Photo of Bill Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Bill Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
The first step in entering a successful therapy relationship is finding a therapist that is right for you. People have found me warm, caring, thoughtful, knowledgeable, and experienced. I have helped many people with a wide variety of psychological and relationship issues.
The first step in entering a successful therapy relationship is finding a therapist that is right for you. People have found me warm, caring, thoughtful, knowledgeable, and experienced. I have helped many people with a wide variety of psychological and relationship issues.
(858) 367-0957 View (858) 367-0957
Photo of Hanalei Vierra, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Hanalei Vierra
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Are you A GUY who feels confused and clueless about how to create a deeper emotional connection with your intimate partner? Perhaps just as important, is it possible for you to do that in a way that would not sacrifice your sense of masculinity?!? Not only is it possible for you to learn how to speak the Truth of how you feel in a way that will feel masculine, but it will also become a source of personal strength that will help you build a more mature and honest relationship with yourself and with the person you love. I have specialized in working with adult men for 35 years.
Are you A GUY who feels confused and clueless about how to create a deeper emotional connection with your intimate partner? Perhaps just as important, is it possible for you to do that in a way that would not sacrifice your sense of masculinity?!? Not only is it possible for you to learn how to speak the Truth of how you feel in a way that will feel masculine, but it will also become a source of personal strength that will help you build a more mature and honest relationship with yourself and with the person you love. I have specialized in working with adult men for 35 years.
(858) 252-0052 View (858) 252-0052
Photo of Dr. Nathaniel Chapman, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Dr. Nathaniel Chapman
Psychologist, PsyD, APIT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
My biggest goal is to use my expertise in clinical psychology to help people be all they can be in work, love, and play. Are you experiencing challenges in your relationship due to infidelity, betrayals, or other traumas showing up in your relationship? Are you having difficulties finding or establishing meaningful relationships? Do you need help creating good working relationships with your executive team, employees, or athletes? As a relationships expert, seasoned educator, Gottman Method-trained psychologist, and Gottman Leader, I help individuals and organizations cultivate these skills.
My biggest goal is to use my expertise in clinical psychology to help people be all they can be in work, love, and play. Are you experiencing challenges in your relationship due to infidelity, betrayals, or other traumas showing up in your relationship? Are you having difficulties finding or establishing meaningful relationships? Do you need help creating good working relationships with your executive team, employees, or athletes? As a relationships expert, seasoned educator, Gottman Method-trained psychologist, and Gottman Leader, I help individuals and organizations cultivate these skills.
(858) 732-3133 View (858) 732-3133
Photo of Jeff P Jones, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Jeff P Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I specialize in "men's issues" and couples therapy.
Asking for help is often tough, especially for us as men. Who do you turn to in times of crisis or confusion? We are socialized to be independent and "do it myself." However, there are times where we all need some help. Someone to talk to that won't judge us or ridicule us. One of the most difficult things to do is to make that first phone call to someone you don't know, asking for help. You just hope to get someone trustworthy, compassionate and competent. These are my strongest traits, and I welcome your call today.
I specialize in "men's issues" and couples therapy.
Asking for help is often tough, especially for us as men. Who do you turn to in times of crisis or confusion? We are socialized to be independent and "do it myself." However, there are times where we all need some help. Someone to talk to that won't judge us or ridicule us. One of the most difficult things to do is to make that first phone call to someone you don't know, asking for help. You just hope to get someone trustworthy, compassionate and competent. These are my strongest traits, and I welcome your call today.
(858) 215-1949 View (858) 215-1949
Photo of Trevor Olson, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Trevor Olson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
The philosophy is people + relationship = the good life. One's relationship to others and oneself is the basis of my work. Healing from the past, knowing the freedom of a better life, and becoming able to give and receive love are the transformative results of doing good work. Our work is successful when you become more of the person you are supposed to be: a whole person in life-giving relationship. My specialty is within the overlapping layers of say anxiety, depression, an unfolding course of work, and a better than expected day. Being a generalist, by specialty, my experience is in taking you as I find you.
The philosophy is people + relationship = the good life. One's relationship to others and oneself is the basis of my work. Healing from the past, knowing the freedom of a better life, and becoming able to give and receive love are the transformative results of doing good work. Our work is successful when you become more of the person you are supposed to be: a whole person in life-giving relationship. My specialty is within the overlapping layers of say anxiety, depression, an unfolding course of work, and a better than expected day. Being a generalist, by specialty, my experience is in taking you as I find you.
(858) 914-1603 View (858) 914-1603
Photo of Alan L Switzer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Alan L Switzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Working with couples in marital therapy has been one of my favorite areas.
This is me at the beach with Shannon, our 25 year-old daughter. My wife Vicki and I had the good fortune to raise her here in beautiful San Diego North County, where she has had the opportunity to become an accomplished surfer, sailor, diver, and nature photographer. Vicki and I are a Marriage and Family Therapist team in private practice here for 20+ years in Encinitas, California. As well as seeing couples and families, I have specialized in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, and adolescents. I completed my B.A.degree at the University of Connecticut and graduate training at Purdue University. Using an eclectic approach, I combine elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, client-centered and mindfulness therapies in my practice. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnosis for use in weight loss, smoking cessation, habit control and anxiety reduction. I began focusing on treating adolescents very early in my career, and I have always enjoyed working with their youthful energy. Helping parents to work more closely together and develope simple and effective parenting skills can transform a stressful, contentious family life i
Working with couples in marital therapy has been one of my favorite areas.
This is me at the beach with Shannon, our 25 year-old daughter. My wife Vicki and I had the good fortune to raise her here in beautiful San Diego North County, where she has had the opportunity to become an accomplished surfer, sailor, diver, and nature photographer. Vicki and I are a Marriage and Family Therapist team in private practice here for 20+ years in Encinitas, California. As well as seeing couples and families, I have specialized in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, and adolescents. I completed my B.A.degree at the University of Connecticut and graduate training at Purdue University. Using an eclectic approach, I combine elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, client-centered and mindfulness therapies in my practice. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnosis for use in weight loss, smoking cessation, habit control and anxiety reduction. I began focusing on treating adolescents very early in my career, and I have always enjoyed working with their youthful energy. Helping parents to work more closely together and develope simple and effective parenting skills can transform a stressful, contentious family life i
(760) 718-1930 View (760) 718-1930
Photo of Thomas Conte Manheim, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Thomas Conte Manheim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Many of us would like to be more satisfied with our lives. We seemingly seek therapy because we may need some support in finding a new way to become happier and at peace. My job is to collaborate with you so we can draw from your inner strength and wisdom to find solutions. You may let go of some old ways of thinking and feeling that no longer serve you and instead adopt new more positive beliefs.There will be increased clarity and joy in your life. Specialties: feeling stuck, anxiety, job stress, depression, loss, couples issues, financial, and spirituality.
Many of us would like to be more satisfied with our lives. We seemingly seek therapy because we may need some support in finding a new way to become happier and at peace. My job is to collaborate with you so we can draw from your inner strength and wisdom to find solutions. You may let go of some old ways of thinking and feeling that no longer serve you and instead adopt new more positive beliefs.There will be increased clarity and joy in your life. Specialties: feeling stuck, anxiety, job stress, depression, loss, couples issues, financial, and spirituality.
(760) 550-2122 View (760) 550-2122
Photo of Dr. Paul Santero, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Dr. Paul Santero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I help individuals and couples in many areas including: Relationship Concerns, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma & PTSD, Grief, Sexual Acting Out, OCD, Childhood Abuse, Self Esteem Issues.
Everyone, at one time or another, encounters challenging experiences which can leave a lasting, negative effect. These challenging or traumatic experiences can leave wounds of shame that can hinder one from being they're true, authentic self. Depression, anxiety, OCD, lowered self esteem and other negative effects can result. I specialize in helping people heal these wounds and resolve the negative effects which results in living a more authentic and assertive life. We will journey and collaborate together to help you achieve your goals. I work with teens, individuals, couples and families on a variety of areas.
I help individuals and couples in many areas including: Relationship Concerns, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma & PTSD, Grief, Sexual Acting Out, OCD, Childhood Abuse, Self Esteem Issues.
Everyone, at one time or another, encounters challenging experiences which can leave a lasting, negative effect. These challenging or traumatic experiences can leave wounds of shame that can hinder one from being they're true, authentic self. Depression, anxiety, OCD, lowered self esteem and other negative effects can result. I specialize in helping people heal these wounds and resolve the negative effects which results in living a more authentic and assertive life. We will journey and collaborate together to help you achieve your goals. I work with teens, individuals, couples and families on a variety of areas.
(858) 295-3546 View (858) 295-3546
Photo of A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92014, CA
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Jeffrey Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I specialize in individual and couples psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
Are you looking for insight with something in your life that you are not satisfied with?Maybe I can help. I have worked with many different issues in the 20 years that I have been in practice. I hold a great deal of respect for those who are open to working on whatever problems bring them in. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, understanding yourself better, repetitive destructive patterns or addictions, I believe a supportive and empathic approach is crucial. I also believe that understanding what led us to our struggles is helpful in making the changes we want.
I specialize in individual and couples psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
Are you looking for insight with something in your life that you are not satisfied with?Maybe I can help. I have worked with many different issues in the 20 years that I have been in practice. I hold a great deal of respect for those who are open to working on whatever problems bring them in. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, understanding yourself better, repetitive destructive patterns or addictions, I believe a supportive and empathic approach is crucial. I also believe that understanding what led us to our struggles is helpful in making the changes we want.
(619) 717-8930 View (619) 717-8930
Photo of Rafael Cortina, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Rafael Cortina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MBA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in both Mexico and the United States. I have over 20 years of experience in individual, couples, family and group therapy. I believe I am personally warm, understanding, emphatic, patient, caring, and compassionate with clients. And feel strongly that the nature of human beings tends toward growth and harmony. Along the way, the natural ability to self-regulate may unfortunately be interrupted. However, through the path of self-awareness, and self-responsibility we are able to restore our natural abilities and utilize our full potential, and live healthy life.
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in both Mexico and the United States. I have over 20 years of experience in individual, couples, family and group therapy. I believe I am personally warm, understanding, emphatic, patient, caring, and compassionate with clients. And feel strongly that the nature of human beings tends toward growth and harmony. Along the way, the natural ability to self-regulate may unfortunately be interrupted. However, through the path of self-awareness, and self-responsibility we are able to restore our natural abilities and utilize our full potential, and live healthy life.
(619) 870-1263 View (619) 870-1263
Photo of Tom Manheim, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Tom Manheim
Psychologist, PhD, Psy, MFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Thanks for considering collaborating with me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have worked also as a marriage and family therapist also. I began in this field about 30yrs ago. My experience comes from working in psychiatric inpatient and intensive outpatient hospitals as well as private practice. Primarily I specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, painful life situations, and relationship issues. I utilize CBT, DBT, humanistic, mindfulness, and meditation along with other appropriate therapies. Support is provided in an understanding, respectful and warm office setting as we work together toward your goals.
Thanks for considering collaborating with me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have worked also as a marriage and family therapist also. I began in this field about 30yrs ago. My experience comes from working in psychiatric inpatient and intensive outpatient hospitals as well as private practice. Primarily I specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, painful life situations, and relationship issues. I utilize CBT, DBT, humanistic, mindfulness, and meditation along with other appropriate therapies. Support is provided in an understanding, respectful and warm office setting as we work together toward your goals.
(760) 550-2122 View (760) 550-2122
Photo of Dr. Daniel Singley, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Dr. Daniel Singley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I have special expertise in working with men and couples regarding a host of parenthood-related concerns including infertility, divorce, marital concerns, communication issues, work/life balance, stress, and anger management.
We have immediate openings and we return calls within 24 hours! I use well-researched, evidence-based practices to help my clients develop concrete skills and techniques which allow them to more effectively manage a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, social isolation, relationship issues, and life transitions such as new parenthood, career change, and divorce. My clients are adult men and couples who want to take control of their concerns by handling them in healthier, more productive ways. Many of my most satisfied clients are men who were initially resistant to taking part therapy.
I have special expertise in working with men and couples regarding a host of parenthood-related concerns including infertility, divorce, marital concerns, communication issues, work/life balance, stress, and anger management.
We have immediate openings and we return calls within 24 hours! I use well-researched, evidence-based practices to help my clients develop concrete skills and techniques which allow them to more effectively manage a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, social isolation, relationship issues, and life transitions such as new parenthood, career change, and divorce. My clients are adult men and couples who want to take control of their concerns by handling them in healthier, more productive ways. Many of my most satisfied clients are men who were initially resistant to taking part therapy.
(858) 800-3391 View (858) 800-3391
Photo of David Rosen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
David Rosen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Often couples conflict over discipline can lead to 'acting out'.
The strongest person is the one who knows when to ask for help. Everyone struggles, but why do some people handle life's challenges so well? My goal is to help my clients have a happy and fulfilling life. What this means is clearly different from person to person. My aim is to identify the behaviors that are keeping this from happening, implement these changes, practice them in real life and moving on. I am a short term-solution focused therapist. The more you do outside of therapy, the faster you can achieve the changes you desire.
Often couples conflict over discipline can lead to 'acting out'.
The strongest person is the one who knows when to ask for help. Everyone struggles, but why do some people handle life's challenges so well? My goal is to help my clients have a happy and fulfilling life. What this means is clearly different from person to person. My aim is to identify the behaviors that are keeping this from happening, implement these changes, practice them in real life and moving on. I am a short term-solution focused therapist. The more you do outside of therapy, the faster you can achieve the changes you desire.
(909) 833-7229 View (909) 833-7229
Photo of Nathan Kyle Simmons, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Nathan Kyle Simmons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I provide individual, family, and couples counseling.
I have been working in psychology for 11 years. I truly love that my profession allows me to help people. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with individuals who are struggling, but are still able to allow me the privilege of assisting with their healing. I strongly believe that a central element to healing is the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is made primary in treatment to provide safety and the space necessary to process one's pain. It is the combination of a strong therapeutic relationship and the emotional space it affords, that allows significant healing to occur.
I provide individual, family, and couples counseling.
I have been working in psychology for 11 years. I truly love that my profession allows me to help people. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with individuals who are struggling, but are still able to allow me the privilege of assisting with their healing. I strongly believe that a central element to healing is the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is made primary in treatment to provide safety and the space necessary to process one's pain. It is the combination of a strong therapeutic relationship and the emotional space it affords, that allows significant healing to occur.
(760) 313-3645 View (760) 313-3645
Photo of Charles E Nelson, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Charles E Nelson
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Charlie is recognized as a seasoned, direct, warm, ethical, "practical" therapist with experience since 1973. He's licensed as both Psychologist & Marriage and Family Therapist, competently helping individuals, couples, and families. Along with a broad general practice, he also specializes in: Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health); Substance Abuse and Behavioral addictions (alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, codependence, ACOA, enabling, gambling, "sex addiction", out of control sexual behavior); Trauma Recovery (crime victims, post traumatic stress, loss, death, dying, grief, identity theft); Men's Issues: ("Men behaving badly", fatherhood, communication problems, intimacy concerns).
Charlie is recognized as a seasoned, direct, warm, ethical, "practical" therapist with experience since 1973. He's licensed as both Psychologist & Marriage and Family Therapist, competently helping individuals, couples, and families. Along with a broad general practice, he also specializes in: Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health); Substance Abuse and Behavioral addictions (alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, codependence, ACOA, enabling, gambling, "sex addiction", out of control sexual behavior); Trauma Recovery (crime victims, post traumatic stress, loss, death, dying, grief, identity theft); Men's Issues: ("Men behaving badly", fatherhood, communication problems, intimacy concerns).
(858) 376-7957 View (858) 376-7957
Photo of Jonathan M Kramer, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Jonathan M Kramer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
PRACTICAL HELP. RESULTS ORIENTED. Want a happier and more successful life and relationship? I've had over 30 years of professional experience helping INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES have the life they want. I've been married over 30 years and know how to help you have a successful relationship too. Stop repeating old patters. Make changes for the better. Understand what's going wrong and know what to do about it, get control, communicate clearly, reignite the passion. Author, 'Why Men Don't Get Enough Sex & Women Don't Get Enough Love'. Results Oriented. Solution Focused. Email or Call Today for a Happier Tomorrow!
PRACTICAL HELP. RESULTS ORIENTED. Want a happier and more successful life and relationship? I've had over 30 years of professional experience helping INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES have the life they want. I've been married over 30 years and know how to help you have a successful relationship too. Stop repeating old patters. Make changes for the better. Understand what's going wrong and know what to do about it, get control, communicate clearly, reignite the passion. Author, 'Why Men Don't Get Enough Sex & Women Don't Get Enough Love'. Results Oriented. Solution Focused. Email or Call Today for a Happier Tomorrow!
(858) 376-7948 View (858) 376-7948
Photo of Tray Thomason, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Tray Thomason
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Congratulations on starting your journey to improved well-being! My name is Emmett "Tray" Thomason, and I aim to provide a therapeutic relationship that honors and empowers your decision to make positive changes! I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, and families, and use a variety of of therapeutic techniques to help you improve your functioning and better understand yourself.
Congratulations on starting your journey to improved well-being! My name is Emmett "Tray" Thomason, and I aim to provide a therapeutic relationship that honors and empowers your decision to make positive changes! I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, and families, and use a variety of of therapeutic techniques to help you improve your functioning and better understand yourself.
(760) 530-4702 View (760) 530-4702
Photo of Stone Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92014, CA
Stone Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
My ideal clients are couples, men of all ages, teens, and young adults. My clients want to gain better self-understanding, feel "stuck” in their current life situations, are experiencing significant life transitions, suffer from anxiety or depression, believe that life should be better than it is right now, or desire to break generational chains and confront identity-based traumas. As one of few Black male therapists, my lived experiences help me walk with anyone who's experienced marginalization by providing a space to process the pain and the tools to reclaim their dignity. All I need from you is your commitment to the journey.
My ideal clients are couples, men of all ages, teens, and young adults. My clients want to gain better self-understanding, feel "stuck” in their current life situations, are experiencing significant life transitions, suffer from anxiety or depression, believe that life should be better than it is right now, or desire to break generational chains and confront identity-based traumas. As one of few Black male therapists, my lived experiences help me walk with anyone who's experienced marginalization by providing a space to process the pain and the tools to reclaim their dignity. All I need from you is your commitment to the journey.
(760) 377-9470 View (760) 377-9470
Photo of Sean Stiller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92014, CA
Sean Stiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
As a man, I can give you insight into your partner's thinking, so that you can improve your relationship.
Are there challenges in your life that seem so overwhelming that it seems you can't deal with them? Have you tried to make changes in your life, but haven't been able to do it on your own? Congratulations on taking the first step towards feeling better! I have extensive training in helping overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious clients and couples. I make it my goal to really understand and empathize with the challenges you are facing, and always come from a non-judgmental and warm place. I also enjoy working with men, helping men understand their feelings and their partners feelings so they can have the relationship they desire.
As a man, I can give you insight into your partner's thinking, so that you can improve your relationship.
Are there challenges in your life that seem so overwhelming that it seems you can't deal with them? Have you tried to make changes in your life, but haven't been able to do it on your own? Congratulations on taking the first step towards feeling better! I have extensive training in helping overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious clients and couples. I make it my goal to really understand and empathize with the challenges you are facing, and always come from a non-judgmental and warm place. I also enjoy working with men, helping men understand their feelings and their partners feelings so they can have the relationship they desire.
(858) 221-9419 View (858) 221-9419
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.