Photo of Joleena Abrams in 92014, CA
Joleena Abrams
CCTSA, CMEMI, MA, CSAC
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 639-4614 View (619) 639-4614
Photo of Carrie Jaffe, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Carrie Jaffe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Do you have the same painful relationship, job, or family problems over and over? Have you been unable to figure out why, or how to do it differently? I can help you learn how and why, and help you change these patterns. If you are unhappy, insecure, stuck in self-defeating patterns, have repeated relationship conflicts, addiction issues, or have stopped progressing in life, I can help you gain insight, change negative patterns, modify personality issues, achieve consistent Recovery from addictions, and live a happier life. I also have expertise in helping people cope with, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people.
Do you have the same painful relationship, job, or family problems over and over? Have you been unable to figure out why, or how to do it differently? I can help you learn how and why, and help you change these patterns. If you are unhappy, insecure, stuck in self-defeating patterns, have repeated relationship conflicts, addiction issues, or have stopped progressing in life, I can help you gain insight, change negative patterns, modify personality issues, achieve consistent Recovery from addictions, and live a happier life. I also have expertise in helping people cope with, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people.
(858) 375-4733 View (858) 375-4733
Photo of Help Therapy, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Help Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Since 1993, Help Therapy has been delivering top-tier mental health services. We offer both in-person and teletherapy options, supported by a team of over 150 licensed Psychologists, LCSW"s, LMFT's and Nurse Practitioner's. We'll match you with a provider who meets your specific needs. Serving adults, seniors, families, couples, and youth (ages 7 and up) across California, and accepting most insurances, we provide a range of services, including psychotherapy and psychological evaluations.
Since 1993, Help Therapy has been delivering top-tier mental health services. We offer both in-person and teletherapy options, supported by a team of over 150 licensed Psychologists, LCSW"s, LMFT's and Nurse Practitioner's. We'll match you with a provider who meets your specific needs. Serving adults, seniors, families, couples, and youth (ages 7 and up) across California, and accepting most insurances, we provide a range of services, including psychotherapy and psychological evaluations.
(858) 326-9672 View (858) 326-9672
Photo of Dr. Mary Spease, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Dr. Mary Spease
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I believe therapy can be a challenging and illuminating journey in which you have the chance to learn more about yourself, your approach/perspective on life, and the dynamics in important relationships. Throughout the therapy process, I view my clients through a lens of strength where common life dilemmas are seen as an opportunity to develop a stronger capacity for personal understanding and nurture deeper, more intimate relationships. Whether you are seeking support in response to relationship concerns, life transitions, addiction/recovery, or are the loved one of an addict, therapy can help identify & clarify underlying feelings & patterns of behavior.
I believe therapy can be a challenging and illuminating journey in which you have the chance to learn more about yourself, your approach/perspective on life, and the dynamics in important relationships. Throughout the therapy process, I view my clients through a lens of strength where common life dilemmas are seen as an opportunity to develop a stronger capacity for personal understanding and nurture deeper, more intimate relationships. Whether you are seeking support in response to relationship concerns, life transitions, addiction/recovery, or are the loved one of an addict, therapy can help identify & clarify underlying feelings & patterns of behavior.
(858) 888-3261 View (858) 888-3261
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 Jennifer Busico, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Jennifer Busico
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I help individuals, children, families, and couples resolve problems by empowering them to self-regulate, overcome challenges, and create change. I have clinical experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, and relational distress. I utilize systemic, cognitive-behavioral, and strength-based therapies to uncover the factors reinforcing symptoms, develop alternative ways of processing, and enhance one's quality of life. I take great pride in helping clients through their healing journey. I recognize that each individual and problem is unique and formulate treatment plans accordingly.
I help individuals, children, families, and couples resolve problems by empowering them to self-regulate, overcome challenges, and create change. I have clinical experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, and relational distress. I utilize systemic, cognitive-behavioral, and strength-based therapies to uncover the factors reinforcing symptoms, develop alternative ways of processing, and enhance one's quality of life. I take great pride in helping clients through their healing journey. I recognize that each individual and problem is unique and formulate treatment plans accordingly.
(858) 430-8698 View (858) 430-8698
Photo of The Center for Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
The Center for Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I have broad experience with premarital counseling, newlyweds, new parents, revitalizing long-term relationships, two-career couples, and extra-marital affairs.
As a marriage and family psychotherapist for over 30 years, I am an experienced, eclectic clinician whose passion is helping couples become masters of their relationship and individuals become their best selves. Clients find me to be warm, active, engaged, and creative. I often use humor, metaphor, and therapeutic experiment to enliven sessions, and utilize tools for practice to support clients between sessions. I work to have each session build on the last and reach the client’s goals in timely and powerful ways. I am committed to having each person feel known, understood, supported and appreciated throughout the therapeutic process.
I have broad experience with premarital counseling, newlyweds, new parents, revitalizing long-term relationships, two-career couples, and extra-marital affairs.
As a marriage and family psychotherapist for over 30 years, I am an experienced, eclectic clinician whose passion is helping couples become masters of their relationship and individuals become their best selves. Clients find me to be warm, active, engaged, and creative. I often use humor, metaphor, and therapeutic experiment to enliven sessions, and utilize tools for practice to support clients between sessions. I work to have each session build on the last and reach the client’s goals in timely and powerful ways. I am committed to having each person feel known, understood, supported and appreciated throughout the therapeutic process.
(858) 496-7681 View (858) 496-7681
Photo of Iren Fellegvari, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Iren Fellegvari
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
As a life coach I help you to reach your full potential in your business or in your personal life. Biofeedback helps to decrease stress. As a psychologist working with individuals and families I use talk therapy: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused brief therapy or EMDR and ETT, EFT based on the person's choice and comfort level. During my 15 years of praxis I have helped people with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, codependency, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, eating disorder and addictions. Lots of couples regained their love for each other. Teenagers and their parents learnt to solve their problems.
As a life coach I help you to reach your full potential in your business or in your personal life. Biofeedback helps to decrease stress. As a psychologist working with individuals and families I use talk therapy: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused brief therapy or EMDR and ETT, EFT based on the person's choice and comfort level. During my 15 years of praxis I have helped people with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, codependency, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, eating disorder and addictions. Lots of couples regained their love for each other. Teenagers and their parents learnt to solve their problems.
(858) 386-7291 View (858) 386-7291
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
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 Adrianne Faye, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Adrianne Faye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with your relationships, feeling stuck in your life, depressed, not achieving your goals, feeling like you are consistently suffering, or are there problematic patterns you continue to repeat in your life? These are some of the issues that bring people to psychotherapy. My style is warm, supportive, and interactive with a focus on trust, authenticity, and openness. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, teens, and young women who want to achieve a more adequate, satisfying, and productive life through using a broad range of practices. I will be a constant witness to your growth, happiness and self realization.
Are you having trouble with your relationships, feeling stuck in your life, depressed, not achieving your goals, feeling like you are consistently suffering, or are there problematic patterns you continue to repeat in your life? These are some of the issues that bring people to psychotherapy. My style is warm, supportive, and interactive with a focus on trust, authenticity, and openness. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, teens, and young women who want to achieve a more adequate, satisfying, and productive life through using a broad range of practices. I will be a constant witness to your growth, happiness and self realization.
(310) 736-6346 View (310) 736-6346
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 Kate Martin, MFT Telehealth Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Kate Martin, MFT Telehealth Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAC, MFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety or addictions can happen to anyone. They may be an unconscious result of painful events, medical problems, stress, trauma or possibly a sign of a life out of balance. Are there behaviors that negatively impact your work or home life such as a drug/alcohol, gambling, internet gaming, pornography, exercise, sex/love or food preoccupation? Bringing these behaviors into balance will dramatically impact the quality of your life experience! As your partner in healing, I embrace all avenues you want to explore: Holistic health, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, 12-step or other religious/spiritual approaches.
Depression, anxiety or addictions can happen to anyone. They may be an unconscious result of painful events, medical problems, stress, trauma or possibly a sign of a life out of balance. Are there behaviors that negatively impact your work or home life such as a drug/alcohol, gambling, internet gaming, pornography, exercise, sex/love or food preoccupation? Bringing these behaviors into balance will dramatically impact the quality of your life experience! As your partner in healing, I embrace all avenues you want to explore: Holistic health, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, 12-step or other religious/spiritual approaches.
(858) 635-1300 View (858) 635-1300
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 The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness, Psychologist in 92014, CA
The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Formats include: Individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, group therapy, art therapy, and parent workshops.
Seeking a therapist can be a daunting task. Our therapists strive to help our clients achieve the personal growth and healing goals that they are reaching for, and to provide a warm, safe, and supportive atmosphere for that growth and healing to occur. Clarity, centeredness, and happiness are realistic goals to strive for. Our therapists are dedicated to helping people understand the causes of their problems and, to either solve those problems or, to come to peace with them. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors struggling with a wide variety of issues and concerns.
Formats include: Individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, group therapy, art therapy, and parent workshops.
Seeking a therapist can be a daunting task. Our therapists strive to help our clients achieve the personal growth and healing goals that they are reaching for, and to provide a warm, safe, and supportive atmosphere for that growth and healing to occur. Clarity, centeredness, and happiness are realistic goals to strive for. Our therapists are dedicated to helping people understand the causes of their problems and, to either solve those problems or, to come to peace with them. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors struggling with a wide variety of issues and concerns.
(760) 635-3310 View (760) 635-3310
Photo of The Center for Men's Excellence in 92014, CA
The Center for Men's Excellence
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
We have immediate openings and will respond to you within one business day! The skilled psychologists at CME treat men, women, fathers, couples, families and children. CME clinicians provide structured, scientifically-supported psychological support designed to give clients the tools they need to better manage their issues and to thrive long-term. We specialize in issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, social and relationship concerns, sleep troubles, a history of trauma, substance use/addiction, fatherhood, life transitions, medical conditions, and sexual difficulties.
We have immediate openings and will respond to you within one business day! The skilled psychologists at CME treat men, women, fathers, couples, families and children. CME clinicians provide structured, scientifically-supported psychological support designed to give clients the tools they need to better manage their issues and to thrive long-term. We specialize in issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, social and relationship concerns, sleep troubles, a history of trauma, substance use/addiction, fatherhood, life transitions, medical conditions, and sexual difficulties.
(858) 256-7559 View (858) 256-7559
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
Photo of Therapy Center and Family Counseling Corporation, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92014, CA
Therapy Center and Family Counseling Corporation
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
We specialize and treat depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, addiction and relationship concerns. We also provide parent training and coaching. Our team specializes in working extensively with adolescents, children, and families in traditional outpatient services. My name is Jamak and I am the Co-Founder of Therapy Center and Family Counseling Corporation. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I use a humanistic, and culturally sensitive approach to all topics that may be encountered.
We specialize and treat depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, addiction and relationship concerns. We also provide parent training and coaching. Our team specializes in working extensively with adolescents, children, and families in traditional outpatient services. My name is Jamak and I am the Co-Founder of Therapy Center and Family Counseling Corporation. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I use a humanistic, and culturally sensitive approach to all topics that may be encountered.
(858) 753-6398 View (858) 753-6398
Photo of Angeline Baucom, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92014, CA
Angeline Baucom
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, SUDCC, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a bio-psycho-social-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups.
Clients that have experienced trauma, substance abuse and family issues. Struggling with depression and anxiety.
I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a bio-psycho-social-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups.
Clients that have experienced trauma, substance abuse and family issues. Struggling with depression and anxiety.
(760) 227-5274 View (760) 227-5274
Photo of Thomas Paulus Therapy, Psychologist in 92014, CA
Thomas Paulus Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
But in relationship it can be bearable and livable.
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When we get stuck in our resistance we get emotionally sick and our suffering increases. I work together with patients to honestly and compassionately untangle, face, and accept the truths they've tended avoid on their own.
But in relationship it can be bearable and livable.
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When we get stuck in our resistance we get emotionally sick and our suffering increases. I work together with patients to honestly and compassionately untangle, face, and accept the truths they've tended avoid on their own.
(760) 652-8365 View (760) 652-8365
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.