Photo of Sex Addiction San Diego, Dr Silbert RN,CNS,PH.D., Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Sex Addiction San Diego, Dr Silbert RN,CNS,PH.D.
Psychologist, RN, CNS, PhD, FAACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
A therapeutic relationship with Dr.
"Escorts-Pornography-Happy Endings-Hook-Ups-Web Cam Sex- Internet Sex-Betrayal-Addiction-FBSM -Infidelity-Extra-Marital Affairs" Sexual addiction is a syndrome in which some form of sex behavior relates to and negatively affects an individual’s life cognitively and behaviorally. Controversy exists among professionals as to whether the syndrome should be considered sexual addiction, sexual compulsion, hypersexual or possibly a symptom of another mental disorder. Whatever the name, the problem is the same, which includes behavior that is out of control and negatively affecting various aspects of an individual’s life!"
A therapeutic relationship with Dr.
"Escorts-Pornography-Happy Endings-Hook-Ups-Web Cam Sex- Internet Sex-Betrayal-Addiction-FBSM -Infidelity-Extra-Marital Affairs" Sexual addiction is a syndrome in which some form of sex behavior relates to and negatively affects an individual’s life cognitively and behaviorally. Controversy exists among professionals as to whether the syndrome should be considered sexual addiction, sexual compulsion, hypersexual or possibly a symptom of another mental disorder. Whatever the name, the problem is the same, which includes behavior that is out of control and negatively affecting various aspects of an individual’s life!"
(858) 299-1951 View (858) 299-1951
Photo of La Jolla Psychologists, Psychological Associate in La Jolla, CA
La Jolla Psychologists
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My name is Dr. Naomi Midura. I am a Registered Psychological Associate at La Jolla Psychologists. Prior to this role I have worked as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 11+ years. I specialize in trauma informed work supporting insight regarding how wounds and ruptures affect our experiences, strategies for regulating and soothing our bodies and utilizing mindfulness strategies to support healing with ourselves and others. I partner with individuals, couples, and families. I look forward to partnering with you any way I can support growth and healing.
My name is Dr. Naomi Midura. I am a Registered Psychological Associate at La Jolla Psychologists. Prior to this role I have worked as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 11+ years. I specialize in trauma informed work supporting insight regarding how wounds and ruptures affect our experiences, strategies for regulating and soothing our bodies and utilizing mindfulness strategies to support healing with ourselves and others. I partner with individuals, couples, and families. I look forward to partnering with you any way I can support growth and healing.
(858) 786-0469 View (858) 786-0469
Photo of Dr. Julie Manoogian, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Dr. Julie Manoogian
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I specialize in individual and couples psychotherapy and I also provide clinical hypnosis. EMDR and Pain Reprocessing Therapy are offered by other providers in my group. Please visit Lajollapsychologists.com. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked in multiple settings, including college counseling centers and an inpatient residential treatment facility. I am particularly interested in the treatment of trauma, relationship challenges, postpartum health, emotion regulation, anxiety, stress, and depression. I specialize in working with marginalized populations and welcome all genders.
I specialize in individual and couples psychotherapy and I also provide clinical hypnosis. EMDR and Pain Reprocessing Therapy are offered by other providers in my group. Please visit Lajollapsychologists.com. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked in multiple settings, including college counseling centers and an inpatient residential treatment facility. I am particularly interested in the treatment of trauma, relationship challenges, postpartum health, emotion regulation, anxiety, stress, and depression. I specialize in working with marginalized populations and welcome all genders.
(619) 367-9098 View (619) 367-9098
Photo of Jonathan M Kramer, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Jonathan M Kramer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
PRACTICAL HELP. RESULTS ORIENTED. Want a happier and more successful life and relationship? I've had over 30 years of professional experience helping INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES have the life they want. I've been married over 30 years and know how to help you have a successful relationship too. Stop repeating old patters. Make changes for the better. Understand what's going wrong and know what to do about it, get control, communicate clearly, reignite the passion. Author, 'Why Men Don't Get Enough Sex & Women Don't Get Enough Love'. Results Oriented. Solution Focused. Email or Call Today for a Happier Tomorrow!
PRACTICAL HELP. RESULTS ORIENTED. Want a happier and more successful life and relationship? I've had over 30 years of professional experience helping INDIVIDUALS and COUPLES have the life they want. I've been married over 30 years and know how to help you have a successful relationship too. Stop repeating old patters. Make changes for the better. Understand what's going wrong and know what to do about it, get control, communicate clearly, reignite the passion. Author, 'Why Men Don't Get Enough Sex & Women Don't Get Enough Love'. Results Oriented. Solution Focused. Email or Call Today for a Happier Tomorrow!
(858) 376-7948 View (858) 376-7948
Photo of Jeannine Ray, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Jeannine Ray
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I use holistic and eclectic approaches with flexible, consistent interventions customized for the individual, and believe a good relationship between a therapist and client is key to the process of therapy.
Hello- my name is Jeannine Ray. I have 18 years of experience working with individuals and families as a family therapist and behavior analyst. I completed my Ph.D. and hold a doctorate in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and hold a license as an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
I use holistic and eclectic approaches with flexible, consistent interventions customized for the individual, and believe a good relationship between a therapist and client is key to the process of therapy.
Hello- my name is Jeannine Ray. I have 18 years of experience working with individuals and families as a family therapist and behavior analyst. I completed my Ph.D. and hold a doctorate in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and hold a license as an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
(858) 723-0583 View (858) 723-0583
Photo of Kristin Schwartz, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Kristin Schwartz
Psychologist, MC, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have developed a unique approach to guiding, coaching, and cheering men, women, and couples back to the lives they want.
Working together to determine and achieve your goals is my primary objective as your psychologist. When you arrive at my office you will be warmly welcomed into a space where you can decompress. I am committed to being accessible and feel honored by the opportunity to help you through this process. My office space is private, quiet, and welcoming and is centrally located near I-15. My roots in marriage, family, and child therapy, combined with a focus on cognitive behavioral interventions, will provide you the skills to navigate your obstacles.
I have developed a unique approach to guiding, coaching, and cheering men, women, and couples back to the lives they want.
Working together to determine and achieve your goals is my primary objective as your psychologist. When you arrive at my office you will be warmly welcomed into a space where you can decompress. I am committed to being accessible and feel honored by the opportunity to help you through this process. My office space is private, quiet, and welcoming and is centrally located near I-15. My roots in marriage, family, and child therapy, combined with a focus on cognitive behavioral interventions, will provide you the skills to navigate your obstacles.
(858) 381-4286 View (858) 381-4286
Photo of Rebecca Beville, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Rebecca Beville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I believe that your voice and expertise should be held at the same level as mine, so that together, we can create a map of treatment that aligns with who you are and the change you want to see. I value authenticity, empathy, and equality, and strive to uphold these notions in the therapeutic relationship. I also find that a real and honest connection is one of the most powerful vehicles for change, so with that in mind, I enter our work with a great deal of care, humility, and gratitude.
I believe that your voice and expertise should be held at the same level as mine, so that together, we can create a map of treatment that aligns with who you are and the change you want to see. I value authenticity, empathy, and equality, and strive to uphold these notions in the therapeutic relationship. I also find that a real and honest connection is one of the most powerful vehicles for change, so with that in mind, I enter our work with a great deal of care, humility, and gratitude.
(619) 739-4013 View (619) 739-4013
Photo of Kelly Blaylock, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Kelly Blaylock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping overwhelmed couples and individuals reconnect with each other, as well as themselves.
You want to be confident, but deep down you are struggling. You feel overwhelmed by anxiety that takes over your decisions, behaviors, and how you view yourself. Maybe you feel like you aren’t good enough and it’s debilitating when you try to express how you’re feeling to others. Perhaps you have noticed that you’re neglecting yourself in order to please others, and you feel disconnected from your significant other, or you recently went through a breakup or other big life change and feel like everything that you had planned has gone out the window. You are left feeling hopeless, frustrated, and defeated.
I specialize in helping overwhelmed couples and individuals reconnect with each other, as well as themselves.
You want to be confident, but deep down you are struggling. You feel overwhelmed by anxiety that takes over your decisions, behaviors, and how you view yourself. Maybe you feel like you aren’t good enough and it’s debilitating when you try to express how you’re feeling to others. Perhaps you have noticed that you’re neglecting yourself in order to please others, and you feel disconnected from your significant other, or you recently went through a breakup or other big life change and feel like everything that you had planned has gone out the window. You are left feeling hopeless, frustrated, and defeated.
(858) 304-2866 View (858) 304-2866
Photo of Nancy (Locke) Capers, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Nancy (Locke) Capers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Depressed? Anxious? Not quite feeling your best self? When we're having relationship problems, sometimes we just can't untangle them on our own. It's not uncommon to feel inadequate, or like you can't adapt to circumstances. I provide a safe environment for you to examine what's happening in your life. Through insight, behavioral changes, and emotional awareness we will explore your issues. I've been working with individuals and couples for well over 30 years. I specialize in working with stepfamilies/stepparents. Give me a call.
Depressed? Anxious? Not quite feeling your best self? When we're having relationship problems, sometimes we just can't untangle them on our own. It's not uncommon to feel inadequate, or like you can't adapt to circumstances. I provide a safe environment for you to examine what's happening in your life. Through insight, behavioral changes, and emotional awareness we will explore your issues. I've been working with individuals and couples for well over 30 years. I specialize in working with stepfamilies/stepparents. Give me a call.
(858) 367-3923 View (858) 367-3923
Photo of Beth Creager Berger, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Beth Creager Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
For couples counseling I have training in the Gottman method.
I am a licensed psychologist with an emphasis in anxiety disorders and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Other areas of focus have been on stress related issues, relationship issues, and life changing events which include completing college, career changes, and coping with loss.
For couples counseling I have training in the Gottman method.
I am a licensed psychologist with an emphasis in anxiety disorders and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Other areas of focus have been on stress related issues, relationship issues, and life changing events which include completing college, career changes, and coping with loss.
(858) 298-3400 View (858) 298-3400
Photo of Kelly McCullough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Kelly McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Have you ever felt like life's daily stressors are too much to handle? Are you wondering where you can turn to find some extra support? We all face challenges in our life, whether it is a transition to a new school or job, conflict in relationships, or difficulty managing our emotions. Seeking professional help can be the first vital step in making a change. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples looking to transform their lives. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to explore the shifts needed to launch you into a life filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment.
Have you ever felt like life's daily stressors are too much to handle? Are you wondering where you can turn to find some extra support? We all face challenges in our life, whether it is a transition to a new school or job, conflict in relationships, or difficulty managing our emotions. Seeking professional help can be the first vital step in making a change. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples looking to transform their lives. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to explore the shifts needed to launch you into a life filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment.
(858) 943-2002 View (858) 943-2002
Photo of Veronica Gibson, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Veronica Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I firmly believe in a client-centered, empathetic and trauma-informed approach, and have extensive experience working with individuals/couples from many different walks of life: children, adolescents, single adults and couples.
No matter who you are, life can be hard, and it can be incredibly difficult to take that next step. I’m here to help once you’ve decided the time is right to reach out for support. It’s my passion to help empower people just like yourself, equipping them with tools to help reach their goals and better deal with life’s many challenges.
I firmly believe in a client-centered, empathetic and trauma-informed approach, and have extensive experience working with individuals/couples from many different walks of life: children, adolescents, single adults and couples.
No matter who you are, life can be hard, and it can be incredibly difficult to take that next step. I’m here to help once you’ve decided the time is right to reach out for support. It’s my passion to help empower people just like yourself, equipping them with tools to help reach their goals and better deal with life’s many challenges.
(858) 746-7332 View (858) 746-7332
Photo of Irene Saunders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Irene Saunders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Most everything you value flows from the relationship you have with yourself. Discover all that transforms when you live in a way that reflects compassion toward yourself, and a deeper connection with your emotions, truth and dreams. I am a warm, genuinely caring and intuitive therapist. People I see often say that they feel safe and at ease with me, and deeply understood. Prior to a private practice, I provided therapy at the Departments of Psychiatry at UCSD and Rady Children's Hospital, and at Scripps, and trained other therapists. I use a blend of approaches to therapy and healing, and can offer tools tailored to your needs.
Most everything you value flows from the relationship you have with yourself. Discover all that transforms when you live in a way that reflects compassion toward yourself, and a deeper connection with your emotions, truth and dreams. I am a warm, genuinely caring and intuitive therapist. People I see often say that they feel safe and at ease with me, and deeply understood. Prior to a private practice, I provided therapy at the Departments of Psychiatry at UCSD and Rady Children's Hospital, and at Scripps, and trained other therapists. I use a blend of approaches to therapy and healing, and can offer tools tailored to your needs.
(858) 914-4625 View (858) 914-4625
Photo of Claudia Law-Greenberg, PhD, Psychologist in La Jolla, CA
Claudia Law-Greenberg, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have specialized training in psychodynamic therapy and adult psychoanalysis and work with adolescents, adults, couples and families.
People seek a psychotherapist because they are experiencing emotional distress, often caused by issues related to relationships, family, marital problems, stress, and general dissatisfaction with one's life or work. My job as a psychologist is to find a path leading to both relief of these symptoms and to an understanding of oneself, which together provide for both short term and long term relief from these states. I do this by providing a non-judgmental and supportive therapeutic environment which promotes a deeper understanding and exploration of oneself, with the belief that this increased self-awareness ultimately leads to positive changes and better coping skills.
I have specialized training in psychodynamic therapy and adult psychoanalysis and work with adolescents, adults, couples and families.
People seek a psychotherapist because they are experiencing emotional distress, often caused by issues related to relationships, family, marital problems, stress, and general dissatisfaction with one's life or work. My job as a psychologist is to find a path leading to both relief of these symptoms and to an understanding of oneself, which together provide for both short term and long term relief from these states. I do this by providing a non-judgmental and supportive therapeutic environment which promotes a deeper understanding and exploration of oneself, with the belief that this increased self-awareness ultimately leads to positive changes and better coping skills.
(858) 314-3574 View (858) 314-3574
Photo of Sabrina Parr, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Sabrina Parr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in couples, parenting/co-parenting and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Most people experience times or situations in their life in which additional support and help are needed. I offer a supportive, open and trusting environment to facilitate desired growth and change within the individual and/or the family. I have been working with in the field since 1994 and have enjoyed watching people make positive life changes. I look forward to the opportunity of supporting you!
I have specialized training in couples, parenting/co-parenting and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Most people experience times or situations in their life in which additional support and help are needed. I offer a supportive, open and trusting environment to facilitate desired growth and change within the individual and/or the family. I have been working with in the field since 1994 and have enjoyed watching people make positive life changes. I look forward to the opportunity of supporting you!
(858) 386-7832 View (858) 386-7832
Photo of Natalie Steele, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Natalie Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful catalysts for change, thus I approach clients with an unassuming and curious mind aimed to create an environment formed upon the foundation of trust and the instillation of hope.
I help clients mend their broken hearts and calm their overactive minds by joining them in their journey towards deeper self-awareness through kindness and compassion. I whole-heartedly believe in the beauty of each person's unique perspective, and at the same time, gently encourage clients to be mindful of the universal human experiences of love and loss. Thus, providing comfort while helping clients explore issues that are difficult or painful. My creative and empathetic approach can assist clients in breaking a repetitive mindset by allowing them to gain new perspective through fresh insights, support and empowerment.
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful catalysts for change, thus I approach clients with an unassuming and curious mind aimed to create an environment formed upon the foundation of trust and the instillation of hope.
I help clients mend their broken hearts and calm their overactive minds by joining them in their journey towards deeper self-awareness through kindness and compassion. I whole-heartedly believe in the beauty of each person's unique perspective, and at the same time, gently encourage clients to be mindful of the universal human experiences of love and loss. Thus, providing comfort while helping clients explore issues that are difficult or painful. My creative and empathetic approach can assist clients in breaking a repetitive mindset by allowing them to gain new perspective through fresh insights, support and empowerment.
(858) 295-7251 View (858) 295-7251
Photo of Deborah Lynn Skvarna, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Deborah Lynn Skvarna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
As a spouse and parent, I am familiar with the challenges families and couples face.
"Solution focused therapy for positive change" As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. My objective is to assist you and/or your family in reaching your personalized, specific goals unique to your lifestyle.
As a spouse and parent, I am familiar with the challenges families and couples face.
"Solution focused therapy for positive change" As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. My objective is to assist you and/or your family in reaching your personalized, specific goals unique to your lifestyle.
(858) 346-5830 View (858) 346-5830
Photo of Nasim Bavar, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Nasim Bavar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I have training and expertise in several therapeutic modalities including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and Mindfulness in helping those working on personal growth, relationship issues, parenting challenges, eating issues, and addictions.
In my experience, our suffering stems from a lack of self-acceptance and self-compassion. I have also realized that it is not until we are willing to take that first step of looking at ourselves kindly and respectfully, that we begin to live life fully. If you are feeling stuck dealing with difficult situations or repeating unhealthy habits, I can help.
I have training and expertise in several therapeutic modalities including EMDR, CBT, ACT, and Mindfulness in helping those working on personal growth, relationship issues, parenting challenges, eating issues, and addictions.
In my experience, our suffering stems from a lack of self-acceptance and self-compassion. I have also realized that it is not until we are willing to take that first step of looking at ourselves kindly and respectfully, that we begin to live life fully. If you are feeling stuck dealing with difficult situations or repeating unhealthy habits, I can help.
(858) 444-7746 View (858) 444-7746
Photo of Julia Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Julia Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I help children, adults, families, and couples break free from these unhealthy cycles, rewrite their life narratives, and make changes to create a life truly worth living.
Are you living a life you love, or are you stuck in the familiar “one step forward, two steps back” dance? Life can be colorfully painful, beautifully complicated, and completely overwhelming—and none of us were given a how-to guide. We all experience complicated twists and unexpected turns that cause sadness, worry, anger, and destructive patterns with food, drugs, alcohol, and within our closest relationships. Our lives are too short to lose precious time to unhappiness, feeling hopeless, and being stuck in the same vicious cycles. Therapy can give you a personalized roadmap to help you design a life you love.
I help children, adults, families, and couples break free from these unhealthy cycles, rewrite their life narratives, and make changes to create a life truly worth living.
Are you living a life you love, or are you stuck in the familiar “one step forward, two steps back” dance? Life can be colorfully painful, beautifully complicated, and completely overwhelming—and none of us were given a how-to guide. We all experience complicated twists and unexpected turns that cause sadness, worry, anger, and destructive patterns with food, drugs, alcohol, and within our closest relationships. Our lives are too short to lose precious time to unhappiness, feeling hopeless, and being stuck in the same vicious cycles. Therapy can give you a personalized roadmap to help you design a life you love.
(858) 585-9638 View (858) 585-9638
Photo of Joan Salat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Jolla, CA
Joan Salat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Do you ever ask yourself, "My partner and I are successful in so many ways, why does our relationship feel so painfully disconnected?" Allow me to guide you in restoring the connection you once enjoyed together. Damaged trust, anger, infidelity, money problems, lack of sex, intimacy and affection are among the problems that can erode a relationship. I will provide you with tools that will help you move towards rebuilding trust, closeness and integrity in the relationship. I will also teach you how to effectively get what you want from your partner and the relationship. About 50% of my practice is couples, 50% is individual therapy.
Do you ever ask yourself, "My partner and I are successful in so many ways, why does our relationship feel so painfully disconnected?" Allow me to guide you in restoring the connection you once enjoyed together. Damaged trust, anger, infidelity, money problems, lack of sex, intimacy and affection are among the problems that can erode a relationship. I will provide you with tools that will help you move towards rebuilding trust, closeness and integrity in the relationship. I will also teach you how to effectively get what you want from your partner and the relationship. About 50% of my practice is couples, 50% is individual therapy.
(858) 386-4822 View (858) 386-4822
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.