Photo of Genaro Huerta, Psychologist in Arizona
Genaro Huerta
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
My expertise consists of challenges related to domestic violence, mood disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, spirituality, stress, life transitions, acculturation, grief, trauma, and others.
Our mission at Coral Valley is to support you through the ups, downs, and in-betweens of life through the provision of evidence-based, culturally curious psychological interventions within the frame of an empathic, therapeutic relationship—in English, Spanish, or both. Coral Valley Clinicians strive to offer a therapeutic "holding environment" in which we truly hear, not just what you say, but also what you may struggle to convey. We incorporate relational, person-centered, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based, and other evidence-based interventions.
My expertise consists of challenges related to domestic violence, mood disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, spirituality, stress, life transitions, acculturation, grief, trauma, and others.
Our mission at Coral Valley is to support you through the ups, downs, and in-betweens of life through the provision of evidence-based, culturally curious psychological interventions within the frame of an empathic, therapeutic relationship—in English, Spanish, or both. Coral Valley Clinicians strive to offer a therapeutic "holding environment" in which we truly hear, not just what you say, but also what you may struggle to convey. We incorporate relational, person-centered, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based, and other evidence-based interventions.
(520) 502-5975 View (520) 502-5975
Photo of Courtney Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Courtney Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85205
Accepting new clients! (Self-pay only, not in network with any insurance.) I work with adolescents, couples, families, young adults, and women! Family relationships can be the most rewarding and long-lasting. Sometimes additional support is needed to help relationships flourish. I work with teens to develop coping skills and help families increase resilience. Growing up can be so tough! My specialties include gender dysphoria and resolving faith crises. In couples therapy, I utilize EFT to help couples repair bonds strained from miscommunication, disengagement, or unmet needs.
Accepting new clients! (Self-pay only, not in network with any insurance.) I work with adolescents, couples, families, young adults, and women! Family relationships can be the most rewarding and long-lasting. Sometimes additional support is needed to help relationships flourish. I work with teens to develop coping skills and help families increase resilience. Growing up can be so tough! My specialties include gender dysphoria and resolving faith crises. In couples therapy, I utilize EFT to help couples repair bonds strained from miscommunication, disengagement, or unmet needs.
(480) 210-4940 View (480) 210-4940
Photo of Rachel P Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Rachel P Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Hi All! I am a passionate and empathetic licensed therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience for children, teenagers, adults and families. Being open and vulnerable is a huge step into your healing journey and I love being a guide to help.I help my clients with a variety of challenges such as generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, gender identity, trauma, anger, self- esteem, grief & loss, life stressors, family and relationship issues including family of origin/generational trauma issues, life changes, pre/post partum mental health issues and eating disorders. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
Hi All! I am a passionate and empathetic licensed therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience for children, teenagers, adults and families. Being open and vulnerable is a huge step into your healing journey and I love being a guide to help.I help my clients with a variety of challenges such as generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, gender identity, trauma, anger, self- esteem, grief & loss, life stressors, family and relationship issues including family of origin/generational trauma issues, life changes, pre/post partum mental health issues and eating disorders. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
(480) 741-3254 View (480) 741-3254
Photo of Sinead Jackson Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sinead Jackson Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716
You no longer need to feel isolated or ashamed of your feelings. I have created a safe place for you to explore your concerns with empathic understanding and acceptance. I have specialized in anxiety, depression and relationship issues since 1982. Does your anxiety interfere with daily activities and relationships? We will explore the root of your issue and give you tools to help you calm down and be in control of them. Perhaps you force a smile on your face but inside are feeling despair or separated from others and your surroundings.Together we will get to the root of these issues so you can have healthy, fulfilling relationships.
You no longer need to feel isolated or ashamed of your feelings. I have created a safe place for you to explore your concerns with empathic understanding and acceptance. I have specialized in anxiety, depression and relationship issues since 1982. Does your anxiety interfere with daily activities and relationships? We will explore the root of your issue and give you tools to help you calm down and be in control of them. Perhaps you force a smile on your face but inside are feeling despair or separated from others and your surroundings.Together we will get to the root of these issues so you can have healthy, fulfilling relationships.
(520) 376-2323 View (520) 376-2323
Photo of Dr. Sharonah Magdalen Hanson in Arizona
Dr. Sharonah Magdalen Hanson
PMHNP, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
She enjoys working with all ages, as individuals, families or couples.
Do you want more love, joy, & success in your life? Are you a parent with a struggling child or teen? Dr. Sharonah helps people of all ages build the clarity, emotional intelligence, & ability to control what they can (& stop trying to control the impossible), so they can truly master their own abilities to feel good, love themselves & others, be who they were meant to be, & live the life they desire. She works with those who get in their own way, who are burdened by the past, who feel stuck or like they're going uphill, with parents who are uncertain how to best aid their children, & with children/teens experiencing difficulties.
She enjoys working with all ages, as individuals, families or couples.
Do you want more love, joy, & success in your life? Are you a parent with a struggling child or teen? Dr. Sharonah helps people of all ages build the clarity, emotional intelligence, & ability to control what they can (& stop trying to control the impossible), so they can truly master their own abilities to feel good, love themselves & others, be who they were meant to be, & live the life they desire. She works with those who get in their own way, who are burdened by the past, who feel stuck or like they're going uphill, with parents who are uncertain how to best aid their children, & with children/teens experiencing difficulties.
(602) 560-7279 View (602) 560-7279
Photo of Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in providing an empathetic and non-judgmental experience throughout the therapy process. I offer compassionate support and guidance to individuals, couples, and families. Through a comprehensive assessment, I seek to understand how personal experiences, family history, culture, spirituality, sexual orientation, gender identity & expression, race, life stage, and relationship patterns influence well being and current challenges. I work collaboratively to identify strengths and resources in order to help clients transform the way they navigate life and work toward healing and change.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in providing an empathetic and non-judgmental experience throughout the therapy process. I offer compassionate support and guidance to individuals, couples, and families. Through a comprehensive assessment, I seek to understand how personal experiences, family history, culture, spirituality, sexual orientation, gender identity & expression, race, life stage, and relationship patterns influence well being and current challenges. I work collaboratively to identify strengths and resources in order to help clients transform the way they navigate life and work toward healing and change.
(520) 341-2015 View (520) 341-2015
Photo of Larry Dumka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Larry Dumka
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
I use research based brief therapy approaches to help COUPLES, FAMILIES, and INDIVIDUALS reduce distress and achieve more satisfying lives. I specialize in working with COUPLES using methods from Integrative Couple Therapy. I first carefully assess each partner's goals and concerns, identify troublesome patterns, and set a direction for change. Couples then decide if they want to work with me further to learn skills to reduce hurtful conflict and increase emotional and sexual intimacy. I also treat couples preparing for marriage, experiencing infidelity, or adjusting to separation and divorce.
I use research based brief therapy approaches to help COUPLES, FAMILIES, and INDIVIDUALS reduce distress and achieve more satisfying lives. I specialize in working with COUPLES using methods from Integrative Couple Therapy. I first carefully assess each partner's goals and concerns, identify troublesome patterns, and set a direction for change. Couples then decide if they want to work with me further to learn skills to reduce hurtful conflict and increase emotional and sexual intimacy. I also treat couples preparing for marriage, experiencing infidelity, or adjusting to separation and divorce.
(480) 241-4910 View (480) 241-4910
Photo of Paula M. DeMore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Paula M. DeMore
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I am experienced with adolescents, adults and couples.
Life can definitely go sideways; I’m here to help you right what’s gone wrong. I’m probably not your typical therapist. I’m a lawyer, a mother and a mid-life divorce survivor. I’m transparent and a little unorthodox at times. You will never wonder if you are sitting with a real person. We will laugh, we may cry, and I won't mind if you drop an f-bomb or two. I will never judge you or presume to know more about you than you know yourself. Your story matters; I want to know how you show up in your life and how your history and experience coalesced to bring you here. I will not waste your time chatting; we have work to do.
I am experienced with adolescents, adults and couples.
Life can definitely go sideways; I’m here to help you right what’s gone wrong. I’m probably not your typical therapist. I’m a lawyer, a mother and a mid-life divorce survivor. I’m transparent and a little unorthodox at times. You will never wonder if you are sitting with a real person. We will laugh, we may cry, and I won't mind if you drop an f-bomb or two. I will never judge you or presume to know more about you than you know yourself. Your story matters; I want to know how you show up in your life and how your history and experience coalesced to bring you here. I will not waste your time chatting; we have work to do.
(602) 910-2059 View (602) 910-2059
Photo of Cynthia A. Criss, Counselor in Arizona
Cynthia A. Criss
Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
and is trained in the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model, a partner sensitive treatment for partners of persons with sexual compulsive behaviors.
With over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, founded a private practice, Open Hearts, Open Minds Counseling Services specializing in the treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and intimacy disorders. Treatment of intimacy disorders may include a focus on sexual compulsivity, infidelity and relational trauma. Cynthia helps persons to create healthy and intimate relationships. She provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in the treatment of addiction (sexual compulsive behavior, drugs, alcohol), depression, anxiety, and trauma.
and is trained in the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model, a partner sensitive treatment for partners of persons with sexual compulsive behaviors.
With over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, founded a private practice, Open Hearts, Open Minds Counseling Services specializing in the treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and intimacy disorders. Treatment of intimacy disorders may include a focus on sexual compulsivity, infidelity and relational trauma. Cynthia helps persons to create healthy and intimate relationships. She provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in the treatment of addiction (sexual compulsive behavior, drugs, alcohol), depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(602) 461-7619 View (602) 461-7619
Photo of Chellsey Atkerson, Counselor in Arizona
Chellsey Atkerson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a firm believer in meeting my clients where they are and building a therapeutic relationship that supports safety, confidence and mutual trust and respect to promote a successful counseling experience.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma informed care while also understanding that every client is unique. My main areas of interest include trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health to include traumatic birth experiences and losses, and working with the inner child to meet unfulfilled needs and develop healthier behaviors while increasing the overall quality of life through use of identified strengths.
I am a firm believer in meeting my clients where they are and building a therapeutic relationship that supports safety, confidence and mutual trust and respect to promote a successful counseling experience.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma informed care while also understanding that every client is unique. My main areas of interest include trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health to include traumatic birth experiences and losses, and working with the inner child to meet unfulfilled needs and develop healthier behaviors while increasing the overall quality of life through use of identified strengths.
(602) 960-8981 View (602) 960-8981
Photo of Brandi Mott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Brandi Mott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, history of trauma, and other issues. You may have tried other therapies or attempted self-help but are still struggling. You would like to believe that something could help. Let's meet for a consultation, measure your comfort level, and discuss your goals.
You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, history of trauma, and other issues. You may have tried other therapies or attempted self-help but are still struggling. You would like to believe that something could help. Let's meet for a consultation, measure your comfort level, and discuss your goals.
(480) 405-7044 View (480) 405-7044
Photo of Maricela Michelle Smith, Psychologist in Arizona
Maricela Michelle Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Hi, my name is Dr. Maricela Smith and I am a licensed psychologist in the State of Arizona. I specialize in working with patients diagnosed with a serious mental illness and/or part of the general mental health population. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My ideal patient would be someone ready to make changes in their life. Seeing personal growth and aiding in other's progress makes my job enjoyable and rewarding. I strive to help my patients through difficult times, be there as a support, help them shrug off the necessary mistakes, and celebrate their successes.
Hi, my name is Dr. Maricela Smith and I am a licensed psychologist in the State of Arizona. I specialize in working with patients diagnosed with a serious mental illness and/or part of the general mental health population. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My ideal patient would be someone ready to make changes in their life. Seeing personal growth and aiding in other's progress makes my job enjoyable and rewarding. I strive to help my patients through difficult times, be there as a support, help them shrug off the necessary mistakes, and celebrate their successes.
(928) 916-6197 View (928) 916-6197
Photo of Chet Weld, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Chet Weld
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85741
" I encourage couples to "hold a crown over each other's heads," as I do with all clients.
Searching for marriage counseling with an experienced Christian-based therapist? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, family issues, or other specific needs? I have 40 years of experience as a therapist. I've been the director of counseling in two large churches and worship leader in another one. With clients who value faith in Christ, I integrate biblical principles and techniques, including prayer and the use of scriptures. I also counsel people of all faiths and will meet you where you're at. I think of myself as "warm and human first; professional always."
" I encourage couples to "hold a crown over each other's heads," as I do with all clients.
Searching for marriage counseling with an experienced Christian-based therapist? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, family issues, or other specific needs? I have 40 years of experience as a therapist. I've been the director of counseling in two large churches and worship leader in another one. With clients who value faith in Christ, I integrate biblical principles and techniques, including prayer and the use of scriptures. I also counsel people of all faiths and will meet you where you're at. I think of myself as "warm and human first; professional always."
(520) 655-6496 View (520) 655-6496
Photo of Michael A Hoyt, Counselor in Arizona
Michael A Hoyt
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Most importantly, I believe that promoting a positive and professional relationship can be the foundation for creating significant change.
****I AM CURRENTLY CONDUCTING SESSIONS BY TELEHEALTH ONLY****I believe that you are utilizing the best coping skills you have available at any particular moment. Sometimes, despite best efforts, you might get stuck. You might feel like you have approached a problem area from all angles. Prolonged stress can make matters worse. It is not uncommon for life to feel, "out of balance." My philosophy is to try to re-gain balance. To feel like all parts of your life are in sync. Further, I believe that true happiness is possible once you reach your highest potential.
Most importantly, I believe that promoting a positive and professional relationship can be the foundation for creating significant change.
****I AM CURRENTLY CONDUCTING SESSIONS BY TELEHEALTH ONLY****I believe that you are utilizing the best coping skills you have available at any particular moment. Sometimes, despite best efforts, you might get stuck. You might feel like you have approached a problem area from all angles. Prolonged stress can make matters worse. It is not uncommon for life to feel, "out of balance." My philosophy is to try to re-gain balance. To feel like all parts of your life are in sync. Further, I believe that true happiness is possible once you reach your highest potential.
(602) 388-1013 View (602) 388-1013
Photo of AZ Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
AZ Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226
My diverse experiences working with couples of all ages and stages of life, teens, active military and veterans, and adult women for over 6 and a half years has allowed me to readily create realistic opportunities for change by utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities such as Solution-Focused, CBT, and Experiential.
My goal is to help you overcome the feeling of being stuck so you can start moving forward! Whether this is related to your relationships, feelings of anxiety, or a recent change in your life, I am dedicated to uncovering the root cause of these issues, eradicating the discomfort and transforming it into functional daily living. A safe, judgment free environment will be felt along with the introduction of tools and techniques to create progress during this journey! Through a client centered approach, we will team up to uncover your underlying needs and explore healthy solutions to create meaningful change.
My diverse experiences working with couples of all ages and stages of life, teens, active military and veterans, and adult women for over 6 and a half years has allowed me to readily create realistic opportunities for change by utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities such as Solution-Focused, CBT, and Experiential.
My goal is to help you overcome the feeling of being stuck so you can start moving forward! Whether this is related to your relationships, feelings of anxiety, or a recent change in your life, I am dedicated to uncovering the root cause of these issues, eradicating the discomfort and transforming it into functional daily living. A safe, judgment free environment will be felt along with the introduction of tools and techniques to create progress during this journey! Through a client centered approach, we will team up to uncover your underlying needs and explore healthy solutions to create meaningful change.
(602) 975-2023 View (602) 975-2023
Photo of Patricia Smith, Counselor in Arizona
Patricia Smith
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85381
Hello my name is Patty Smith and I'm a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master's Degree in Counseling. I have 6+ years' experience in the counseling field. I have been blessed to work with a diverse population from infants to the elderly, which includes helping individuals, teens, couples, veterans, and group work. My passion is working with children. I am skilled in working with domestic violence, substance abuse, suicide prevention, crisis work, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, marital, and family issues.
Hello my name is Patty Smith and I'm a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master's Degree in Counseling. I have 6+ years' experience in the counseling field. I have been blessed to work with a diverse population from infants to the elderly, which includes helping individuals, teens, couples, veterans, and group work. My passion is working with children. I am skilled in working with domestic violence, substance abuse, suicide prevention, crisis work, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, marital, and family issues.
(623) 471-1269 View (623) 471-1269
Photo of Justin S Armer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Justin S Armer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
I am most passionate about doing family and couples therapy.
I was born in Salinas and lived in California for the majority of my life. I am proud to have had the honor to serve in the military for five years. I have 18 years of experience providing psychotherapy in California's central valley. I have been licensed in California since 2012 and became licensed in Arizona in 2020. I am new to the Phoenix area and feel excited to start working with the community here as well. My theoretical approach to counseling is eclectic where I incorporate cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and psychodynamic treatment.
I am most passionate about doing family and couples therapy.
I was born in Salinas and lived in California for the majority of my life. I am proud to have had the honor to serve in the military for five years. I have 18 years of experience providing psychotherapy in California's central valley. I have been licensed in California since 2012 and became licensed in Arizona in 2020. I am new to the Phoenix area and feel excited to start working with the community here as well. My theoretical approach to counseling is eclectic where I incorporate cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and psychodynamic treatment.
(480) 588-0974 View (480) 588-0974
Photo of Jonathan Shelton, Psychologist in Arizona
Jonathan Shelton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85306
We provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families overcome various mental health concerns.
Dr. Shelton and other psychologists in the office, extensive expertise covers a wide spectrum of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to mood disorders and trauma recovery. At Trinity Tree Psychological Services we prioritize personalized treatment plans, combining evidence-based therapies and medication management to help you regain balance and thrive. Your journey to mental wellness begins here, where understanding, empathy, and professional care converge. Take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future with Trinity Tree Psychological Services.
We provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families overcome various mental health concerns.
Dr. Shelton and other psychologists in the office, extensive expertise covers a wide spectrum of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to mood disorders and trauma recovery. At Trinity Tree Psychological Services we prioritize personalized treatment plans, combining evidence-based therapies and medication management to help you regain balance and thrive. Your journey to mental wellness begins here, where understanding, empathy, and professional care converge. Take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future with Trinity Tree Psychological Services.
(602) 786-5574 View (602) 786-5574
Photo of Jessie Beliard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jessie Beliard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226
Whether it is a depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment issues, family conflict or relationship issues I can help with your needs.
Therapy is an intimate process; revealing feelings might feel scary and uncomfortable. My greatest reward as a counselor is helping my clients explore ways to make changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment and safe place to explore the issues throughout the counseling journey. I use a variety of approaches for individual or group counseling to help my clients, depending on individual needs. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors NBCC.
Whether it is a depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment issues, family conflict or relationship issues I can help with your needs.
Therapy is an intimate process; revealing feelings might feel scary and uncomfortable. My greatest reward as a counselor is helping my clients explore ways to make changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment and safe place to explore the issues throughout the counseling journey. I use a variety of approaches for individual or group counseling to help my clients, depending on individual needs. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors NBCC.
(602) 857-9870 View (602) 857-9870
Photo of Patti Arrington, Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona
Patti Arrington
Licensed Associate Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85209
Hi! I would love to help you through your struggles with phases of life, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, medical issues affecting mental health, general stress, the “I feel like something is wrong with me but I don’t know what it is” struggle, or any of the other things that make things hard. I work with families, couples, and individuals who need a safe space to process trauma, build skills, learn to communicate, set boundaries and learn to thrive again. You already have all the answers inside of you. Let me help you find your way through the struggles to help you live your best life.
Hi! I would love to help you through your struggles with phases of life, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, medical issues affecting mental health, general stress, the “I feel like something is wrong with me but I don’t know what it is” struggle, or any of the other things that make things hard. I work with families, couples, and individuals who need a safe space to process trauma, build skills, learn to communicate, set boundaries and learn to thrive again. You already have all the answers inside of you. Let me help you find your way through the struggles to help you live your best life.
(480) 405-7551 x707 View (480) 405-7551 x707

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.