Photo of Linda G Abramson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Linda G Abramson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I generally see patients for one hour sessions individually, in couples or families on a weekly or biweekly basis.
I am an individual, marital, family and child therapist who currently works with a wide range of patients. My specialties include addressing issues of grief and loss, relationship concerns, parent/child issues, depression, abuse, substances/alcohol dependence, family transitions and issues related to aging. My approach is to encourage a healing relationship in a trusting environment where personal and family growth can occur.
I generally see patients for one hour sessions individually, in couples or families on a weekly or biweekly basis.
I am an individual, marital, family and child therapist who currently works with a wide range of patients. My specialties include addressing issues of grief and loss, relationship concerns, parent/child issues, depression, abuse, substances/alcohol dependence, family transitions and issues related to aging. My approach is to encourage a healing relationship in a trusting environment where personal and family growth can occur.
(949) 776-8962 View (949) 776-8962
Photo of Haley Dwelley (Figueroa), Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Haley Dwelley (Figueroa)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
As a therapist and brain health coach, I work with individuals, couples and families to help guide and support the process of change, growth and overall wellbeing. I have 17 years of experience working with youth and parents in a variety of settings, over 14 years of experience supporting individuals in their health and wellness goals, and nine years of experience working at the Amen Clinics in Orange County providing therapy, coaching, and brain health assessment and education. I have facilitated groups for brain health optimization, anxiety and depression, Love and Logic Parenting, Creating Brain Healthy Families, and weight loss.
As a therapist and brain health coach, I work with individuals, couples and families to help guide and support the process of change, growth and overall wellbeing. I have 17 years of experience working with youth and parents in a variety of settings, over 14 years of experience supporting individuals in their health and wellness goals, and nine years of experience working at the Amen Clinics in Orange County providing therapy, coaching, and brain health assessment and education. I have facilitated groups for brain health optimization, anxiety and depression, Love and Logic Parenting, Creating Brain Healthy Families, and weight loss.
(949) 392-6411 View (949) 392-6411
Photo of Julie A Davis, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Julie A Davis
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My specialities are Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Infidelity, Divorce Recovery, Stage of life (empty nest and retirement), Grief and loss, Mood Disorders, Adult and Pediatric Bipolar disorder.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
My specialities are Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Infidelity, Divorce Recovery, Stage of life (empty nest and retirement), Grief and loss, Mood Disorders, Adult and Pediatric Bipolar disorder.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
(949) 287-2871 View (949) 287-2871
Photo of Ashley A. Blackett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Ashley A. Blackett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as relationship issues of all ages.
Change is hard! Isn't the alternative worse? Life can be very challenging and demanding. It can even seem extremely overwhelming. The good news is you don't have to feel alone. Seeking help is a sign of courage and strength, which I foster in practice. I offer assistance in finding ways to manage your stressors in ways that work for you. Improving self-esteem, learning to cope, and managing emotions is all possible. I won’t promise it will be easy (therapy rarely is). But I can promise you, it will be worth it.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as relationship issues of all ages.
Change is hard! Isn't the alternative worse? Life can be very challenging and demanding. It can even seem extremely overwhelming. The good news is you don't have to feel alone. Seeking help is a sign of courage and strength, which I foster in practice. I offer assistance in finding ways to manage your stressors in ways that work for you. Improving self-esteem, learning to cope, and managing emotions is all possible. I won’t promise it will be easy (therapy rarely is). But I can promise you, it will be worth it.
(949) 793-9260 View (949) 793-9260
Photo of Steve Rockman, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Steve Rockman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I use a no nonsense approach to couples and families by focusing on meeting each other's emotional needs and developing effective communication.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
I use a no nonsense approach to couples and families by focusing on meeting each other's emotional needs and developing effective communication.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
(949) 230-9602 View (949) 230-9602
Photo of Sylvia Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Sylvia Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Blingüe
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I have been assisting couples with issues of infidelity, lack of communication, boredom and relationships struggles.
Are you experiencing a life situation that requires extra support and guidance? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you long for a deeper connection, intimacy and understanding from your partner? As a trained psychotherapist, I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy. Allow me to help you find solutions and discover the right path in life. I utilize a diverse approach to address your individual needs. Together, we will work at achieving your goals.
I have been assisting couples with issues of infidelity, lack of communication, boredom and relationships struggles.
Are you experiencing a life situation that requires extra support and guidance? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you long for a deeper connection, intimacy and understanding from your partner? As a trained psychotherapist, I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy. Allow me to help you find solutions and discover the right path in life. I utilize a diverse approach to address your individual needs. Together, we will work at achieving your goals.
(714) 942-0574 View (714) 942-0574
Photo of Circe Von Haus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Circe Von Haus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I value the therapeutic relationship and empowering others.
Circe Von Haus I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, with 10 years' experience. I am passionate about helping others navigate life’s challenges, accomplish goals, and empowering the individual. I have extensive expertise working with children and families. As a marriage and family therapist, my areas of interests are working with grief, trauma, anger management, depression, anxiety, parenting, ADHD, Autism, children and families, and the multicultural population.
I value the therapeutic relationship and empowering others.
Circe Von Haus I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, with 10 years' experience. I am passionate about helping others navigate life’s challenges, accomplish goals, and empowering the individual. I have extensive expertise working with children and families. As a marriage and family therapist, my areas of interests are working with grief, trauma, anger management, depression, anxiety, parenting, ADHD, Autism, children and families, and the multicultural population.
(323) 709-8687 View (323) 709-8687
Photo of Dr. Roxanne Cherry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Dr. Roxanne Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
For 33+ years adults, couples, teens/kids, and families have successfully improved self-awareness, communication, and relationship skills.
Congratulations on taking a step closer to a solution and a life you love. I'd be happy to help you or your loved ones discover and practice more effective ways to experience and express. You'll learn to honor yourself, live your truth, and enjoy fulfilling relationships. Of course, making that happen requires your commitment and effort. I'll provide safe, non-judgmental listening and proven tools; you bring willingness and commitment to inquire, experiment and practice. As an expert in human behavior, I am a gender-affirming advocate for LGBTQ+ people and families. Sessions can be conducted via telehealth, in-person or by phone.
For 33+ years adults, couples, teens/kids, and families have successfully improved self-awareness, communication, and relationship skills.
Congratulations on taking a step closer to a solution and a life you love. I'd be happy to help you or your loved ones discover and practice more effective ways to experience and express. You'll learn to honor yourself, live your truth, and enjoy fulfilling relationships. Of course, making that happen requires your commitment and effort. I'll provide safe, non-judgmental listening and proven tools; you bring willingness and commitment to inquire, experiment and practice. As an expert in human behavior, I am a gender-affirming advocate for LGBTQ+ people and families. Sessions can be conducted via telehealth, in-person or by phone.
(949) 228-2844 View (949) 228-2844
Photo of Ronald A. Bacon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Ronald A. Bacon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MDiv, MSM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I believe that when it comes to relationship dynamics, it takes two to keep things the same, and only one to change them.
I have have worked with hundreds of families over the years to provide a clear, unbiased place to transform unhappiness into satisfaction. I have effective strategies to help my clients transform their current pain into relationship satisfaction. I specialize in consulting with those who love someone who is an alcoholic or addict in ways to remain in contact without remaining a part of the chaos that accompanies an active substance use disorder. I am also very comfortable dealing with spiritual issues from a Biblical perspective.
I believe that when it comes to relationship dynamics, it takes two to keep things the same, and only one to change them.
I have have worked with hundreds of families over the years to provide a clear, unbiased place to transform unhappiness into satisfaction. I have effective strategies to help my clients transform their current pain into relationship satisfaction. I specialize in consulting with those who love someone who is an alcoholic or addict in ways to remain in contact without remaining a part of the chaos that accompanies an active substance use disorder. I am also very comfortable dealing with spiritual issues from a Biblical perspective.
(949) 273-2902 View (949) 273-2902
Photo of Amanda Wood, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Amanda Wood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I oversee a Christian Counseling Center in So Orange County, CA. We see couples, families, individuals and children. MFT Interns from Cal State Fullerton, Pepperdine University, Azusa Pacific University, Hope International University, and Vanguard University, to name a few, work with clients weekly. Our clients come to us with a wide range of issues including but not limited to marriage problems, addictions, eating disorders, depression and anxiety. We use integrative methods rooted in Christian principles to help our clients improve.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I oversee a Christian Counseling Center in So Orange County, CA. We see couples, families, individuals and children. MFT Interns from Cal State Fullerton, Pepperdine University, Azusa Pacific University, Hope International University, and Vanguard University, to name a few, work with clients weekly. Our clients come to us with a wide range of issues including but not limited to marriage problems, addictions, eating disorders, depression and anxiety. We use integrative methods rooted in Christian principles to help our clients improve.
(949) 427-9505 View (949) 427-9505
Photo of Wendy Purcell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Wendy Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
When you are suffering, personally, within your family or in a relationship, I offer therapy that goes beyond just talking about the past. I use an educational and directive Mind/Body/Spirit approach that assesses your current life situation, formulates new goals and gives you tools to use every day. I make therapy comfortable, positive and aim to get results as quickly as possible. I see myself as an active facilitator in a joint process, not an expert-patient relationship. I believe that everyone intrinsically knows what they need, it's my job to assist you on that journey.
When you are suffering, personally, within your family or in a relationship, I offer therapy that goes beyond just talking about the past. I use an educational and directive Mind/Body/Spirit approach that assesses your current life situation, formulates new goals and gives you tools to use every day. I make therapy comfortable, positive and aim to get results as quickly as possible. I see myself as an active facilitator in a joint process, not an expert-patient relationship. I believe that everyone intrinsically knows what they need, it's my job to assist you on that journey.
(949) 244-7246 View (949) 244-7246
Photo of Joan Cantor Backer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Joan Cantor Backer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of themselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and children. Through my extensive life experiences and clinical training, I am qualified to work with a wide range of issues for women, including life transitions, menopause, aging, loss and grief, and developing self esteem. “Hi, Joan, I want to thank you for your guidance during our sessions. The issues we discussed and acknowledged, gave me a sense of empowerment. I was very aware of what was going on around me and how it made me feel. "MK"
I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of themselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and children. Through my extensive life experiences and clinical training, I am qualified to work with a wide range of issues for women, including life transitions, menopause, aging, loss and grief, and developing self esteem. “Hi, Joan, I want to thank you for your guidance during our sessions. The issues we discussed and acknowledged, gave me a sense of empowerment. I was very aware of what was going on around me and how it made me feel. "MK"
(949) 676-7486 View (949) 676-7486
Photo of Linda Cleveland-O'Keefe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Linda Cleveland-O'Keefe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607
Are you having trouble managing your child's behavior? If so I will use Parent Child Interaction therapy to provide a relationship "tool kit".
Do you wonder what stops you from having a more fulfilling life and more satisfying relationships? You can change your life and relationships to what you want them to be. I use evidence based (research validated) methods of psychotherapy to help you identify what you want out of life and make the changes necessary to create that life. I will help you uncover your strengths and use them to live a more authentic and joyful life. I specialize in using Parent Child Interaction, Cognitive Behavioral , Attachment, Mindfulness, Family Systems and Functional Family Therapies, dependent on your needs.
Are you having trouble managing your child's behavior? If so I will use Parent Child Interaction therapy to provide a relationship "tool kit".
Do you wonder what stops you from having a more fulfilling life and more satisfying relationships? You can change your life and relationships to what you want them to be. I use evidence based (research validated) methods of psychotherapy to help you identify what you want out of life and make the changes necessary to create that life. I will help you uncover your strengths and use them to live a more authentic and joyful life. I specialize in using Parent Child Interaction, Cognitive Behavioral , Attachment, Mindfulness, Family Systems and Functional Family Therapies, dependent on your needs.
(949) 436-6916 View (949) 436-6916
Photo of Mary Herzog, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Mary Herzog
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Serious/chronic illness, grief and bereavement, behavioral or emotional outbursts, and relationship and sexuality issues, pose challenges for all family members to overcome.
I am a licensed psychologist whose research and practice in dance, education, and psychology support my innovative use of the most effective and empirically based treatment strategies. From your first appointment, my goal is to help you figure out your current obstacles and how to get past them. I will listen carefully to your concerns, ask a few questions and then try to provide an accurate and compassionate summary of my understanding of your situation. I will offer some treatment options and give you a sense of how we might work together so you can move forward in your life.
Serious/chronic illness, grief and bereavement, behavioral or emotional outbursts, and relationship and sexuality issues, pose challenges for all family members to overcome.
I am a licensed psychologist whose research and practice in dance, education, and psychology support my innovative use of the most effective and empirically based treatment strategies. From your first appointment, my goal is to help you figure out your current obstacles and how to get past them. I will listen carefully to your concerns, ask a few questions and then try to provide an accurate and compassionate summary of my understanding of your situation. I will offer some treatment options and give you a sense of how we might work together so you can move forward in your life.
(949) 910-9344 View (949) 910-9344
Photo of Kathleen 'Kay' Wenger, Counselor in Laguna Niguel, CA
Kathleen 'Kay' Wenger
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
In our work together we will maintain a comfortable, respectful atmosphere while exploring your concerns and tailoring an approach that fits your specific needs. In a world that can divide us, I work with people to focus on the positive attributes in their relationships and to explore forgiveness for the mistakes that are made along the relational journey. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with couples, individuals and families. I am an educator of Marriage, Family Therapy at Pepperdine University where I have worked for 30 years as their Manager of MA Clinical Training and Professional Development. Call Today
In our work together we will maintain a comfortable, respectful atmosphere while exploring your concerns and tailoring an approach that fits your specific needs. In a world that can divide us, I work with people to focus on the positive attributes in their relationships and to explore forgiveness for the mistakes that are made along the relational journey. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with couples, individuals and families. I am an educator of Marriage, Family Therapy at Pepperdine University where I have worked for 30 years as their Manager of MA Clinical Training and Professional Development. Call Today
(949) 446-1772 View (949) 446-1772
Photo of Adrienne Habib, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Adrienne Habib
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607
With families and couples, I strive to reach further than teaching communication skills.
Accepting new clients as of 3/29/24! I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, families, and couples. Maybe you want your child to be able to cope with their feelings. Maybe you want your teen to be more self-sufficient with their responsibilities. Or, perhaps you want to be able to navigate conflict with your partner without it devolving into a fight. I can help you achieve these goals, along with many others. I focus on treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, stressors, behavioral problems in children/teens, parenting and family issues, academic issues, trauma, and more. I offer in-person or video sessions.
With families and couples, I strive to reach further than teaching communication skills.
Accepting new clients as of 3/29/24! I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, families, and couples. Maybe you want your child to be able to cope with their feelings. Maybe you want your teen to be more self-sufficient with their responsibilities. Or, perhaps you want to be able to navigate conflict with your partner without it devolving into a fight. I can help you achieve these goals, along with many others. I focus on treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, stressors, behavioral problems in children/teens, parenting and family issues, academic issues, trauma, and more. I offer in-person or video sessions.
(714) 451-7445 View (714) 451-7445
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1303 View (562) 268-1303
Photo of Megan Buhrlen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Megan Buhrlen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! Sometimes life in general can feel overwhelming. This feeling can intensify if you also struggle with unprocessed trauma and/or feelings of low self-worth. My clients have either had a chaotic childhood or a single traumatic experience that has led to self-consciousness, self-sabotage or simply difficulty handling stress. They have so much compassion for others, yet struggle to turn it inward. Their coping strategies "make sense" but they struggle to believe in their own worth. The individuals I work with are hoping to find peace, stability and increased self-esteem.
Currently accepting new clients! Sometimes life in general can feel overwhelming. This feeling can intensify if you also struggle with unprocessed trauma and/or feelings of low self-worth. My clients have either had a chaotic childhood or a single traumatic experience that has led to self-consciousness, self-sabotage or simply difficulty handling stress. They have so much compassion for others, yet struggle to turn it inward. Their coping strategies "make sense" but they struggle to believe in their own worth. The individuals I work with are hoping to find peace, stability and increased self-esteem.
(949) 353-6283 View (949) 353-6283
Photo of Valerie Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Valerie Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Life is more than just struggling to exist or survive. Allow therapy to be the bridge that teaches you how to overcome the problems you face and the loneliness you feel. I use the proven technique of Emotionally-Focused Therapy which quickly can bring changes that heal and restore your life and relationships. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, or any life burden that has you lost....come and take the next step to a better life and healthy connections.
Life is more than just struggling to exist or survive. Allow therapy to be the bridge that teaches you how to overcome the problems you face and the loneliness you feel. I use the proven technique of Emotionally-Focused Therapy which quickly can bring changes that heal and restore your life and relationships. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, or any life burden that has you lost....come and take the next step to a better life and healthy connections.
(949) 541-8841 View (949) 541-8841
Photo of Shrinks Corner, Inc , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Shrinks Corner, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Shrinks Corner is a modern psychotherapy practice located in Orange County, California. The practice provides therapy, counseling, and other psychology-related services for the treatment and management of mental health disorders through the use of evidence-based treatment interventions.
Shrinks Corner is a modern psychotherapy practice located in Orange County, California. The practice provides therapy, counseling, and other psychology-related services for the treatment and management of mental health disorders through the use of evidence-based treatment interventions.
(949) 919-6314 View (949) 919-6314

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Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.