Photo of Kathy Downing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Kathy Downing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Whether car accident fears; repairing your relationship from hurtful arguments; painful memories of child abuse; backstabbing from a friend or boss; or having survived bullying - healing is possible.
When someone says, "get over it" -- well, if it was that easy, you'd already have done that, right? It's not always that easy, getting past that stuck spot, especially when criticism & judgment add insult to injury. What I love to do more than anything in my life is, help people get past those upsetting memories, & make solid, lasting changes, and move forward, in freedom. Sometimes, that means helping to identify a subtle, indecipherable trauma. Sometimes that means, tackling unspeakably horrific violence you survived. Sometimes that means, working together with the two of you together for communication skills. Because -
Whether car accident fears; repairing your relationship from hurtful arguments; painful memories of child abuse; backstabbing from a friend or boss; or having survived bullying - healing is possible.
When someone says, "get over it" -- well, if it was that easy, you'd already have done that, right? It's not always that easy, getting past that stuck spot, especially when criticism & judgment add insult to injury. What I love to do more than anything in my life is, help people get past those upsetting memories, & make solid, lasting changes, and move forward, in freedom. Sometimes, that means helping to identify a subtle, indecipherable trauma. Sometimes that means, tackling unspeakably horrific violence you survived. Sometimes that means, working together with the two of you together for communication skills. Because -
(818) 306-4871 View (818) 306-4871
Photo of Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers, Psychologist in Burbank, CA
Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Our therapists at Wilshire Valley Therapy Center offer a wide range of treatment modalities addressing a range of issues including but not limited to Depression, Panic, Anxiety, & Trauma, Co-parenting, Divorce , Addictions & relationship issues.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
Our therapists at Wilshire Valley Therapy Center offer a wide range of treatment modalities addressing a range of issues including but not limited to Depression, Panic, Anxiety, & Trauma, Co-parenting, Divorce , Addictions & relationship issues.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
(747) 207-4245 View (747) 207-4245
Photo of Hope Therapy Center ~ Bringing Hope and Healing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Hope Therapy Center ~ Bringing Hope and Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91502
Hope Therapy Center works with children, teens, adults, couples, & families struggling with depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, relationship issues, communication difficulties, parenting issues, stress, identity issues, and behavior problems.
Life experiences, transitions, and relationships provide an opportunity to be challenged and to grow. Are you tired of feeling stressed, worried, moody or depressed? Maybe you are feeling stuck or frustrated in your current circumstances or having a hard time communicating with others in your life. Is your teen acting out or engaging in problematic behaviors? These obstacles can get in the way of enjoying life. Making the decision to enter therapy requires courage. We bring hope, a belief in your strengths, and confidence that you can create positive change in your life.
Hope Therapy Center works with children, teens, adults, couples, & families struggling with depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, relationship issues, communication difficulties, parenting issues, stress, identity issues, and behavior problems.
Life experiences, transitions, and relationships provide an opportunity to be challenged and to grow. Are you tired of feeling stressed, worried, moody or depressed? Maybe you are feeling stuck or frustrated in your current circumstances or having a hard time communicating with others in your life. Is your teen acting out or engaging in problematic behaviors? These obstacles can get in the way of enjoying life. Making the decision to enter therapy requires courage. We bring hope, a belief in your strengths, and confidence that you can create positive change in your life.
(310) 494-7036 View (310) 494-7036
Photo of Carol A Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Carol A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
25 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing severe anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by fear, struggling to sleep or confused by your loss of interest in things that used to bring you joy? Do you feel emotionally unstable in an intimate relationship, but stable in all your others? Do you say to yourself, 'something is not right', but can't pinpoint what is wrong? You may have been targeted or raised by a narcissistic. I believe you and I am here to help. Ours will be a collaborative journey with goals you set that will help reorient, re-empower and provide you a renewed sense of autonomy over your choices and your life.
Are you experiencing severe anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by fear, struggling to sleep or confused by your loss of interest in things that used to bring you joy? Do you feel emotionally unstable in an intimate relationship, but stable in all your others? Do you say to yourself, 'something is not right', but can't pinpoint what is wrong? You may have been targeted or raised by a narcissistic. I believe you and I am here to help. Ours will be a collaborative journey with goals you set that will help reorient, re-empower and provide you a renewed sense of autonomy over your choices and your life.
(818) 423-4677 View (818) 423-4677
Photo of Couples Learn, Psychologist in Burbank, CA
Couples Learn
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
Searching for the best solution for your relationship counseling needs? Our highly rated online couples therapy practice offers tailored solutions for individuals with relationship challenges, premarital counseling, couples therapy & marriage help. Ranked by Forbes as one of the best online couples therapy platforms, we stand apart as a premier psychology practice. Each of our therapists brings top-notch skills & expertise in the realm of love & relationships to help you on your journey towards healthier connections and a happier you. Don't wait! Grab the chance to chat with one of our amazing therapists for a free 30min consult.
Searching for the best solution for your relationship counseling needs? Our highly rated online couples therapy practice offers tailored solutions for individuals with relationship challenges, premarital counseling, couples therapy & marriage help. Ranked by Forbes as one of the best online couples therapy platforms, we stand apart as a premier psychology practice. Each of our therapists brings top-notch skills & expertise in the realm of love & relationships to help you on your journey towards healthier connections and a happier you. Don't wait! Grab the chance to chat with one of our amazing therapists for a free 30min consult.
(424) 383-7907 View (424) 383-7907
Photo of Andrew D. Greif, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Andrew D. Greif
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I enjoy working with individual Clients, Couples and Families and strive to present a safe and supportive therapy environment.
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
I enjoy working with individual Clients, Couples and Families and strive to present a safe and supportive therapy environment.
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
(818) 848-1488 View (818) 848-1488
Photo of Jessica Poulsen, Psychologist in Burbank, CA
Jessica Poulsen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
My goal is to be a nonjudgmental, curious partner in this journey with you and to provide a therapeutic relationship that facilitates healing and change.
I work with individuals who find themselves stuck in unhelpful patterns, in disappointing relationships, and in their own internal turmoil. They long to live more authentically and to have more meaningful relationships, but have a hard time breaking out of their usual ways of relating to themselves and others. Using a strength-based approach, I seek to understand and appreciate the larger context of who you are, how you became you, and how your struggles developed so that we can understand the deeper source of your pain, support you in shifting out of vicious cycles, and help you live a more centered, conscious life.
My goal is to be a nonjudgmental, curious partner in this journey with you and to provide a therapeutic relationship that facilitates healing and change.
I work with individuals who find themselves stuck in unhelpful patterns, in disappointing relationships, and in their own internal turmoil. They long to live more authentically and to have more meaningful relationships, but have a hard time breaking out of their usual ways of relating to themselves and others. Using a strength-based approach, I seek to understand and appreciate the larger context of who you are, how you became you, and how your struggles developed so that we can understand the deeper source of your pain, support you in shifting out of vicious cycles, and help you live a more centered, conscious life.
(818) 862-6653 View (818) 862-6653
Photo of Gina Wilson, MS Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burbank, CA
Gina Wilson, MS Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, EMDR, Cert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
Hi! Welcome, my life purpose is to work with Individuals to achieve their goals. I have 10 years experience with children, teens, adults, and groups. I will take the time to establish a meaningful relationship with you and collaborate with you to establish your goals of treatment. Together, we will engage in experiential exercises to help you create more awareness of your challenges and behaviors. With targeted interventions together we can reach your goals and find solutions, improve your life, and help you to feel good about yourself.
Hi! Welcome, my life purpose is to work with Individuals to achieve their goals. I have 10 years experience with children, teens, adults, and groups. I will take the time to establish a meaningful relationship with you and collaborate with you to establish your goals of treatment. Together, we will engage in experiential exercises to help you create more awareness of your challenges and behaviors. With targeted interventions together we can reach your goals and find solutions, improve your life, and help you to feel good about yourself.
(213) 894-9629 View (213) 894-9629
Photo of Mercedes Coffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Mercedes Coffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502
Are you feeling stressed, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or alone? Is your relationship missing the spark it once had? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can start changing this today.My practice experience includes working with individuals, couples and families, who struggle with marital, self-esteem issues, addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anger, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the source of these issues, practice alternative coping skills, and learn how to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Are you feeling stressed, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or alone? Is your relationship missing the spark it once had? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can start changing this today.My practice experience includes working with individuals, couples and families, who struggle with marital, self-esteem issues, addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anger, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the source of these issues, practice alternative coping skills, and learn how to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
(818) 356-8093 View (818) 356-8093
Photo of Kerry English, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Kerry English
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I work with individuals, couples, and teens facing a wide variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, grief/loss, and family conflict. I have years of experience working with male and female survivors of sexual or physical trauma and those suffering from challenging career or relational problems. My approach is to blend psychodynamic and cognitive interventions working collaboratively with you to reveal and resolve inner conflicts that can drive behavior, cause distress in relationships, and intensify everyday challenges. Please visit my website at kerryenglish.com for more information about my services.
I work with individuals, couples, and teens facing a wide variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, grief/loss, and family conflict. I have years of experience working with male and female survivors of sexual or physical trauma and those suffering from challenging career or relational problems. My approach is to blend psychodynamic and cognitive interventions working collaboratively with you to reveal and resolve inner conflicts that can drive behavior, cause distress in relationships, and intensify everyday challenges. Please visit my website at kerryenglish.com for more information about my services.
(310) 736-4596 View (310) 736-4596
Photo of Gregory Walston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Gregory Walston
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, CPRP
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
(818) 351-7109 View (818) 351-7109
Photo of John Rosania, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Burbank, CA
John Rosania
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
I help individuals, couples, and partnerships develop greater awareness and self-compassion towards themselves and the stuck places in their lives. Then we consider ways to take action to reduce suffering and create a life worth living.
I help individuals, couples, and partnerships develop greater awareness and self-compassion towards themselves and the stuck places in their lives. Then we consider ways to take action to reduce suffering and create a life worth living.
(818) 369-3248 View (818) 369-3248
Photo of Lani Ackerman Kalla, Psychologist in Burbank, CA
Lani Ackerman Kalla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience. I am committed to the enhancement of self via both insight and information. Individual , couples, and families learn strategies for healthier relationships and self care.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience. I am committed to the enhancement of self via both insight and information. Individual , couples, and families learn strategies for healthier relationships and self care.
(310) 737-8627 View (310) 737-8627
Photo of Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, Psychologist in Burbank, CA
Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91501
At the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, we help people reach their full potential by transforming their healthcare experience. We use evidence-based psychological practices and partner with other health professionals for seamless and integrated care. Our clinical psychologists provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress-management, relationship problems, and phase-of-life issues. In addition, we specialize in health and rehabilitation psychology, providing assistance to patients with medical illnesses and disabilities and sensorimotor psychotherapy, providing trauma-informed, somatic, “body-based” therapy.
At the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, we help people reach their full potential by transforming their healthcare experience. We use evidence-based psychological practices and partner with other health professionals for seamless and integrated care. Our clinical psychologists provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress-management, relationship problems, and phase-of-life issues. In addition, we specialize in health and rehabilitation psychology, providing assistance to patients with medical illnesses and disabilities and sensorimotor psychotherapy, providing trauma-informed, somatic, “body-based” therapy.
(818) 485-4519 x1002 View (818) 485-4519 x1002
Photo of Nancy Lozano-Stecyk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Nancy Lozano-Stecyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91502
My clinical experience consist of 10+ years helping individuals in recovery from addiction, trauma/PTSD and codependency/relationship issues.
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and stuck in your current situation? I'm happy to help you navigate not only the stressors inherent in everyday life, but also guide you in overcoming the effects from past failed relationships, traumas and anxieties that keep you feeling stuck, scared, and overwhelmed. Many times those issues affect your work performance, ability to create meaningful relationships and negatively impact your physical health.
My clinical experience consist of 10+ years helping individuals in recovery from addiction, trauma/PTSD and codependency/relationship issues.
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and stuck in your current situation? I'm happy to help you navigate not only the stressors inherent in everyday life, but also guide you in overcoming the effects from past failed relationships, traumas and anxieties that keep you feeling stuck, scared, and overwhelmed. Many times those issues affect your work performance, ability to create meaningful relationships and negatively impact your physical health.
(323) 870-6348 View (323) 870-6348
Photo of Karina Kazaryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Karina Kazaryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91504
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. During my 18 years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with Adult Children of parents with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. During my 18 years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with Adult Children of parents with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic.
(747) 239-5371 View (747) 239-5371
Photo of Christine Campbell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Christine Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Many of us haven't had much experience with the kind of truly supportive relationships that make healing possible. A good therapeutic relationship - one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential - creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to work through grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, relieve depression and anxiety, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and groups, and I'm available for both in-person and virtual sessions.
Many of us haven't had much experience with the kind of truly supportive relationships that make healing possible. A good therapeutic relationship - one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential - creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to work through grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, relieve depression and anxiety, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and groups, and I'm available for both in-person and virtual sessions.
(323) 601-5406 View (323) 601-5406
Photo of Stephanie Prince-Ling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Stephanie Prince-Ling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91510  (Online Only)
I see Individual Adults and Couples.
I am glad you are here. It's not easy for someone to reach out for support. It takes a lot of courage and strength to be vulnerable with someone you barely know. My goal in the first couple of sessions is to build rapport, establish a sense of emotional safety and provide a confidential, nonjudgmental space to process whatever is getting in the way of you feeling more alive and connected. I want you to be able to sleep better; manage your mood more effectively; name and tame the stressors that show up for you and/or simply find more ways to feel joy. I am here for it, but more so, I am here for you.
I see Individual Adults and Couples.
I am glad you are here. It's not easy for someone to reach out for support. It takes a lot of courage and strength to be vulnerable with someone you barely know. My goal in the first couple of sessions is to build rapport, establish a sense of emotional safety and provide a confidential, nonjudgmental space to process whatever is getting in the way of you feeling more alive and connected. I want you to be able to sleep better; manage your mood more effectively; name and tame the stressors that show up for you and/or simply find more ways to feel joy. I am here for it, but more so, I am here for you.
(747) 232-5155 View (747) 232-5155
Photo of Tracina Schrader, Psychological Associate in Burbank, CA
Tracina Schrader
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91501  (Online Only)
I offer both individual and couples therapy, specializing in trauma, LGBTQIA+, clients with ADHD/ASD spectrum, gender identity/roles, and women's issues, including infertility and peripartum.
Everyone needs help at one time or another, whether it be for symptoms of anxiety or depression due to family/work etc., or you find yourself in constant survival mode, doing your best to keep your head above water. You are looking for more emotional balance and tools to increase your resilience. I do everything possible to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. Our therapeutic success depends on the strength of the trust and the bond between us and how we work together toward your goals.
I offer both individual and couples therapy, specializing in trauma, LGBTQIA+, clients with ADHD/ASD spectrum, gender identity/roles, and women's issues, including infertility and peripartum.
Everyone needs help at one time or another, whether it be for symptoms of anxiety or depression due to family/work etc., or you find yourself in constant survival mode, doing your best to keep your head above water. You are looking for more emotional balance and tools to increase your resilience. I do everything possible to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. Our therapeutic success depends on the strength of the trust and the bond between us and how we work together toward your goals.
(747) 529-9021 x1002 View (747) 529-9021 x1002
Photo of Natalie Zimm, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Burbank, CA
Natalie Zimm
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502
We will focus on your relationship patterns, attachment, and developmental stages.
Are you overwhelmed, ruminating, insecure, or stuck in self-loathing and surviving instead of thriving in your relationships, work and creativity? Are anxiety, past traumatic experiences, or being an adult child of a dysfunctional home affecting your relationships and success? Or maybe you’re there but can't beat this last level 99 boss. If you’d like to gain mastery of yourself and live a more purposeful, joyful, and authentic life, I can help you rescue control of your nervous system and emotions by healing your body and mind through new, positive experiences.
We will focus on your relationship patterns, attachment, and developmental stages.
Are you overwhelmed, ruminating, insecure, or stuck in self-loathing and surviving instead of thriving in your relationships, work and creativity? Are anxiety, past traumatic experiences, or being an adult child of a dysfunctional home affecting your relationships and success? Or maybe you’re there but can't beat this last level 99 boss. If you’d like to gain mastery of yourself and live a more purposeful, joyful, and authentic life, I can help you rescue control of your nervous system and emotions by healing your body and mind through new, positive experiences.
(626) 900-0342 View (626) 900-0342
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.