that life can feel overwhelming whether due to trauma, stress, anxiety, depression or life transitions. I would like to join you on your journey toward wholeness and well-being as you navigate through life's trying times. I utilize an integrative holistic approach, allowing for unique and unlimited growth and potential. In my collaborative approach my goal in the therapeutic relationship is for each client to feel heard, respected and understood. I customize each client's needs and treatment using a variety of tools including psycho-education, mindfulness, meditation, body awareness and art.
There are times that life can feel overwhelming whether due to trauma, stress, anxiety, depression or life transitions. I would like to join you on your journey toward wholeness and well-being as you navigate through life's trying times. I utilize an integrative holistic approach, allowing for unique and unlimited growth and potential. In my collaborative approach my goal in the therapeutic relationship is for each client to feel heard, respected and understood. I customize each client's needs and treatment using a variety of tools including psycho-education, mindfulness, meditation, body awareness and art.
(424) 363-8990 View (424) 363-8990
Photo of Shannon L Poach, Psychologist in 90275, CA
Shannon L Poach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I work with individuals experiencing Life stressors including: Bereavement; loss of loved one, pets, and relationships College Transition; academic pressure, roommate difficulty, independent living Relationship Difficulties; break-ups, poor communication skills Family relational issues; blended/step family integration Graduate School Stressors; organizing schedules, dissertation difficulties, defining career paths.
For many, coming to therapy can seem like a leap of faith. Psychotherapy asks you to trust a process, and someone, new and unknown to you and to set aside time for yourself in your busy life. I hope you will find our website helpful and informative as you consider beginning the process. Diagnostic specialization can be previewed at our website: www.PoachConsulting.com
I work with individuals experiencing Life stressors including: Bereavement; loss of loved one, pets, and relationships College Transition; academic pressure, roommate difficulty, independent living Relationship Difficulties; break-ups, poor communication skills Family relational issues; blended/step family integration Graduate School Stressors; organizing schedules, dissertation difficulties, defining career paths.
For many, coming to therapy can seem like a leap of faith. Psychotherapy asks you to trust a process, and someone, new and unknown to you and to set aside time for yourself in your busy life. I hope you will find our website helpful and informative as you consider beginning the process. Diagnostic specialization can be previewed at our website: www.PoachConsulting.com
(310) 375-8865 View (310) 375-8865
Photo of Janet A Vivero, Psychologist in 90275, CA
Janet A Vivero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration. Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration. Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
(562) 282-9651 View (562) 282-9651
Photo of Suzannah E Noch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90275, CA
Suzannah E Noch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
A lot of healing can happen in the context of a supportive and caring relationship. If you are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship problems, parenting/family issues, painful life experiences or unhealthy habits, I consider it a privilege to walk that journey with you for a little while -- talking through feelings and circumstances, and helping you find a path toward change and healing. As a Christian, I believe that our emotional and spiritual sides are intertwined, and I incorporate Biblical principles in all aspects of the counseling.
A lot of healing can happen in the context of a supportive and caring relationship. If you are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship problems, parenting/family issues, painful life experiences or unhealthy habits, I consider it a privilege to walk that journey with you for a little while -- talking through feelings and circumstances, and helping you find a path toward change and healing. As a Christian, I believe that our emotional and spiritual sides are intertwined, and I incorporate Biblical principles in all aspects of the counseling.
(310) 626-0756 View (310) 626-0756
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.