Cynthia Gorton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hopland, CA 95449
With extensive experience working as a crisis counselor and trauma advocate, I feel confident in my ability to assist clients no matter what dilemmas they may be facing. Whether you are confronting a change in a life phase, a family systems adjustment, or are feeling a need to process trauma, I can help. I work with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction disorder, as well as, individuals, couples and families who simply aren't feeling quite like they would like to.
With extensive experience working as a crisis counselor and trauma advocate, I feel confident in my ability to assist clients no matter what dilemmas they may be facing. Whether you are confronting a change in a life phase, a family systems adjustment, or are feeling a need to process trauma, I can help. I work with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction disorder, as well as, individuals, couples and families who simply aren't feeling quite like they would like to.
(707) 415-1119 View (707) 415-1119

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica Provenza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Jessica Provenza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Somatic
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
Specialties include; anxiety, trauma, dissociation, relationship issues, chronic illness/autoimmune, and somatization.
I am here to remind you, you are not broken, even if your mind may be suggesting that you are. It is probable that these thoughts are connected to trauma—a way to make sense out of how uncomfortable you feel in your own body. Trauma can impact our health, body, emotions, relationships, perception of self and reality. Somatic Therapy may support you finding some relief in being you. Let's begin to explore and integrate what's causing this pain and psychological suffering without bypassing or minimizing your experiences. Your body has the wisdom to provide the answers. We may need to listen, honor and acknowledge its truth.
Specialties include; anxiety, trauma, dissociation, relationship issues, chronic illness/autoimmune, and somatization.
I am here to remind you, you are not broken, even if your mind may be suggesting that you are. It is probable that these thoughts are connected to trauma—a way to make sense out of how uncomfortable you feel in your own body. Trauma can impact our health, body, emotions, relationships, perception of self and reality. Somatic Therapy may support you finding some relief in being you. Let's begin to explore and integrate what's causing this pain and psychological suffering without bypassing or minimizing your experiences. Your body has the wisdom to provide the answers. We may need to listen, honor and acknowledge its truth.
(707) 267-2519 View (707) 267-2519
Photo of Kristin Hirt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Kristin Hirt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
I work with couples around managing the impact on the relationship of one or both partners' trauma history, balancing individuality and relationship, co-dependence, boundaries, communication skills, conflict management, and affair recovery.
I specialize in working with adult children of dysfunctional families of origin. I help folks who didn't receive emotional and psychological attunement from their parents as children, due to parental narcissism, trauma, substance abuse, and/ or mental illness, or due to abandonment, neglect, excessive criticism, and/ or abuse. I offer support with anxiety, finding one's voice, self-esteem, social anxiety, sensitivity, and life meaning, purpose, and transitions. I offer support in cultivating authentic connection and in healing struggles in relationships around assertiveness, boundaries, enmeshment, co-dependence, and isolation.
I work with couples around managing the impact on the relationship of one or both partners' trauma history, balancing individuality and relationship, co-dependence, boundaries, communication skills, conflict management, and affair recovery.
I specialize in working with adult children of dysfunctional families of origin. I help folks who didn't receive emotional and psychological attunement from their parents as children, due to parental narcissism, trauma, substance abuse, and/ or mental illness, or due to abandonment, neglect, excessive criticism, and/ or abuse. I offer support with anxiety, finding one's voice, self-esteem, social anxiety, sensitivity, and life meaning, purpose, and transitions. I offer support in cultivating authentic connection and in healing struggles in relationships around assertiveness, boundaries, enmeshment, co-dependence, and isolation.
(510) 872-2336 View (510) 872-2336
Photo of Perrine Portillo, Psychologist in Hopland, CA
Perrine Portillo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have a unique experience helping clients with ADHD, identity concerns, relationship conflict, and adoption. I also enjoy supporting clients with addressing insomnia, mood disorders (anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder), parenting challenges, and school issues. Additionally, I welcome those who may be seeking a therapist who is part of the BIPOC community.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have a unique experience helping clients with ADHD, identity concerns, relationship conflict, and adoption. I also enjoy supporting clients with addressing insomnia, mood disorders (anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder), parenting challenges, and school issues. Additionally, I welcome those who may be seeking a therapist who is part of the BIPOC community.
(530) 296-8675 View (530) 296-8675
Photo of Sonya Rai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopland, CA
Sonya Rai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Sacramento, CA 95605  (Online Only)
My path into mental health was inspired by my desire to help others achieve a life of fulfillment and balance. I learned that sexuality, gender identity, self expression and relationship intelligence are importance concepts when identifying individual life satisfaction. These topics can often times be taboo to discuss in our society, leading to feelings of guilt/shame, increased isolation and loneliness. My goal is to normalize these conversations and therapy.
My path into mental health was inspired by my desire to help others achieve a life of fulfillment and balance. I learned that sexuality, gender identity, self expression and relationship intelligence are importance concepts when identifying individual life satisfaction. These topics can often times be taboo to discuss in our society, leading to feelings of guilt/shame, increased isolation and loneliness. My goal is to normalize these conversations and therapy.
(818) 717-7098 View (818) 717-7098
Photo of Bob Greenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Bob Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I make use of over 35 years of professional experience working with a wide variety of issues, with special focus on trauma and abuse recovery, adolescent behavior problems, intimacy and relationship issues, sexual concerns, and treatment of sexually addictive/compulsive behaviors.
I provide a safe, supportive place for creative problem solving and self exploration. Each individual has a unique combination of strengths, needs and personal history that need to be identified and used to best achieve their goals. I view psychotherapy as a tool that can help people see new possibilities and potential in their lives, conquer fears and expand imitations.
I make use of over 35 years of professional experience working with a wide variety of issues, with special focus on trauma and abuse recovery, adolescent behavior problems, intimacy and relationship issues, sexual concerns, and treatment of sexually addictive/compulsive behaviors.
I provide a safe, supportive place for creative problem solving and self exploration. Each individual has a unique combination of strengths, needs and personal history that need to be identified and used to best achieve their goals. I view psychotherapy as a tool that can help people see new possibilities and potential in their lives, conquer fears and expand imitations.
(707) 579-5928 View (707) 579-5928
Photo of Neena Gleason, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hopland, CA
Neena Gleason
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94952
When working with couples, I provide trauma-informed support via Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Central to my practice is the belief in mind-body well-being and enduring resiliency, guiding clients towards a holistic understanding of themselves and their experiences. In our therapeutic journey, my priority is to ensure that our sessions are truly beneficial for you; that you feel fully seen and heard. I will regularly check in to gauge your progress and adjust my approach as needed, based on your feedback and evolving needs. I have a relational style and practice compassionate attunement, meaning I will openly offer reflections so that you never feel like you are talking to a blank wall, or being judged.
When working with couples, I provide trauma-informed support via Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Central to my practice is the belief in mind-body well-being and enduring resiliency, guiding clients towards a holistic understanding of themselves and their experiences. In our therapeutic journey, my priority is to ensure that our sessions are truly beneficial for you; that you feel fully seen and heard. I will regularly check in to gauge your progress and adjust my approach as needed, based on your feedback and evolving needs. I have a relational style and practice compassionate attunement, meaning I will openly offer reflections so that you never feel like you are talking to a blank wall, or being judged.
(707) 402-9610 View (707) 402-9610
Photo of Jo Burrows, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Jo Burrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94709
I specialize in helping individuals reinvent themselves in the workplace; and coaching couples and families to overcome the past by creating new structures and agreements.
Life is increasingly busy and complex. Compassionate Brain Life Coaching (CPLC), helps you to press the pause button, slow down and remember and or newly discover who you are. Science tells us that our brains at rest are actually programmed to be happy. But it sure doesn't always feel that way. CBLC equips you with the cognitive and mindfulness tools to counter the self-critic and manage difficult times. I will help you identify, name and validate the places you go under stress, with a view to exploring what works and creating newly, including moving from surviving to thriving.
I specialize in helping individuals reinvent themselves in the workplace; and coaching couples and families to overcome the past by creating new structures and agreements.
Life is increasingly busy and complex. Compassionate Brain Life Coaching (CPLC), helps you to press the pause button, slow down and remember and or newly discover who you are. Science tells us that our brains at rest are actually programmed to be happy. But it sure doesn't always feel that way. CBLC equips you with the cognitive and mindfulness tools to counter the self-critic and manage difficult times. I will help you identify, name and validate the places you go under stress, with a view to exploring what works and creating newly, including moving from surviving to thriving.
(510) 306-7232 View (510) 306-7232
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(415) 212-4950 View (415) 212-4950
Photo of Sarah K Spencer Psychotherapy Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Sarah K Spencer Psychotherapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
My practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, adolescents and their families from a family system perspective. I believe that all of us benefit from recognizing who we are within the construct of our larger social dynamics. I am a psychodynamic and interactive therapist, focusing on your strengths as a means to work through your challenges. I will work with you to identify your therapeutic goals, and we will explore how best to reach your desired outcomes. I am creative, empathetic and very pragmatic. Therapy is a journey, we will work hard together to make the most of your energy, finances and time.
My practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, adolescents and their families from a family system perspective. I believe that all of us benefit from recognizing who we are within the construct of our larger social dynamics. I am a psychodynamic and interactive therapist, focusing on your strengths as a means to work through your challenges. I will work with you to identify your therapeutic goals, and we will explore how best to reach your desired outcomes. I am creative, empathetic and very pragmatic. Therapy is a journey, we will work hard together to make the most of your energy, finances and time.
(415) 991-7568 View (415) 991-7568
Photo of Georgina Marie Cortez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Georgina Marie Cortez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94558  (Online Only)
I am able to provide bilingual counseling services, Spanish/ English. I work with individuals of all ages, couples and families. Life as we know it, can be a bit overwhelming at times and once we get caught in the middle of some kind of struggle, it can be difficult to find the way out. The strategies that we once used to cope don't work anymore, and we need a little help learning a new way.
I am able to provide bilingual counseling services, Spanish/ English. I work with individuals of all ages, couples and families. Life as we know it, can be a bit overwhelming at times and once we get caught in the middle of some kind of struggle, it can be difficult to find the way out. The strategies that we once used to cope don't work anymore, and we need a little help learning a new way.
(707) 681-7039 View (707) 681-7039
Photo of Derek Williamson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hopland, CA
Derek Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94591
If you are someone struggling in life right now, I would love to help you. I love what I do and I work hard for my clients to help them become the best versions of themselves. I offer individual, family and couples counseling. From my experience as a stay at home Dad of 5 years, I gained a special interest in working with parents and families.
If you are someone struggling in life right now, I would love to help you. I love what I do and I work hard for my clients to help them become the best versions of themselves. I offer individual, family and couples counseling. From my experience as a stay at home Dad of 5 years, I gained a special interest in working with parents and families.
(530) 464-6338 View (530) 464-6338
Photo of Hannah Collentine-Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopland, CA
Hannah Collentine-Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
Are you feeling stuck? Are you juggling so many responsibilities that your own needs come last? Is it hard to take time for yourself? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please know that you aren’t alone and therapy can help. I work with adult clients struggling with anxiety and relationship challenges, and I am particularly passionate about supporting moms through pregnancy and beyond. I offer Telehealth therapy to clients throughout CA, and in-person therapy to clients in the Sacramento Area.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you juggling so many responsibilities that your own needs come last? Is it hard to take time for yourself? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please know that you aren’t alone and therapy can help. I work with adult clients struggling with anxiety and relationship challenges, and I am particularly passionate about supporting moms through pregnancy and beyond. I offer Telehealth therapy to clients throughout CA, and in-person therapy to clients in the Sacramento Area.
(916) 252-1371 View (916) 252-1371
Photo of Kira Sue Kayler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Kira Sue Kayler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Hello there! As a PACT Level 2 and RLT trained couples therapist, my passion lies in helping couples strengthen their emotional bond, rediscover intimacy, and build lasting connections. If you desire a relationship filled with trust, love, and understanding, I am here to guide you on this transformative journey. Together, we will address your unique concerns and create a safe space for open communication, fostering a love that stands the test of time. Let's embark on this empowering path towards a fulfilling and secure partnership.
Hello there! As a PACT Level 2 and RLT trained couples therapist, my passion lies in helping couples strengthen their emotional bond, rediscover intimacy, and build lasting connections. If you desire a relationship filled with trust, love, and understanding, I am here to guide you on this transformative journey. Together, we will address your unique concerns and create a safe space for open communication, fostering a love that stands the test of time. Let's embark on this empowering path towards a fulfilling and secure partnership.
(415) 854-9408 View (415) 854-9408
Photo of Kayla Ann Dale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Kayla Ann Dale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sonoma, CA 95476
I have expertise in treating individuals with trauma backgrounds, PTSD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and relationship issues.
Currently accepting new clients! You are looking to make some positive changes in your life but are unsure of how or where to begin. You are open to counseling and willing to take small steps towards a happier and healthier version of yourself. Exploring the ways your thoughts or behaviors have been contributing to your distress is challenging, but you are committed to working towards your full potential. You might also be a parent who is struggling to find help for your child who has been acting out and are at a loss of what to do.
I have expertise in treating individuals with trauma backgrounds, PTSD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and relationship issues.
Currently accepting new clients! You are looking to make some positive changes in your life but are unsure of how or where to begin. You are open to counseling and willing to take small steps towards a happier and healthier version of yourself. Exploring the ways your thoughts or behaviors have been contributing to your distress is challenging, but you are committed to working towards your full potential. You might also be a parent who is struggling to find help for your child who has been acting out and are at a loss of what to do.
(707) 210-1601 View (707) 210-1601
Photo of Andrew R Smith, Psychologist in Hopland, CA
Andrew R Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I bring over 25 years experience as a therapist to help adults, teens, couples, and families.
In our lives we experience painful feelings, and at times we may feel off-balance and lost. You may find that this is a time of more acute emotional suffering and that your existing coping strategies are not holding you. I offer compassionate support and tools to help you identify both immediate and sustaining antidotes to your current struggle. I use a holistic approach to helping my clients, which may include a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Buddhist-oriented psychology and mindfulness approaches, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, emotion regulation, motivational interviewing, and communication skills training.
I bring over 25 years experience as a therapist to help adults, teens, couples, and families.
In our lives we experience painful feelings, and at times we may feel off-balance and lost. You may find that this is a time of more acute emotional suffering and that your existing coping strategies are not holding you. I offer compassionate support and tools to help you identify both immediate and sustaining antidotes to your current struggle. I use a holistic approach to helping my clients, which may include a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Buddhist-oriented psychology and mindfulness approaches, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, emotion regulation, motivational interviewing, and communication skills training.
(916) 302-4205 View (916) 302-4205
Photo of Michael Cole, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Hopland, CA
Michael Cole
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my page. Choosing to embark on the path of healing can be difficult, and I applaud you for taking the first step. I work with adults (both women and men) seeking to address concerns related to relationships, infidelity, self-worth, and commitment issues. I offer a safe and supportive space for exploring these complex issues. My goal is to support you in having a clearer understanding of the barriers you face while navigating life's challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, or relationship issues, I am here to help you create a more fulfilling life. I invite you to reach out.
Thank you for visiting my page. Choosing to embark on the path of healing can be difficult, and I applaud you for taking the first step. I work with adults (both women and men) seeking to address concerns related to relationships, infidelity, self-worth, and commitment issues. I offer a safe and supportive space for exploring these complex issues. My goal is to support you in having a clearer understanding of the barriers you face while navigating life's challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, or relationship issues, I am here to help you create a more fulfilling life. I invite you to reach out.
(510) 513-8950 View (510) 513-8950
Photo of Alex Tipton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hopland, CA
Alex Tipton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I also provide couples and family therapy, offering a safe and non-judgmental space for you and your partner or loved ones to communicate and restore your meaningful connection.
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
I also provide couples and family therapy, offering a safe and non-judgmental space for you and your partner or loved ones to communicate and restore your meaningful connection.
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
(415) 322-5279 View (415) 322-5279
Photo of Kelli O'Rourke-Wall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopland, CA
Kelli O'Rourke-Wall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
Kelli O'Rourke-Wall is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who enjoys providing a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment for children, adolescents, couples, and families to explore and process the issues that are impairing their ability to live full, rich, and joy-filled lives. Therapy helps everyone to learn and grow and develop new ways of being and relating to themselves and others. She will work with you to identify your's or your family's own unique goals for therapy and she will utilize evidence-based practices that have shown efficacy in demonstrating results for the changes you desire to make.
Kelli O'Rourke-Wall is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who enjoys providing a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment for children, adolescents, couples, and families to explore and process the issues that are impairing their ability to live full, rich, and joy-filled lives. Therapy helps everyone to learn and grow and develop new ways of being and relating to themselves and others. She will work with you to identify your's or your family's own unique goals for therapy and she will utilize evidence-based practices that have shown efficacy in demonstrating results for the changes you desire to make.
Photo of Jhoana Sarabia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopland, CA
Jhoana Sarabia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Many people see her for help in building relationship and communication skills, as well as addressing panic attacks, trauma and PTSD, domestic violence, low self-esteem, postpartum depression, and LGBTQ issues.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
Many people see her for help in building relationship and communication skills, as well as addressing panic attacks, trauma and PTSD, domestic violence, low self-esteem, postpartum depression, and LGBTQ issues.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
(310) 943-1244 View (310) 943-1244
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.