Photo of Mariam Paul, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mariam Paul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
Using a body, mind and spiritual approach, I guide individuals and couples to be more conscious in their relationships, to experience communication as communion, to learn how to be in allowance without judgment, to be comfortable in their own skin, feel better, laugh more, be genuinely happy.
Have you ever said, "I don't know what to do anymore?" Does a part of you "know" there must be more to life than you are currently experiencing? Would you like to come to terms with the past, find your true identity and make more conscious and fulfilling choices? My job is to assist you in discovering your own "knowing" by providing a sacred space for you to move out from under the beliefs of your past and into the unlimited possibilities of the present.
Using a body, mind and spiritual approach, I guide individuals and couples to be more conscious in their relationships, to experience communication as communion, to learn how to be in allowance without judgment, to be comfortable in their own skin, feel better, laugh more, be genuinely happy.
Have you ever said, "I don't know what to do anymore?" Does a part of you "know" there must be more to life than you are currently experiencing? Would you like to come to terms with the past, find your true identity and make more conscious and fulfilling choices? My job is to assist you in discovering your own "knowing" by providing a sacred space for you to move out from under the beliefs of your past and into the unlimited possibilities of the present.
(949) 427-2525 View (949) 427-2525
Photo of Cynthia E. Gallagher, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Cynthia E. Gallagher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I have extensive experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety,Panic disorders, and Relationship Issues. My approach to a person's problems involves the entire person. I have been trained extensively in the Neurobiological approach to treatment, which is often referred to as the Mind-Body connection. Having problematic physical symptoms as a result of being depressed and/or anxious is becoming more common and is very stressful. Our immune system, our ability to ward off disease can be greatly affected by our emotions. Depression, Anxiety/Panic, as well as the Stress caused by physical symptoms are very debilitating.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety,Panic disorders, and Relationship Issues. My approach to a person's problems involves the entire person. I have been trained extensively in the Neurobiological approach to treatment, which is often referred to as the Mind-Body connection. Having problematic physical symptoms as a result of being depressed and/or anxious is becoming more common and is very stressful. Our immune system, our ability to ward off disease can be greatly affected by our emotions. Depression, Anxiety/Panic, as well as the Stress caused by physical symptoms are very debilitating.
(424) 254-5843 View (424) 254-5843
Photo of Seany Renfrow, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Seany Renfrow
Psychologist, PsyD, BCC, CDM
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Additional specialties: Business and personal coaching - improve work and money relationships, increase productivity, grow business, work-home balance, develop vision, have support, thought and accountability partner.
I help people regain the feeling of hopefulness. Our work in therapy can help you feel the energy, enthusiasm and optimism that was part part of your identity. With therapy you will begin to feel a sense of connection and closeness with loved ones. You are not alone. With the support I can offer, you will likely feel the joy and peace that should be part of life. Therapy will help you feel empowered, live life more fulfilling and with greater ease. In my practice, I specialize in assisting people in overcoming feelings of sadness, loneliness and anxiety.
Additional specialties: Business and personal coaching - improve work and money relationships, increase productivity, grow business, work-home balance, develop vision, have support, thought and accountability partner.
I help people regain the feeling of hopefulness. Our work in therapy can help you feel the energy, enthusiasm and optimism that was part part of your identity. With therapy you will begin to feel a sense of connection and closeness with loved ones. You are not alone. With the support I can offer, you will likely feel the joy and peace that should be part of life. Therapy will help you feel empowered, live life more fulfilling and with greater ease. In my practice, I specialize in assisting people in overcoming feelings of sadness, loneliness and anxiety.
(562) 984-0848 View (562) 984-0848
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
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.
(833) 918-2676 View (833) 918-2676
Photo of Ralph Ihle, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Ralph Ihle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Areas of interest and specialty include working with individuals who are facing major life changes, those who suffer from trauma, anxiety and depression, recovery from substance abuse, social skills and relationship issues.
Dr. Ralph Ihle is a Psychologist in the Long Beach, CA area whose practice has spanned more than 30 years. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Los Angeles, CA in 1980 and his doctoral degree from the University of Southern California in 1988. He acquired skills consulting with and training program treatment staff and assessing and treating male and female patients with severe mental disorders and young adults with destructive behavior disorders.
Areas of interest and specialty include working with individuals who are facing major life changes, those who suffer from trauma, anxiety and depression, recovery from substance abuse, social skills and relationship issues.
Dr. Ralph Ihle is a Psychologist in the Long Beach, CA area whose practice has spanned more than 30 years. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Los Angeles, CA in 1980 and his doctoral degree from the University of Southern California in 1988. He acquired skills consulting with and training program treatment staff and assessing and treating male and female patients with severe mental disorders and young adults with destructive behavior disorders.
(562) 414-5629 View (562) 414-5629
Photo of Adriaan J van Zyl, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Adriaan J van Zyl
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815  (Online Only)
In a world filled with constant pressures and expectations, we can feel overwhelmed. We find ourselves caught in a web of emotions, feeling stuck in the mud. And with each step we are pulled in deeper into the confusion, grief, and despair - disconnected from purpose and isolated in the struggle. We yearn to be seen and heard, to find meaning, and hope. I believe deep change is possible and recognize the profound impact of being witnessed and understood. I specialize in supporting men and couples who are feeling desperate and exhausted, and are willing to keep moving.
In a world filled with constant pressures and expectations, we can feel overwhelmed. We find ourselves caught in a web of emotions, feeling stuck in the mud. And with each step we are pulled in deeper into the confusion, grief, and despair - disconnected from purpose and isolated in the struggle. We yearn to be seen and heard, to find meaning, and hope. I believe deep change is possible and recognize the profound impact of being witnessed and understood. I specialize in supporting men and couples who are feeling desperate and exhausted, and are willing to keep moving.
(626) 873-8489 View (626) 873-8489
Photo of Roger Justin Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Roger Justin Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping with the following: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, PTSD, intimacy issues, addiction, self esteem, bipolar, parenting, and communication.
I have been in private practice for over twenty five years and am wholly dedicated to providing my clients with the best care possible. In my practice I create a safe place for you to explore past and present issues blocking you from expressing yourself in your relationships and preventing you from accomplishing your goals or even having goals.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping with the following: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, PTSD, intimacy issues, addiction, self esteem, bipolar, parenting, and communication.
I have been in private practice for over twenty five years and am wholly dedicated to providing my clients with the best care possible. In my practice I create a safe place for you to explore past and present issues blocking you from expressing yourself in your relationships and preventing you from accomplishing your goals or even having goals.
(714) 462-1687 View (714) 462-1687
Photo of Kimberly Argil, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kimberly Argil
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90806
I typically work with individuals that are struggling with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Argil. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is to create permanent healing within your life and avoid the "band aid" approach that we sometimes get stuck into. My therapy may be challenging but is so worth it in the end. My goal in therapy with all of my clients is to develop and enhance skills and techniques that will improve the overall quality of your life. This would include coping skills, emotional regulation, anger management, etc. Like I tell all of my clients, I'm helping you to build your "toolbox" for life.
I typically work with individuals that are struggling with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Argil. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is to create permanent healing within your life and avoid the "band aid" approach that we sometimes get stuck into. My therapy may be challenging but is so worth it in the end. My goal in therapy with all of my clients is to develop and enhance skills and techniques that will improve the overall quality of your life. This would include coping skills, emotional regulation, anger management, etc. Like I tell all of my clients, I'm helping you to build your "toolbox" for life.
(562) 539-2867 View (562) 539-2867
Photo of Karma Brownlee Limon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Karma Brownlee Limon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
We work with individuals, couples, children/teens and families.
Are you going through tough times and need someone you can trust to talk with? Are you looking for a non-judgmental confidential setting to explore struggles with a caring psychotherapist? You have found the right company. As the president of Waves of Peace Counseling services I have over 20 years experience. Our professional therapists also have many years experience conducting therapy and have seen great results. Together we can explore challenges you are struggling with and can work with you on developing solutions in a practical and empathetic fashion. The goal is to help make these challenges smoother and easier to cope with.
We work with individuals, couples, children/teens and families.
Are you going through tough times and need someone you can trust to talk with? Are you looking for a non-judgmental confidential setting to explore struggles with a caring psychotherapist? You have found the right company. As the president of Waves of Peace Counseling services I have over 20 years experience. Our professional therapists also have many years experience conducting therapy and have seen great results. Together we can explore challenges you are struggling with and can work with you on developing solutions in a practical and empathetic fashion. The goal is to help make these challenges smoother and easier to cope with.
(562) 846-1054 View (562) 846-1054
Photo of Asia Payne - Like Water Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Asia Payne - Like Water Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90805  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Asia. If you are experiencing any of the following obstacles, I am here to assist: Are you questioning your self-worth? Feeling held back or overwhelmed by your thoughts? Questioning whether or not your relationship with your partner will work out? Experiencing difficulty with saying, “No” and incorporating the use of boundaries? Feeling 'stuck' and unable to reclaim your life from past traumas? Seeking therapy can definitely be scary, you are making the right choice.
Hi, I'm Asia. If you are experiencing any of the following obstacles, I am here to assist: Are you questioning your self-worth? Feeling held back or overwhelmed by your thoughts? Questioning whether or not your relationship with your partner will work out? Experiencing difficulty with saying, “No” and incorporating the use of boundaries? Feeling 'stuck' and unable to reclaim your life from past traumas? Seeking therapy can definitely be scary, you are making the right choice.
(310) 627-0395 View (310) 627-0395
Photo of Denise Hardy Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Denise Hardy Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASWCM, CDWF
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
My professional experience includes dealing with the aspects of psychological trauma and abuse, relationship issues, PTSD, and grief.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of professional experience. My practice as a psychotherapist is in behavioral health counseling, shame resilience theory, and complimented by key concepts and principles of solution focused therapy, positive psychology, mindfulness, and self compassion. I am a certified Daring Way (tm), (CDWF-Facilitator) LLC, a psycho-educational curriculum based on the research of Dr. Brene Brown. I work primarily with adults and those who want to achieve their best performances while striving for an enhanced quality of life. I am also a Certified Neurodiverse Couples Coach
My professional experience includes dealing with the aspects of psychological trauma and abuse, relationship issues, PTSD, and grief.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of professional experience. My practice as a psychotherapist is in behavioral health counseling, shame resilience theory, and complimented by key concepts and principles of solution focused therapy, positive psychology, mindfulness, and self compassion. I am a certified Daring Way (tm), (CDWF-Facilitator) LLC, a psycho-educational curriculum based on the research of Dr. Brene Brown. I work primarily with adults and those who want to achieve their best performances while striving for an enhanced quality of life. I am also a Certified Neurodiverse Couples Coach
(562) 507-1955 View (562) 507-1955
Photo of Wendy Mullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Wendy Mullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
Welcome! My name is Wendy Mullen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), and a leading Southern California therapist servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 30 years. I work with adults and specialize in substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and serious mental illness. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can find solace and embark on your healing journey.
Welcome! My name is Wendy Mullen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Professional Coach (CPC), and a leading Southern California therapist servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 30 years. I work with adults and specialize in substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and serious mental illness. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can find solace and embark on your healing journey.
(562) 784-5290 View (562) 784-5290
Photo of Daniya Ahmed, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Long Beach, CA
Daniya Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90840  (Online Only)
I primarily work with college students, young professionals, and couples.
If you’re reading this right now, you might be feeling down, confused, and maybe even stuck with what to do or where to go. Life IS tough, and I want you to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. I feel deeply honored to help people explore, understand, and learn to accept themselves. I strive to create a casual, comfortable, and authentic feel to our therapy sessions to help us build a safe environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities. My clients have commented and shared that they appreciate my genuine and compassionate nature, as well as my curiosity for them and their life stories.
I primarily work with college students, young professionals, and couples.
If you’re reading this right now, you might be feeling down, confused, and maybe even stuck with what to do or where to go. Life IS tough, and I want you to know that you don’t have to go through it alone. I feel deeply honored to help people explore, understand, and learn to accept themselves. I strive to create a casual, comfortable, and authentic feel to our therapy sessions to help us build a safe environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities. My clients have commented and shared that they appreciate my genuine and compassionate nature, as well as my curiosity for them and their life stories.
(415) 965-4841 View (415) 965-4841
Photo of Bernard F Natelson, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Bernard F Natelson
Psychologist, MBA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I have been in private practice for 30 years. These years of practice have taught me to view peoples' concerns as problems in everyday life rather than "mental" deficiencies. Couples, for example, are not mentally disturbed but rather have problems in communicating with each other. What is often categorized as depression or anxiety is often the result of an interpersonal relationship at home or at work. However, it may also be the result of an irrational belief system. In the latter case, I would work with the client in identifying his/her core belief system as a means of changing it. .
I have been in private practice for 30 years. These years of practice have taught me to view peoples' concerns as problems in everyday life rather than "mental" deficiencies. Couples, for example, are not mentally disturbed but rather have problems in communicating with each other. What is often categorized as depression or anxiety is often the result of an interpersonal relationship at home or at work. However, it may also be the result of an irrational belief system. In the latter case, I would work with the client in identifying his/her core belief system as a means of changing it. .
(562) 287-5168 View (562) 287-5168
Photo of Kenneice Tolliver, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Kenneice Tolliver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
My clinical interests include working with single-parent families, African-American women, multiracial individuals and families, couples, and exploring the effects of family patterns on individuals and their lives.
I provide psychotherapy services to clients to help them explore their lives and find meaning in their relationships. I work to empower and encourage clients to be more self-aware, explore their feelings, and improve their ability to navigate their experiences. I like to explore a variety of therapeutic modalities to find what best suits each client as every client is different and one size does not fit all when it comes to treatment. I like to listen to my clients and ensure that what I'm hearing is what they are saying. I also like to let them know they have choices, especially since it's their well-being that we are discussing.
My clinical interests include working with single-parent families, African-American women, multiracial individuals and families, couples, and exploring the effects of family patterns on individuals and their lives.
I provide psychotherapy services to clients to help them explore their lives and find meaning in their relationships. I work to empower and encourage clients to be more self-aware, explore their feelings, and improve their ability to navigate their experiences. I like to explore a variety of therapeutic modalities to find what best suits each client as every client is different and one size does not fit all when it comes to treatment. I like to listen to my clients and ensure that what I'm hearing is what they are saying. I also like to let them know they have choices, especially since it's their well-being that we are discussing.
(833) 958-2344 View (833) 958-2344
Photo of Julie Andersen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Julie Andersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804
Are you seeking to HEAL your anxiety, worry, addiction, depression and relationship difficulties, rather than just cope with them for the rest of your life? Are you exhausted from constantly feeling like something is wrong with you or being told something is wrong with you? Has inner and outer conflict got you feeling overwhelmed or shut down? I specialize in a direct psycho-spiritual approach that involves looking at each person from a holistic wellness model. Rather than pathologizing, we will see everything as a necessary part of your human experience and create the relationship you want with others, as well as yourself.
Are you seeking to HEAL your anxiety, worry, addiction, depression and relationship difficulties, rather than just cope with them for the rest of your life? Are you exhausted from constantly feeling like something is wrong with you or being told something is wrong with you? Has inner and outer conflict got you feeling overwhelmed or shut down? I specialize in a direct psycho-spiritual approach that involves looking at each person from a holistic wellness model. Rather than pathologizing, we will see everything as a necessary part of your human experience and create the relationship you want with others, as well as yourself.
(562) 564-6282 View (562) 564-6282
Photo of Olivia Johnson, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Olivia Johnson
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist licensed in California with 36 years of experience (I love helping folks!) I really look forward to working with you! I typically subscribe to a solution-focused therapy approach which I have found to be successful with various client populations. I find that a strong therapeutic alliance is central in facilitating change regardless of the presenting problem or issue. I would love the opportunity to work with couples who are struggling to communicate. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals with various presenting issues.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist licensed in California with 36 years of experience (I love helping folks!) I really look forward to working with you! I typically subscribe to a solution-focused therapy approach which I have found to be successful with various client populations. I find that a strong therapeutic alliance is central in facilitating change regardless of the presenting problem or issue. I would love the opportunity to work with couples who are struggling to communicate. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals with various presenting issues.
(562) 662-3659 View (562) 662-3659
Photo of Ella Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ella Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90805
I specialize in relationship issues, couples work, codependency, addiction, narcissistic abuse, and issues stemming from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I create an environment in therapy that makes it easy to explore the issues a person is wanting to talk about. I believe humor, playfulness, and understanding are key ingredients to helping a person heal and feel better. I am not a therapist who sits quietly and nods my head. I believe in getting into the work with a client and am involved and engaged throughout the process.
I specialize in relationship issues, couples work, codependency, addiction, narcissistic abuse, and issues stemming from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I create an environment in therapy that makes it easy to explore the issues a person is wanting to talk about. I believe humor, playfulness, and understanding are key ingredients to helping a person heal and feel better. I am not a therapist who sits quietly and nods my head. I believe in getting into the work with a client and am involved and engaged throughout the process.
(323) 861-3136 View (323) 861-3136
Photo of Cheryl Denise Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Cheryl Denise Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CPBC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90810  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individual adults and couples, to resolve their issues through a client centered approach offering empathy and a non-judgmental environment to support clients in establishing their goals so that they can identify and develop their inner strengths.
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they really need someone safe to talk to. They need someone who will not use their pain against them. So often they end up holding that pain inside, masking it with a smile or adherent behavior. I can provide a safe place for you to empty your pain and take off the mask so that your quality of life can improve.
I enjoy working with individual adults and couples, to resolve their issues through a client centered approach offering empathy and a non-judgmental environment to support clients in establishing their goals so that they can identify and develop their inner strengths.
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they really need someone safe to talk to. They need someone who will not use their pain against them. So often they end up holding that pain inside, masking it with a smile or adherent behavior. I can provide a safe place for you to empty your pain and take off the mask so that your quality of life can improve.
(424) 396-5139 View (424) 396-5139
Photo of Pat Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pat Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families experiencing a variety of life's challenges, El Arco Iris Family Counseling Center can help you get back on track. I have extensive experience with adoptive parents, gay/lesbian parents, blended, step-families and couples of all kinds. I work with individuals dealing with life's stressors, feeling unbalanced or overwhelmed. I have a deep understanding of the life-long complications stemming from childhood abuse and ACA (adult child of alcoholics) issues. Issues that often cause recurring problems in relationships, parenting, and at work. Se habla espanol.
With over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families experiencing a variety of life's challenges, El Arco Iris Family Counseling Center can help you get back on track. I have extensive experience with adoptive parents, gay/lesbian parents, blended, step-families and couples of all kinds. I work with individuals dealing with life's stressors, feeling unbalanced or overwhelmed. I have a deep understanding of the life-long complications stemming from childhood abuse and ACA (adult child of alcoholics) issues. Issues that often cause recurring problems in relationships, parenting, and at work. Se habla espanol.
(424) 226-4894 View (424) 226-4894
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.