Photo of Florence Rosiello, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Florence Rosiello, PhD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86336
Certificate in Individual Treatment & Couples Counseling, ICP/NY.
After 30+ years practicing psychotherapy and marriage counseling, I still find relationships issues to be a major reason why people come to therapy. Relationships can sometimes be too emotionally merged, or too emotionally distant and isolating (however, there are times when relationships feel both merged and isolating all at the same time). My focus is on helping people realize and alter emotional issues that pop up over and over again and consistently inhibit relationships. Sometimes we know we're stuck or lost in a relationship, but we just can't figure out...any way 'out' of what we feel.
Certificate in Individual Treatment & Couples Counseling, ICP/NY.
After 30+ years practicing psychotherapy and marriage counseling, I still find relationships issues to be a major reason why people come to therapy. Relationships can sometimes be too emotionally merged, or too emotionally distant and isolating (however, there are times when relationships feel both merged and isolating all at the same time). My focus is on helping people realize and alter emotional issues that pop up over and over again and consistently inhibit relationships. Sometimes we know we're stuck or lost in a relationship, but we just can't figure out...any way 'out' of what we feel.
(646) 798-2589 View (646) 798-2589
Photo of Denise Hausler, Counselor in Arizona
Denise Hausler
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
My expertise includes treating of depression , anxiety, phase of life challenges, relationship issues and self destructive behaviors.
If you are ready to improve the quality of your life through coaching, divorce coaching, counseling, spiritual exploration and reviewing the domains of your current life, I would be honored to work with you. Barriers and challenges come in all forms. The key is to embrace the timing of change and allow for growth and improvement in your life. If you are reading this now, you are seeking the help. Please, take the next step. I am certified as a Mental Health Professional for Collaborative divorce which enables families to go through the process of divorce with the families goals at center.
My expertise includes treating of depression , anxiety, phase of life challenges, relationship issues and self destructive behaviors.
If you are ready to improve the quality of your life through coaching, divorce coaching, counseling, spiritual exploration and reviewing the domains of your current life, I would be honored to work with you. Barriers and challenges come in all forms. The key is to embrace the timing of change and allow for growth and improvement in your life. If you are reading this now, you are seeking the help. Please, take the next step. I am certified as a Mental Health Professional for Collaborative divorce which enables families to go through the process of divorce with the families goals at center.
(520) 357-0853 View (520) 357-0853
Photo of Hannah Osmanski, Counselor in Arizona
Hannah Osmanski
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
You did it! You took the first step, you opened your browser and asked for help. Whatever may have lead you to this page, whether it be increased anxiety, depression, relationship or work stress, I'm glad you are here. Starting counseling can be an intimidating unknown. I want to help take some of the unknown out of this process! If you choose to work with me we will focus on identifying the barriers that may be preventing you from healing from past trauma, improving your relationships, and achieving the quality of life that you desire. Together we will work towards removing those barriers within a safe and supportive environment.
You did it! You took the first step, you opened your browser and asked for help. Whatever may have lead you to this page, whether it be increased anxiety, depression, relationship or work stress, I'm glad you are here. Starting counseling can be an intimidating unknown. I want to help take some of the unknown out of this process! If you choose to work with me we will focus on identifying the barriers that may be preventing you from healing from past trauma, improving your relationships, and achieving the quality of life that you desire. Together we will work towards removing those barriers within a safe and supportive environment.
(872) 266-8476 View (872) 266-8476
Photo of Eileen R. Borris, Psychologist in Arizona
Eileen R. Borris
Psychologist
Verified Verified
As a psychologist I have extensive experience in providing both brief counseling, long term in depth psychotherapy as well as marriage and relationship counseling. I know what anxiety and depression feel like. I know how difficult relationships can be. I know the pain you feel when you have been betrayed, especially when there has been an affair. I also know how emotionally difficult and alone people feel when going through a divorce. With any situation I will help you gain greater clarity as to what steps to take next. For those interested in wanting to forgive, I can help you learn how to forgive and support spiritual journeys.
As a psychologist I have extensive experience in providing both brief counseling, long term in depth psychotherapy as well as marriage and relationship counseling. I know what anxiety and depression feel like. I know how difficult relationships can be. I know the pain you feel when you have been betrayed, especially when there has been an affair. I also know how emotionally difficult and alone people feel when going through a divorce. With any situation I will help you gain greater clarity as to what steps to take next. For those interested in wanting to forgive, I can help you learn how to forgive and support spiritual journeys.
(480) 712-5794 View (480) 712-5794
Photo of Melanie Rich, Psychologist in Arizona
Melanie Rich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I have extensive experience in providing both brief counseling and longer term depth psychotherapy and have worked with patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, challenges of parenting, women's issues, professional/career issues, relationship and other life concerns. I see both individuals and couples ranging in age from late adolescence to early retirement.
I have extensive experience in providing both brief counseling and longer term depth psychotherapy and have worked with patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, challenges of parenting, women's issues, professional/career issues, relationship and other life concerns. I see both individuals and couples ranging in age from late adolescence to early retirement.
(480) 376-7720 View (480) 376-7720
Photo of Grace for the Journey Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Grace for the Journey Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
We offer services to provide therapeutic organization and life skills for those who may be experiencing life changes and overcoming emotional or relationship challenges.
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
We offer services to provide therapeutic organization and life skills for those who may be experiencing life changes and overcoming emotional or relationship challenges.
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
(520) 231-8398 View (520) 231-8398
Photo of C. P. Hernandez, Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona
C. P. Hernandez
Licensed Master Social Worker, Dr BH, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I see individuals, couples and families.
Currently accepting new patients via telehealth, or in-person. I have over 25 years of experience working with conditions of many kind including traumas, depression/anxiety and relationships. I specialize in working with Adult Males and Females struggling with life issues, anxiety, depression and professional burn-out. I also engage in extensive family counseling as well. I have helped many patients improve their moods by reducing anxiety and depression, so that the patient is better equipped to navigate through life's challenges.
I see individuals, couples and families.
Currently accepting new patients via telehealth, or in-person. I have over 25 years of experience working with conditions of many kind including traumas, depression/anxiety and relationships. I specialize in working with Adult Males and Females struggling with life issues, anxiety, depression and professional burn-out. I also engage in extensive family counseling as well. I have helped many patients improve their moods by reducing anxiety and depression, so that the patient is better equipped to navigate through life's challenges.
(480) 630-7589 View (480) 630-7589
Photo of Lisa Lavella, Psychologist in Arizona
Lisa Lavella
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and/or your relationship, which are often times hidden by the apparent symptoms.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have over 22 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Psychologist Licenses in Arizona and Illinois. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale.
You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and/or your relationship, which are often times hidden by the apparent symptoms.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have over 22 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Psychologist Licenses in Arizona and Illinois. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale.
(480) 848-4411 View (480) 848-4411
Photo of Daniela R. Roher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Daniela R. Roher
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Carefree, AZ 85377  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trained in Europe and the US in Psychology, Anthropology and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy I provide multi-cultural and cross-disciplinary knowledge and 30+ years of clinical experience to individuals and couples seeking in depth work and awareness of core issue.
With over 30 years experience in individual and couple psychotherapy, I learned to tailor my treatment to the SPECIFIC needs of each person or couple. I help patients identify dynamics that hold them back and keep them isolated and unfulfilled. With couples, I identify deep core issues that maintain disconnection and conflict, leading to improved understanding, empathy and renewed love for each other. Changes brought about by this treatment are not meant to be temporary but long lasting as people learn skills and make use of tools that will continue to be available to them well after treatment is over.
Trained in Europe and the US in Psychology, Anthropology and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy I provide multi-cultural and cross-disciplinary knowledge and 30+ years of clinical experience to individuals and couples seeking in depth work and awareness of core issue.
With over 30 years experience in individual and couple psychotherapy, I learned to tailor my treatment to the SPECIFIC needs of each person or couple. I help patients identify dynamics that hold them back and keep them isolated and unfulfilled. With couples, I identify deep core issues that maintain disconnection and conflict, leading to improved understanding, empathy and renewed love for each other. Changes brought about by this treatment are not meant to be temporary but long lasting as people learn skills and make use of tools that will continue to be available to them well after treatment is over.
(480) 685-5606 View (480) 685-5606
Photo of Annie Farnsworth, Psychologist in Arizona
Annie Farnsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Our professional Metta team's specialties include couples and family treatment; aging, trauma/complex trauma; adult development; behavioral health; and effective Mindfulness-based therapies.
We all deserve and want happiness and well-being! New skills and habits can be developed to utilize our emotions and improve our effectiveness in dealing with a range of life's difficulties. Our goal is to provide informed, effective, compassionate support to guide you toward your own personal transformation. All of our practitioners are highly experienced doctoral level professionals who offer evidence based positive psychology, interpersonal, and goal/value identification. We are trauma informed health and mental health specialists who are here to focus on and support you living joyfully and authentically. Find us at MettaAZ.com.
Our professional Metta team's specialties include couples and family treatment; aging, trauma/complex trauma; adult development; behavioral health; and effective Mindfulness-based therapies.
We all deserve and want happiness and well-being! New skills and habits can be developed to utilize our emotions and improve our effectiveness in dealing with a range of life's difficulties. Our goal is to provide informed, effective, compassionate support to guide you toward your own personal transformation. All of our practitioners are highly experienced doctoral level professionals who offer evidence based positive psychology, interpersonal, and goal/value identification. We are trauma informed health and mental health specialists who are here to focus on and support you living joyfully and authentically. Find us at MettaAZ.com.
(520) 441-3103 View (520) 441-3103
Photo of Karen Hawk, Psychologist in Arizona
Karen Hawk
Psychologist, PsyD, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85298
I specialize in helping couples and families to identify multi-generational trauma, recover from betrayal and infidelity, restore connection and intimacy, and increase communication.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR GROUP AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. Thank you for believing you deserve to feel better! I have extensive experience and training in trauma, family conflict, infidelity, intimacy and communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, substance use, porn addiction, pre-teen and teen challenges, “midlife crisis,” loneliness, fear of abandonment, and rejection, co-parenting, pre-and-post divorce difficulties, grief, ethnic and cultural diversity, and the effects of narcissism in relationships. I hope to instill confidence and agency in survivors of abuse so they can live happy lives!
I specialize in helping couples and families to identify multi-generational trauma, recover from betrayal and infidelity, restore connection and intimacy, and increase communication.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR GROUP AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. Thank you for believing you deserve to feel better! I have extensive experience and training in trauma, family conflict, infidelity, intimacy and communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, substance use, porn addiction, pre-teen and teen challenges, “midlife crisis,” loneliness, fear of abandonment, and rejection, co-parenting, pre-and-post divorce difficulties, grief, ethnic and cultural diversity, and the effects of narcissism in relationships. I hope to instill confidence and agency in survivors of abuse so they can live happy lives!
(480) 771-9905 View (480) 771-9905
Photo of Kelly Rau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Kelly Rau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013
I work with individual adults and couples and am trained in trauma treatment and have taken advanced training in grief counseling.
I believe therapy is an opportunity to be compassionately curious about ourselves – to reflect on our experiences, patterns, losses, traumas, and relationships, and consider how they impact our wellbeing and our sense of self. I want to support you in your process of tending to the pieces of yourself and your story that often feel sticky or unapproachable and offer a space to explore ways to find peace and a sense of grounding. If you’re going through a major loss, experiencing anxiety/depression or noticing patterns in your relationships, I am here to witness your insights and strengthen your connection to self.
I work with individual adults and couples and am trained in trauma treatment and have taken advanced training in grief counseling.
I believe therapy is an opportunity to be compassionately curious about ourselves – to reflect on our experiences, patterns, losses, traumas, and relationships, and consider how they impact our wellbeing and our sense of self. I want to support you in your process of tending to the pieces of yourself and your story that often feel sticky or unapproachable and offer a space to explore ways to find peace and a sense of grounding. If you’re going through a major loss, experiencing anxiety/depression or noticing patterns in your relationships, I am here to witness your insights and strengthen your connection to self.
(480) 372-9435 View (480) 372-9435
Photo of Jean Ball, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jean Ball, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned, licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years practicing in New York and Arizona. My goals for clients are to reduce emotional distress, improve coping skills and help with relationship conflict and communication. I believe negative thinking and beliefs affect both feelings and resulting behavior. Together, we will work to challenge barriers that interfere with your goals and emotional well being.
I am a seasoned, licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years practicing in New York and Arizona. My goals for clients are to reduce emotional distress, improve coping skills and help with relationship conflict and communication. I believe negative thinking and beliefs affect both feelings and resulting behavior. Together, we will work to challenge barriers that interfere with your goals and emotional well being.
(602) 693-0871 View (602) 693-0871
Photo of Kimberly M. Kotov, Psychologist in Arizona
Kimberly M. Kotov
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85755  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families facing life's challenges: age and cultural transitions; relationship issues; work, school, and creativity blocks; eating disorders; sexuality and sexual orientation; infertility; and parenting. I can help you explore and overcome barriers to feeling stuck, including mourning, anxiety, anger, and low motivation. I have worked in university settings, private hospitals, and private practice. Having lived abroad for years (UK, France, Russia), I also have a deep respect for the meaning of cultural identity for all of us.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families facing life's challenges: age and cultural transitions; relationship issues; work, school, and creativity blocks; eating disorders; sexuality and sexual orientation; infertility; and parenting. I can help you explore and overcome barriers to feeling stuck, including mourning, anxiety, anger, and low motivation. I have worked in university settings, private hospitals, and private practice. Having lived abroad for years (UK, France, Russia), I also have a deep respect for the meaning of cultural identity for all of us.
(520) 867-9764 View (520) 867-9764
Photo of Emma Calveri, Counselor in Arizona
Emma Calveri
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Thanks for being here! In my practice, I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing a spectrum of challenges. Whether it's navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, sexual concerns, or trauma, my focus is on guiding individuals towards mindfulness, self-awareness, and the compassion necessary for personal growth. For couples, I am dedicated to enhancing communication, fostering emotional closeness, and addressing the unique aspects of their relationships.
Thanks for being here! In my practice, I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing a spectrum of challenges. Whether it's navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, sexual concerns, or trauma, my focus is on guiding individuals towards mindfulness, self-awareness, and the compassion necessary for personal growth. For couples, I am dedicated to enhancing communication, fostering emotional closeness, and addressing the unique aspects of their relationships.
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Photo of Renewal Centers, Inc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Renewal Centers, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Renewal Centers, Inc is a non-profit, faith-based, counseling center dedicated to bringing health and healing to our community. Renewal Centers' Providers are educated, compassionate and thoughtful, with a proven track record of helping people find solutions to life's challenges. We work with couples, families and individuals to bring about hope and healing in all situations. We currently have 3 locations (NW (Oracle and Ina) Tucson, East Broadway in Tucson, and Green Valley/Sahuarita).
Renewal Centers, Inc is a non-profit, faith-based, counseling center dedicated to bringing health and healing to our community. Renewal Centers' Providers are educated, compassionate and thoughtful, with a proven track record of helping people find solutions to life's challenges. We work with couples, families and individuals to bring about hope and healing in all situations. We currently have 3 locations (NW (Oracle and Ina) Tucson, East Broadway in Tucson, and Green Valley/Sahuarita).
(520) 394-6562 View (520) 394-6562
Photo of Alexa Mosher, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arizona
Alexa Mosher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85248
I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals from a wide array of backgrounds.
Life is a journey made meaningful by our relationships, and at times, those relationships may face challenges that feel insurmountable. My goal is not only to assist in navigating these present challenges but also to provide tools that will instill confidence in your future self to conquer them. As a clinician, I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals to foster healthy and thriving relationships. Together, we can break down barriers and build relationships that promote connection, love, and happiness.
I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals from a wide array of backgrounds.
Life is a journey made meaningful by our relationships, and at times, those relationships may face challenges that feel insurmountable. My goal is not only to assist in navigating these present challenges but also to provide tools that will instill confidence in your future self to conquer them. As a clinician, I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals to foster healthy and thriving relationships. Together, we can break down barriers and build relationships that promote connection, love, and happiness.
(480) 739-3186 View (480) 739-3186
Photo of Dr. Karen Ruskin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Dr. Karen Ruskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
As a Psychotherapist, LMFT, life/relationship/family/job coach, consultant, I'm compassionate & multidisciplinary using the best fit therapy style based on the unique needs of each client: CBT, IFS, solutions, mind-body connection, strategies/action steps, meditation, mindfulness, holistic, family systems, insight, narrative, direct, empowerment & more.
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space to provide you with the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Youth? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental and relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
As a Psychotherapist, LMFT, life/relationship/family/job coach, consultant, I'm compassionate & multidisciplinary using the best fit therapy style based on the unique needs of each client: CBT, IFS, solutions, mind-body connection, strategies/action steps, meditation, mindfulness, holistic, family systems, insight, narrative, direct, empowerment & more.
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space to provide you with the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Youth? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental and relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
(781) 241-7837 View (781) 241-7837
Photo of Elizabeth Pinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Elizabeth Pinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(480) 745-1621 View (480) 745-1621
Photo of Laura K Orlich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Laura K Orlich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MC, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
I support individuals and couples who are struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image concerns, and other mood disorders to arrive at long-term, sustainable solutions. Years of experience and varied theoretical approaches address root-causes that drive your distress. In a safe, compassionate environment, you can explore your questions, concerns, fears, and goals. I devote attention, energy, expertise, humor and best recommendations to help you discover what you need to move forward. I work with English and Spanish speakers and all religions and backgrounds, including the LDS community.
I support individuals and couples who are struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image concerns, and other mood disorders to arrive at long-term, sustainable solutions. Years of experience and varied theoretical approaches address root-causes that drive your distress. In a safe, compassionate environment, you can explore your questions, concerns, fears, and goals. I devote attention, energy, expertise, humor and best recommendations to help you discover what you need to move forward. I work with English and Spanish speakers and all religions and backgrounds, including the LDS community.
(520) 686-7377 View (520) 686-7377
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.