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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shir Shanun, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Shir Shanun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
טיפול הוא מתנה שאנחנו נותנים לעצמנו. הזדמנות לצמיחה אישית ויצירת שינוי בקשיים ובמערכות יחסים. כמטפלת ישראלית אני מביאה הבנה מיוחדת של התרבות הישראלית וההסתגלות לחיים בתרבות האמריקאית.
טיפול הוא מתנה שאנחנו נותנים לעצמנו. הזדמנות לצמיחה אישית ויצירת שינוי בקשיים ובמערכות יחסים. כמטפלת ישראלית אני מביאה הבנה מיוחדת של התרבות הישראלית וההסתגלות לחיים בתרבות האמריקאית.
(626) 376-4994 View (626) 376-4994
Photo of Dr. Itay Kohane, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Dr. Itay Kohane
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
אני כאן בשבילך. אני מודע לכך שלא פשוט לפנות לקבלת תמיכה ומודה לך על ההתעניינות בעבודה שלי. בפגישות שלנו נגיע לתובנות נוספות על עצמך ועל אתגרים בחייך, ונמצא פתרונות למכשולים בדרך למטרות שלך. סקרנות ואמפתיה ילוו אותנו לאורך כל הטיפול. אני עובד עם מבוגרים וילדים, בטיפול יחידני, זוגי ומשפחתי. תחומי ההתמחות שלי מפורטים כאן ובאתר שלי. אני גם מדריך פוסט-דוקטורנטים לפסיכולוגיה קלינית שיכולים להציע טיפול מצוין במידה ואין לי זמינות.
אני כאן בשבילך. אני מודע לכך שלא פשוט לפנות לקבלת תמיכה ומודה לך על ההתעניינות בעבודה שלי. בפגישות שלנו נגיע לתובנות נוספות על עצמך ועל אתגרים בחייך, ונמצא פתרונות למכשולים בדרך למטרות שלך. סקרנות ואמפתיה ילוו אותנו לאורך כל הטיפול. אני עובד עם מבוגרים וילדים, בטיפול יחידני, זוגי ומשפחתי. תחומי ההתמחות שלי מפורטים כאן ובאתר שלי. אני גם מדריך פוסט-דוקטורנטים לפסיכולוגיה קלינית שיכולים להציע טיפול מצוין במידה ואין לי זמינות.
(747) 204-1971 View (747) 204-1971
Photo of Rachel Bar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Rachel Bar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is about exploring transitions and losses. A loss of a relationship, a job, a lifestyle, a home, a friendship, or the loss of a dream or expectation. We dismiss some losses, not realizing their impact on our day to day life. We may suffer from anxiety or depression without understanding why they are present. Other losses, however, can be so traumatic that we lose our ability to heal from them. Moreover, we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, not being able to transform ourselves and change our behavior, even when we realize that our reactions are unhelpful and self-destructive. We wonder whether life will be better.
Therapy is about exploring transitions and losses. A loss of a relationship, a job, a lifestyle, a home, a friendship, or the loss of a dream or expectation. We dismiss some losses, not realizing their impact on our day to day life. We may suffer from anxiety or depression without understanding why they are present. Other losses, however, can be so traumatic that we lose our ability to heal from them. Moreover, we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, not being able to transform ourselves and change our behavior, even when we realize that our reactions are unhelpful and self-destructive. We wonder whether life will be better.
(818) 946-0229 View (818) 946-0229
Photo of Rabbi Yael E. Saidoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Rabbi Yael E. Saidoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Couples and individuals of all backgrounds, races and genders welcome.
Find Your Center: Many of us today feel disconnected. Our days are filled with a steady stream of obligations and desires. We call that: ‘life.’ Directing our unique path in a proactive way can bring new meaning to our lives. Collaboratively, we'll find a path that leads to your truest self and to the person you want to become. Building Relationships: Cultivating intimacy with others requires developing intimacy with oneself. With compassion and guidance it is possible to learn to love oneself and, in turn, love others more deeply.
Couples and individuals of all backgrounds, races and genders welcome.
Find Your Center: Many of us today feel disconnected. Our days are filled with a steady stream of obligations and desires. We call that: ‘life.’ Directing our unique path in a proactive way can bring new meaning to our lives. Collaboratively, we'll find a path that leads to your truest self and to the person you want to become. Building Relationships: Cultivating intimacy with others requires developing intimacy with oneself. With compassion and guidance it is possible to learn to love oneself and, in turn, love others more deeply.
(747) 229-0746 View (747) 229-0746
Photo of Lori Karny LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glendale, CA
Lori Karny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
(310) 341-0721 View (310) 341-0721
Photo of Harel Papikian, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Harel Papikian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035
My primary focus is relationships and intimacy, helping individuals and couples of all backgrounds and configurations create the relationships they desire.
Hello, I am Dr. Harel, and I would like to commend you on your courage of taking the first step toward transformation and growth. Your acknowledgement of the need for change makes you into an excellent client. My clinical experiences shows that we are our own biggest obstacle on the path toward the life we truly want, whether it is deeply fulfilling relationships and marriages, satisfying and exciting careers, vibrant health, etc. The moment we totally commit to our own wellbeing with intention to do whatever it takes to live our best life, we have completed 50% of the journey. It is that simple.
My primary focus is relationships and intimacy, helping individuals and couples of all backgrounds and configurations create the relationships they desire.
Hello, I am Dr. Harel, and I would like to commend you on your courage of taking the first step toward transformation and growth. Your acknowledgement of the need for change makes you into an excellent client. My clinical experiences shows that we are our own biggest obstacle on the path toward the life we truly want, whether it is deeply fulfilling relationships and marriages, satisfying and exciting careers, vibrant health, etc. The moment we totally commit to our own wellbeing with intention to do whatever it takes to live our best life, we have completed 50% of the journey. It is that simple.
(424) 625-3889 View (424) 625-3889
Photo of David Ibrahim, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Glendale, CA
David Ibrahim
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
(323) 531-5725 View (323) 531-5725
Photo of Shirley Eylor Asif, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Shirley Eylor Asif
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91607
Feeling overwhelmed with life demands? Finding yourself stuck in unsatisfying relationships? Having difficulties with intimacy? Keep fighting with your spouse and children? you know what you need to do but can't motivate yourself to actually do it? In a safe environment, together we can start the process of change and acceptance. Striving towards a balanced life while promoting growth, changing or adjusting old patterns and habits to better suit your current life goals, and sparking the joy of life throughout this process.
Feeling overwhelmed with life demands? Finding yourself stuck in unsatisfying relationships? Having difficulties with intimacy? Keep fighting with your spouse and children? you know what you need to do but can't motivate yourself to actually do it? In a safe environment, together we can start the process of change and acceptance. Striving towards a balanced life while promoting growth, changing or adjusting old patterns and habits to better suit your current life goals, and sparking the joy of life throughout this process.
(310) 896-4694 View (310) 896-4694
Photo of Gali Barak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Gali Barak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Sometimes it can feel like everyone else is doing so much better than you are. You might look around and wonder, why am I not where I thought I would be at in this point in my life? Am I not good enough, smart enough, or brave enough? Is there someone to blame? Is it because my body is broken, or my heart, or all of the above? I know that life is complex. I know that bravery and resilience come in many forms. I want to partner with you on this journey and help you remember things that you may have forgotten about yourself. I’ve witnessed people change their lives in ways that they would have thought were unimaginable. You can too.
Sometimes it can feel like everyone else is doing so much better than you are. You might look around and wonder, why am I not where I thought I would be at in this point in my life? Am I not good enough, smart enough, or brave enough? Is there someone to blame? Is it because my body is broken, or my heart, or all of the above? I know that life is complex. I know that bravery and resilience come in many forms. I want to partner with you on this journey and help you remember things that you may have forgotten about yourself. I’ve witnessed people change their lives in ways that they would have thought were unimaginable. You can too.
(310) 622-9213 View (310) 622-9213
Photo of Lynne Meyer, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Lynne Meyer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012
My ideal client is someone who wants to understand what is not working in their lives and allows me to help them to learn and to grow. I think it's a collaborative effort on my part as well as the client. I see each client as bringing a unique internal perspective that needs to be thought about carefully and with insight.
My ideal client is someone who wants to understand what is not working in their lives and allows me to help them to learn and to grow. I think it's a collaborative effort on my part as well as the client. I see each client as bringing a unique internal perspective that needs to be thought about carefully and with insight.
(424) 210-7629 View (424) 210-7629

Online Therapists

Photo of Lilach Dior Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Lilach Dior Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
אנשים רבים סובלים מהתקפים של חרדה. מי שחווה התקף חרדה זוכר אותו היטב. התקף חרדה הוא הפעלה פתאומית של פחד חריף, המתפתח במהירות ומגיע לשיאו בתוך דקות ספורות. האפיזודה מלווה בארבעה או יותר מהסימפטומים הבאים: דפיקות לב, הזעה, רעד, קוצר נשימה, תחושת מחנק, כאבים בחזה, בחילה, כאבי בטן או פרפרים ולעיתים סחרחורת או תחושה של עילפון
אנשים רבים סובלים מהתקפים של חרדה. מי שחווה התקף חרדה זוכר אותו היטב. התקף חרדה הוא הפעלה פתאומית של פחד חריף, המתפתח במהירות ומגיע לשיאו בתוך דקות ספורות. האפיזודה מלווה בארבעה או יותר מהסימפטומים הבאים: דפיקות לב, הזעה, רעד, קוצר נשימה, תחושת מחנק, כאבים בחזה, בחילה, כאבי בטן או פרפרים ולעיתים סחרחורת או תחושה של עילפון
(619) 320-4647 View (619) 320-4647
Photo of Dr. Moreen Rubin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Dr. Moreen Rubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
As an eating disorder expert, I help clients have a healthier relationship with food, exercise and body image.
What if you could stop all self- destructive habits and feel energized and excited by your life? Many of my clients are just like you; talented, ambitious and unique, but are unsatisfied with an area of life. If you are ready, I can help you get unstuck and make changes based on proven therapeutic techniques. If you're struggling to take care of yourself physically and emotionally, I will work with you to help you find balance, prioritize your health and manage your anxiety and depression. My approach is based on helping you get clarity, increasing awareness of your thoughts, and giving you healthy ways of managing your stress.
As an eating disorder expert, I help clients have a healthier relationship with food, exercise and body image.
What if you could stop all self- destructive habits and feel energized and excited by your life? Many of my clients are just like you; talented, ambitious and unique, but are unsatisfied with an area of life. If you are ready, I can help you get unstuck and make changes based on proven therapeutic techniques. If you're struggling to take care of yourself physically and emotionally, I will work with you to help you find balance, prioritize your health and manage your anxiety and depression. My approach is based on helping you get clarity, increasing awareness of your thoughts, and giving you healthy ways of managing your stress.
(310) 919-4336 View (310) 919-4336
Photo of Shirin Hart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Shirin Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
My specialities include holistic psychotherapy, mindfulness, somatic therapy, relationship communication and intimacy building.
I’m a psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is modern holistic psychotherapy. I have sought out and learned the latest neuroscience informed therapies. And have been trained by the world’s top holistic practitioners, life coaches, and mindfulness experts. Though I can’t claim to have invented any of these techniques, I have combined them in my own unique way and am sharing it with people so they can win. When people win, it’s helping the community win. To me that is what it is all about.
My specialities include holistic psychotherapy, mindfulness, somatic therapy, relationship communication and intimacy building.
I’m a psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is modern holistic psychotherapy. I have sought out and learned the latest neuroscience informed therapies. And have been trained by the world’s top holistic practitioners, life coaches, and mindfulness experts. Though I can’t claim to have invented any of these techniques, I have combined them in my own unique way and am sharing it with people so they can win. When people win, it’s helping the community win. To me that is what it is all about.
(424) 342-5545 View (424) 342-5545
Photo of Netta Halpern, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Netta Halpern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I served clients from all walks of life dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, and relationship.
The last few years have been especially challenging: COVID, changes in social structure, inflation and other unsettling issues. Do you find yourself with unsettling intrusive thoughts, confused and/or anxious? Do you feel stuck in life? Are depression and anxiety blocking you from living your life? Don't give up. You don't have to do it alone. We can do it together. There is significant strength in seeking support and guidance when you need it.
I served clients from all walks of life dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, and relationship.
The last few years have been especially challenging: COVID, changes in social structure, inflation and other unsettling issues. Do you find yourself with unsettling intrusive thoughts, confused and/or anxious? Do you feel stuck in life? Are depression and anxiety blocking you from living your life? Don't give up. You don't have to do it alone. We can do it together. There is significant strength in seeking support and guidance when you need it.
(714) 867-1405 View (714) 867-1405
Photo of Scott Ben-Yashar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Scott Ben-Yashar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
All of our issues, at their core, involve fear, sadness or shame - whether we are dealing with individual struggles or relationship problems. Looking at both the past and present sheds light on the patterns of thinking and feeling you have created out of habit. We can also discover a greater awareness of what's going on within you, 'here-and-now.' Together, we will find new ways for you to find balance on a day-to-day basis.
All of our issues, at their core, involve fear, sadness or shame - whether we are dealing with individual struggles or relationship problems. Looking at both the past and present sheds light on the patterns of thinking and feeling you have created out of habit. We can also discover a greater awareness of what's going on within you, 'here-and-now.' Together, we will find new ways for you to find balance on a day-to-day basis.
(310) 929-9614 View (310) 929-9614
Photo of Fay Alon, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Fay Alon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling, etc.
My name is Fay Alon and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I have been practicing for over 20 years. I'm able to connect, understand and empathize with mostly anyone. I'm caring, compassionate, direct and non-judgmental. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the UCLA Student Psychological Services. My post-doctoral fellowship was at Harbor UCLA-Medical Center. I worked for eight years as a psychologist at UCLA. I have been in private practice in Santa Monica, Woodland Hills and now in Calabasas. Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling, etc.
My name is Fay Alon and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. I have been practicing for over 20 years. I'm able to connect, understand and empathize with mostly anyone. I'm caring, compassionate, direct and non-judgmental. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the UCLA Student Psychological Services. My post-doctoral fellowship was at Harbor UCLA-Medical Center. I worked for eight years as a psychologist at UCLA. I have been in private practice in Santa Monica, Woodland Hills and now in Calabasas. Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
(818) 614-9391 View (818) 614-9391
Photo of Sharon Feigenbaum, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Sharon Feigenbaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I have significant experience with adolescents, adults, couples and families in resolving emotional and relationship problems, such as depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or simply less happy? There is hope for resolution and you're here taking the first step. It's difficult to admit that we can't always come up with the solutions to feeling better by ourselves. I am here to help. My approach is to collaborate with you in improving your quality of life.Together we can find the solutions to the barriers of your happiness and gain a deeper understanding, create self-awareness, build self-esteem, regain confidence, and find your inner peace and self-empowerment.
I have significant experience with adolescents, adults, couples and families in resolving emotional and relationship problems, such as depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or simply less happy? There is hope for resolution and you're here taking the first step. It's difficult to admit that we can't always come up with the solutions to feeling better by ourselves. I am here to help. My approach is to collaborate with you in improving your quality of life.Together we can find the solutions to the barriers of your happiness and gain a deeper understanding, create self-awareness, build self-esteem, regain confidence, and find your inner peace and self-empowerment.
(310) 601-8097 View (310) 601-8097
Photo of Nina R. Sessler, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Nina R. Sessler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Like any relationship, a good fit with your therapist is the foundation for getting started. In an atmosphere of safety and support, I’ll help you understand yourself in new ways, empowering you to change areas of your life that once felt stuck or overwhelming. Together, we’ll navigate these challenges while also being curious about the patterns and deeper meanings beneath the surface.
Like any relationship, a good fit with your therapist is the foundation for getting started. In an atmosphere of safety and support, I’ll help you understand yourself in new ways, empowering you to change areas of your life that once felt stuck or overwhelming. Together, we’ll navigate these challenges while also being curious about the patterns and deeper meanings beneath the surface.
(323) 673-3955 View (323) 673-3955
Photo of Elizabeth Wolfson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glendale, CA
Elizabeth Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Over years in private practice I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for a range of issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal, career, and life transitions.
When choosing a therapist, experience matters. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I know there is no set formula for you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your unique circumstance and goals including emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective. There is no substitute for working with a professional who is fully attentive and present to what you are bringing to the experience, whom you can trust in helping you meet your goals and enhance your life quality.
Over years in private practice I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for a range of issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal, career, and life transitions.
When choosing a therapist, experience matters. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I know there is no set formula for you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your unique circumstance and goals including emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective. There is no substitute for working with a professional who is fully attentive and present to what you are bringing to the experience, whom you can trust in helping you meet your goals and enhance your life quality.
(661) 247-0168 View (661) 247-0168
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.