Photo of Rosario A. Carbajal, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Rosario A. Carbajal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Relationships can be frustrating and challenging among couples, family members, and friends. Disappointments can lead to anger, resentment, and stressful disconnections. I can help you resolve these issues through the use of treatment modalities, feedback, communications, and coping skills. Working with me, you can learn to communicate effectively, identify roles and behaviors, and understand one another.
Relationships can be frustrating and challenging among couples, family members, and friends. Disappointments can lead to anger, resentment, and stressful disconnections. I can help you resolve these issues through the use of treatment modalities, feedback, communications, and coping skills. Working with me, you can learn to communicate effectively, identify roles and behaviors, and understand one another.
(925) 393-0493 View (925) 393-0493
Photo of Elisa Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94523, CA
Elisa Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I work with couples, groups, and individuals. Do you isolate, feel misunderstood, or have difficult connecting to others? Have you been told you are "too sensitive" or "too intense"? Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try - you can't catch a break? Do you want to hide parts of yourself? Do you want to build more connection in your relationships? Do you find you and your partner continuing to argue about the same things? You are not alone. Often times our old wounds and experiences get in the way of living.
I work with couples, groups, and individuals. Do you isolate, feel misunderstood, or have difficult connecting to others? Have you been told you are "too sensitive" or "too intense"? Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try - you can't catch a break? Do you want to hide parts of yourself? Do you want to build more connection in your relationships? Do you find you and your partner continuing to argue about the same things? You are not alone. Often times our old wounds and experiences get in the way of living.
(925) 592-1271 View (925) 592-1271
Photo of Laura Madsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Laura Madsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I also enjoy working with couples.
In today's world, adolescents are exposed to some overwhelming internal and external battles, such as peer pressure, self-esteem and body image, stress from home and school, bullying, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about coming alongside today's adolescents to create a safe, non-judgemental, understanding atmosphere, process their struggles and gain positive, healthy tools to use as they grow. In addition, I also have a heart for helping individuals examine their present life issues and deal effectively with the circumstances they are facing. Come visit us on Facebook under Hope Counseling Services
I also enjoy working with couples.
In today's world, adolescents are exposed to some overwhelming internal and external battles, such as peer pressure, self-esteem and body image, stress from home and school, bullying, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about coming alongside today's adolescents to create a safe, non-judgemental, understanding atmosphere, process their struggles and gain positive, healthy tools to use as they grow. In addition, I also have a heart for helping individuals examine their present life issues and deal effectively with the circumstances they are facing. Come visit us on Facebook under Hope Counseling Services
(925) 261-7637 View (925) 261-7637
Photo of Jean Kasha, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Jean Kasha
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Though cognitive/behavioral in method I am humanistic in relationship to my clients.
I bring the best of both worlds-- over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist, expert in the areas of treating depression, addiction and trauma and a Success and Performance Coach skilled in the latest strategies and techniques for motivation and change. I am able to take what appears to be an obstacle and turn it into a means of building emotional muscle. Obstacles will happen but it is the meaning we give to events that makes all the difference. I have a background in performance art and currently utilize mindfulness as a tool to assist clients in their lives.
Though cognitive/behavioral in method I am humanistic in relationship to my clients.
I bring the best of both worlds-- over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist, expert in the areas of treating depression, addiction and trauma and a Success and Performance Coach skilled in the latest strategies and techniques for motivation and change. I am able to take what appears to be an obstacle and turn it into a means of building emotional muscle. Obstacles will happen but it is the meaning we give to events that makes all the difference. I have a background in performance art and currently utilize mindfulness as a tool to assist clients in their lives.
(925) 308-5895 View (925) 308-5895
Photo of Mark W Clayton, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Mark W Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTMA
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Together, we can discover new ways of expressing your anger that will address your needs while valuing the relationship with others.
Are you caught in a pattern of doing the same old thing and it is just not working? Or perhaps you're overwhelmed by life's unexpected challenges. Often, these problems cause difficulties in our relationships. My hope is to provide a safe place to be heard and understood. I seek to create a connection with you built through non-judgmental acceptance no matter what your situation. After the first session or two, you will decide if we make a good team for the purpose of addressing your concerns. The fit and connection is essential for success in our sessions.
Together, we can discover new ways of expressing your anger that will address your needs while valuing the relationship with others.
Are you caught in a pattern of doing the same old thing and it is just not working? Or perhaps you're overwhelmed by life's unexpected challenges. Often, these problems cause difficulties in our relationships. My hope is to provide a safe place to be heard and understood. I seek to create a connection with you built through non-judgmental acceptance no matter what your situation. After the first session or two, you will decide if we make a good team for the purpose of addressing your concerns. The fit and connection is essential for success in our sessions.
(925) 968-4226 View (925) 968-4226
Photo of Cathy Bennett, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Cathy Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. My work is client-focused, compassionate, and impactful. I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. My sessions are fee-for-service only. I accept cash, personal checks, and credit card billing at the time of service. I will provide a financial statement, or complete an insurance claim form so that my clients can seek reimbursement from health care spending accounts, or their insurance policy directly.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. My work is client-focused, compassionate, and impactful. I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. My sessions are fee-for-service only. I accept cash, personal checks, and credit card billing at the time of service. I will provide a financial statement, or complete an insurance claim form so that my clients can seek reimbursement from health care spending accounts, or their insurance policy directly.
(925) 798-9443 View (925) 798-9443
Photo of Doug Ronning, Psychotherapy and Social Game Groups, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Doug Ronning, Psychotherapy and Social Game Groups
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT-BCT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Therapy via online secure video or in-person at my family-friendly office. Do you or your child struggle with managing everyday stressors? Repeating unhealthy patterns despite negative consequences? Feeling misunderstood? Relationship(s) overrun by conflict? As an experiential psychotherapist, I offer interactive sessions designed to support greater self-awareness, increased self-regulation, effective communication, and responsible choice making. We will begin by identifying strengths as well as exploring the challenges, then tailor a plan that fits you. I utilize neurodiversity-affirmative and trauma-informed approaches.
Therapy via online secure video or in-person at my family-friendly office. Do you or your child struggle with managing everyday stressors? Repeating unhealthy patterns despite negative consequences? Feeling misunderstood? Relationship(s) overrun by conflict? As an experiential psychotherapist, I offer interactive sessions designed to support greater self-awareness, increased self-regulation, effective communication, and responsible choice making. We will begin by identifying strengths as well as exploring the challenges, then tailor a plan that fits you. I utilize neurodiversity-affirmative and trauma-informed approaches.
(925) 900-5660 View (925) 900-5660
Photo of Marian T Okamura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94523, CA
Marian T Okamura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
My specialty is with individuals and couples who struggle with issues disrupting their lives, finding mutuality in relationship(s) and a way to meet personal needs given demands of family, work, friends.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I have had extensive experience with ethnically diverse women, men, couples, Veterans and immigrants, from young to older adults. I work with issues, such as depression, anxiety, relationships, marriage, work, disability, aging, loss, bereavement, identity and cross cultural/bi-cultural conflict. I am interested in exploring these issues through a dynamic process of understanding your emotional life and thoughts; and, how it manifests in your behavior in the world. Available for clinical consultation or supervising licensing hours. By appointment: Office, phone or virtual.
My specialty is with individuals and couples who struggle with issues disrupting their lives, finding mutuality in relationship(s) and a way to meet personal needs given demands of family, work, friends.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I have had extensive experience with ethnically diverse women, men, couples, Veterans and immigrants, from young to older adults. I work with issues, such as depression, anxiety, relationships, marriage, work, disability, aging, loss, bereavement, identity and cross cultural/bi-cultural conflict. I am interested in exploring these issues through a dynamic process of understanding your emotional life and thoughts; and, how it manifests in your behavior in the world. Available for clinical consultation or supervising licensing hours. By appointment: Office, phone or virtual.
(925) 854-4468 View (925) 854-4468
Photo of Jonel Mizerak, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Jonel Mizerak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Whether you are seeking therapy for relationship issues, anxiety, mood, life changes, transitions, career decisions, parenting, or needing help with decisions, I can help you.
By seeking therapy you have begun your journey towards positive change. Counseling can help you create healthier choices, gain emotional self-awareness, and better communication and relationship patterns. I welcome individuals, couples, adults and teens who present with a variety of life challenges and from diverse backgrounds. I use an integrative approach to best fit the needs of each client. My style is empathic, supportive, interactive, collaborative and relational. I believe in creating a supportive space for each person to find their authentic self in order to live a more productive, peaceful, and joyful life.
Whether you are seeking therapy for relationship issues, anxiety, mood, life changes, transitions, career decisions, parenting, or needing help with decisions, I can help you.
By seeking therapy you have begun your journey towards positive change. Counseling can help you create healthier choices, gain emotional self-awareness, and better communication and relationship patterns. I welcome individuals, couples, adults and teens who present with a variety of life challenges and from diverse backgrounds. I use an integrative approach to best fit the needs of each client. My style is empathic, supportive, interactive, collaborative and relational. I believe in creating a supportive space for each person to find their authentic self in order to live a more productive, peaceful, and joyful life.
(925) 548-8841 View (925) 548-8841
Photo of Kamaria Erin Wells, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94523, CA
Kamaria Erin Wells
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I collaborate with clients to support management and reduction of anxiety, depression, trauma and other symptoms. I help people find their identity, what it means to them, and how to mute the constant noise that interferes with self-realization and actualization. If open, I incorporate art therapy, as it is the bridge to talk therapy that allows in depth processing of unconscious and subconscious thoughts and emotions. I work with all ages; young children, adolescents, transitional ages (18-21) young adults, adults, elders, families and couples.
I collaborate with clients to support management and reduction of anxiety, depression, trauma and other symptoms. I help people find their identity, what it means to them, and how to mute the constant noise that interferes with self-realization and actualization. If open, I incorporate art therapy, as it is the bridge to talk therapy that allows in depth processing of unconscious and subconscious thoughts and emotions. I work with all ages; young children, adolescents, transitional ages (18-21) young adults, adults, elders, families and couples.
(415) 849-4820 View (415) 849-4820
Photo of Betty Lue Lieber, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Betty Lue Lieber
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
With 40+ years of counseling & coaching individuals, couples, families, business owners and helping professionals, I offer insight, inspiration, and education in: 1) Effective Communication, 2) Respectful Relationships, 3) Self-Motivation, 4) Positive Parenting and 5) Whole Life Success.
I offer holistic solution-oriented counseling and coaching with respect for your potential and the ideal you desire to live. I offer education and inspiration, practical creative solutions and options for you to consider to live your ideal life. I coach you in undoing sabotaging strategies, limiting beliefs and negative habits with effective tools and home work.. Our work together will validate what works for you and eliminate what is ineffective. With information, motivation and practical tools, you will experience an "immediate difference" in how you choose to relate, communicate and live what you desire everyday.
With 40+ years of counseling & coaching individuals, couples, families, business owners and helping professionals, I offer insight, inspiration, and education in: 1) Effective Communication, 2) Respectful Relationships, 3) Self-Motivation, 4) Positive Parenting and 5) Whole Life Success.
I offer holistic solution-oriented counseling and coaching with respect for your potential and the ideal you desire to live. I offer education and inspiration, practical creative solutions and options for you to consider to live your ideal life. I coach you in undoing sabotaging strategies, limiting beliefs and negative habits with effective tools and home work.. Our work together will validate what works for you and eliminate what is ineffective. With information, motivation and practical tools, you will experience an "immediate difference" in how you choose to relate, communicate and live what you desire everyday.
(415) 306-8706 View (415) 306-8706
Photo of Kavian Massoud Ravandoust, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Kavian Massoud Ravandoust
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Please feel free to reach out to me for a free consultation, to hear more about what I have to offer and to discuss our potential professional relationship moving forward!.
I believe that challenges, emotional pain and even struggling in the face of lifes' obstacles is the norm and not the exception, and that everyone would benefit from professional, individualized emotional support. If you are facing life transitions, such as starting a family, moving or immigration, or dealing with other challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger issues or conflict with others, I can help provide support and facilitate growth and adjustment to whatever life throws at you. I have experience working with adolescents and preteens as well as with adults and families.
Please feel free to reach out to me for a free consultation, to hear more about what I have to offer and to discuss our potential professional relationship moving forward!.
I believe that challenges, emotional pain and even struggling in the face of lifes' obstacles is the norm and not the exception, and that everyone would benefit from professional, individualized emotional support. If you are facing life transitions, such as starting a family, moving or immigration, or dealing with other challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger issues or conflict with others, I can help provide support and facilitate growth and adjustment to whatever life throws at you. I have experience working with adolescents and preteens as well as with adults and families.
(925) 204-3948 View (925) 204-3948
Photo of Dr. Krystal S Smith, Psychologist in 94523, CA
Dr. Krystal S Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in working with adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, burnout, psychological distress associated with code-switching, and body image issues, as well as those simply seeking more fulfillment or life satisfaction.
Life can be rough sometimes, and it’s so easy to feel stuck, wondering where you’re headed. My goal is to help you find new perspectives and new ways of looking at any situation so that you can approach life with confidence and authenticity. Along with bringing a multicultural perspective to therapy as a therapist of color, I utilize an integrative approach of Narrative, Interpersonal, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, and other modalities that fit your unique life journey.
I have extensive experience in working with adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, burnout, psychological distress associated with code-switching, and body image issues, as well as those simply seeking more fulfillment or life satisfaction.
Life can be rough sometimes, and it’s so easy to feel stuck, wondering where you’re headed. My goal is to help you find new perspectives and new ways of looking at any situation so that you can approach life with confidence and authenticity. Along with bringing a multicultural perspective to therapy as a therapist of color, I utilize an integrative approach of Narrative, Interpersonal, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, and other modalities that fit your unique life journey.
(949) 881-6379 View (949) 881-6379
Photo of Exposure Therapy Designs, Counselor in 94523, CA
Exposure Therapy Designs
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
Our approach is all about you. You are the expert on you. We aim to facilitate and support your awareness, helping you implement changes to overcome unhelpful thinking and decision-making patterns. LMFT in CA, HI, MA, and VA. Telehealth provider for FL, SC, VT. EMDR and ERP for individuals motivated to upgrade their quality of life. EFT for Couples and Family in CA with our Associate Clinician Melinda Andres (AMFT 118899). We strive to resolve the reason you sought help in the first place. Clinically appropriate methods and ethical standards are followed rigorously. Client safety and well-being is the only priority.
Our approach is all about you. You are the expert on you. We aim to facilitate and support your awareness, helping you implement changes to overcome unhelpful thinking and decision-making patterns. LMFT in CA, HI, MA, and VA. Telehealth provider for FL, SC, VT. EMDR and ERP for individuals motivated to upgrade their quality of life. EFT for Couples and Family in CA with our Associate Clinician Melinda Andres (AMFT 118899). We strive to resolve the reason you sought help in the first place. Clinically appropriate methods and ethical standards are followed rigorously. Client safety and well-being is the only priority.
(530) 292-7445 View (530) 292-7445
Photo of Larry Yavorsky Therapy & Relationship Enhancement, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Larry Yavorsky Therapy & Relationship Enhancement
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN, MA
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
You can be happier, healthier & find life more fulfilling, by engaging in therapy with Larry Yavorsky. I am LMFT and RN with 40 years of experience in the areas of enhancing individual, sexual, and relationship health and satisfaction. I invite you to call me at (510) 401-3935 for free phone consultation. My passion is to help clients explore and understand themselves, to become free of troubling symptoms and of relationship distress. Using methods which promote emotional, mental, and physical awareness and health, I have had success in treating a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety,PTSD, relationship/sexual distress.
You can be happier, healthier & find life more fulfilling, by engaging in therapy with Larry Yavorsky. I am LMFT and RN with 40 years of experience in the areas of enhancing individual, sexual, and relationship health and satisfaction. I invite you to call me at (510) 401-3935 for free phone consultation. My passion is to help clients explore and understand themselves, to become free of troubling symptoms and of relationship distress. Using methods which promote emotional, mental, and physical awareness and health, I have had success in treating a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety,PTSD, relationship/sexual distress.
(510) 401-3935 View (510) 401-3935
Photo of Maureen McLaughlin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94523, CA
Maureen McLaughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I have spent time doing individual,couples, and family therapy.
Life can be very confusing sometimes. My understanding is that each of us are different and there is no easy answer for many of life's questions. And, I am happy to be engaged in the mystery of life with you. Using my humanistic and transperonal approach, the goal with my clients is to discover how life's meaning is created for them and what coping skills can be used to help through this process.
I have spent time doing individual,couples, and family therapy.
Life can be very confusing sometimes. My understanding is that each of us are different and there is no easy answer for many of life's questions. And, I am happy to be engaged in the mystery of life with you. Using my humanistic and transperonal approach, the goal with my clients is to discover how life's meaning is created for them and what coping skills can be used to help through this process.
(925) 386-2111 View (925) 386-2111
Photo of Adriana S. Russell MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Adriana S. Russell MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I work with a large number of presenting issues including managing depression, anxiety and stress, improving communication in primary relationships, improved self care and self soothing, healing from addictions and codependency and trauma; dealing with grief and loss, including pet loss. I can assist you in how to self assert in a healthy and productive manner. I work with adult individuals and couples. I am 12 step supportive, work with relapse prevention and people wanting to intensify their recovery work. I am trained as an Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist. Please see my website: www.adrianarussell.com
I work with a large number of presenting issues including managing depression, anxiety and stress, improving communication in primary relationships, improved self care and self soothing, healing from addictions and codependency and trauma; dealing with grief and loss, including pet loss. I can assist you in how to self assert in a healthy and productive manner. I work with adult individuals and couples. I am 12 step supportive, work with relapse prevention and people wanting to intensify their recovery work. I am trained as an Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist. Please see my website: www.adrianarussell.com
(925) 232-0618 View (925) 232-0618
Photo of Denise A Chmiel, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Denise A Chmiel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I offer client-centered therapy to adults, older adults and adolescents who are experiencing distress, relationship conflict, sadness, loneliness or who are stuck in situations that feel hopeless. I offer a safe space and encourage my clients to talk about their lives, process their thoughts and feelings, and find clarity and peace of mind so that they can move forward and be their best selves. I believe that everyone does the best that they can do, and they often want to do better or feel better.
I offer client-centered therapy to adults, older adults and adolescents who are experiencing distress, relationship conflict, sadness, loneliness or who are stuck in situations that feel hopeless. I offer a safe space and encourage my clients to talk about their lives, process their thoughts and feelings, and find clarity and peace of mind so that they can move forward and be their best selves. I believe that everyone does the best that they can do, and they often want to do better or feel better.
(925) 448-9006 View (925) 448-9006
Photo of Arielle Vale, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Arielle Vale
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I have found that working together we can get to know these internalized thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (parts) to allow self-compassion and self-energy to grow, which ultimately leads to a better relationship with yourself and your relationships.
It is brave of you to seek therapy. It is not easy and choosing a therapist and taking the time to find the right space takes time and effort as you look to find the right fit for your personal journey. It is courageous to start this journey! I enjoy working with creative and artistic people who have experienced trauma in their past.
I have found that working together we can get to know these internalized thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (parts) to allow self-compassion and self-energy to grow, which ultimately leads to a better relationship with yourself and your relationships.
It is brave of you to seek therapy. It is not easy and choosing a therapist and taking the time to find the right space takes time and effort as you look to find the right fit for your personal journey. It is courageous to start this journey! I enjoy working with creative and artistic people who have experienced trauma in their past.
(925) 478-3067 View (925) 478-3067
Photo of Margie Ryerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94523, CA
Margie Ryerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I'm the author of three books that all provide specific tools, guidance, and case examples (with all identifying information changed): Family Focus: A Therapist's Tips for Happier Families, Treat Your Partner Like a Dog: How to Breed a Better Relationship, and Appetite for Life: Inspiring Stories of Recovery from Anorexia, Bulimia and Compulsive Overeating.
My orientation is cognitive and behavioral (CBT). I'm a caring compassionate listener and also actively engage with clients to elicit thoughts, feelings, and strategies for healing. My specialties include eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, couples, family issues, parenting, and teens. My therapy approach is directive and problem-solving while encouraging self-acceptance and compassion. I believe that everyone is capable of change at their own rate and comfort level. I help my clients eliminate self-critical thinking that too often sabotages their happiness and their relationships.
I'm the author of three books that all provide specific tools, guidance, and case examples (with all identifying information changed): Family Focus: A Therapist's Tips for Happier Families, Treat Your Partner Like a Dog: How to Breed a Better Relationship, and Appetite for Life: Inspiring Stories of Recovery from Anorexia, Bulimia and Compulsive Overeating.
My orientation is cognitive and behavioral (CBT). I'm a caring compassionate listener and also actively engage with clients to elicit thoughts, feelings, and strategies for healing. My specialties include eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, couples, family issues, parenting, and teens. My therapy approach is directive and problem-solving while encouraging self-acceptance and compassion. I believe that everyone is capable of change at their own rate and comfort level. I help my clients eliminate self-critical thinking that too often sabotages their happiness and their relationships.
(925) 392-3516 View (925) 392-3516
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.