Photo of Mary E Lama, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Mary E Lama
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Waitlist for new clients
- I have over two decades working closely with individuals, couples and families, learning, supporting, teaching and guiding.
We are all on our own journey in life, filled with experiences big and small that have shaped our present. At times we all have our own work to do to feel mentally healthy and balanced in our relationship with ourselves and others. Therapy is a courageous and powerful step for your journey, helping you grow and/or heal to reach the goals you desire. By meeting you where you are at emotionally/mentally we work for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, discover patterns in your life and learn skills for you to reach your goals.
- I have over two decades working closely with individuals, couples and families, learning, supporting, teaching and guiding.
We are all on our own journey in life, filled with experiences big and small that have shaped our present. At times we all have our own work to do to feel mentally healthy and balanced in our relationship with ourselves and others. Therapy is a courageous and powerful step for your journey, helping you grow and/or heal to reach the goals you desire. By meeting you where you are at emotionally/mentally we work for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, discover patterns in your life and learn skills for you to reach your goals.
(925) 275-5216 View (925) 275-5216
Photo of Andrea D. Schoon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Andrea D. Schoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
(714) 577-2517 View (714) 577-2517
Photo of Tacha Kasper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Tacha Kasper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
If you or a loved one has CHRONIC PAIN / ILLNESS, CANCER OR TRAUMA, I would like to be part of your HEALING TEAM and help you combat the EMOTIONAL IMPACT, such as: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, intimacy, self-esteem, isolation, work/financial strain, caretaker strain & family tension, and more.
Are you TIRED of pretending to be 'FINE' when you're really in terrible pain? Do you want to PUNCH the next person who says, "At least you look good"? I get it! PAIN & ILLNESS is hard & most people don't understand how it challenges every aspect of your life. As someone who has battled chronic pain & cancer, I have a unique combination of first-hand knowledge & professional experience. I work as a catalyst to help you build hope, promote healing & inspire growth so that you can live a 'chronically' fulfilling life.
If you or a loved one has CHRONIC PAIN / ILLNESS, CANCER OR TRAUMA, I would like to be part of your HEALING TEAM and help you combat the EMOTIONAL IMPACT, such as: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, intimacy, self-esteem, isolation, work/financial strain, caretaker strain & family tension, and more.
Are you TIRED of pretending to be 'FINE' when you're really in terrible pain? Do you want to PUNCH the next person who says, "At least you look good"? I get it! PAIN & ILLNESS is hard & most people don't understand how it challenges every aspect of your life. As someone who has battled chronic pain & cancer, I have a unique combination of first-hand knowledge & professional experience. I work as a catalyst to help you build hope, promote healing & inspire growth so that you can live a 'chronically' fulfilling life.
(949) 656-4542 View (949) 656-4542
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
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.
(714) 912-2768 View (714) 912-2768
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Huntington Beach, CA
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Together, we delve into traumas, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship challenges, understanding how these stressors impact your life.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Together, we delve into traumas, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship challenges, understanding how these stressors impact your life.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(714) 316-7563 View (714) 316-7563
Photo of Christi Gallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(657) 571-6400 View (657) 571-6400
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Rachel Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Rachel Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
FREE PHONE CONSULTATION. Rachel's approach focuses on how thoughts and feelings can overtake one's daily life, especially in relationships. She empowers her clients to overcome the "mind reading" tendencies, and to communicate with healthy and honest words. Rachel specializes in family and couples counseling and believes that many relationships end without a genuine effort to repair the hurts, betrayal, anger, and disconnect.
FREE PHONE CONSULTATION. Rachel's approach focuses on how thoughts and feelings can overtake one's daily life, especially in relationships. She empowers her clients to overcome the "mind reading" tendencies, and to communicate with healthy and honest words. Rachel specializes in family and couples counseling and believes that many relationships end without a genuine effort to repair the hurts, betrayal, anger, and disconnect.
(707) 820-7583 View (707) 820-7583
Photo of Dr. Lenora Burney, Psychologist in Huntington Beach, CA
Dr. Lenora Burney
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MMFCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist practicing over 22 years with teens, adults, and couples.
Sometimes life can get tough and we feel like we are not functioning at our best. Maybe we feel that we are in a dark place or that we are stuck in a rut. Perhaps we are struggling in a relationship, at work, or in our own life journey. Whatever your challenge is, I am here to work collaboratively with you to meet you where you are at to develop the strategies and skills you need to achieve your desired goals.
I am a licensed psychologist practicing over 22 years with teens, adults, and couples.
Sometimes life can get tough and we feel like we are not functioning at our best. Maybe we feel that we are in a dark place or that we are stuck in a rut. Perhaps we are struggling in a relationship, at work, or in our own life journey. Whatever your challenge is, I am here to work collaboratively with you to meet you where you are at to develop the strategies and skills you need to achieve your desired goals.
(657) 571-2630 View (657) 571-2630
Photo of Ryan Krajniak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Ryan Krajniak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and goal oriented to meet each client's unique needs. I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, and that a flexible and individualized approach is essential for creating meaningful and lasting change. Having worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 12 years, I have developed expertise in addressing a multitude of challenges. These specialties include anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, grief, loss, anger, and relationship issues.
My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and goal oriented to meet each client's unique needs. I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, and that a flexible and individualized approach is essential for creating meaningful and lasting change. Having worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 12 years, I have developed expertise in addressing a multitude of challenges. These specialties include anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, grief, loss, anger, and relationship issues.
(714) 978-4571 View (714) 978-4571
Photo of Nikita Mahbubani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Nikita Mahbubani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
I have found a strong connection and demonstrated effectiveness in working with diverse adults, families and couples facing various life challenges, recent adjustments, and social pressures, which may often take the form of anxiety, depression, grief, significant stressors or traumatic events.
Hello! My name is Nikita Mahbubani, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I provide therapy services to clients statewide through telehealth. My practice involves working with adults, families, and couples from diverse backgrounds, specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, family conflict, neurodivergence, and trauma. I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment-based therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I have found a strong connection and demonstrated effectiveness in working with diverse adults, families and couples facing various life challenges, recent adjustments, and social pressures, which may often take the form of anxiety, depression, grief, significant stressors or traumatic events.
Hello! My name is Nikita Mahbubani, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I provide therapy services to clients statewide through telehealth. My practice involves working with adults, families, and couples from diverse backgrounds, specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, family conflict, neurodivergence, and trauma. I integrate various therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment-based therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(657) 571-7388 View (657) 571-7388
Photo of Jayce Long, Psychologist in Huntington Beach, CA
Jayce Long
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I tend to view people as complex, and that our difficulties are intertwined with our relationships, culture, and lifestyle, past and present. I have advanced training in psychoanalysis and mentalization based treatment, working with adults coping with complex trauma and personality disorder diagnoses. Additionally, I work with athletes and professionals having problems with performance, doubt, and creativity. Ultimately, my efforts are aimed at cultivating a meaningful, trustworthy, and collaborative relationship meant to help individuals reflect on and understand where they have been, where they are, and where they want to go.
I tend to view people as complex, and that our difficulties are intertwined with our relationships, culture, and lifestyle, past and present. I have advanced training in psychoanalysis and mentalization based treatment, working with adults coping with complex trauma and personality disorder diagnoses. Additionally, I work with athletes and professionals having problems with performance, doubt, and creativity. Ultimately, my efforts are aimed at cultivating a meaningful, trustworthy, and collaborative relationship meant to help individuals reflect on and understand where they have been, where they are, and where they want to go.
(657) 298-1051 View (657) 298-1051
Photo of Earth Haven Therapy Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Earth Haven Therapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
Our therapists work with individuals, children, adolescents, couples and families to support healing in relationships at home, school, work, and in the community.
Are you looking for a supportive therapist that offers you fresh perspective? Do you feel down and more sensitive than usual? Does your mind buzz with worried thoughts? Our practice therapists want to help you find balance and joy again or for the first time ever. We all experience maladies such as anxiety and depression, stress and fatigue which are signs that a problem can no longer be ignored. Let's take a look at the deeper causes and learn the tools that will help you navigate this time.
Our therapists work with individuals, children, adolescents, couples and families to support healing in relationships at home, school, work, and in the community.
Are you looking for a supportive therapist that offers you fresh perspective? Do you feel down and more sensitive than usual? Does your mind buzz with worried thoughts? Our practice therapists want to help you find balance and joy again or for the first time ever. We all experience maladies such as anxiety and depression, stress and fatigue which are signs that a problem can no longer be ignored. Let's take a look at the deeper causes and learn the tools that will help you navigate this time.
(561) 903-2746 View (561) 903-2746
Photo of Adam Grindlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Adam Grindlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I specialize in working directly with individuals, families, and couples experiencing a variety of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, Sports Psychology, Bi-Polar disorder, grief/loss, bullying, parenting, defiance, poor communication skills, couple's counseling, divorce, and life transitions.
As a parent, there is nothing that you wouldn't do for your child and their success. However, sometimes the day to day stress and demands of everyday life impact our relationships in a negative way. I have over 15 years experience working directly with children, adolescents, and families struggling with a variety of issues.
I specialize in working directly with individuals, families, and couples experiencing a variety of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, Sports Psychology, Bi-Polar disorder, grief/loss, bullying, parenting, defiance, poor communication skills, couple's counseling, divorce, and life transitions.
As a parent, there is nothing that you wouldn't do for your child and their success. However, sometimes the day to day stress and demands of everyday life impact our relationships in a negative way. I have over 15 years experience working directly with children, adolescents, and families struggling with a variety of issues.
(562) 396-5916 View (562) 396-5916
Photo of Brittney Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I also help my couples and families to discover their internal parts and help conflicting parts to de-escalate, and utilize new skills to meet one another where they are.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I also help my couples and families to discover their internal parts and help conflicting parts to de-escalate, and utilize new skills to meet one another where they are.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(714) 924-3426 View (714) 924-3426
Photo of Judy Russell Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Judy Russell Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
I have worked with families, couples, individuals, adolescents, and facilitated domestic violence groups.
You may be overwhelmed with trying to manage problems, conflicts, emotions, and life transitions with inadequate support. There are many things in life that can go wrong, and it is good to have someone willing to listen and be objective, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I have additional training to treat military and their families.
I have worked with families, couples, individuals, adolescents, and facilitated domestic violence groups.
You may be overwhelmed with trying to manage problems, conflicts, emotions, and life transitions with inadequate support. There are many things in life that can go wrong, and it is good to have someone willing to listen and be objective, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I have additional training to treat military and their families.
(714) 202-4401 View (714) 202-4401
Photo of Jose Luna, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Huntington Beach, CA
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
I also specialize in therapy that focuses on the relationship between the child and parents.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
I also specialize in therapy that focuses on the relationship between the child and parents.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(714) 844-0404 View (714) 844-0404
Photo of Cathy Trenary, Pre-Licensed Professional in Huntington Beach, CA
Cathy Trenary
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families in various capacities.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(714) 627-4914 View (714) 627-4914
Photo of Marc Bock, Psychologist in Huntington Beach, CA
Marc Bock
Psychologist, DC, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Dr. Marc Bock has developed and led anger management groups for men convicted of domestic violence for over 10 years. He now works with individuals and couples in his private practice to guide them on the path to a healthy relationship with themselves and others. In addition to being a practicing psychologist and chiropractor, he is also an educator and lecturer. This unique balance of mind and body skills and the awareness of how our pain affects our total self, allows for a more integrated approach in guiding individuals along their path of healing.
Dr. Marc Bock has developed and led anger management groups for men convicted of domestic violence for over 10 years. He now works with individuals and couples in his private practice to guide them on the path to a healthy relationship with themselves and others. In addition to being a practicing psychologist and chiropractor, he is also an educator and lecturer. This unique balance of mind and body skills and the awareness of how our pain affects our total self, allows for a more integrated approach in guiding individuals along their path of healing.
(714) 847-5350 View (714) 847-5350
Photo of Heather Gramme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntington Beach, CA
Heather Gramme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Hello. My name is Heather Gramme. It is nice to meet you. I have been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 2014. My license number in CA is, LCSW86925. I also hold LCSW licensure in Florida and Idaho. I use a very eclectic approach as my therapeutic style to meet the very unique needs of each individual client that I have the privilege of working with. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with children as young as 8, and clients in their 80's.
Hello. My name is Heather Gramme. It is nice to meet you. I have been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 2014. My license number in CA is, LCSW86925. I also hold LCSW licensure in Florida and Idaho. I use a very eclectic approach as my therapeutic style to meet the very unique needs of each individual client that I have the privilege of working with. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with children as young as 8, and clients in their 80's.
(562) 573-9174 View (562) 573-9174

See more therapy options for Huntington Beach

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.