Therapists in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Marilyn Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Marilyn Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
My goal is to listen well and provide the treatment that best meets your specific needs, to help you to identify your strengths and manage your vulnerabilities. In my work with families I encourage each person to express his/her individuality, and to cope with differences -striving for mutuality, fairness and harmony. My chief concern is with maximizing your capacities and potential, and helping you improve your relationship to yourself and to others. Together we may engage with imagery, sensory experiencing, movement, art, poetry and music to deepen self awareness and understanding (and relief from discomfort)
My goal is to listen well and provide the treatment that best meets your specific needs, to help you to identify your strengths and manage your vulnerabilities. In my work with families I encourage each person to express his/her individuality, and to cope with differences -striving for mutuality, fairness and harmony. My chief concern is with maximizing your capacities and potential, and helping you improve your relationship to yourself and to others. Together we may engage with imagery, sensory experiencing, movement, art, poetry and music to deepen self awareness and understanding (and relief from discomfort)
(310) 331-8391 View (310) 331-8391
Photo of Yumi Terajima, Psychologist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Yumi Terajima
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Sometimes all it takes is an outside perspective to be the catalyst for change. But let’s be real, change can be hard, especially when we feel we “should” be able to do it on our own. If there’s one take away message here, it’s that you do not have to do the hard work alone. I hope to be the one by your side on this journey. I aim to treat adult individuals and couples who struggle with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health struggles, identity development, LGBTQIA+ and other minority group stressors, and life transitions.
Sometimes all it takes is an outside perspective to be the catalyst for change. But let’s be real, change can be hard, especially when we feel we “should” be able to do it on our own. If there’s one take away message here, it’s that you do not have to do the hard work alone. I hope to be the one by your side on this journey. I aim to treat adult individuals and couples who struggle with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health struggles, identity development, LGBTQIA+ and other minority group stressors, and life transitions.
(310) 620-1503 View (310) 620-1503
Photo of Charlene Mcpherson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Charlene Mcpherson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, CADCIII, ICADC, SAP, YT200
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
As an addiction counselor since 1991 I have had the opportunity to work with many clients helping them with, support to move forward in recovery, life changes, healing, healthy relationships, someone to listen, or getting their life balanced. We will work together taking steps that will guide you on your path of change and recovery. I believe everyone at some point in their life may need to seek out a counselor. Life is always changing. Situations come up in our life such as addiction, relapse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and self-esteem issues.
As an addiction counselor since 1991 I have had the opportunity to work with many clients helping them with, support to move forward in recovery, life changes, healing, healthy relationships, someone to listen, or getting their life balanced. We will work together taking steps that will guide you on your path of change and recovery. I believe everyone at some point in their life may need to seek out a counselor. Life is always changing. Situations come up in our life such as addiction, relapse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and self-esteem issues.
(424) 322-1082 View (424) 322-1082
Photo of Kim Seabrooks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Kim Seabrooks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
What are you experiencing right now? Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, unheard, or misunderstood? Maybe you feel inadequate, incomplete, numb, or blocked by anxiety or fear. With me, therapy can be a safe space to be seen, heard, and validated. Most of us want to feel better about ourselves and our closest relationships. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to listen more effectively to themselves and each other.
What are you experiencing right now? Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, unheard, or misunderstood? Maybe you feel inadequate, incomplete, numb, or blocked by anxiety or fear. With me, therapy can be a safe space to be seen, heard, and validated. Most of us want to feel better about ourselves and our closest relationships. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to listen more effectively to themselves and each other.
(310) 861-6806 View (310) 861-6806
Photo of Taylor Galvin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Taylor Galvin
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I work with individuals, couples, creatives, and executives grappling with unique stressors in their lives and work.
Welcome to my corner, where therapy is Taylor-d (get it?) to YOU! As your therapist, I'm committed to integrating evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs and communication style. As a person, I understand the importance of having someone on your team and the healing power of a good chuckle. Together, we can explore the sticky and confusing parts of your life in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to provide a supportive and empathetic space for transformation
I work with individuals, couples, creatives, and executives grappling with unique stressors in their lives and work.
Welcome to my corner, where therapy is Taylor-d (get it?) to YOU! As your therapist, I'm committed to integrating evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs and communication style. As a person, I understand the importance of having someone on your team and the healing power of a good chuckle. Together, we can explore the sticky and confusing parts of your life in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to provide a supportive and empathetic space for transformation
(310) 356-9434 View (310) 356-9434
Photo of Lily Fray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Lily Fray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EMDR, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
As a sex and relationships therapist, I support individuals and couples in working through discrepancy in desire, betrayal and lack of trust due to infidelity, sexual compulsivity, sexual trauma, sexual inexperience, STI/STDs, sex therapy, ENM, healthy relationships, sexual dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction and vaginismus, and more. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to support clients in releasing shame to get to the root of healing. I believe that all clients have the inner resources and tools with which to navigate life’s challenges and that it is my job to support clients in identifying and strengthening these tools.
As a sex and relationships therapist, I support individuals and couples in working through discrepancy in desire, betrayal and lack of trust due to infidelity, sexual compulsivity, sexual trauma, sexual inexperience, STI/STDs, sex therapy, ENM, healthy relationships, sexual dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction and vaginismus, and more. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to support clients in releasing shame to get to the root of healing. I believe that all clients have the inner resources and tools with which to navigate life’s challenges and that it is my job to support clients in identifying and strengthening these tools.
(310) 929-9670 View (310) 929-9670
Photo of Michelle Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Perhaps you are encountering roadblocks of a happier and more satisfying life. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction as well as relationship difficulties, can leave us feeling frustrated and confused. I extend my help in a safe and supportive way. Together, we can explore your experiences to create meaning and movement towards fulfillment. Our earlier life events may have influenced us to establish unhelpful patterns in how we regard ourselves and relate to others.
Perhaps you are encountering roadblocks of a happier and more satisfying life. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction as well as relationship difficulties, can leave us feeling frustrated and confused. I extend my help in a safe and supportive way. Together, we can explore your experiences to create meaning and movement towards fulfillment. Our earlier life events may have influenced us to establish unhelpful patterns in how we regard ourselves and relate to others.
(747) 240-3616 View (747) 240-3616
Photo of Crystal D'Angora, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Crystal D'Angora
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I guide clients through the difficult transitions in life and stand by your side while you encounter the patterns in need of changing and find your strength and flow! Ethically non-monogamous and poly individuals and couples are welcome! Call for your FREE phone consultation to begin your journey toward greater freedom and health! 818 287-0832.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, or trapped in the chaos of negative thoughts, but don't know how to change? Are you unfulfilled in your relationships? These struggles may keep you awake at night, searching for a way to feel more overall peace and well being. Traumatic experiences make it difficult to break through pain and hopelessness, and may be leading you to self-destructive patterns. Your pain and emotional suffering is bearable when you share it.
I guide clients through the difficult transitions in life and stand by your side while you encounter the patterns in need of changing and find your strength and flow! Ethically non-monogamous and poly individuals and couples are welcome! Call for your FREE phone consultation to begin your journey toward greater freedom and health! 818 287-0832.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, or trapped in the chaos of negative thoughts, but don't know how to change? Are you unfulfilled in your relationships? These struggles may keep you awake at night, searching for a way to feel more overall peace and well being. Traumatic experiences make it difficult to break through pain and hopelessness, and may be leading you to self-destructive patterns. Your pain and emotional suffering is bearable when you share it.
(818) 287-0832 View (818) 287-0832
Photo of Cassie Tumanuvao, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Cassie Tumanuvao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I'm Cassandra, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I've worked with people struggling with relationship issues, women's issues, infertility, marital/pre-marital issues, spirituality, and more. My ideal client is someone who is struggling with knowing what to do next. They are likely overwhelmed but are also tired of inaction and are trying to find a way out of the mess. My top modalities are CBT, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based therapy. I also like to practice faith-based counseling but that is something that a client would have to request.
I'm Cassandra, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I've worked with people struggling with relationship issues, women's issues, infertility, marital/pre-marital issues, spirituality, and more. My ideal client is someone who is struggling with knowing what to do next. They are likely overwhelmed but are also tired of inaction and are trying to find a way out of the mess. My top modalities are CBT, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based therapy. I also like to practice faith-based counseling but that is something that a client would have to request.
(310) 987-4266 View (310) 987-4266
Photo of Gretchen Mattox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Gretchen Mattox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
As the Clinical Director of a group practice and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. I have successfully treated: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. As Rumi said, "The wound is the place the Light enters you." Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
As the Clinical Director of a group practice and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. I have successfully treated: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. As Rumi said, "The wound is the place the Light enters you." Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
(310) 773-4247 View (310) 773-4247
Photo of Alexis Gilliam Lerner, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Alexis Gilliam Lerner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
My goal for our work in individual or relationship therapy is to empower you to not only feel joy and pleasure on your sunny days, but also guide you to learn how to dance in the rain.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. Looking for a therapist can be mutually daunting and exciting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and vulnerability to decide to get support in any area of your life, and I am available to empower and guide you on your therapeutic journey. I offer a Relational Gestalt approach to therapy, which means that we build an alliance together focusing on embodiment and what is present for you in the moment. I bear witness and support you in increasing your awareness of your experience as we share space for your transformational healing.
My goal for our work in individual or relationship therapy is to empower you to not only feel joy and pleasure on your sunny days, but also guide you to learn how to dance in the rain.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. Looking for a therapist can be mutually daunting and exciting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and vulnerability to decide to get support in any area of your life, and I am available to empower and guide you on your therapeutic journey. I offer a Relational Gestalt approach to therapy, which means that we build an alliance together focusing on embodiment and what is present for you in the moment. I bear witness and support you in increasing your awareness of your experience as we share space for your transformational healing.
(424) 387-3578 View (424) 387-3578
Photo of Dr. Marie Diaz, Psychological Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Marie Diaz
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I believe that a strong professional relationship between client and therapist is key to successful therapy.
My approach is nurturing, collaborative, and client-centered. As an Asian immigrant, I recognize and appreciate how culture can be a powerful force that influences the way we think and shapes the way we understand ourselves, our emotions, and our life circumstances. Our work together will involve strategies that will help you gain awareness, knowledge, and skills to help improve your life in a manner that is consistent with your personal values and life experiences.
I believe that a strong professional relationship between client and therapist is key to successful therapy.
My approach is nurturing, collaborative, and client-centered. As an Asian immigrant, I recognize and appreciate how culture can be a powerful force that influences the way we think and shapes the way we understand ourselves, our emotions, and our life circumstances. Our work together will involve strategies that will help you gain awareness, knowledge, and skills to help improve your life in a manner that is consistent with your personal values and life experiences.
(424) 316-1893 View (424) 316-1893
Photo of Leslie Gilliam, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Leslie Gilliam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I work with individuals and couples.
“No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path”- Buddhist quote . I am here to support you on this path. Feeling heard, respected, and validated when life feels overwhelming can be a great comfort. Are you are dealing with a past trauma that feels unbearable, hindering you from your authentic self? Maybe it's been difficult to create boundaries, leaving you feeling depleted and unable to incorporate self-care. Perhaps you and your partner are struggling to empathize with one another. My goal is to aid my clients to release from harmful patterns and process past pain that impair wellbeing.
I work with individuals and couples.
“No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path”- Buddhist quote . I am here to support you on this path. Feeling heard, respected, and validated when life feels overwhelming can be a great comfort. Are you are dealing with a past trauma that feels unbearable, hindering you from your authentic self? Maybe it's been difficult to create boundaries, leaving you feeling depleted and unable to incorporate self-care. Perhaps you and your partner are struggling to empathize with one another. My goal is to aid my clients to release from harmful patterns and process past pain that impair wellbeing.
(424) 233-1547 View (424) 233-1547
Photo of Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D., Psychologist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Diem M. Nguyen, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I am experienced in treating adolescents, adults, and couples who struggle with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and/or interpersonal issues.
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
I am experienced in treating adolescents, adults, and couples who struggle with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and/or interpersonal issues.
People thrive when they feel a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others. Most people come to see me when something is missing from their lives, be it purpose, connection, or both. Depression and/or anxiety may be at work. Anger or grief could consume more of their time and focus. Others feel stagnant, confused, expressing a lack of motivation and self-worth. Finding a safe place to explore your current struggles is possible in therapy. To achieve the meaningful changes you desire, seeking professional help is an effective option.
(323) 379-0827 View (323) 379-0827
Photo of Liam Kalin McAuliffe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Liam Kalin McAuliffe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MTS, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Are you looking for an embodied, creative, collaborative, and deeply transformative approach to navigating your life's challenges? My clients are soulful individuals and couples who are serious about healing the root causes of pain and conflict. This journey means connecting with the deep wisdom of your psyche and becoming more courageous, vulnerable, empathic, and accountable in all areas of your life. Many of my clients describe themselves as people for whom talk therapy "hit a wall," and who are looking for a therapist who can help integrate the spiritual process of "waking up" with the emotional process of "growing up."
Are you looking for an embodied, creative, collaborative, and deeply transformative approach to navigating your life's challenges? My clients are soulful individuals and couples who are serious about healing the root causes of pain and conflict. This journey means connecting with the deep wisdom of your psyche and becoming more courageous, vulnerable, empathic, and accountable in all areas of your life. Many of my clients describe themselves as people for whom talk therapy "hit a wall," and who are looking for a therapist who can help integrate the spiritual process of "waking up" with the emotional process of "growing up."
(424) 577-5634 View (424) 577-5634
Photo of Victoria Le Beau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Victoria Le Beau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
During my 30 years as a psychotherapist I have helped many people learn to cope with lives that have become overwhelming. I help people develop success in work, family, and love. I have a broad range of experience working with adults and couples. Their symptoms range from depression, panic/anxiety, life changes, traumatic events, grief, relationship problems, and unresolved childhood issues.3
During my 30 years as a psychotherapist I have helped many people learn to cope with lives that have become overwhelming. I help people develop success in work, family, and love. I have a broad range of experience working with adults and couples. Their symptoms range from depression, panic/anxiety, life changes, traumatic events, grief, relationship problems, and unresolved childhood issues.3
(424) 653-6946 View (424) 653-6946
Photo of Cindy Kludt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Cindy Kludt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I see couples and individuals who are suffering and struggling in their relationships and may be considering divorce, separation, or acting out in some destructive manner such as having affairs, doing risky behavior, or using addictive behaviors to numb their emotional pain.
I see couples and individuals who are suffering and struggling in their relationships and may be considering divorce, separation, or acting out in some destructive manner such as having affairs, doing risky behavior, or using addictive behaviors to numb their emotional pain.
(424) 294-8953 View (424) 294-8953
Photo of Amanda Denham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Amanda Denham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Finding balance while juggling life's responsibilities can at times be overwhelming. We all need help sorting through our feelings. I have genuine empathy for people and the human experience. This quality underlines my passion to guide my clients to a purpose filled life.Whether you're faced with a temporary crisis or you're looking to learn skills necessary to have a balanced life - I offer a safe space, full of support with the goal to promote understanding and self-awareness.I understand that with work, finances, family conflict, relationship discord, parenting difficulties that life feels daunting.
Finding balance while juggling life's responsibilities can at times be overwhelming. We all need help sorting through our feelings. I have genuine empathy for people and the human experience. This quality underlines my passion to guide my clients to a purpose filled life.Whether you're faced with a temporary crisis or you're looking to learn skills necessary to have a balanced life - I offer a safe space, full of support with the goal to promote understanding and self-awareness.I understand that with work, finances, family conflict, relationship discord, parenting difficulties that life feels daunting.
(424) 321-4504 View (424) 321-4504
Photo of Scott L Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Scott L Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Clients bring a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, work/career stress, profound discontentment (existential angst), and relationship difficulties.
Psychologically speaking, why do we do what we do? Where are we coming from . . . what are we moving toward . . . and how are we proceeding? Do our impulses, our actions or reactions, our habits, our thoughts, judgments, interpretations, or even our intentions support or lead to what we imagine to be our "happiness?" I work with individuals, couples, and families in short- and long-term psychotherapy. Some clients prefer brief "solution-focused" therapy to help them with specific short-term issues, while others want to work more deeply toward longer-lasting growth and transformation.
Clients bring a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, work/career stress, profound discontentment (existential angst), and relationship difficulties.
Psychologically speaking, why do we do what we do? Where are we coming from . . . what are we moving toward . . . and how are we proceeding? Do our impulses, our actions or reactions, our habits, our thoughts, judgments, interpretations, or even our intentions support or lead to what we imagine to be our "happiness?" I work with individuals, couples, and families in short- and long-term psychotherapy. Some clients prefer brief "solution-focused" therapy to help them with specific short-term issues, while others want to work more deeply toward longer-lasting growth and transformation.
(323) 422-7366 View (323) 422-7366
Photo of Laura Kay Mclauchlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Laura Kay Mclauchlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
(310) 484-5715 View (310) 484-5715

See more therapy options for Mar Vista, 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.