Photo of Jeff McIntosh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Jeff McIntosh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I have been providing professional therapeutic services to a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. My current specialized areas of interest are life transitions, mindfulness with teens, trauma healing using EMDR, and recovery from sexual abuse and addiction.
I have been providing professional therapeutic services to a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. My current specialized areas of interest are life transitions, mindfulness with teens, trauma healing using EMDR, and recovery from sexual abuse and addiction.
(925) 241-5200 View (925) 241-5200
Photo of Rene L. Lewellyn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Rene L. Lewellyn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
As such, I work with children, adults, and couples to help them set and achieve manageable, and personally meaningful goals.
Relationships are a fact of life. We all live in relation to each other as spouses, children, parents & friends. Even in the best of these relationships, inevitably, problems occur. Often, we are able to resolve problems on our own. However, there are times when the help of an expert in relationships, such as a Marriage and Family Therapist, is needed to: *improve communications, *increase understanding in relationships, *resolve conflicts, *improve parenting skills,*relieve stress, depression, anxiety,*strengthen the bonds of relationships & gain a better understanding of one another.
As such, I work with children, adults, and couples to help them set and achieve manageable, and personally meaningful goals.
Relationships are a fact of life. We all live in relation to each other as spouses, children, parents & friends. Even in the best of these relationships, inevitably, problems occur. Often, we are able to resolve problems on our own. However, there are times when the help of an expert in relationships, such as a Marriage and Family Therapist, is needed to: *improve communications, *increase understanding in relationships, *resolve conflicts, *improve parenting skills,*relieve stress, depression, anxiety,*strengthen the bonds of relationships & gain a better understanding of one another.
(925) 979-5943 View (925) 979-5943
Photo of Kellie Haser, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Brentwood, CA
Kellie Haser
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, Intern
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I would be honored to partner with you as you walk this journey to freedom while giving you encouragement and emphasizing your strengths.
Hello! Thank you for checking out my page. I am an LMFT/LPC trainee located in the East Bay. I am under the supervision of. Melinda Haynes, MA, LMFT 102308 at Family & Children Counseling Services. I approach therapy mainly from a Humanistic Rogerian view. I want to help you to feel valued, seen, and heard. I am here to provide an emotionally supportive and empathetic environment to help you go through whatever season you are in life. With my non-judgmental and warm demeanor, I would like to help you to navigate and process the different situations and emotions that have contributed to some of the problems you are facing.
I would be honored to partner with you as you walk this journey to freedom while giving you encouragement and emphasizing your strengths.
Hello! Thank you for checking out my page. I am an LMFT/LPC trainee located in the East Bay. I am under the supervision of. Melinda Haynes, MA, LMFT 102308 at Family & Children Counseling Services. I approach therapy mainly from a Humanistic Rogerian view. I want to help you to feel valued, seen, and heard. I am here to provide an emotionally supportive and empathetic environment to help you go through whatever season you are in life. With my non-judgmental and warm demeanor, I would like to help you to navigate and process the different situations and emotions that have contributed to some of the problems you are facing.
(925) 693-7550 View (925) 693-7550
Photo of Denise Olson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Denise Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
My desire is for you to see true change and movement from the things that are holding you back whether depression, anxiety, fear, stress, grief, emotional disconnect, spiritual confusion, or relationship difficulties. I use a variety of psych. techniques tailored specifically for you and your situation. I have extensive training in EMDR, Brain Spotting, and ImTT (Image Transformation Therapy). These treatments provide a way to move you forward in a gentle way. They are also highly effective in helping to gain freedom from deeply ingrained negative beliefs and life experiences that are limiting you..
My desire is for you to see true change and movement from the things that are holding you back whether depression, anxiety, fear, stress, grief, emotional disconnect, spiritual confusion, or relationship difficulties. I use a variety of psych. techniques tailored specifically for you and your situation. I have extensive training in EMDR, Brain Spotting, and ImTT (Image Transformation Therapy). These treatments provide a way to move you forward in a gentle way. They are also highly effective in helping to gain freedom from deeply ingrained negative beliefs and life experiences that are limiting you..
(925) 489-0626 View (925) 489-0626
Photo of Raquel C Hare, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Raquel C Hare
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Are you struggling with relationship concerns? Are you a parent struggling with your teenage child? Psychotherapy gives us the opportunity to better understand our problems and allows us to make the important changes we want. Psychotherapy can be useful for people with a variety of psychological disorders, ranging from stress to phobias, and relational issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Are you struggling with relationship concerns? Are you a parent struggling with your teenage child? Psychotherapy gives us the opportunity to better understand our problems and allows us to make the important changes we want. Psychotherapy can be useful for people with a variety of psychological disorders, ranging from stress to phobias, and relational issues.
(925) 900-5592 View (925) 900-5592
Photo of Maya Rasak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Maya Rasak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IBP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
My specialty is helping people make the mind/body connection so they can live more conscious integrated lives and experience true intimacy, both individual and couples.
Feeling stuck in familiar self defeating patterns? I can help uncover unconscious habits or behaviors that keep you anxious and depressed. Through active listening, and interactive exercises my direct approach helps you encounter hidden parts of yourself, enabling you to integrate these into one whole, thriving person with greater capacity to live and love completely. With extensive background in Western Psychology and Eastern practices I treat the whole being which leads to deeper awareness, changes in behavior and more satisfying relationships with others. Nothing changes if you don't take action. The journey begins with you.
My specialty is helping people make the mind/body connection so they can live more conscious integrated lives and experience true intimacy, both individual and couples.
Feeling stuck in familiar self defeating patterns? I can help uncover unconscious habits or behaviors that keep you anxious and depressed. Through active listening, and interactive exercises my direct approach helps you encounter hidden parts of yourself, enabling you to integrate these into one whole, thriving person with greater capacity to live and love completely. With extensive background in Western Psychology and Eastern practices I treat the whole being which leads to deeper awareness, changes in behavior and more satisfying relationships with others. Nothing changes if you don't take action. The journey begins with you.
(310) 895-9811 View (310) 895-9811
Photo of Debra Brunsten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Debra Brunsten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I work with adult individuals, couples and families to help you cope with not only life's daily struggles, but also provide support for crisis, traumas, challenging life transitions and relationship issues. I combine narrative and somatic therapies, as well as EMDR (trauma work), to help you decrease anxiety and depression, manage stress, cope with challenges and enhance your creativity and productivity. My approach is very conversational, interactive and solution- based. In contrast to heavy analysis, I strive to uncover and cultivate my client's strengths, abilities and values to help them overcome their problems.
I work with adult individuals, couples and families to help you cope with not only life's daily struggles, but also provide support for crisis, traumas, challenging life transitions and relationship issues. I combine narrative and somatic therapies, as well as EMDR (trauma work), to help you decrease anxiety and depression, manage stress, cope with challenges and enhance your creativity and productivity. My approach is very conversational, interactive and solution- based. In contrast to heavy analysis, I strive to uncover and cultivate my client's strengths, abilities and values to help them overcome their problems.
(310) 494-7039 View (310) 494-7039
Photo of Shelly D Minor, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Shelly D Minor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Do you find yourself tired, feeling empty or discouraged with your relationships, career, or life in general? Do you struggle in making important decisions, on the job, as a parent, or as a spouse? To have true contentment in life we need to have a working knowledge of who we are and how our experience shape the way we think, feeling and react to others. In order to deal with life's challenges, we must fully understand who we are and how we interact with our environment and other significant people in our lives.
Do you find yourself tired, feeling empty or discouraged with your relationships, career, or life in general? Do you struggle in making important decisions, on the job, as a parent, or as a spouse? To have true contentment in life we need to have a working knowledge of who we are and how our experience shape the way we think, feeling and react to others. In order to deal with life's challenges, we must fully understand who we are and how we interact with our environment and other significant people in our lives.
(925) 238-8873 View (925) 238-8873
Photo of Poneva Hamlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Poneva Hamlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Looking for a supportive non-judgmental therapeutic environment; I help my clients identify multiple strengths in life as well as develop tools towards rewarding goals. I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, families, blended families, as well as couples and adolescence. The experience of depression, trauma and anxiety can be challenging in many different areas of relationships. You no longer have to feel frustrated and alone trying to solve family challenges on your own. "Ready to experience a breakthrough?" I am committed to supporting you individually, or collectively.
Looking for a supportive non-judgmental therapeutic environment; I help my clients identify multiple strengths in life as well as develop tools towards rewarding goals. I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, families, blended families, as well as couples and adolescence. The experience of depression, trauma and anxiety can be challenging in many different areas of relationships. You no longer have to feel frustrated and alone trying to solve family challenges on your own. "Ready to experience a breakthrough?" I am committed to supporting you individually, or collectively.
(925) 293-7089 View (925) 293-7089
Photo of Queen Adu-Poku At Royal Emotional Care Group , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Queen Adu-Poku At Royal Emotional Care Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
We provide help for stress, depression, anxiety, relational problems, PTSD, (trauma), crisis intervention, multicultural couples work, and treatment for issues related to high risk pregnancies.
Are you in need of support, empathy, understanding, patience, and the need to make changes? Life is so uncertain with so many struggles, difficulties and pain. Life is also full of opportunity, beauty, joy and love. Sometimes help is needed to develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges and to embrace your place of peace. Every individual is unique and has the power of choice. Finding the balance between the duality of life is worth the time and effort to enjoy an inner peace. If you are looking for help to find your balance in life and making positive choices, please contact us at Royal Emotional Care
We provide help for stress, depression, anxiety, relational problems, PTSD, (trauma), crisis intervention, multicultural couples work, and treatment for issues related to high risk pregnancies.
Are you in need of support, empathy, understanding, patience, and the need to make changes? Life is so uncertain with so many struggles, difficulties and pain. Life is also full of opportunity, beauty, joy and love. Sometimes help is needed to develop coping skills to deal with life's challenges and to embrace your place of peace. Every individual is unique and has the power of choice. Finding the balance between the duality of life is worth the time and effort to enjoy an inner peace. If you are looking for help to find your balance in life and making positive choices, please contact us at Royal Emotional Care
(925) 391-2435 View (925) 391-2435
Photo of Dr Richard C Hanzy - MyFaith CCS, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Dr Richard C Hanzy - MyFaith CCS
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Welcome! And thank you! I love to work with Couples, Families, and individuals who are seeking to overcome barriers in their lives. Some are struggling with: * anger management, * addiction, * Jobs stress, * familial & social relationships issues, * loneliness, * anxiety, * current or past abuse * depression, * poor communication, * relationship issues, * parenting, * Trauma/Traumatic events * poor focus and attention, * low motivation, * veterans support, * VICTIM OF A VIOLENT CRIME (VOC),* and the search for purpose. Often many people are stuck in addictive self-destructive patterns in their lives, which result from an effort to manage their emotional pain.
Welcome! And thank you! I love to work with Couples, Families, and individuals who are seeking to overcome barriers in their lives. Some are struggling with: * anger management, * addiction, * Jobs stress, * familial & social relationships issues, * loneliness, * anxiety, * current or past abuse * depression, * poor communication, * relationship issues, * parenting, * Trauma/Traumatic events * poor focus and attention, * low motivation, * veterans support, * VICTIM OF A VIOLENT CRIME (VOC),* and the search for purpose. Often many people are stuck in addictive self-destructive patterns in their lives, which result from an effort to manage their emotional pain.
(925) 892-3790 View (925) 892-3790
Photo of Dr. Faith Szalay, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Dr. Faith Szalay
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
My practice is devoted to working with adults, adolescents and couples to help them deal with difficulties in their relationships and in their personal lives. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I am continually honored and intrigued by being able to help people in their lives. I received my degrees (Summa Cum Laude) from Washington University, and my doctorate in Psychology is from CSPP. In addition to my years of work in private practice, my experience includes years of intensive supervised client counseling, and now I am a supervisor at a well established clinic, in addition to my practice.
My practice is devoted to working with adults, adolescents and couples to help them deal with difficulties in their relationships and in their personal lives. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, and I am continually honored and intrigued by being able to help people in their lives. I received my degrees (Summa Cum Laude) from Washington University, and my doctorate in Psychology is from CSPP. In addition to my years of work in private practice, my experience includes years of intensive supervised client counseling, and now I am a supervisor at a well established clinic, in addition to my practice.
(323) 878-2263 View (323) 878-2263
Photo of A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Photo of David McKnight, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
David McKnight
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
VIDEO, Saturday and Evening Sessions available- Having anxiety, depression, work/career issues? Relationship, family or addiction (alcohol, drugs, phone, sex/love addiction, codependency), ADHD, chronic pain/health issues? I can help. It is extremely valuable to have a truly experienced and effective therapist to work with now more than ever. I have been doing counseling professionally for over 20 years and have seen my clients consistently make progress dealing with whatever challenges they have been facing. I offer support, compassion, valuable experience and a healthy relationship where a person can heal and grow.
VIDEO, Saturday and Evening Sessions available- Having anxiety, depression, work/career issues? Relationship, family or addiction (alcohol, drugs, phone, sex/love addiction, codependency), ADHD, chronic pain/health issues? I can help. It is extremely valuable to have a truly experienced and effective therapist to work with now more than ever. I have been doing counseling professionally for over 20 years and have seen my clients consistently make progress dealing with whatever challenges they have been facing. I offer support, compassion, valuable experience and a healthy relationship where a person can heal and grow.
(562) 444-1358 View (562) 444-1358
Photo of Miryam Saidian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, CA
Miryam Saidian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I believe the most important relationship we have is with ourselves and I work from an integrated approach including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Attachment theory to explore the client’s core beliefs and rewrite harmful narratives that have formed in childhood or adulthood to facilitate increased self-esteem and confidence.
At times, we may face challenges which can leave us feeling overwhelmed, confused, and alone. I'll meet you where you are and highlight your strengths as we work together to identify patterns or behaviors that aren't serving you. I understand that everyone’s therapeutic journey is different and offer personalized care and coaching as you pursue your therapeutic goals. I work well with individuals who seek to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression and learn healthy coping mechanisms in aiming to foster personal growth. I am also passionate about working with individuals who seek to develop healthier romantic relationships.
I believe the most important relationship we have is with ourselves and I work from an integrated approach including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Attachment theory to explore the client’s core beliefs and rewrite harmful narratives that have formed in childhood or adulthood to facilitate increased self-esteem and confidence.
At times, we may face challenges which can leave us feeling overwhelmed, confused, and alone. I'll meet you where you are and highlight your strengths as we work together to identify patterns or behaviors that aren't serving you. I understand that everyone’s therapeutic journey is different and offer personalized care and coaching as you pursue your therapeutic goals. I work well with individuals who seek to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression and learn healthy coping mechanisms in aiming to foster personal growth. I am also passionate about working with individuals who seek to develop healthier romantic relationships.
(818) 514-7539 View (818) 514-7539
Photo of Andrea Milwidsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Andrea Milwidsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Through establishing a genuine therapeutic connection in a compassionate environment we can collaboratively unpack difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing and look at possibilities towards overcoming these towards living a more manageable and satisfying life. I utilize various methods and approaches towards this end and work with a diverse population of children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. I treat a wide variety of issues with ease in a present and nonjudgmental manner.
Through establishing a genuine therapeutic connection in a compassionate environment we can collaboratively unpack difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing and look at possibilities towards overcoming these towards living a more manageable and satisfying life. I utilize various methods and approaches towards this end and work with a diverse population of children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. I treat a wide variety of issues with ease in a present and nonjudgmental manner.
(424) 232-0579 View (424) 232-0579
Photo of Debbie B. Dery, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Debbie B. Dery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Whether you feel stuck in your relationship/s, experiencing stress and anxiety, feeling sad, struggling with your partner and/or parenting raising a child with ADHD, we can work together and identify the source of what brought you in to therapy, identify your goals, and explore best possible solutions that will help you feel successful. I creatively integrate a relational model and scientifically proven cognitive behavior techniques which will allow clients gain insight and acquire tools for a positive change in their lives. Together we can find your true growth potential so you can lead a fulfilling life that is worth celebrating.
Whether you feel stuck in your relationship/s, experiencing stress and anxiety, feeling sad, struggling with your partner and/or parenting raising a child with ADHD, we can work together and identify the source of what brought you in to therapy, identify your goals, and explore best possible solutions that will help you feel successful. I creatively integrate a relational model and scientifically proven cognitive behavior techniques which will allow clients gain insight and acquire tools for a positive change in their lives. Together we can find your true growth potential so you can lead a fulfilling life that is worth celebrating.
(818) 814-6535 View (818) 814-6535
Photo of Nancy Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Nancy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have over 20 years experience in the behavioral, mental and medical health field, and practice from a holistic mind-body approach. I use my broad knowledge of practical psychological tools and extensive experience to help people tackle issues they wish to address, such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, sleep difficulties, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have over 20 years experience in the behavioral, mental and medical health field, and practice from a holistic mind-body approach. I use my broad knowledge of practical psychological tools and extensive experience to help people tackle issues they wish to address, such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, sleep difficulties, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
(626) 899-9874 View (626) 899-9874
Photo of Shawna Cobabe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
(925) 329-6259 View (925) 329-6259
Photo of John K Ojewole, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
John K Ojewole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
You have come to this page for a purpose. I want to welcome you to this page in your exploration of resources for emotional support. Life is full of challenges. The pandemic also brings emotional distress. When we cannot handle life’s situation, it is all right to reach out to someone who could be helpful. I can provide that support. I enjoy working with Couples, Families, and adults who strive to address their hurts, distress, and struggles. If you are troubled, struggling, and emotionally overwhelmed, I have listening ears and an empathic posture to support you. I offer Christian counseling, also. Presently, I provide teletherapy
You have come to this page for a purpose. I want to welcome you to this page in your exploration of resources for emotional support. Life is full of challenges. The pandemic also brings emotional distress. When we cannot handle life’s situation, it is all right to reach out to someone who could be helpful. I can provide that support. I enjoy working with Couples, Families, and adults who strive to address their hurts, distress, and struggles. If you are troubled, struggling, and emotionally overwhelmed, I have listening ears and an empathic posture to support you. I offer Christian counseling, also. Presently, I provide teletherapy
(925) 369-7489 View (925) 369-7489
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.