Photo of California Therapy Center & Psychological Svcs, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
California Therapy Center & Psychological Svcs
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues or other burdens in your life, we welcome you to our practice to start the process of healing, growth, and transformation.
We are a multi-specialty group of mental health professionals in a private practice setting. We are comprised of highly skilled and highly educated therapists. Our professionals are distinguished by their exceptional level of compassion and care. We are here to help you free yourself from the situations you feel stuck in and find your path to greater happiness and fulfillment.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues or other burdens in your life, we welcome you to our practice to start the process of healing, growth, and transformation.
We are a multi-specialty group of mental health professionals in a private practice setting. We are comprised of highly skilled and highly educated therapists. Our professionals are distinguished by their exceptional level of compassion and care. We are here to help you free yourself from the situations you feel stuck in and find your path to greater happiness and fulfillment.
(818) 736-9246 View (818) 736-9246
Photo of Adrine Avetyan Benlian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Adrine Avetyan Benlian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91206
As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I have a passion for providing guidance to those facing the stress and struggles of their everyday lives. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to creating healthier coping for past conflict and trauma, current stressors, and questions about how to move forward. I am open and sensitive to the lifestyle and cultural background of my clients, and speak Armenian fluently. I strive to encourage growth and positive change in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I have a passion for providing guidance to those facing the stress and struggles of their everyday lives. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to creating healthier coping for past conflict and trauma, current stressors, and questions about how to move forward. I am open and sensitive to the lifestyle and cultural background of my clients, and speak Armenian fluently. I strive to encourage growth and positive change in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
(818) 514-8763 View (818) 514-8763
Photo of Sabrina Somani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Sabrina Somani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
I also work with couples who need to increase their communication skills, intimacy and overall relationship satisfaction.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
I also work with couples who need to increase their communication skills, intimacy and overall relationship satisfaction.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
(310) 870-3164 View (310) 870-3164
Photo of Nora Chitilian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Nora Chitilian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
I enjoy working with individuals and couples to address relationship and marital challenges.
Life can be full of challenges, but also rewards. Therapy can help us to have better relationships with our family and friends, as well as those in our extended communities. Those are extensions of our relationships with ourselves. I would like to help you build those relationships by providing a safe and welcoming non-judgmental environment. Together we will design and build the mental and emotional structure where you can live your happiest life that is mindful and peaceful.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples to address relationship and marital challenges.
Life can be full of challenges, but also rewards. Therapy can help us to have better relationships with our family and friends, as well as those in our extended communities. Those are extensions of our relationships with ourselves. I would like to help you build those relationships by providing a safe and welcoming non-judgmental environment. Together we will design and build the mental and emotional structure where you can live your happiest life that is mindful and peaceful.
(818) 583-6110 View (818) 583-6110
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 798-9774 View (323) 798-9774
Photo of Natasha Aftandilians, Pre-Licensed Professional in Glendale, CA
Natasha Aftandilians
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91207  (Online Only)
By using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I guide my clients in building their self confidence and challenging their negative beliefs so they can feel powerful enough to tackle relationship challenges, work and academic stressors, and more.
As a first generation Middle Eastern therapist, I have had the privilege of working with clients from a wide variety of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, but what they've all had in common is the desire to feel stronger; whether they're battling social anxiety, depression, or PTSD my clients want to feel empowered and capable of living a better life, and my goal is to teach them the skills they need to overcome the barriers to wellness. My clients are resilient, and I help them discover how their past traumas affect their present and future, and how they can be successful regardless of these challenges.
By using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I guide my clients in building their self confidence and challenging their negative beliefs so they can feel powerful enough to tackle relationship challenges, work and academic stressors, and more.
As a first generation Middle Eastern therapist, I have had the privilege of working with clients from a wide variety of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, but what they've all had in common is the desire to feel stronger; whether they're battling social anxiety, depression, or PTSD my clients want to feel empowered and capable of living a better life, and my goal is to teach them the skills they need to overcome the barriers to wellness. My clients are resilient, and I help them discover how their past traumas affect their present and future, and how they can be successful regardless of these challenges.
(323) 886-0526 View (323) 886-0526
Photo of Charles Pilavian, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Charles Pilavian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
I specialize in the treatment of depression & anxiety, relationship issues, personality disorders, and problems related to the workplace.
It takes courage to understand the need for healing. My mission in psychotherapy is to help you learn how to help yourself. It should be emphasized that psychotherapy is far from "one size fit all." Therefore, the art of change in psychotherapy is achieved through a thorough psychological assessment in order to apply the precise remedies to your specific challenges. As a result, healing is often achieved by re-conceptualizing your past and presence, but most importantly is to improve your outlook on the future. I have been practicing as a psychologist for 26 years, on three continents.
I specialize in the treatment of depression & anxiety, relationship issues, personality disorders, and problems related to the workplace.
It takes courage to understand the need for healing. My mission in psychotherapy is to help you learn how to help yourself. It should be emphasized that psychotherapy is far from "one size fit all." Therefore, the art of change in psychotherapy is achieved through a thorough psychological assessment in order to apply the precise remedies to your specific challenges. As a result, healing is often achieved by re-conceptualizing your past and presence, but most importantly is to improve your outlook on the future. I have been practicing as a psychologist for 26 years, on three continents.
(818) 696-2704 View (818) 696-2704
Photo of Grace Akopyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Grace Akopyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
I have worked with adults, couples, children, teens and families.
Welcome, I am a licensed therapist and a professor with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I have helped my clients overcome the challenges that can arise from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, life transitions, trauma, and communication barriers. In my practice I work to develop a deep understanding and empathy for my clients. Being a professor at Pepperdine University, allows me to staying up to date with the latest therapy techniques, ensuring that I can offer my clients the most effective and up-to-date support available.
I have worked with adults, couples, children, teens and families.
Welcome, I am a licensed therapist and a professor with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I have helped my clients overcome the challenges that can arise from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, life transitions, trauma, and communication barriers. In my practice I work to develop a deep understanding and empathy for my clients. Being a professor at Pepperdine University, allows me to staying up to date with the latest therapy techniques, ensuring that I can offer my clients the most effective and up-to-date support available.
(323) 675-2754 View (323) 675-2754
Photo of Victoria Gutierrez-Kovner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glendale, CA
Victoria Gutierrez-Kovner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
Do you want to make changes in your life? Do you want to make healthy choices that will enable you to reach your full potential? Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship - a second chance at discovering our capacity to grow, to love, to reflect and to change how we react to the world around us. Through the connection of the therapeutic relationship, one is able to transform patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Today you are one step closer to creating positive changes in your life. It would be an honor and a privilege to join you on this journey!
Do you want to make changes in your life? Do you want to make healthy choices that will enable you to reach your full potential? Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship - a second chance at discovering our capacity to grow, to love, to reflect and to change how we react to the world around us. Through the connection of the therapeutic relationship, one is able to transform patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Today you are one step closer to creating positive changes in your life. It would be an honor and a privilege to join you on this journey!
(626) 658-3372 View (626) 658-3372
Photo of Steven Brawer, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Steven Brawer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91207  (Online Only)
Over the last 27 years as a clinical psychologist, I have helped many individuals, couples, and families. Individual clients often enter therapy feeling disconnected and lost. They have reached a point where the usual ways of coping are not working and are open to trying something new. Couples often come to see me feeling exhausted, alienated, and hopeless about their relationship. They wonder whether their relationship can recover and heal. My work with families includes addressing the profound sense of detachment between parents and teenagers, particularly when compounded by the presence of teen depression.
Over the last 27 years as a clinical psychologist, I have helped many individuals, couples, and families. Individual clients often enter therapy feeling disconnected and lost. They have reached a point where the usual ways of coping are not working and are open to trying something new. Couples often come to see me feeling exhausted, alienated, and hopeless about their relationship. They wonder whether their relationship can recover and heal. My work with families includes addressing the profound sense of detachment between parents and teenagers, particularly when compounded by the presence of teen depression.
(626) 344-9923 View (626) 344-9923
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth J. James, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Dr. Elizabeth J. James
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
We have difficulty relating to our partner, spouse or children and feel alone when we need someone to talk to.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I possess the qualifications and experience to assist you in identifying your goals and managing difficult life events. My experience working with adults, adolescents, and children has allowed for an understanding of various presenting issues and feelings, while providing the psychotherapy services required for each individual, couple, family or group. Through listening, exploring and processing, I have been successful in helping individuals manage depression and anxiety, overcome grief and loss, manage addiction, increase self-esteem, and develop the communication and adaptive skills necessary to achieve their goals and improve their relationships.
We have difficulty relating to our partner, spouse or children and feel alone when we need someone to talk to.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I possess the qualifications and experience to assist you in identifying your goals and managing difficult life events. My experience working with adults, adolescents, and children has allowed for an understanding of various presenting issues and feelings, while providing the psychotherapy services required for each individual, couple, family or group. Through listening, exploring and processing, I have been successful in helping individuals manage depression and anxiety, overcome grief and loss, manage addiction, increase self-esteem, and develop the communication and adaptive skills necessary to achieve their goals and improve their relationships.
(626) 726-3516 View (626) 726-3516
Photo of Nazy Khorsandi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Nazy Khorsandi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91201
I have extensive experience working with individual young adults and couples, middle-eastern culture, dealing with communication issues, self-esteem/confidence, setting boundaries, addiction, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, attachment issues, shyness/social skills, entertainment industry, Veterans, chronic illness, acculturation, spiritual difficulties.
I enjoy showing you your own divine potential as fully loving and successful beings. I will gently but directly encourage you to identify themes and patterns in your life that are no longer working for you. By gaining awareness you can explore new ways of being, thinking, and behaving. You’ll be able to reach and maintain the fulfilling life that you want and deserve to have. I will help you make peace with your past, gain insight, cultivate your inner strength, and overcome your challenges in dealing with daily stressors, childhood traumas, relationship issues, or emotional exhaustion. Together we can turn your wounds into wisdom.
I have extensive experience working with individual young adults and couples, middle-eastern culture, dealing with communication issues, self-esteem/confidence, setting boundaries, addiction, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, attachment issues, shyness/social skills, entertainment industry, Veterans, chronic illness, acculturation, spiritual difficulties.
I enjoy showing you your own divine potential as fully loving and successful beings. I will gently but directly encourage you to identify themes and patterns in your life that are no longer working for you. By gaining awareness you can explore new ways of being, thinking, and behaving. You’ll be able to reach and maintain the fulfilling life that you want and deserve to have. I will help you make peace with your past, gain insight, cultivate your inner strength, and overcome your challenges in dealing with daily stressors, childhood traumas, relationship issues, or emotional exhaustion. Together we can turn your wounds into wisdom.
(323) 310-2393 View (323) 310-2393
Photo of Melissa Ryan O'Keefe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Melissa Ryan O'Keefe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
Are you currently struggling with stress or relationship challenges? Many people struggle balancing the demands of life. It is not easy to ask for help. You don't need to suffer alone. Although you may be going through a hard time, you also are worthy of receiving care. I am here to listen and to assist in strengthening self-esteem and to offer ways to increase self-compassion. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families on creating meaningful life experiences and in overcoming difficult challenges.
Are you currently struggling with stress or relationship challenges? Many people struggle balancing the demands of life. It is not easy to ask for help. You don't need to suffer alone. Although you may be going through a hard time, you also are worthy of receiving care. I am here to listen and to assist in strengthening self-esteem and to offer ways to increase self-compassion. I practice with a person-centered approach and have extensive education. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families on creating meaningful life experiences and in overcoming difficult challenges.
(747) 234-2619 View (747) 234-2619
Photo of Joshua Sandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glendale, CA
Joshua Sandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Do you want to dig deeper? Are you repeating behaviors or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Are you or your partner struggling with mismatched communication, attachment, intimacy, vulnerability, desire, culture, or conflict resolution styles? Sometimes, we're not sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. Without judgment, my job is to listen, help you understand root causes of your difficulties, and teach you practical tools to help change your life.
Do you want to dig deeper? Are you repeating behaviors or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Are you or your partner struggling with mismatched communication, attachment, intimacy, vulnerability, desire, culture, or conflict resolution styles? Sometimes, we're not sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. Without judgment, my job is to listen, help you understand root causes of your difficulties, and teach you practical tools to help change your life.
(626) 507-7925 View (626) 507-7925
Photo of Katie Olney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Glendale, CA
Katie Olney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91210
Katie is working towards two clinical certifications: Eye Movement Desensitization and Restoration (EMDR) Therapy and Certified Partner Trauma Therapy (CPTT).
Katie’s clinical practice and experience focuses on trauma, betrayal, and addictive disorders along with other mental health disorders. She also specializes in inner child work focusing on how the inner child holds the key to intimacy, recovery from addiction, physical and emotional well-being, and the creativity and wisdom of our inner selves; our true selves. In addition to private practice, Katie has prior experience working in clinical roles in education at high school and university settings.
Katie is working towards two clinical certifications: Eye Movement Desensitization and Restoration (EMDR) Therapy and Certified Partner Trauma Therapy (CPTT).
Katie’s clinical practice and experience focuses on trauma, betrayal, and addictive disorders along with other mental health disorders. She also specializes in inner child work focusing on how the inner child holds the key to intimacy, recovery from addiction, physical and emotional well-being, and the creativity and wisdom of our inner selves; our true selves. In addition to private practice, Katie has prior experience working in clinical roles in education at high school and university settings.
(562) 684-6591 View (562) 684-6591
Photo of Lisa Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glendale, CA
Lisa Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202
*Accepting new clients. These are really tough times. Uncertainty and shifting social norms are taking a toll on our mental health. Have you been going through the motions only to find that now everything feels intolerable? Are you finding that what has worked in the past isn’t working any more? Do you feel like you just don’t care, or just feel disconnected? I can help. Let's get you to that place where you are enjoying yourself and others, even when life throws you challenges. I work with individuals and couples who want a safe place to get curious, be honest and explore old patterns that are keeping you stuck.
*Accepting new clients. These are really tough times. Uncertainty and shifting social norms are taking a toll on our mental health. Have you been going through the motions only to find that now everything feels intolerable? Are you finding that what has worked in the past isn’t working any more? Do you feel like you just don’t care, or just feel disconnected? I can help. Let's get you to that place where you are enjoying yourself and others, even when life throws you challenges. I work with individuals and couples who want a safe place to get curious, be honest and explore old patterns that are keeping you stuck.
(844) 549-0022 View (844) 549-0022
Photo of Stephanie Mason, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Stephanie Mason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206  (Online Only)
I also hold an array of clinical expertise in dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, stress management, LGBTQIA+ issues, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.
New beginnings can often be disguised as painful endings. I work closely with those who have been through tragic events, suffered childhood abuse, those who have been victimized by others, as well as those who might feel like they have nowhere left to turn. My goal is to help you find your inner strength, and to courageously be free to display it and be proud. I am empathetic to my client’s needs, ambitious to provide support, and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share and truly be heard.
I also hold an array of clinical expertise in dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, stress management, LGBTQIA+ issues, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.
New beginnings can often be disguised as painful endings. I work closely with those who have been through tragic events, suffered childhood abuse, those who have been victimized by others, as well as those who might feel like they have nowhere left to turn. My goal is to help you find your inner strength, and to courageously be free to display it and be proud. I am empathetic to my client’s needs, ambitious to provide support, and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share and truly be heard.
(626) 247-3135 View (626) 247-3135
Photo of Adriana Bagdasarian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Adriana Bagdasarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
I believe that the most effective and lasting changes take place with a strong and supportive client-therapist relationship. I strive to create a comfortable and safe space where my clients can look inward and find their greatest strengths in order to overcome underlying causes and unhealthy patterns that have potentially held them back in the past. Although treatment is not one size fits all, empathy and acceptance are key elements in allowing you to start making positive changes. My goal is to help you take the steps necessary to have the life that you want.
I believe that the most effective and lasting changes take place with a strong and supportive client-therapist relationship. I strive to create a comfortable and safe space where my clients can look inward and find their greatest strengths in order to overcome underlying causes and unhealthy patterns that have potentially held them back in the past. Although treatment is not one size fits all, empathy and acceptance are key elements in allowing you to start making positive changes. My goal is to help you take the steps necessary to have the life that you want.
(310) 294-8379 View (310) 294-8379
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(323) 417-9393 View (323) 417-9393
Photo of Margaret A. Donohue, Psychologist, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Margaret A. Donohue, Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91205
I work with medically ill or clients that have failed previous treatment. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing. I use a variety of methods to include CBT, behavioral and dynamic therapies. I have a staff of licensed and prelicensed professionals available to provide services on a sliding scale. We have a variety of psychological, neuropsychological tests and measurements for all age groups. I have a specific background in treatment of health and medical problems impacting psychological and cognitive functioning. My Psychological Assistants are able to work with a variety of clients with general psychological problems under my supervision (bilingual Spanish and Farsi).
I work with medically ill or clients that have failed previous treatment. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing. I use a variety of methods to include CBT, behavioral and dynamic therapies. I have a staff of licensed and prelicensed professionals available to provide services on a sliding scale. We have a variety of psychological, neuropsychological tests and measurements for all age groups. I have a specific background in treatment of health and medical problems impacting psychological and cognitive functioning. My Psychological Assistants are able to work with a variety of clients with general psychological problems under my supervision (bilingual Spanish and Farsi).
(818) 293-0739 View (818) 293-0739
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.