Photo of Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
also certified & trained in Relational Life Therapy for singles or couples.
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
also certified & trained in Relational Life Therapy for singles or couples.
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
(424) 789-8455 View (424) 789-8455
Photo of Ruth Houston Barrett, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Ruth Houston Barrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Couples: Communication, conflict, connection, emotional intimacy: change happens rapidly and profoundly in my practice.
With care, knowledge, and passion, I help my clients achieve the meaningful changes they seek. From the first session, my clients say they feel lighter, happier, and empowered for change. I balance warmth and empathy with extensive education, experience, expertise. Focusing on solutions, strengths, and evidence-based tools, we take concrete steps to enrich lives and relationships, blending therapeutic modalities for conscious-unconscious mind, mindfulness, meaning.
Couples: Communication, conflict, connection, emotional intimacy: change happens rapidly and profoundly in my practice.
With care, knowledge, and passion, I help my clients achieve the meaningful changes they seek. From the first session, my clients say they feel lighter, happier, and empowered for change. I balance warmth and empathy with extensive education, experience, expertise. Focusing on solutions, strengths, and evidence-based tools, we take concrete steps to enrich lives and relationships, blending therapeutic modalities for conscious-unconscious mind, mindfulness, meaning.
(310) 879-5173 View (310) 879-5173
Photo of Grace Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Grace Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
My hope is that we will build a genuine relationship in the context of which you will learn about your relational patterns.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), I focus my practice on clients who struggle with trauma, substance abuse, and personality disorders. I want to assist you with transforming your negative coping (substance abuse, self-harm, disordered eating, risky behaviors) into positive coping that will decrease your feelings of anxiety and detachment and increase your ability to sustain long-term relationships and employ self-love. I believe that many of our negative coping skills are rooted in a history of trauma, which requires careful consideration and a gentle, loving, experienced approach to process fully.
My hope is that we will build a genuine relationship in the context of which you will learn about your relational patterns.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), I focus my practice on clients who struggle with trauma, substance abuse, and personality disorders. I want to assist you with transforming your negative coping (substance abuse, self-harm, disordered eating, risky behaviors) into positive coping that will decrease your feelings of anxiety and detachment and increase your ability to sustain long-term relationships and employ self-love. I believe that many of our negative coping skills are rooted in a history of trauma, which requires careful consideration and a gentle, loving, experienced approach to process fully.
(615) 240-5957 View (615) 240-5957
Photo of Kevin Lee Fujimoto, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Kevin Lee Fujimoto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Kevin Lee Fujimoto is a licensed clinical psychologist and brings over 15 years of experience as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, and researcher in mental health services to California. Dr. Fujimoto received his doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University and obtained his master's degree in developmental psychology from Columbia University Teachers College. Dr. Fujimoto provides outstanding direct psychological services for children, adolescents, and their families, as well as adults and couples in his private practice. Previously employed by Hawaii's Department of Education, he provided consultation to administration and teachers plus clinical supervision of masters level therapists.
Kevin Lee Fujimoto is a licensed clinical psychologist and brings over 15 years of experience as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, and researcher in mental health services to California. Dr. Fujimoto received his doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University and obtained his master's degree in developmental psychology from Columbia University Teachers College. Dr. Fujimoto provides outstanding direct psychological services for children, adolescents, and their families, as well as adults and couples in his private practice. Previously employed by Hawaii's Department of Education, he provided consultation to administration and teachers plus clinical supervision of masters level therapists.
(424) 245-0930 View (424) 245-0930
Photo of Helena Littman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90277, CA
Helena Littman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I am currently accepting new teen, couple, and adult clients both in-person and online. I have a special interest in working with teens, as these years can often be a turning point in life. It is a time to grow, build resilience, and discover one's identity. I also enjoy working with families, adults and couples. As with many others, I've struggled to find my way in life, which led me to my own personal therapy. I've found that being seen and heard in the therapeutic space has helped me foster greater compassion for myself and move beyond recurring problematic cycles.
I am currently accepting new teen, couple, and adult clients both in-person and online. I have a special interest in working with teens, as these years can often be a turning point in life. It is a time to grow, build resilience, and discover one's identity. I also enjoy working with families, adults and couples. As with many others, I've struggled to find my way in life, which led me to my own personal therapy. I've found that being seen and heard in the therapeutic space has helped me foster greater compassion for myself and move beyond recurring problematic cycles.
(213) 460-2833 View (213) 460-2833
Photo of Naomi Zelin, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in 90277, CA
Naomi Zelin
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the same unhealthy relationship patterns, longing for meaningful connections but struggling to find them? The frustration and confusion can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Imagine finally breaking free from these cycles, feeling empowered and confident in your ability to communicate effectively and build genuine connections. Picture yourself experiencing a profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in your relationships, knowing that you have the tools to navigate challenges with grace and resilience.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the same unhealthy relationship patterns, longing for meaningful connections but struggling to find them? The frustration and confusion can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Imagine finally breaking free from these cycles, feeling empowered and confident in your ability to communicate effectively and build genuine connections. Picture yourself experiencing a profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in your relationships, knowing that you have the tools to navigate challenges with grace and resilience.
(310) 455-8161 View (310) 455-8161
Photo of Crystal Quarry, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 347-1691 View (424) 347-1691
Photo of Haylee R Duran, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Haylee R Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEAP, ERPSCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I specialize in trauma, children & teens, families, couples, First Responders, substance use, occupational stress, grief, & Men's Issues.
Life Comes in Waves, Let's Learn to Ride Them! Sometimes in the waves of change, We find our true direction. Life events and stress can leave us with emotional wounds. We then try to heal these wounds with harmful methods that make us feel better for the time being but hurt us later. Therapy can be your safe space to heal. It may sting or hurt to clean out at first. However, the gains you will receive from doing so will be beneficial for your well-being, your relationships, and your future. I will be by your side guiding you through the process at a pace that fits you.
I specialize in trauma, children & teens, families, couples, First Responders, substance use, occupational stress, grief, & Men's Issues.
Life Comes in Waves, Let's Learn to Ride Them! Sometimes in the waves of change, We find our true direction. Life events and stress can leave us with emotional wounds. We then try to heal these wounds with harmful methods that make us feel better for the time being but hurt us later. Therapy can be your safe space to heal. It may sting or hurt to clean out at first. However, the gains you will receive from doing so will be beneficial for your well-being, your relationships, and your future. I will be by your side guiding you through the process at a pace that fits you.
(310) 362-9633 View (310) 362-9633
Photo of Theresa 'terri' Kruger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Theresa 'terri' Kruger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I provide a trusting relationship in which you can find meaningful life change.
"Feeling connected and understood is one of the greatest gifts of therapy. Another is not feeling alone as you face the burden of your personal struggle. I am here to listen, encourage, and acknowledge you. Together we can discover how to reduce your anxiety and depression. We can grieve your losses and you will learn how to trust in your ability to move forward. Whether it is the violation of health issues, the breakup from a relationship, or the persistent wounds of childhood, life can be different and more meaningful. There is hope and possibility."
I provide a trusting relationship in which you can find meaningful life change.
"Feeling connected and understood is one of the greatest gifts of therapy. Another is not feeling alone as you face the burden of your personal struggle. I am here to listen, encourage, and acknowledge you. Together we can discover how to reduce your anxiety and depression. We can grieve your losses and you will learn how to trust in your ability to move forward. Whether it is the violation of health issues, the breakup from a relationship, or the persistent wounds of childhood, life can be different and more meaningful. There is hope and possibility."
(310) 231-6726 View (310) 231-6726
Photo of Celynna Harnetiaux, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Celynna Harnetiaux
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Hello and welcome. I help teens, women and couples who are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, disconnected, and struggling in their relationships. Many of my clients reach out because they are struggling with anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, dating frustration, and loss of motivation. If you are struggling with these symptoms, I believe you deserve a space that allows you to feel safe, accepted and understood. Together we work as a team to better understand emotions and help you cope with life's stressors. I use Gottman Couples therapy training to help identify problems in communication in my work with individuals and couples.
Hello and welcome. I help teens, women and couples who are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, disconnected, and struggling in their relationships. Many of my clients reach out because they are struggling with anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, dating frustration, and loss of motivation. If you are struggling with these symptoms, I believe you deserve a space that allows you to feel safe, accepted and understood. Together we work as a team to better understand emotions and help you cope with life's stressors. I use Gottman Couples therapy training to help identify problems in communication in my work with individuals and couples.
(424) 353-5269 View (424) 353-5269
Photo of Brittany Dafesh, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Brittany Dafesh
Psychologist, PsyD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Waitlist for new clients
Research tells us that the most important factor in therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself.
As a psychologist, I empower individuals to grow and reach fulfillment in their lives. Whether you are a high school student coping with changes, a young adult trying to find your way through adulthood, an individual who has experienced trauma that won't seem to go away, or a parent hoping to help your family, I firmly believe that everyone needs help sometimes. I like to think about life as a long road trip. Sometimes the terrain is going to be rocky and there will be obstacles in the way and other times it will be smooth and open. As your therapist, I will help you navigate the terrain of life effectively.
Research tells us that the most important factor in therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself.
As a psychologist, I empower individuals to grow and reach fulfillment in their lives. Whether you are a high school student coping with changes, a young adult trying to find your way through adulthood, an individual who has experienced trauma that won't seem to go away, or a parent hoping to help your family, I firmly believe that everyone needs help sometimes. I like to think about life as a long road trip. Sometimes the terrain is going to be rocky and there will be obstacles in the way and other times it will be smooth and open. As your therapist, I will help you navigate the terrain of life effectively.
(310) 340-7756 View (310) 340-7756
Photo of Michele L Blume, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Michele L Blume
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
In my work with you, I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive and truthful connection aimed at working through underlying psychological issues that have caused you emotional pain, perpetuated self-defeating behaviors, and trapped you in inauthentic roles. From your commitment to the therapeutic process, you can come to experience deeper intimacy in relationships, increased self-esteem and confidence, and greater joy and pleasure in living.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
In my work with you, I am invested in establishing a safe, supportive and truthful connection aimed at working through underlying psychological issues that have caused you emotional pain, perpetuated self-defeating behaviors, and trapped you in inauthentic roles. From your commitment to the therapeutic process, you can come to experience deeper intimacy in relationships, increased self-esteem and confidence, and greater joy and pleasure in living.
(714) 357-6500 View (714) 357-6500
Photo of Megan Babcock, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Megan Babcock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I firmly believe that everyone is capable of growth, and it is my desire as a therapist to create a warm, empathic, and nonjudgemental environment where this growth can happen. We all experience challenges, and we are all deserving of the time it takes to heal. I want to partner with you and remind you that you are not alone, and help you navigate a path towards healing in a space where you feel safe, understood, and validated. It is through a strong therapeutic relationship that I work together with individuals and couples as they heal, grow, explore, and find meaning in their journey.
I firmly believe that everyone is capable of growth, and it is my desire as a therapist to create a warm, empathic, and nonjudgemental environment where this growth can happen. We all experience challenges, and we are all deserving of the time it takes to heal. I want to partner with you and remind you that you are not alone, and help you navigate a path towards healing in a space where you feel safe, understood, and validated. It is through a strong therapeutic relationship that I work together with individuals and couples as they heal, grow, explore, and find meaning in their journey.
(310) 943-2866 View (310) 943-2866
Photo of Nora Taylor, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Nora Taylor
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(424) 227-5512 View (424) 227-5512
Photo of Pauline Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90277, CA
Pauline Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
I specialize in mind-body healing for adult individuals and couples, particularly with survivors of childhood trauma. Do you have overwhelming feelings or numbness? Do you have anxiety, depression, or PTSD? Are you struggling with coping mechanisms that cause you pain? Is your relationship in crisis? Many do not know childhood hurts can live on for a lifetime somatically in the nervous system and emotions. The natural ability to find peace inside and connection with others simply becomes less flexible, but all of this can shift. We work with what happens in the present to see real change - as an individual or couple.
I specialize in mind-body healing for adult individuals and couples, particularly with survivors of childhood trauma. Do you have overwhelming feelings or numbness? Do you have anxiety, depression, or PTSD? Are you struggling with coping mechanisms that cause you pain? Is your relationship in crisis? Many do not know childhood hurts can live on for a lifetime somatically in the nervous system and emotions. The natural ability to find peace inside and connection with others simply becomes less flexible, but all of this can shift. We work with what happens in the present to see real change - as an individual or couple.
(310) 872-1764 View (310) 872-1764
Photo of Cinnamon Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Cinnamon Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
In our group practice, we work with adults, couples and adolescents and have specialized training in the following areas: partner/relationship dynamics, EMDR, communication issues, anxiety, depression, self-injury, grief and loss, life transitions, codependency, trauma, LGBTQ+ and Queer/non-binary issues.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, so it's important you feel a comfortable connection with a therapist. Maybe you're here because you need resolution or support. Whether you know exactly what the issue is - anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, codependency - or you're not quite sure what's bothering you, I am deeply committed to therapy being a collaborative process aimed at finding what helps. My clients tell me they appreciate how engaged and direct I am, but also how I use humor, compassion and patience in our work. My intention is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore and my goal is for you to feel relief.
In our group practice, we work with adults, couples and adolescents and have specialized training in the following areas: partner/relationship dynamics, EMDR, communication issues, anxiety, depression, self-injury, grief and loss, life transitions, codependency, trauma, LGBTQ+ and Queer/non-binary issues.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, so it's important you feel a comfortable connection with a therapist. Maybe you're here because you need resolution or support. Whether you know exactly what the issue is - anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, codependency - or you're not quite sure what's bothering you, I am deeply committed to therapy being a collaborative process aimed at finding what helps. My clients tell me they appreciate how engaged and direct I am, but also how I use humor, compassion and patience in our work. My intention is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore and my goal is for you to feel relief.
(310) 770-5775 View (310) 770-5775
Photo of Q Psychology Group, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Q Psychology Group
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, our approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". we strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. We specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, our approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". we strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. We specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 306-1660 View (424) 306-1660
Photo of Heather Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Heather Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can feel seen, heard and accepted. I believe it is the relationship between client and therapist where so much of the work happens. We can work collaboratively to explore relational patterns, understand the connection between thoughts, emotions and behavior, and get curious about what may be holding you back from a deeper connection to self and others.
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can feel seen, heard and accepted. I believe it is the relationship between client and therapist where so much of the work happens. We can work collaboratively to explore relational patterns, understand the connection between thoughts, emotions and behavior, and get curious about what may be holding you back from a deeper connection to self and others.
(424) 369-0440 View (424) 369-0440
Photo of Jill Dorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90277, CA
Jill Dorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
It might be that you feel you can do better in your relationships or career. Or that you are concerned about what the future looks like. Maybe you would like to end blue moods or constant worry, but don't know how to do this. Sometimes it is difficult to make changes on your own, and I am here to help. My practice started 20 years ago in New York City, where I helped clients achieve their potential and improve their relationships. One of my greatest strengths has been the ability to connect with clients and partner in their path to growth, insight, and happiness.
It might be that you feel you can do better in your relationships or career. Or that you are concerned about what the future looks like. Maybe you would like to end blue moods or constant worry, but don't know how to do this. Sometimes it is difficult to make changes on your own, and I am here to help. My practice started 20 years ago in New York City, where I helped clients achieve their potential and improve their relationships. One of my greatest strengths has been the ability to connect with clients and partner in their path to growth, insight, and happiness.
(310) 740-9876 View (310) 740-9876
Photo of Crystal Quarry, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 216-5575 View (424) 216-5575
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.