Therapists in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Dr. Albert Bonfil, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
If you're seeking a warm, collaborative, and effective therapeutic relationship, I invite you to explore whether my approach aligns with your needs.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
If you're seeking a warm, collaborative, and effective therapeutic relationship, I invite you to explore whether my approach aligns with your needs.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
(424) 688-9247 x1 View (424) 688-9247 x1
Photo of Jo Ann McKarus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jo Ann McKarus
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, FIPA
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
I have 33 years experience working in private practice with adult individuals and couples.
"Not until we are lost, do we begin to understand ourselves." -- Henry David Thoreau. I believe this statement is an essential truth about the human condition. Paradoxically, as other great intellects have attested to, it is precisely through self-understanding that one achieves emotional healing, wisdom and maturity. Through insight and self-awareness, one also gains an increased capacity for deep and meaningful relationships, a potent tonic for whatever ails, be it depression or anxiety, grief or trauma, aging or illness.... Resolving inner conflicts leads to healthier choices and the vanquishing of self-defeating patterns.
I have 33 years experience working in private practice with adult individuals and couples.
"Not until we are lost, do we begin to understand ourselves." -- Henry David Thoreau. I believe this statement is an essential truth about the human condition. Paradoxically, as other great intellects have attested to, it is precisely through self-understanding that one achieves emotional healing, wisdom and maturity. Through insight and self-awareness, one also gains an increased capacity for deep and meaningful relationships, a potent tonic for whatever ails, be it depression or anxiety, grief or trauma, aging or illness.... Resolving inner conflicts leads to healthier choices and the vanquishing of self-defeating patterns.
(424) 400-7784 View (424) 400-7784
Photo of Linda Fujino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Linda Fujino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I work with wide population including individuals, couples, divorcing families, transgender, and male/female sex issues.
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
I work with wide population including individuals, couples, divorcing families, transgender, and male/female sex issues.
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
(310) 928-2382 View (310) 928-2382
Photo of Amber S Rosenstock, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Amber S Rosenstock
Psychologist, MDR, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I believe it is important to build a trusting relationship.
During this difficult time, you may need support. I care and want to help you through life's challenges. Therapy is beneficial whether you are seeking to address current or long-term issues. Your emotional health can improve. Therapy can positively transform the course of your life. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in individual, family and couple’s therapy. I have a Ph.D. and master’s in psychology and a master’s in Alternative Dispute resolution. l work collaboratively and transparently to create real and lasting results. I keep up to date on the latest treatments relevant to our goals.
I believe it is important to build a trusting relationship.
During this difficult time, you may need support. I care and want to help you through life's challenges. Therapy is beneficial whether you are seeking to address current or long-term issues. Your emotional health can improve. Therapy can positively transform the course of your life. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in individual, family and couple’s therapy. I have a Ph.D. and master’s in psychology and a master’s in Alternative Dispute resolution. l work collaboratively and transparently to create real and lasting results. I keep up to date on the latest treatments relevant to our goals.
(424) 835-1046 View (424) 835-1046
Photo of Marie A King, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Marie A King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My foremost goal in working with clients is assisting them to have greater self-awareness, insight into what makes them tick and what troubles them. I have had great joy in providing psychodynamic psychotherapy for many individuals and couples over the years, and am committed to striving towards a positive outcome for each.
My foremost goal in working with clients is assisting them to have greater self-awareness, insight into what makes them tick and what troubles them. I have had great joy in providing psychodynamic psychotherapy for many individuals and couples over the years, and am committed to striving towards a positive outcome for each.
(818) 748-1975 View (818) 748-1975
Photo of Chelsea Gottfurcht, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Chelsea Gottfurcht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I see people for a range of issues, but I have developed a special interest and focus in the following areas: Depression, anxiety, relationship problems, eating disorders, self-sabotaging behaviors, trauma, insecurity about making changes, loneliness and emotional isolation.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
I see people for a range of issues, but I have developed a special interest and focus in the following areas: Depression, anxiety, relationship problems, eating disorders, self-sabotaging behaviors, trauma, insecurity about making changes, loneliness and emotional isolation.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
(310) 651-7208 View (310) 651-7208
Photo of Leila Wilf, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Leila Wilf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I have extensive experience in relationship counseling and relationship dissolution.
My practice is about is about healing and growth; whether you are struggling with an immediate problem or looking for long lasting change. Everyone feels overwhelmed at some point in their life. You may experience changes in your sleep, concentration or mood. You know the worry tape that keeps running in your head and the knot in your stomach that won't go away. I am here to help you discover the why and work on the how to gain the tools and feelings of empowerment that can change your life for the better.
I have extensive experience in relationship counseling and relationship dissolution.
My practice is about is about healing and growth; whether you are struggling with an immediate problem or looking for long lasting change. Everyone feels overwhelmed at some point in their life. You may experience changes in your sleep, concentration or mood. You know the worry tape that keeps running in your head and the knot in your stomach that won't go away. I am here to help you discover the why and work on the how to gain the tools and feelings of empowerment that can change your life for the better.
(310) 340-1172 View (310) 340-1172
Photo of Kelsey Holiday, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Kelsey Holiday
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
If you've been experiencing increased stress or anxiety, and need support, you've come to the right place. I use evidence-based techniques, to help my clients use and build upon their strengths to improve their coping. My specialties include anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, chronic pain, life changes/transitions, insomnia, and stress for high performers. I also enjoy working with couples in order to foster communication and enhance relationship satisfaction. Additionally, I have training in neuropsychology and work with older adults and families coping with cognitive changes and dementia.
If you've been experiencing increased stress or anxiety, and need support, you've come to the right place. I use evidence-based techniques, to help my clients use and build upon their strengths to improve their coping. My specialties include anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, chronic pain, life changes/transitions, insomnia, and stress for high performers. I also enjoy working with couples in order to foster communication and enhance relationship satisfaction. Additionally, I have training in neuropsychology and work with older adults and families coping with cognitive changes and dementia.
(310) 807-3659 View (310) 807-3659
Photo of Dr. Tabasom Vahidi, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Tabasom Vahidi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
My training and experience has focused on a variety of areas including OCD, depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, and relationship struggles.
I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental therapy environment where my patients can openly share their fears, deepest thoughts and feelings. I believe strongly that revealing our authentic selves is integral to utilizing therapy to achieve growth and to overcome our most challenging obstacles.
My training and experience has focused on a variety of areas including OCD, depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, and relationship struggles.
I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental therapy environment where my patients can openly share their fears, deepest thoughts and feelings. I believe strongly that revealing our authentic selves is integral to utilizing therapy to achieve growth and to overcome our most challenging obstacles.
(323) 747-1835 View (323) 747-1835
Photo of Libby Muney, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Libby Muney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, JD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I specialize in working with couples and individuals. With my background in law and my passion for mental health, I help lawyers and busy professionals navigate relationship issues, overcome burnout, and tackle work-related stress head-on. Maybe it’s the pressure-cooker environment at work, where deadlines loom like storm clouds. Or perhaps it’s the all-too-familiar dance of miscommunication and misunderstandings in your relationship, leaving you both feeling like you're stuck in a tango with two left feet. I can help you tap into your inner strength, set boundaries, and confidently navigate life’s twists and turns.
I specialize in working with couples and individuals. With my background in law and my passion for mental health, I help lawyers and busy professionals navigate relationship issues, overcome burnout, and tackle work-related stress head-on. Maybe it’s the pressure-cooker environment at work, where deadlines loom like storm clouds. Or perhaps it’s the all-too-familiar dance of miscommunication and misunderstandings in your relationship, leaving you both feeling like you're stuck in a tango with two left feet. I can help you tap into your inner strength, set boundaries, and confidently navigate life’s twists and turns.
(310) 742-0650 View (310) 742-0650
Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
(310) 945-2757 View (310) 945-2757
Photo of Jaime Blauvelt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jaime Blauvelt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Individuals come to therapy for many reasons. Some include feelings of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, confusion of identity, addictions, or difficulty in one’s family of origin. Struggles such as these can become prolonged issues and fail to reach an agreeable resolve. I am here to listen, create a safe space of non-judgement, compassion, and creativity for you to better explore and understand your unique experience. I believe you are the expert of your own life and I am here to support you according to your individual needs.
Individuals come to therapy for many reasons. Some include feelings of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, confusion of identity, addictions, or difficulty in one’s family of origin. Struggles such as these can become prolonged issues and fail to reach an agreeable resolve. I am here to listen, create a safe space of non-judgement, compassion, and creativity for you to better explore and understand your unique experience. I believe you are the expert of your own life and I am here to support you according to your individual needs.
(424) 348-6668 View (424) 348-6668
Photo of Elizabeth Vines, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Elizabeth Vines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
My clients are couples, adults, and teens who are motivated to build healthier, happier lives.
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
My clients are couples, adults, and teens who are motivated to build healthier, happier lives.
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
(424) 622-8418 View (424) 622-8418
Photo of Mary Nakata, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Mary Nakata
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
I have been a practicing psychotherapist offering individual, couples and group therapy for 35 years. My private practice is located in Brentwood in West Los Angeles, adjacent to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, California. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I help people with problems relating to anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, eating disorders, abuse, major life transitions, addiction early life trauma and chronic and life threatening illnesses.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist offering individual, couples and group therapy for 35 years. My private practice is located in Brentwood in West Los Angeles, adjacent to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, California. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I help people with problems relating to anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, eating disorders, abuse, major life transitions, addiction early life trauma and chronic and life threatening illnesses.
(310) 692-9151 View (310) 692-9151
Photo of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
It has been found to be the most effective treatment for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, and a whole host of other psychological problems.
CBT Los Angeles is a nationally-recognized practice specializing in evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy. All of our therapists are doctoral-level experts in CBT, many having taught and supervised at top graduate clinical psychology programs and clinical training programs around the country. Our expert therapists are deeply experienced in treating a variety of psychological problems. At CBT Los Angeles, we bridge innovation science with state-of-the-art treatment.
It has been found to be the most effective treatment for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, and a whole host of other psychological problems.
CBT Los Angeles is a nationally-recognized practice specializing in evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy. All of our therapists are doctoral-level experts in CBT, many having taught and supervised at top graduate clinical psychology programs and clinical training programs around the country. Our expert therapists are deeply experienced in treating a variety of psychological problems. At CBT Los Angeles, we bridge innovation science with state-of-the-art treatment.
(424) 317-8205 View (424) 317-8205
Photo of Andrew Sidoli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Andrew Sidoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SUDCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
This is a very unsettling time for many and being able to help my clients find their footing in such an uncertain time is my passion. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. My approach is to provide a safe, non judgmental space for growth to occur. I am comfortable working with individuals and couples, and often explore and help resolve maladaptive patterns, cognitions, and intimacy issues that many people struggle with. I help clients identify their goals, develop a plan, and encouragement and accountability to implement that plan, tweaking along the way if needed.
This is a very unsettling time for many and being able to help my clients find their footing in such an uncertain time is my passion. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. My approach is to provide a safe, non judgmental space for growth to occur. I am comfortable working with individuals and couples, and often explore and help resolve maladaptive patterns, cognitions, and intimacy issues that many people struggle with. I help clients identify their goals, develop a plan, and encouragement and accountability to implement that plan, tweaking along the way if needed.
(310) 361-9758 View (310) 361-9758
Photo of Penn Shelton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Penn Shelton
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, I am here to guide you towards discovering your inner strengths and resources.
As a therapist specializing in mental health, addiction recovery, trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, I have been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families navigate the challenges of life for the past ten years of clinical experience. Drawing from my experience as an addiction counselor since 2015, 4 years as a therapist, my personal journey of recovery for 12 years, I have developed a unique and integrated therapeutic framework that empowers my clients to discover the root cause of their problems. As my client, I will guide you to your truth rather than trying to impose my ideas of what I think is best for you.
Whether you're struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, I am here to guide you towards discovering your inner strengths and resources.
As a therapist specializing in mental health, addiction recovery, trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, I have been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families navigate the challenges of life for the past ten years of clinical experience. Drawing from my experience as an addiction counselor since 2015, 4 years as a therapist, my personal journey of recovery for 12 years, I have developed a unique and integrated therapeutic framework that empowers my clients to discover the root cause of their problems. As my client, I will guide you to your truth rather than trying to impose my ideas of what I think is best for you.
(310) 484-5751 View (310) 484-5751
Photo of Jonathan Yahalom, Psychologist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jonathan Yahalom
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am an assistant professor at UCLA School of Medicine and a clinical psychologist who is sensitive, focused and caring. My practice is mainly focused on treating individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life change, and I also work with couples and families who want to improve communication. I work by helping people find inner strengths, acquire new approaches to deal with conflict, and develop personal insight to make life more fulfilling. I am proud to do work that recognizes human dignity in moments of difficulty, and take seriously my role to help people grow.
I am an assistant professor at UCLA School of Medicine and a clinical psychologist who is sensitive, focused and caring. My practice is mainly focused on treating individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life change, and I also work with couples and families who want to improve communication. I work by helping people find inner strengths, acquire new approaches to deal with conflict, and develop personal insight to make life more fulfilling. I am proud to do work that recognizes human dignity in moments of difficulty, and take seriously my role to help people grow.
(424) 353-5214 View (424) 353-5214
Photo of Mandie M Pitrel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Mandie M Pitrel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
An act of transformation begins with the acknowledgement that you have begun to "outgrow" your current self and present circumstances. Change and transition can be daunting. But the transformation to your best self is profound, and typically life altering. Whether the transition you are facing is a shift in relationship (divorce, loss of a friend/family member, new parenting, or "empty nest" parenting), a job/career change, college entry, or simply growing up from an adolescent to an adult, I am here to encourage and support, as you navigate your challenges.
An act of transformation begins with the acknowledgement that you have begun to "outgrow" your current self and present circumstances. Change and transition can be daunting. But the transformation to your best self is profound, and typically life altering. Whether the transition you are facing is a shift in relationship (divorce, loss of a friend/family member, new parenting, or "empty nest" parenting), a job/career change, college entry, or simply growing up from an adolescent to an adult, I am here to encourage and support, as you navigate your challenges.
(310) 945-2780 View (310) 945-2780
Photo of Randi Rotwein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Randi Rotwein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, license, AZ & CA
Verified Verified
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I work with Adults; Individuals and Couples.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life, and can't figure out how to change things for the better? If you are struggling with issues such as Anxiety, Grief/Loss, or you are feeling stressed from work and everyday life... Or perhaps you are struggling with your health, can’t motivate yourself to get healthy, lose weight, set goals and achieve them.? Or are you struggling with your current relationship(s)?Then LET'S TALK. I have 28+ years of experience and I am passionate about helping people find healing and happiness . My professional guidance may help you find the answers needed to attain the life you want.
I work with Adults; Individuals and Couples.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life, and can't figure out how to change things for the better? If you are struggling with issues such as Anxiety, Grief/Loss, or you are feeling stressed from work and everyday life... Or perhaps you are struggling with your health, can’t motivate yourself to get healthy, lose weight, set goals and achieve them.? Or are you struggling with your current relationship(s)?Then LET'S TALK. I have 28+ years of experience and I am passionate about helping people find healing and happiness . My professional guidance may help you find the answers needed to attain the life you want.
(480) 707-8291 View (480) 707-8291

See more therapy options for Brentwood, Los Angeles

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.