Photo of Victoria Gutierrez-Kovner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Victoria Gutierrez-Kovner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Do you want to make changes in your life? Do you want to make healthy choices that will enable you to reach your full potential? Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship - a second chance at discovering our capacity to grow, to love, to reflect and to change how we react to the world around us. Through the connection of the therapeutic relationship, one is able to transform patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Today you are one step closer to creating positive changes in your life. It would be an honor and a privilege to join you on this journey!
Do you want to make changes in your life? Do you want to make healthy choices that will enable you to reach your full potential? Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship - a second chance at discovering our capacity to grow, to love, to reflect and to change how we react to the world around us. Through the connection of the therapeutic relationship, one is able to transform patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Today you are one step closer to creating positive changes in your life. It would be an honor and a privilege to join you on this journey!
(626) 658-3372 View (626) 658-3372
Photo of Love Thyself Social Services Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Love Thyself Social Services Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
For over 15 years, Love Thyself Social Services Inc. has served the minority community through community outreach by providing the necessity of support to those who are neglected, underserved, and in need of psychosocial healing. By working to eliminate psychosocial barriers and support healing, we eagerly strive toward timely intervention for both the individual and family. We help individuals and families of all ethnicities and background to achieve mental stability and awareness of self. Now serving Teens, Couples, Individuals, Families.
For over 15 years, Love Thyself Social Services Inc. has served the minority community through community outreach by providing the necessity of support to those who are neglected, underserved, and in need of psychosocial healing. By working to eliminate psychosocial barriers and support healing, we eagerly strive toward timely intervention for both the individual and family. We help individuals and families of all ethnicities and background to achieve mental stability and awareness of self. Now serving Teens, Couples, Individuals, Families.
(310) 929-6176 View (310) 929-6176
Photo of Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
(323) 622-1987 View (323) 622-1987
Photo of Paula Corano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Paula Corano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90038  (Online Only)
As a certified therapist in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I can provide you with the tools to improve your relationship.
Do you feel a bit lost, down in the dumps, or as if life has thrown you one too many curveballs lately? Now imagine how it would be not to worry constantly, to have the strength to do things again. As a licensed MFT, I focus on promoting change and growth in individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulties. I approach therapy in a holistic manner by supporting clients in setting goals, solving problems, and changing unhelpful patterns while providing empathy and practical feedback. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, coping with loss, adjustment to life changes, & parenting.
As a certified therapist in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I can provide you with the tools to improve your relationship.
Do you feel a bit lost, down in the dumps, or as if life has thrown you one too many curveballs lately? Now imagine how it would be not to worry constantly, to have the strength to do things again. As a licensed MFT, I focus on promoting change and growth in individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulties. I approach therapy in a holistic manner by supporting clients in setting goals, solving problems, and changing unhelpful patterns while providing empathy and practical feedback. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, coping with loss, adjustment to life changes, & parenting.
(323) 747-5025 View (323) 747-5025
Photo of Christine Chae, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Christine Chae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
Seeking out therapy can feel intimidating but the greatest agent for change in therapy is a good therapeutic relationship.
Want to use your insurance for therapy but can't find an in-network therapist who is accepting new clients? Welcome to Abundance Therapy Center where you can get high-quality therapy using your insurance for therapy sessions! We accept most major insurances and will help you verify coverage and navigate the insurance maze. We believe in making high-quality therapy accessible and affordable to our community. We care about your healing journey. ***PLEASE VISIT "ABUNDANCETHERAPYCENTER.COM" TO SUBMIT AN INTAKE REQUEST.***
Seeking out therapy can feel intimidating but the greatest agent for change in therapy is a good therapeutic relationship.
Want to use your insurance for therapy but can't find an in-network therapist who is accepting new clients? Welcome to Abundance Therapy Center where you can get high-quality therapy using your insurance for therapy sessions! We accept most major insurances and will help you verify coverage and navigate the insurance maze. We believe in making high-quality therapy accessible and affordable to our community. We care about your healing journey. ***PLEASE VISIT "ABUNDANCETHERAPYCENTER.COM" TO SUBMIT AN INTAKE REQUEST.***
(323) 274-1727 View (323) 274-1727
Photo of Healista Holistic Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Healista Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
At Healista, we have 20+ years of experience working with adults, families (including couples), and children of all ages to (re)establish healthy ways of coping with adversities they face, so they can get back to their true selves and the things that bring them joy.
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
At Healista, we have 20+ years of experience working with adults, families (including couples), and children of all ages to (re)establish healthy ways of coping with adversities they face, so they can get back to their true selves and the things that bring them joy.
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
(310) 499-2640 View (310) 499-2640
Photo of Karina Kazaryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Karina Kazaryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91504
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. During my 18 years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with Adult Children of parents with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. During my 18 years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with Adult Children of parents with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic.
(747) 239-5371 View (747) 239-5371
Photo of Ashley Pezeshkifar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Ashley Pezeshkifar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CPC, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I believe in building a therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy, challenge & change in an environment of openness, understanding & collaboration.
My work enables the client to become aware of emotions and resources as they learn techniques for self-management, communication & resourcefulness. Building emotional resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. I work with the conscious & subconscious mind, while helping gain self-awareness to understand that self-limiting behaviors are caused by thoughts, feelings & beliefs of which you may be unaware. I help build awareness & empowerment during your journey. The motivations and process of therapy are unique to each individual. My practice includes work with individuals, couples, families, children, geriatrics, & groups.
I believe in building a therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy, challenge & change in an environment of openness, understanding & collaboration.
My work enables the client to become aware of emotions and resources as they learn techniques for self-management, communication & resourcefulness. Building emotional resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. I work with the conscious & subconscious mind, while helping gain self-awareness to understand that self-limiting behaviors are caused by thoughts, feelings & beliefs of which you may be unaware. I help build awareness & empowerment during your journey. The motivations and process of therapy are unique to each individual. My practice includes work with individuals, couples, families, children, geriatrics, & groups.
(424) 369-6133 View (424) 369-6133
Photo of Jaimie T Barnett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jaimie T Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
I have experience working with all types of people and their current situations such as relationship issues, crisis intervention and prevention, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, bereavement, etc.. One of my passions is working with individuals who are suffering from anxiety. By creating a non judgmental and safe space, I believe that change can happen!
I have experience working with all types of people and their current situations such as relationship issues, crisis intervention and prevention, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, bereavement, etc.. One of my passions is working with individuals who are suffering from anxiety. By creating a non judgmental and safe space, I believe that change can happen!
(818) 960-7990 View (818) 960-7990
Photo of Nicole Bessire-Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Nicole Bessire-Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendora, CA 91741
Nicole has a special interest in Christian therapy and working with individuals and couples going through life transition stages.
Nicole Bessire Taylor is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nicole has a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Nicole's therapeutic work has focused on treating individuals, couples, and families with a broad spectrum of clinical issues.
Nicole has a special interest in Christian therapy and working with individuals and couples going through life transition stages.
Nicole Bessire Taylor is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nicole has a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Nicole's therapeutic work has focused on treating individuals, couples, and families with a broad spectrum of clinical issues.
(909) 891-0612 View (909) 891-0612
Photo of Linda W Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Linda W Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Covina, CA 91723  (Online Only)
I have experience, working with CULTURALLY DIVERSE individuals, couples, children and families; clients diagnosed with variety of presenting problems including marital issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, , Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
My philosophy is that every client deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges.
I have experience, working with CULTURALLY DIVERSE individuals, couples, children and families; clients diagnosed with variety of presenting problems including marital issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, , Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
My philosophy is that every client deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges.
(626) 498-8843 View (626) 498-8843
Photo of Annie Armstrong Miyao, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Annie Armstrong Miyao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and practical perspective. My work is holistic and includes a creative exploration of the client's life experience, building awareness and mindfulness, reconnecting to the cues the body gives, and reinforcing positive experiences. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create change, and work through a myriad of issues. These issues range from depression and anxiety to questions about where to go next in career and, "Why do I keep dating the wrong person?". Clients come to me to work through trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, low self-esteem, loss of meaning, and relationship issues.
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and practical perspective. My work is holistic and includes a creative exploration of the client's life experience, building awareness and mindfulness, reconnecting to the cues the body gives, and reinforcing positive experiences. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create change, and work through a myriad of issues. These issues range from depression and anxiety to questions about where to go next in career and, "Why do I keep dating the wrong person?". Clients come to me to work through trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, low self-esteem, loss of meaning, and relationship issues.
(424) 903-2854 View (424) 903-2854
Photo of Lori Shnorhokian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Lori Shnorhokian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I provide a safe environment and compassionate, non-judgmental counseling to help you explore the personal and relationship challenges you are facing and begin working toward lasting solutions. Whether you are looking for personal growth, relationship healing or overall support, I can help you to more clearly understand why you are struggling and what steps you can take to feel more confident and in control of your life. When you develop new coping skills, you give yourself the resources and confidence you need to effectively manage challenges rather than giving into unhealthy compulsions and negative self-talk.
I provide a safe environment and compassionate, non-judgmental counseling to help you explore the personal and relationship challenges you are facing and begin working toward lasting solutions. Whether you are looking for personal growth, relationship healing or overall support, I can help you to more clearly understand why you are struggling and what steps you can take to feel more confident and in control of your life. When you develop new coping skills, you give yourself the resources and confidence you need to effectively manage challenges rather than giving into unhealthy compulsions and negative self-talk.
(424) 276-6330 View (424) 276-6330
Photo of Eshawn Williams, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Eshawn Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90746
I specialize in treating Bipolar, Anger Management, Self-Harming, ADHD, Anxiety, Addictions, Divorce, Relationship Issues, Couples Problems, Self-Esteem, Identity Development, Work-Place Struggles, Court Mandated, Depression, Bereavement, Veterans Issues, Childhood, Adolescent, Parenting-classes, and Adulthood difficulties.
Reaching out for help is a difficult thing to do. However, you are closer to your healing by viewing this. You may have felt misunderstood throughout your life, but self acceptance is the primary goal. My desire is for you to improve your daily functioning and satisfaction in your life. Engaging in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, you will enhance your communication skills, coping strategies, and a sense of emotional and mental wellness. Opportunities for a happier and more fulfilling life are developed through compassion, collaboration, and support. By picking up the phone and dialing my number you have displayed self love and hope.
I specialize in treating Bipolar, Anger Management, Self-Harming, ADHD, Anxiety, Addictions, Divorce, Relationship Issues, Couples Problems, Self-Esteem, Identity Development, Work-Place Struggles, Court Mandated, Depression, Bereavement, Veterans Issues, Childhood, Adolescent, Parenting-classes, and Adulthood difficulties.
Reaching out for help is a difficult thing to do. However, you are closer to your healing by viewing this. You may have felt misunderstood throughout your life, but self acceptance is the primary goal. My desire is for you to improve your daily functioning and satisfaction in your life. Engaging in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, you will enhance your communication skills, coping strategies, and a sense of emotional and mental wellness. Opportunities for a happier and more fulfilling life are developed through compassion, collaboration, and support. By picking up the phone and dialing my number you have displayed self love and hope.
(562) 758-7347 View (562) 758-7347
Photo of Keturah McClendon Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Keturah McClendon Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90059
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
(424) 364-1104 View (424) 364-1104
Photo of Arielle Hanien, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles County, CA
Arielle Hanien
Pre-Licensed Professional, Rabbi, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
You deserve the support you need. When we are struggling with anxiety, PTSD, personal or relationship transitions, life can feel especially difficult. Experiences of trauma, changes in our identity and relationships, legal or learning challenges can sometimes be overwhelming--even long after they happen. Often, beliefs that once provided guidance or comfort change, leaving us feel even more lost at sea. Yet deep within, we all have access to a feeling of our aliveness that can help us navigate these rough spots. Our work offers you safety and caring to bolster your strengths, recover your joy, and find your inner knowing once again.
You deserve the support you need. When we are struggling with anxiety, PTSD, personal or relationship transitions, life can feel especially difficult. Experiences of trauma, changes in our identity and relationships, legal or learning challenges can sometimes be overwhelming--even long after they happen. Often, beliefs that once provided guidance or comfort change, leaving us feel even more lost at sea. Yet deep within, we all have access to a feeling of our aliveness that can help us navigate these rough spots. Our work offers you safety and caring to bolster your strengths, recover your joy, and find your inner knowing once again.
(424) 397-1961 View (424) 397-1961
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles County, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90015
I utilize a client-centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client-centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(213) 267-6620 View (213) 267-6620
Photo of Leyla Bogle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Leyla Bogle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Together, we can break down and reframe the thoughts, feelings and beliefs that no longer serve you so you can reclaim a truly authentic relationship with yourself and make choices that support your core values.
I believe we all have the capacity to learn, grow, heal and create long-lasting change. We hold the innate ability to discover and realize our true potential and live an authentic life in line with our deepest values. I view therapy as a shared, supportive, compassionate journey that can help you tune into your authentic self, develop attainable goals and work toward sustainable, meaningful change.
Together, we can break down and reframe the thoughts, feelings and beliefs that no longer serve you so you can reclaim a truly authentic relationship with yourself and make choices that support your core values.
I believe we all have the capacity to learn, grow, heal and create long-lasting change. We hold the innate ability to discover and realize our true potential and live an authentic life in line with our deepest values. I view therapy as a shared, supportive, compassionate journey that can help you tune into your authentic self, develop attainable goals and work toward sustainable, meaningful change.
(323) 366-3120 View (323) 366-3120
Photo of Ruth Houston Barrett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Ruth Houston Barrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Couples: Communication, conflict, connection, emotional intimacy: change happens rapidly and profoundly in my practice.
With care, knowledge, and passion, I help my clients achieve the meaningful changes they seek. From the first session, my clients say they feel lighter, happier, and empowered for change. I balance warmth and empathy with extensive education, experience, expertise. Focusing on solutions, strengths, and evidence-based tools, we take concrete steps to enrich lives and relationships, blending therapeutic modalities for conscious-unconscious mind, mindfulness, meaning.
Couples: Communication, conflict, connection, emotional intimacy: change happens rapidly and profoundly in my practice.
With care, knowledge, and passion, I help my clients achieve the meaningful changes they seek. From the first session, my clients say they feel lighter, happier, and empowered for change. I balance warmth and empathy with extensive education, experience, expertise. Focusing on solutions, strengths, and evidence-based tools, we take concrete steps to enrich lives and relationships, blending therapeutic modalities for conscious-unconscious mind, mindfulness, meaning.
(310) 879-5173 View (310) 879-5173
Photo of Haylee R Duran, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Haylee R Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEAP, ERPSCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I specialize in trauma, children & teens, families, couples, First Responders, substance use, occupational stress, grief, & Men's Issues.
Life Comes in Waves, Let's Learn to Ride Them! Sometimes in the waves of change, We find our true direction. Life events and stress can leave us with emotional wounds. We then try to heal these wounds with harmful methods that make us feel better for the time being but hurt us later. Therapy can be your safe space to heal. It may sting or hurt to clean out at first. However, the gains you will receive from doing so will be beneficial for your well-being, your relationships, and your future. I will be by your side guiding you through the process at a pace that fits you.
I specialize in trauma, children & teens, families, couples, First Responders, substance use, occupational stress, grief, & Men's Issues.
Life Comes in Waves, Let's Learn to Ride Them! Sometimes in the waves of change, We find our true direction. Life events and stress can leave us with emotional wounds. We then try to heal these wounds with harmful methods that make us feel better for the time being but hurt us later. Therapy can be your safe space to heal. It may sting or hurt to clean out at first. However, the gains you will receive from doing so will be beneficial for your well-being, your relationships, and your future. I will be by your side guiding you through the process at a pace that fits you.
(310) 362-9633 View (310) 362-9633

See more therapy options for Los Angeles County

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.