Photo of Dr. Jennifer Kashani, Psychologist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Jennifer Kashani
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
You want a balanced life; fulfilling career, romantic relationship, genuine friendships, family bonds, health, and fun. Maybe some areas of your life feel full, yet there is still something missing, thus creating this imbalance. This does not happen in a vacuum; it happens in relationship with oneself and others. Healing also happens in relationships, which starts with me and you. I am an expert in healthy relationships and career; helping to create space for more in your life without feeling overwhelmed. I will help you improve your life and find the relief you need in a world that can sometimes feel unrelenting.
You want a balanced life; fulfilling career, romantic relationship, genuine friendships, family bonds, health, and fun. Maybe some areas of your life feel full, yet there is still something missing, thus creating this imbalance. This does not happen in a vacuum; it happens in relationship with oneself and others. Healing also happens in relationships, which starts with me and you. I am an expert in healthy relationships and career; helping to create space for more in your life without feeling overwhelmed. I will help you improve your life and find the relief you need in a world that can sometimes feel unrelenting.
(424) 238-3698 View (424) 238-3698
Photo of Jenna Laski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Jenna Laski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
I work with individuals, couples adjusting to parenthood and children/adolescents.
Does your mind swirl with overwhelming worry? Are you frozen in doubt and uncertainty? Do you feel isolated and disconnected in your relationships? Are you struggling to manage the demands in your life? If so, I can help. My focus is to increase understanding and connection to enhance more joy in life. I work collaboratively with you to cultivate awareness about your interactions. Gaining this awareness often leads to a shift in your perspective which can increase your sense of connection and richer meaning in life.
I work with individuals, couples adjusting to parenthood and children/adolescents.
Does your mind swirl with overwhelming worry? Are you frozen in doubt and uncertainty? Do you feel isolated and disconnected in your relationships? Are you struggling to manage the demands in your life? If so, I can help. My focus is to increase understanding and connection to enhance more joy in life. I work collaboratively with you to cultivate awareness about your interactions. Gaining this awareness often leads to a shift in your perspective which can increase your sense of connection and richer meaning in life.
(310) 684-3134 View (310) 684-3134
Photo of Lisa Kaplan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Lisa Kaplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
"At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end." If you're looking for relief from addiction, co-dependency, anxiety or depression, let me help you on your journey to freedom. With more than 20 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in the treatment of individuals, couples and families to assist with relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, trauma and substance abuse. I provide a safe and nurturing environment that ensures the provision of high quality, personalized therapeutic care.
"At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end." If you're looking for relief from addiction, co-dependency, anxiety or depression, let me help you on your journey to freedom. With more than 20 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in the treatment of individuals, couples and families to assist with relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, trauma and substance abuse. I provide a safe and nurturing environment that ensures the provision of high quality, personalized therapeutic care.
(424) 325-6044 View (424) 325-6044
Photo of Annie Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Annie Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
In my many years of experience, I have been fortunate to witness the curative benefits of the therapeutic relationship. I work with individuals, couples, and families, from young children to adults, who are suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and trauma continue to The children and adolescents I have had in my practice have struggled with issues of divorce, adoption, peer pressures, anxiety, depression, sibling rivalry, and social difficulties. Utilizing a somatic understanding and integrating EMDR, has deepened the work with many clients, especially those who have experienced trauma.
In my many years of experience, I have been fortunate to witness the curative benefits of the therapeutic relationship. I work with individuals, couples, and families, from young children to adults, who are suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, loss, and trauma continue to The children and adolescents I have had in my practice have struggled with issues of divorce, adoption, peer pressures, anxiety, depression, sibling rivalry, and social difficulties. Utilizing a somatic understanding and integrating EMDR, has deepened the work with many clients, especially those who have experienced trauma.
(310) 740-9821 View (310) 740-9821
Photo of Justine Roach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Justine Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I have been a psychotherapist for over a decade and I treat children, adolescents, and adults. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and solution-focused. Some of my areas of expertise include with anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, divorce, relationship challenges, eating disorders, and parenting. I give my clients a safe space to process their emotions, learn how to manage stressors, and lead more meaningful lives.
I have been a psychotherapist for over a decade and I treat children, adolescents, and adults. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and solution-focused. Some of my areas of expertise include with anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, divorce, relationship challenges, eating disorders, and parenting. I give my clients a safe space to process their emotions, learn how to manage stressors, and lead more meaningful lives.
(323) 688-4912 View (323) 688-4912
Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, 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 Jeffrey Arden, Psychologist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Jeffrey Arden
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I have been a practicing psychologist for over 20 years, and I love what I do. In my practice I treat adults, adolescents, and children.Likewise, I see couples and families regarding a number of different issues. I have specialties in forensics, psychological testing and neuropsychology. As well, I specialize in all aspects of high conflict child custody, psychotherapy, divorce mediation, child custody evaluations, and litigation support regarding psycho-legal matters. I welcome your call.
I have been a practicing psychologist for over 20 years, and I love what I do. In my practice I treat adults, adolescents, and children.Likewise, I see couples and families regarding a number of different issues. I have specialties in forensics, psychological testing and neuropsychology. As well, I specialize in all aspects of high conflict child custody, psychotherapy, divorce mediation, child custody evaluations, and litigation support regarding psycho-legal matters. I welcome your call.
(310) 299-8129 View (310) 299-8129
Photo of Ricki Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Ricki Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Common problems my clients bring to therapy include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship and career issues.
I view psychotherapy as a creative, collaborative process between client and therapist. I value the uniqueness of each individual client and strive to create an environment of trust, compassion, respect and empathy. While we cannot change difficult and oftentimes traumatic past experiences, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
Common problems my clients bring to therapy include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship and career issues.
I view psychotherapy as a creative, collaborative process between client and therapist. I value the uniqueness of each individual client and strive to create an environment of trust, compassion, respect and empathy. While we cannot change difficult and oftentimes traumatic past experiences, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
(310) 299-8766 View (310) 299-8766
Photo of Anton Yanagisawa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Anton Yanagisawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I hope to be of support for your next journey in understanding yourself better and your relationship to others.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance abuse. I have provided therapy in various settings: public mental health, family agencies, hospitals, school systems, and in private practice. I have worked with a wide range of severity of problems and challenges. These experiences provided me with ways to relate to my clients, regardless of circumstance or background, in a way where they can be heard and understood and provided a treatment that is meaningful to them.
I hope to be of support for your next journey in understanding yourself better and your relationship to others.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance abuse. I have provided therapy in various settings: public mental health, family agencies, hospitals, school systems, and in private practice. I have worked with a wide range of severity of problems and challenges. These experiences provided me with ways to relate to my clients, regardless of circumstance or background, in a way where they can be heard and understood and provided a treatment that is meaningful to them.
(310) 742-8456 View (310) 742-8456
Photo of Love Thyself Social Services Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Love Thyself Social Services Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, 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 John Grienenberger, Psychologist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
John Grienenberger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Waitlist for new clients
I currently see adolescents, adults, parents, and couples in private practice specializing in psychotherapy. I work from a contemporary psychodynamic/attachment based model. I seek to create an emphathic environment to help clients feel understood, while also challenging them to go to greater depths by confronting self-defeating or growth inhibiting patterns of relating to self and others.
I currently see adolescents, adults, parents, and couples in private practice specializing in psychotherapy. I work from a contemporary psychodynamic/attachment based model. I seek to create an emphathic environment to help clients feel understood, while also challenging them to go to greater depths by confronting self-defeating or growth inhibiting patterns of relating to self and others.
(310) 740-9801 View (310) 740-9801
Photo of Chelsea Gottfurcht, Psychologist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Chelsea Gottfurcht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, 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 Luis Arcos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Luis Arcos
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Are your problems consuming your life? Do you find it difficult to acknowledge your strengths and make the most of them? Therapy could be the solution. We will work on finding solutions and creating plans for change. Together, we will identify your strengths and how those strengths can help you to make positive changes. I use a cognitive behavioral model along with a strengths-based approach. I work from the premise that a strong therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of effective therapy. We will work as a team to create and achieve goals that improve your quality of life.
Are your problems consuming your life? Do you find it difficult to acknowledge your strengths and make the most of them? Therapy could be the solution. We will work on finding solutions and creating plans for change. Together, we will identify your strengths and how those strengths can help you to make positive changes. I use a cognitive behavioral model along with a strengths-based approach. I work from the premise that a strong therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of effective therapy. We will work as a team to create and achieve goals that improve your quality of life.
(562) 850-1635 View (562) 850-1635
Photo of Adriana Bagdasarian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Adriana Bagdasarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I believe that the most effective and lasting changes take place with a strong and supportive client-therapist relationship. I strive to create a comfortable and safe space where my clients can look inward and find their greatest strengths in order to overcome underlying causes and unhealthy patterns that have potentially held them back in the past. Although treatment is not one size fits all, empathy and acceptance are key elements in allowing you to start making positive changes. My goal is to help you take the steps necessary to have the life that you want.
I believe that the most effective and lasting changes take place with a strong and supportive client-therapist relationship. I strive to create a comfortable and safe space where my clients can look inward and find their greatest strengths in order to overcome underlying causes and unhealthy patterns that have potentially held them back in the past. Although treatment is not one size fits all, empathy and acceptance are key elements in allowing you to start making positive changes. My goal is to help you take the steps necessary to have the life that you want.
(310) 294-8379 View (310) 294-8379
Photo of Samantha Schumann, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Samantha Schumann
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, CBP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
You've been doing talk therapy for years but still feel stuck, like a jagged rock deep inside you. You are either someone who was affected by big or acute traumatic events or had a lack of emotional needs met growing up. Or you are someone who feels like their brain has always worked a little differently (ADHD/Autism)? Whether it's relationship problems, job issues, or just feeling overwhelmed and disorganized, sometimes it can feel like you just can’t get it right, despite tremendous effort. You're in the right place if you resonate! Together we can rewrite your story for a future that better reflects who you are and feel better.
You've been doing talk therapy for years but still feel stuck, like a jagged rock deep inside you. You are either someone who was affected by big or acute traumatic events or had a lack of emotional needs met growing up. Or you are someone who feels like their brain has always worked a little differently (ADHD/Autism)? Whether it's relationship problems, job issues, or just feeling overwhelmed and disorganized, sometimes it can feel like you just can’t get it right, despite tremendous effort. You're in the right place if you resonate! Together we can rewrite your story for a future that better reflects who you are and feel better.
(213) 371-9259 View (213) 371-9259
Photo of Steven C Kassel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Steven C Kassel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, BCB, BCN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
*Biofeedback *Neurofeedback *EMDR *Couples and Family Therapy *Abuse (emotional, physical, sexual and neglect) *Attachment disorders *Stress Related Medical Disorders *Critical incident distress *Peak performance and self regulation training *Performance anxiety *Interpersonal Biofeedback (Couples Counseling with feedback of physiology) Public Speaking to EAPs, Professional Conferences.
Children, adults and families with a variety of issues are welcomed. I specialize in psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, trauma, A.D.D., pain and stress management, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. With a bio-psycho-social perspective I help clients self-regulate relationships and mind-body. I work with marital and relationship issues such as: *Divorce, separation and infidelity *Intimacy and communication *Sexual issues *Destructive and sabotaging patterns *Depression *Anxiety *Fears and phobias *Trauma resolution *Self esteem and self concept *Loss and grief *PTSD *Assertiveness & social skills training *Pain Management * A.D.D. and other problems of brainwave disregulation
*Biofeedback *Neurofeedback *EMDR *Couples and Family Therapy *Abuse (emotional, physical, sexual and neglect) *Attachment disorders *Stress Related Medical Disorders *Critical incident distress *Peak performance and self regulation training *Performance anxiety *Interpersonal Biofeedback (Couples Counseling with feedback of physiology) Public Speaking to EAPs, Professional Conferences.
Children, adults and families with a variety of issues are welcomed. I specialize in psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, trauma, A.D.D., pain and stress management, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. With a bio-psycho-social perspective I help clients self-regulate relationships and mind-body. I work with marital and relationship issues such as: *Divorce, separation and infidelity *Intimacy and communication *Sexual issues *Destructive and sabotaging patterns *Depression *Anxiety *Fears and phobias *Trauma resolution *Self esteem and self concept *Loss and grief *PTSD *Assertiveness & social skills training *Pain Management * A.D.D. and other problems of brainwave disregulation
(323) 935-1034 View (323) 935-1034
Photo of Shirin Hart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Shirin Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
My specialities include holistic psychotherapy, mindfulness, somatic therapy, relationship communication and intimacy building.
I’m a psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is modern holistic psychotherapy. I have sought out and learned the latest neuroscience informed therapies. And have been trained by the world’s top holistic practitioners, life coaches, and mindfulness experts. Though I can’t claim to have invented any of these techniques, I have combined them in my own unique way and am sharing it with people so they can win. When people win, it’s helping the community win. To me that is what it is all about.
My specialities include holistic psychotherapy, mindfulness, somatic therapy, relationship communication and intimacy building.
I’m a psychotherapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is modern holistic psychotherapy. I have sought out and learned the latest neuroscience informed therapies. And have been trained by the world’s top holistic practitioners, life coaches, and mindfulness experts. Though I can’t claim to have invented any of these techniques, I have combined them in my own unique way and am sharing it with people so they can win. When people win, it’s helping the community win. To me that is what it is all about.
(424) 342-5545 View (424) 342-5545
Photo of Deborah E. Anderson PHD RYT, Psychologist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Deborah E. Anderson PHD RYT
Psychologist, PhD, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
In my therapy practice (adults only) I work with individuals and couples to help build their life "tool-kits". I draw upon my diverse training as a Health Psychologist, Neuropsychologist and Yoga Teacher and incorporate both Western and Eastern philosophies and tools (cognitive-behavioral therapies, neuroscience, attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology. mindfulness/meditation, and other mind-body techniques such as relaxation training, hypnosis, visualization, etc.,) to treat a variety of symptoms and disorders. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, and human behavior in general, so that you can apply these tools to all aspects of life.
In my therapy practice (adults only) I work with individuals and couples to help build their life "tool-kits". I draw upon my diverse training as a Health Psychologist, Neuropsychologist and Yoga Teacher and incorporate both Western and Eastern philosophies and tools (cognitive-behavioral therapies, neuroscience, attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology. mindfulness/meditation, and other mind-body techniques such as relaxation training, hypnosis, visualization, etc.,) to treat a variety of symptoms and disorders. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, and human behavior in general, so that you can apply these tools to all aspects of life.
(818) 962-2802 View (818) 962-2802
Photo of Patricia Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Patricia Wilson, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I believe successful therapy needs to begin with a trusting, compatible relationship between you and me. If we can establish this foundation for treatment then we can move forward to identify your strengths as a unique individual, and work to uncover and resolve the elements in your life that are preventing personal growth and a gratifying lifestyle. I provide an initial free phone consultation, and offer phone sessions. I work on a sliding scale, and am a provider for Medicare, Blue Shield, Magellan, and Humana. I am NOT a provider for Medi-Cal. I can also bill your insurance company excluding your co-pay.
I believe successful therapy needs to begin with a trusting, compatible relationship between you and me. If we can establish this foundation for treatment then we can move forward to identify your strengths as a unique individual, and work to uncover and resolve the elements in your life that are preventing personal growth and a gratifying lifestyle. I provide an initial free phone consultation, and offer phone sessions. I work on a sliding scale, and am a provider for Medicare, Blue Shield, Magellan, and Humana. I am NOT a provider for Medi-Cal. I can also bill your insurance company excluding your co-pay.
(310) 910-9214 View (310) 910-9214
Photo of Ady Benyishay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA
Ady Benyishay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Currently I’m working at Sober Living helping adults deal with various addictions And mental health as well as see couples families and individuals through Telehealth.
My experience started in 2010 working as an intern in an inpatient facility for an eating disorder residential program for a about two years, from there I moved on to working as a therapist at a residential program treating adolescents with dual diagnosis. In the mean time I completed PsyD program and got my doctorate in clinical psychology.
Currently I’m working at Sober Living helping adults deal with various addictions And mental health as well as see couples families and individuals through Telehealth.
My experience started in 2010 working as an intern in an inpatient facility for an eating disorder residential program for a about two years, from there I moved on to working as a therapist at a residential program treating adolescents with dual diagnosis. In the mean time I completed PsyD program and got my doctorate in clinical psychology.
(818) 532-5249 View (818) 532-5249

See more therapy options for Sawtelle, 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.