Couples Counseling Therapists in Glendale, CA

Photo of Astghik Azy Shirinian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Astghik Azy Shirinian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91202
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Relationships are one of the most impactful areas of our lives. If you are experiencing a lot of stress in your relationships, I can imagine the toll it is taking on your overall wellbeing. The quality of our childhood bonds can determine the patterns of our relationships in adulthood. Human connections can improve. With the help of a judgment-free professional and implementation of new skills, relationships can become healing and transformative. I believe that growth is achieved by the pairing of insight and the implementation of tools and techniques that will be learned in psychotherapy.
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Relationships are one of the most impactful areas of our lives. If you are experiencing a lot of stress in your relationships, I can imagine the toll it is taking on your overall wellbeing. The quality of our childhood bonds can determine the patterns of our relationships in adulthood. Human connections can improve. With the help of a judgment-free professional and implementation of new skills, relationships can become healing and transformative. I believe that growth is achieved by the pairing of insight and the implementation of tools and techniques that will be learned in psychotherapy.
(323) 746-8508 View (323) 746-8508
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 Sofia Diaz, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Sofia Diaz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of expertise in providing psychotherapy services to individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
Are you feeling frustrated, "stuck", stressed, or hopeless? This can happen at different points in our lives. There can be challenges, traumatic events, a feeling of loneliness, and hopelessness. Sometimes one needs support during significant transitions in life. Therapy can provide an opportunity to explore your feelings during these times. Finding a therapist who will listen, be supportive, and help guide you toward the path of life you want to lead is important.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of expertise in providing psychotherapy services to individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
Are you feeling frustrated, "stuck", stressed, or hopeless? This can happen at different points in our lives. There can be challenges, traumatic events, a feeling of loneliness, and hopelessness. Sometimes one needs support during significant transitions in life. Therapy can provide an opportunity to explore your feelings during these times. Finding a therapist who will listen, be supportive, and help guide you toward the path of life you want to lead is important.
(747) 307-6434 View (747) 307-6434
Photo of Sevan Tahmassian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Sevan Tahmassian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
Additionally, I specialize in helping couples navigate persistent arguments or psychological distance, fostering an environment conducive to deeper connections within themselves and with their partners.
Initiating the journey of change and personal growth requires courage since it can be anxiety provoking. Your action to explore therapy is a testament to your strength & resilience, marking the beginning of a brave and positive move toward the life you deserve. Together, we can navigate a journey towards nurturing healthier connections with yourself and others, shaping a more fulfilling life and relationships. We'll collaboratively delve into your experiences through compassionate, engaged self-inquiry, aiming to uncover and transform them with experiential approaches.
Additionally, I specialize in helping couples navigate persistent arguments or psychological distance, fostering an environment conducive to deeper connections within themselves and with their partners.
Initiating the journey of change and personal growth requires courage since it can be anxiety provoking. Your action to explore therapy is a testament to your strength & resilience, marking the beginning of a brave and positive move toward the life you deserve. Together, we can navigate a journey towards nurturing healthier connections with yourself and others, shaping a more fulfilling life and relationships. We'll collaboratively delve into your experiences through compassionate, engaged self-inquiry, aiming to uncover and transform them with experiential approaches.
(323) 990-4169 View (323) 990-4169
Photo of Dr. Taji Huang PhD, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Dr. Taji Huang PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91207  (Online Only)
Dr. Taji Huang is a compassionate and experienced Individual, Celebrity, and Adult Psychologist based in Glendale, California. With a strong dedication to helping others navigate challenging phases in their lives, Dr. Huang serves as a trusted Life Coach for individuals seeking support and guidance. Specializing in severe and persistent mental illness, couples counseling, trauma-related conditions, and more, she offers a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being. If you are facing difficulties and seeking to regain control over your life, Dr. Taji Huang is here to support you.
Dr. Taji Huang is a compassionate and experienced Individual, Celebrity, and Adult Psychologist based in Glendale, California. With a strong dedication to helping others navigate challenging phases in their lives, Dr. Huang serves as a trusted Life Coach for individuals seeking support and guidance. Specializing in severe and persistent mental illness, couples counseling, trauma-related conditions, and more, she offers a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being. If you are facing difficulties and seeking to regain control over your life, Dr. Taji Huang is here to support you.
(424) 704-0198 View (424) 704-0198
Photo of Lisa Locke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Lisa Locke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91206  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families to promote personal growth and healthy relationships.
Let's face it. Life can be hard. Distressful relationships can make life harder. You are not alone and it's OK to ask for help. I am passionate about helping you create the life you desire. It takes work but doesn't have to be long-term. I value your time and believe in helping you find solutions to problems. I enjoy working with clients dedicated to their personal growth. If you need help with building self-esteem, enhancing relationships or moving from cycles of fear, anger, worry or sadness, I would be honored to walk with you on your path to peace.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families to promote personal growth and healthy relationships.
Let's face it. Life can be hard. Distressful relationships can make life harder. You are not alone and it's OK to ask for help. I am passionate about helping you create the life you desire. It takes work but doesn't have to be long-term. I value your time and believe in helping you find solutions to problems. I enjoy working with clients dedicated to their personal growth. If you need help with building self-esteem, enhancing relationships or moving from cycles of fear, anger, worry or sadness, I would be honored to walk with you on your path to peace.
(818) 616-8773 View (818) 616-8773
Photo of Ida S. Karayan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Ida S. Karayan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CBT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
I teach my clients about the relationship between body, mind and emotions, and we address all three aspects in each session to create permanent change.
During this extraordinary time of increased stress and uncertainty many of us are overwhelmed; facing pain, fear and anxiety as never before. I am an expert in working with clients to confront these challenges. I customize therapeutic methods and help clients develop strategies to overcome individual issues and achieve a balanced approach to life under any circumstances. After 20 years I am still constantly researching, and employ both old and new approaches with my clients. Client relationships are built on a foundation of trust and understanding, and I ensure a safe and professional environment, in-person or through telehealth.
I teach my clients about the relationship between body, mind and emotions, and we address all three aspects in each session to create permanent change.
During this extraordinary time of increased stress and uncertainty many of us are overwhelmed; facing pain, fear and anxiety as never before. I am an expert in working with clients to confront these challenges. I customize therapeutic methods and help clients develop strategies to overcome individual issues and achieve a balanced approach to life under any circumstances. After 20 years I am still constantly researching, and employ both old and new approaches with my clients. Client relationships are built on a foundation of trust and understanding, and I ensure a safe and professional environment, in-person or through telehealth.
(818) 243-9070 View (818) 243-9070
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 Stacey Sherrell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Stacey Sherrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
I work with adult individuals and couples/partnerships.
Struggling to adjust to a major life change? I help people who are experiencing anxiety, sadness, indecision and/or isolation stemming from a shift that has happened in their life. Whether it is a recent or pending break up, the loss of a loved one, or a recent move, change can be extremely challenging and anxiety provoking. Therapy gives you the space to talk about what's going on in your life and gives you the opportunity to learn new tools so you can successfully deal with what you're experiencing. It's easy to get trapped in unproductive patterns when you aren't where you thought you'd be in life, and therapy can stop that.
I work with adult individuals and couples/partnerships.
Struggling to adjust to a major life change? I help people who are experiencing anxiety, sadness, indecision and/or isolation stemming from a shift that has happened in their life. Whether it is a recent or pending break up, the loss of a loved one, or a recent move, change can be extremely challenging and anxiety provoking. Therapy gives you the space to talk about what's going on in your life and gives you the opportunity to learn new tools so you can successfully deal with what you're experiencing. It's easy to get trapped in unproductive patterns when you aren't where you thought you'd be in life, and therapy can stop that.
(818) 474-2721 View (818) 474-2721
Photo of Altagracia 'grace' Akopyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Altagracia '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 Nicholas Charles Russi, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Glendale, CA
Nicholas Charles Russi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC-S, CCS, ICAADC
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
**Telehealth Video sessions are available** Are you having trouble controlling your drinking but feel like "rehab" isn't for you? Have loved ones in your life pleaded with you to stop? Is your alcohol or drug use causing relationship issues? Anxiety problems? I know exactly how you’re feeling. Alcohol or drug abuse can be extremely difficult to manage on your own. For the last 19 years I’ve been helping clients navigate the personal recovery process and the trials and tribulations they come with it. If you are in a place in your life where you are ready to make some needed changes, I can help you be free from the grips of addiction.
**Telehealth Video sessions are available** Are you having trouble controlling your drinking but feel like "rehab" isn't for you? Have loved ones in your life pleaded with you to stop? Is your alcohol or drug use causing relationship issues? Anxiety problems? I know exactly how you’re feeling. Alcohol or drug abuse can be extremely difficult to manage on your own. For the last 19 years I’ve been helping clients navigate the personal recovery process and the trials and tribulations they come with it. If you are in a place in your life where you are ready to make some needed changes, I can help you be free from the grips of addiction.
(323) 310-1128 View (323) 310-1128
Photo of Dr. Cynthia E. Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Dr. Cynthia E. Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
My work focuses on helping couples in need of restoring healthy communication within their relationships.
Whatever your reason is for seeking therapy, you do not have to go about it alone. I work to empower my clients in the areas of their lives where they feel out of balance. I provide services for adults and couples struggling with issues that are impacting their sense of normalcy due to work, depression, anxiety, substances, and life transitions.
My work focuses on helping couples in need of restoring healthy communication within their relationships.
Whatever your reason is for seeking therapy, you do not have to go about it alone. I work to empower my clients in the areas of their lives where they feel out of balance. I provide services for adults and couples struggling with issues that are impacting their sense of normalcy due to work, depression, anxiety, substances, and life transitions.
(747) 998-0346 View (747) 998-0346
Photo of Mae Ana Sefami, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glendale, CA
Mae Ana Sefami
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91204
I work with individuals and couples who deal with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences (sexual abuse, war trauma, complex PTSD), relationship dissatisfaction, and chronic illness.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
I work with individuals and couples who deal with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences (sexual abuse, war trauma, complex PTSD), relationship dissatisfaction, and chronic illness.
I assist individuals in overcoming their inner pain, and learning to face the challenges of life from a place of strength, compassion, and connection. As your ally in healing, I can help you process the emotions, memories and experiences that may underly your current suffering, so that you’re free to feel connected with yourself, with others, and with life. Sometimes past traumas become trapped in our bodies and minds, and we need help to feel safe in ourself and our relationships. My approach is based on these principles: Efficacy (I use Evidence Based modalities), collaboration, individualized care, and warm relational connection.
(747) 200-8978 View (747) 200-8978
Photo of Gisela Burquet, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Gisela Burquet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
I offer personal therapy for individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, races, religions, sexual orientations, and economic backgrounds.
We often seek out therapy because we feel disconnected from others or from ourselves. Relationships may not be working out the way we want. We might feel we are not being the best version of ourselves when relating to other people. This can create anxiety, sadness, anger and other negative emotions.
I offer personal therapy for individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life, races, religions, sexual orientations, and economic backgrounds.
We often seek out therapy because we feel disconnected from others or from ourselves. Relationships may not be working out the way we want. We might feel we are not being the best version of ourselves when relating to other people. This can create anxiety, sadness, anger and other negative emotions.
(213) 267-9183 View (213) 267-9183
Photo of Jeanine Monterroza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Jeanine Monterroza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202  (Online Only)
By forming a trusting relationship, prompting insight, and introducing techniques, healing and fulfillment can be achieved.
I believe that by seeking therapy, you are taking the first, courageous step towards leading the kind of life you have always pictured for yourself. For some reason, you may feel that you have been derailed in your journey thus preventing you from getting to where you want to be. Perhaps it is a painful experience, maladaptive patterns of behavior, or faulty relational dynamics that are holding you back. You may not even be fully aware of where the root of the derailment lies.
By forming a trusting relationship, prompting insight, and introducing techniques, healing and fulfillment can be achieved.
I believe that by seeking therapy, you are taking the first, courageous step towards leading the kind of life you have always pictured for yourself. For some reason, you may feel that you have been derailed in your journey thus preventing you from getting to where you want to be. Perhaps it is a painful experience, maladaptive patterns of behavior, or faulty relational dynamics that are holding you back. You may not even be fully aware of where the root of the derailment lies.
(323) 918-5076 View (323) 918-5076
Photo of Diana X Castillo-Eddy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Diana X Castillo-Eddy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
I can help you create a connected, loving, and safe relationship.
Are you and your partner stuck in a cycle of repetitive arguments with no resolution? Do you feel disconnected, sad, tense, and unfulfilled in your loving relationship? It's time to address the communication and conflict resolution issues that are weighing you down. In our work together, you will learn valuable skills to manage disagreements and enhance trust in yourselves and your relationship. I will help you identify and catch negative thoughts about each other, fostering a supportive and loving environment. You will feel connected, understood, and loved, leading to a more satisfying relationship.
I can help you create a connected, loving, and safe relationship.
Are you and your partner stuck in a cycle of repetitive arguments with no resolution? Do you feel disconnected, sad, tense, and unfulfilled in your loving relationship? It's time to address the communication and conflict resolution issues that are weighing you down. In our work together, you will learn valuable skills to manage disagreements and enhance trust in yourselves and your relationship. I will help you identify and catch negative thoughts about each other, fostering a supportive and loving environment. You will feel connected, understood, and loved, leading to a more satisfying relationship.
(626) 385-8998 View (626) 385-8998
Photo of Viken Yacoubian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Viken Yacoubian
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
With over 20 years of experience in the field, I work with individuals, couples, and families, who are encountering a variety of issues, including marital, relationship, self-esteem, identity, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
At different points of our lives, we may find ourselves facing obstacles that seem to be very difficult to overcome. Strategies that used to help us move forward no longer seem to work. As overbearing as such periods in our lives may seem, they also present an opportunity for growth, for important changes that offer hope and possibilities for a better and reimagined future. As a therapist, I see my role as a facilitator, as someone who has the expertise to guide and support clients to achieve a space in their lives where they feel fulfilled and whole.
With over 20 years of experience in the field, I work with individuals, couples, and families, who are encountering a variety of issues, including marital, relationship, self-esteem, identity, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
At different points of our lives, we may find ourselves facing obstacles that seem to be very difficult to overcome. Strategies that used to help us move forward no longer seem to work. As overbearing as such periods in our lives may seem, they also present an opportunity for growth, for important changes that offer hope and possibilities for a better and reimagined future. As a therapist, I see my role as a facilitator, as someone who has the expertise to guide and support clients to achieve a space in their lives where they feel fulfilled and whole.
(323) 403-0957 View (323) 403-0957
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 Richard A Schofield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Glendale, CA
Richard A Schofield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91207  (Online Only)
People seek psychotherapy for a variety of reasons.I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I specialize in addiction but also provide individual therapy for a variety of personal issues. I also provide relationship counseling for married couples and couples who are thinking about getting married or just struggling in their relationship. I also have experience working with Gay and Lesbian couples and individuals. My psychological orientation is eclectic and I like to work with clients who are interested in depth psychology and want to develop insight.
People seek psychotherapy for a variety of reasons.I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I specialize in addiction but also provide individual therapy for a variety of personal issues. I also provide relationship counseling for married couples and couples who are thinking about getting married or just struggling in their relationship. I also have experience working with Gay and Lesbian couples and individuals. My psychological orientation is eclectic and I like to work with clients who are interested in depth psychology and want to develop insight.
(626) 658-3707 View (626) 658-3707
Photo of Sahar Motakef, Psychologist in Glendale, CA
Sahar Motakef
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who works with individuals and couples. I specialize in evidence-based therapy (CBT and ACT) for a range of mental health concerns. These include anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, phobias, perinatal mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. My training background in medical settings has informed my experience in behavioral health/health psychology such as in the adaptation of lifestyle changes benefiting physical and mental health and working with clients to extinguish unhelpful habits, including in the treatment of sleep disorders and ADHD.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who works with individuals and couples. I specialize in evidence-based therapy (CBT and ACT) for a range of mental health concerns. These include anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, phobias, perinatal mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. My training background in medical settings has informed my experience in behavioral health/health psychology such as in the adaptation of lifestyle changes benefiting physical and mental health and working with clients to extinguish unhelpful habits, including in the treatment of sleep disorders and ADHD.
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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.