Photo of Dr. Lydia Grayson Ruark, Psychologist in 93023, CA
Dr. Lydia Grayson Ruark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I will help you deal with any life issues and improve your relationship with your own self.
I am a senior clinician with over 30 years experience in private practice, supervision and teaching. I work with clients on every issue and challenge inherent in being a human being, with a special ability to help people who don't feel at home in the mainstream and find it hard to be their true selves: introverts, highly sensitive people, artists, thinkers, people-pleasers, people with blocks to reaching their full potential. Authenticity, self-actualization, self-acceptance and connection to one's inner self are important concepts in my work.
I will help you deal with any life issues and improve your relationship with your own self.
I am a senior clinician with over 30 years experience in private practice, supervision and teaching. I work with clients on every issue and challenge inherent in being a human being, with a special ability to help people who don't feel at home in the mainstream and find it hard to be their true selves: introverts, highly sensitive people, artists, thinkers, people-pleasers, people with blocks to reaching their full potential. Authenticity, self-actualization, self-acceptance and connection to one's inner self are important concepts in my work.
(310) 464-1367 View (310) 464-1367
Photo of Katie Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93023, CA
Katie Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I help people who want to live authentic and creative lives. They know there is more to their existence and are struggling to clarify their path. Life may be consumed by past trauma, relationship issues, protective behaviors, beliefs and/or feelings. Together we can support an uncovering of what is getting in the way and what works to support truth and understanding. The intention is to guide people to trust and experience their inner knowing and unique path. Together we can support you to take steps that help reveal clarity!
I help people who want to live authentic and creative lives. They know there is more to their existence and are struggling to clarify their path. Life may be consumed by past trauma, relationship issues, protective behaviors, beliefs and/or feelings. Together we can support an uncovering of what is getting in the way and what works to support truth and understanding. The intention is to guide people to trust and experience their inner knowing and unique path. Together we can support you to take steps that help reveal clarity!
(805) 272-7901 View (805) 272-7901
Photo of Kim Reinman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Kim Reinman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
What makes therapy work is the relationship/connection between the therapist and client, as well as the skills and technical expertise the therapist brings to the table. I am supportive, caring and committed to being totally present, meeting people where they are right now, hearing them in their own terms. Relationships between individuals, couples and families have become so stressful in these crazy-making times. I see my job as helping clients untangle life's challenges and assisting them in getting in touch with their own inner resources.
What makes therapy work is the relationship/connection between the therapist and client, as well as the skills and technical expertise the therapist brings to the table. I am supportive, caring and committed to being totally present, meeting people where they are right now, hearing them in their own terms. Relationships between individuals, couples and families have become so stressful in these crazy-making times. I see my job as helping clients untangle life's challenges and assisting them in getting in touch with their own inner resources.
(805) 409-8495 View (805) 409-8495
Photo of Shawna Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93023, CA
Shawna Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I have experience with relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, trauma, grief and loss, parenting, pre/post natal, ADHD, autism, adolescents and children.
Humans are meant to have support through pain, challenges, and life's many transitions. Yet, life can feel frantic and disconnecting. You may find yourself lost in the chaos, feeling alone, depressed, or anxious. It may be difficult to find spaces where you are truly seen, understood, and accepted, let alone able to express your pain, challenges, and dreams. You are not alone in your longing to authentically speak, feel, and process your life.
I have experience with relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, trauma, grief and loss, parenting, pre/post natal, ADHD, autism, adolescents and children.
Humans are meant to have support through pain, challenges, and life's many transitions. Yet, life can feel frantic and disconnecting. You may find yourself lost in the chaos, feeling alone, depressed, or anxious. It may be difficult to find spaces where you are truly seen, understood, and accepted, let alone able to express your pain, challenges, and dreams. You are not alone in your longing to authentically speak, feel, and process your life.
(805) 272-8529 View (805) 272-8529
Photo of James K Borgeson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
James K Borgeson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
The greatest predictor for positive outcome from counseling is the therapeutic relationship.
If you’re reading this you are likely considering speaking with a therapist and exploring current or past areas of your life that are of concern to you. Common areas or concern include relationship problems, exposure to traumatic events, difficult life transitions, parent child conflict, child behavior, school or self esteem issues, as well as many others. Navigating these challenges can be difficult. At times they may even leave you with feelings of depression, anxiety, even hopelessness. By reaching out to a therapist you are reaching out for support and guidance to restore hope and good health for you and your loved ones.
The greatest predictor for positive outcome from counseling is the therapeutic relationship.
If you’re reading this you are likely considering speaking with a therapist and exploring current or past areas of your life that are of concern to you. Common areas or concern include relationship problems, exposure to traumatic events, difficult life transitions, parent child conflict, child behavior, school or self esteem issues, as well as many others. Navigating these challenges can be difficult. At times they may even leave you with feelings of depression, anxiety, even hopelessness. By reaching out to a therapist you are reaching out for support and guidance to restore hope and good health for you and your loved ones.
(805) 272-7683 View (805) 272-7683
Photo of Adaya Walsh, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Adaya Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
I'm a relationship specialist, offering depth-oriented, solution-focused psychotherapy to help you discover this lost art.
Our relationships - particularly our romantic partnerships and pursuits - are one of the most powerful places for personal transformation. But often, that's not what it feels like. Whether you are looking for new love or have been in a relationship for years - when challenges come up, opportunity is not the first word that comes to mind . It's hard. It's triggering. It's painful. And no matter how smart or insightful you are, it can feel like a dead end. It's easy to wonder: Is love and fulfilling partnership really possible at all?
I'm a relationship specialist, offering depth-oriented, solution-focused psychotherapy to help you discover this lost art.
Our relationships - particularly our romantic partnerships and pursuits - are one of the most powerful places for personal transformation. But often, that's not what it feels like. Whether you are looking for new love or have been in a relationship for years - when challenges come up, opportunity is not the first word that comes to mind . It's hard. It's triggering. It's painful. And no matter how smart or insightful you are, it can feel like a dead end. It's easy to wonder: Is love and fulfilling partnership really possible at all?
(805) 623-4031 View (805) 623-4031
Photo of Moriah Stapf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93023, CA
Moriah Stapf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Reach out for more information on my offerings – ranging from individual and couples therapy, to retreats, psychedelic preparation and integration sessions, and groups (see the flyer attached!).
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
Reach out for more information on my offerings – ranging from individual and couples therapy, to retreats, psychedelic preparation and integration sessions, and groups (see the flyer attached!).
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
(310) 361-1312 View (310) 361-1312
Photo of Dr. Angela Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93023, CA
Dr. Angela Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Our bodies, our mental and physical aches, the way we eat, our relationship choices.
I guide people through shadow, shame, and trauma to live sacred, soulful lives. Many of us struggle in our lives because we are unconsciously stuck with a perspective that helped us survive in the past, but that no longer serves us in. We're afraid of our own shadow. We hide from the parts we most dislike. This hiding keeps us stuck, guarded and fearful. Using mindfulness to creatively, compassionately and courageously look into your emotional, behavioral and relational patterns can help you move into a more mindful, creative, healthy and fulfilling life.
Our bodies, our mental and physical aches, the way we eat, our relationship choices.
I guide people through shadow, shame, and trauma to live sacred, soulful lives. Many of us struggle in our lives because we are unconsciously stuck with a perspective that helped us survive in the past, but that no longer serves us in. We're afraid of our own shadow. We hide from the parts we most dislike. This hiding keeps us stuck, guarded and fearful. Using mindfulness to creatively, compassionately and courageously look into your emotional, behavioral and relational patterns can help you move into a more mindful, creative, healthy and fulfilling life.
(818) 457-6968 View (818) 457-6968
Photo of Susan LaCroix, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Susan LaCroix
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I have a special interest in supporting individuals and couples through pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, creating and blending families, clarifying the changing roles and identities that come with becoming parents, and managing the impact of children on the couple's relationship.
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
I have a special interest in supporting individuals and couples through pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, creating and blending families, clarifying the changing roles and identities that come with becoming parents, and managing the impact of children on the couple's relationship.
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
(510) 996-5573 View (510) 996-5573
Photo of Jennifer Ollestad, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Jennifer Ollestad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
As a long-term practitioner of yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness/relaxation techniques, I also incorporate these tools, compassion and my intuition to develop a therapeutic relationship based on trust and insight.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Santa Monica and Ojai. For the past twenty + years I have been working as a therapist with adolescents, adults and families. I am also a clinical supervisor to interns in my private practice, and I provide psychotherapy for therapists in training. My work as a therapist focuses on relationships of all kinds. For my clients, I hope to be an agent of positive change by working with them towards an understanding of the dynamics that keep them from moving forward and then by mentoring them to co-create bigger lives for themselves.
As a long-term practitioner of yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness/relaxation techniques, I also incorporate these tools, compassion and my intuition to develop a therapeutic relationship based on trust and insight.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Santa Monica and Ojai. For the past twenty + years I have been working as a therapist with adolescents, adults and families. I am also a clinical supervisor to interns in my private practice, and I provide psychotherapy for therapists in training. My work as a therapist focuses on relationships of all kinds. For my clients, I hope to be an agent of positive change by working with them towards an understanding of the dynamics that keep them from moving forward and then by mentoring them to co-create bigger lives for themselves.
(424) 570-3246 View (424) 570-3246
Photo of Heidi Ann Hanson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Heidi Ann Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
My integrative practice also includes Grief Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples Therapy), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and Art Therapy.
I am honored to be a part of our beautiful Central Coast, characterized by care and community. My client-centered, humanistic approach is a balance of compassion, empathy and open-mindedness. I have been honored to share this healing space with children as young as 3 years, families, adolescents, young and middle-aged adults, and the healthy aging population, who have become willing to explore their experiences of change, grief, suffering, trauma, depression, separation and anxiety. Hope and empowerment grow through the process of healing and recovery. It is a collaborative experience where alternative ways of being occur.
My integrative practice also includes Grief Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples Therapy), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and Art Therapy.
I am honored to be a part of our beautiful Central Coast, characterized by care and community. My client-centered, humanistic approach is a balance of compassion, empathy and open-mindedness. I have been honored to share this healing space with children as young as 3 years, families, adolescents, young and middle-aged adults, and the healthy aging population, who have become willing to explore their experiences of change, grief, suffering, trauma, depression, separation and anxiety. Hope and empowerment grow through the process of healing and recovery. It is a collaborative experience where alternative ways of being occur.
(805) 283-6985 View (805) 283-6985
Photo of Socorro Madrigal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93023, CA
Socorro Madrigal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups.
I have been in the field for over twenty years working with children, adolescents and adults with issues related to trauma, loss, family conflict and life changes. All of these can create stress, which left untreated, can develop into debilitating symptoms of depression and or anxiety. My work is focused on giving you the tools to manage your symptoms, while identifying defeating patterns of thought and behavior and helping you develop healthy thinking and behavior to promote healing, growth and wholeness.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups.
I have been in the field for over twenty years working with children, adolescents and adults with issues related to trauma, loss, family conflict and life changes. All of these can create stress, which left untreated, can develop into debilitating symptoms of depression and or anxiety. My work is focused on giving you the tools to manage your symptoms, while identifying defeating patterns of thought and behavior and helping you develop healthy thinking and behavior to promote healing, growth and wholeness.
(805) 434-6781 View (805) 434-6781
Photo of Alexandra Dolce, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Alexandra Dolce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
I create a warm and empathetic space for self-exploration grounded in authentic relationship.
“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” ― C.G. Jung. By taking a depth psychological approach, we explore the unconscious material of your psyche to understand what may be holding you back from realizing deeper layers of healing and wholeness.
I create a warm and empathetic space for self-exploration grounded in authentic relationship.
“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” ― C.G. Jung. By taking a depth psychological approach, we explore the unconscious material of your psyche to understand what may be holding you back from realizing deeper layers of healing and wholeness.
(805) 590-9350 View (805) 590-9350
Photo of Sigrid Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Sigrid Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Ventura and Ojai. For the past 10 + years I have been working as a therapist with adults, couples and adolescents. I am honored to help facilitate my client’s on their journey, whatever it might be. I believe that it’s the therapeutic relationship that is ultimately healing. I meet each client where they are. Collaboratively, we establish safety and trust, so that we can walk through the psyche together. Additionally, I am passionate about working with couples and have extensive training in working with Adult Attachment relationships.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Ventura and Ojai. For the past 10 + years I have been working as a therapist with adults, couples and adolescents. I am honored to help facilitate my client’s on their journey, whatever it might be. I believe that it’s the therapeutic relationship that is ultimately healing. I meet each client where they are. Collaboratively, we establish safety and trust, so that we can walk through the psyche together. Additionally, I am passionate about working with couples and have extensive training in working with Adult Attachment relationships.
(310) 740-9862 View (310) 740-9862
Photo of Brandi Quinn in 93023, CA
Brandi Quinn
PhD, CHT, CCDC
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Are you experiencing anxiety, hopelessness or helplessness,or feelings of being overwhelmed because of issues from your past,current relationship problems or family problems? Have you come to a crossroads in your life where you are ready to make a change? Are you wanting to find meaning in your life, a sense of personal power, recover your deepst dreams, and reach your highest potential? If so, I can help. I have a doctoral degree in clinical psychology . I am not a traditional psychologist. I am a certified chemical dependency counselor and clinical hypnotherapist with a spiritual counseling and life empowerment focus.
Are you experiencing anxiety, hopelessness or helplessness,or feelings of being overwhelmed because of issues from your past,current relationship problems or family problems? Have you come to a crossroads in your life where you are ready to make a change? Are you wanting to find meaning in your life, a sense of personal power, recover your deepst dreams, and reach your highest potential? If so, I can help. I have a doctoral degree in clinical psychology . I am not a traditional psychologist. I am a certified chemical dependency counselor and clinical hypnotherapist with a spiritual counseling and life empowerment focus.
(805) 256-4558 View (805) 256-4558
Photo of Bonnie Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Bonnie Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I can help you manage depression, reduce anxiety, address relationship problems, find direction, realize your aspirations, get unstuck, heal past trauma, cope gently with grief and loss, find love.
I strive to inspire richness and meaningfulness in life, greater than one has ever known before! With compassion, warmth, an attitude of mutual respect and genuine caring, I can guide you through challenging life transitions and personal awakenings. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and lecturer for more than 30 years. I have taught psychology classes in a local community college and have extensive experience in a broad scope of community settings which adds great depth to my professional practice and life experience. Join me in a journey of discovery. Find more information at www.BonnieRose.com
I can help you manage depression, reduce anxiety, address relationship problems, find direction, realize your aspirations, get unstuck, heal past trauma, cope gently with grief and loss, find love.
I strive to inspire richness and meaningfulness in life, greater than one has ever known before! With compassion, warmth, an attitude of mutual respect and genuine caring, I can guide you through challenging life transitions and personal awakenings. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and lecturer for more than 30 years. I have taught psychology classes in a local community college and have extensive experience in a broad scope of community settings which adds great depth to my professional practice and life experience. Join me in a journey of discovery. Find more information at www.BonnieRose.com
(818) 850-7547 View (818) 850-7547
Photo of Brent D Pilegard, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Brent D Pilegard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
In addition to working with adults couples and families, I have a strong background working with teenage population as well as elementary age children.
Sessions with me are focused, light-hearted, insightful and I will help you to directly and immediately gain insight and healing around the issues that cause you distress. Currently accepting short-term clients who are open and ready for immediate positive emotional, mental, or relational shifts. .
In addition to working with adults couples and families, I have a strong background working with teenage population as well as elementary age children.
Sessions with me are focused, light-hearted, insightful and I will help you to directly and immediately gain insight and healing around the issues that cause you distress. Currently accepting short-term clients who are open and ready for immediate positive emotional, mental, or relational shifts. .
(805) 669-9247 View (805) 669-9247
Photo of Karen McIntyre, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Karen McIntyre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I love to teach relationship and communication skills to help clients learn new ways of living and relating.
Did growing up in a wounding family cause trauma that is still affecting you? Did you experience trauma at the hands of another that left you with feelings of being unsafe, insecure and unlovable? Guilt and shame? Imagine waking up peaceful and optimistic about your Life and future. Imagine having relationships that are loving and full of grace and building a family that is one that you would have loved to grow up in. If you can see it you can be it…lets work through old trauma so that you can see and be the “you” that you have always wanted to be! Helping people work through trauma is what I love to do!
I love to teach relationship and communication skills to help clients learn new ways of living and relating.
Did growing up in a wounding family cause trauma that is still affecting you? Did you experience trauma at the hands of another that left you with feelings of being unsafe, insecure and unlovable? Guilt and shame? Imagine waking up peaceful and optimistic about your Life and future. Imagine having relationships that are loving and full of grace and building a family that is one that you would have loved to grow up in. If you can see it you can be it…lets work through old trauma so that you can see and be the “you” that you have always wanted to be! Helping people work through trauma is what I love to do!
(805) 918-4814 View (805) 918-4814
Photo of Jeri W Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Jeri W Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
My clients come to therapy when they feel overwhelmed with difficulties they encounter in their lives. At times, some of them experience difficulties with: * A breakdown in communication. * Mistrust in a marriage or in a significant relationship. * The ongoing challenges of raising children or blending families. * Finding a balance in their personal lives. * Feeling out of touch, angry, anxious, confused or depressed.
My clients come to therapy when they feel overwhelmed with difficulties they encounter in their lives. At times, some of them experience difficulties with: * A breakdown in communication. * Mistrust in a marriage or in a significant relationship. * The ongoing challenges of raising children or blending families. * Finding a balance in their personal lives. * Feeling out of touch, angry, anxious, confused or depressed.
(805) 500-4186 View (805) 500-4186
Photo of Sonja Lindstrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93023, CA
Sonja Lindstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, MFT, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
My approach in working with clients is to create a relationship of safety and trust.
It takes a village...Navigating through the transitions and challenges in our lives is meant to be a collaboration with family, friends, elders, wise women and men. However, in the times of instant change and mobility, some may find themselves lost and alone, far from those they confide in and look up to. Sometimes they isolate for fear of vulnerability and the pressure to appear "to have it together". When this self-judgement and drive to be “perfect” eventally takes its toll, one can be left feeling bereft of deep connection to self and others. Finding a therapist you can trust and confide in, can help you find your way.
My approach in working with clients is to create a relationship of safety and trust.
It takes a village...Navigating through the transitions and challenges in our lives is meant to be a collaboration with family, friends, elders, wise women and men. However, in the times of instant change and mobility, some may find themselves lost and alone, far from those they confide in and look up to. Sometimes they isolate for fear of vulnerability and the pressure to appear "to have it together". When this self-judgement and drive to be “perfect” eventally takes its toll, one can be left feeling bereft of deep connection to self and others. Finding a therapist you can trust and confide in, can help you find your way.
(805) 946-1612 View (805) 946-1612
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.