Photo of Bob Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Bob Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
If resolving problems were the only reason people struggled in a relationship then one rule book for problem solving would be all that is needed.
I kept my office open during the COVID Crisis but when it ended people did not want to come to an office. I simi-retired & work through Zoom. I have lowered my fee to reflect the benefit of working online. While it is not my preferred way of working with clients, it allows me to continue to work. I left Saddleback Church where I was the Pastor of Pastoral Care for 17+years. I've been a licensed marriage & family counselor for 35+ years. I respect the fact that everyone needs to make a personal decision about their faith but I do approach therapy using Christian perspectives & values.
If resolving problems were the only reason people struggled in a relationship then one rule book for problem solving would be all that is needed.
I kept my office open during the COVID Crisis but when it ended people did not want to come to an office. I simi-retired & work through Zoom. I have lowered my fee to reflect the benefit of working online. While it is not my preferred way of working with clients, it allows me to continue to work. I left Saddleback Church where I was the Pastor of Pastoral Care for 17+years. I've been a licensed marriage & family counselor for 35+ years. I respect the fact that everyone needs to make a personal decision about their faith but I do approach therapy using Christian perspectives & values.
(949) 518-3753 View (949) 518-3753

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
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.
(714) 266-3416 View (714) 266-3416
Photo of Rosa Zuniga, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Rosa Zuniga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790
Are you struggling with the demands of today’s society? Do you experience overwhelming stress at work, at home with your spouse/partner or your children? Is your toddler/teenager acting out and rebelling? Are you struggling with managing difficult emotions, resolving conflicts, and making decisions? Do you often feel frustrated, stressed, angry, depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with interacting with your love ones? Have you thought about seeking help? Seeking help can be initially scary and terrifying; however, with the right guidance and therapeutic approach you can find the change you are hoping for.
Are you struggling with the demands of today’s society? Do you experience overwhelming stress at work, at home with your spouse/partner or your children? Is your toddler/teenager acting out and rebelling? Are you struggling with managing difficult emotions, resolving conflicts, and making decisions? Do you often feel frustrated, stressed, angry, depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with interacting with your love ones? Have you thought about seeking help? Seeking help can be initially scary and terrifying; however, with the right guidance and therapeutic approach you can find the change you are hoping for.
(657) 500-4642 View (657) 500-4642
Photo of Ruth Tyson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Ruth Tyson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chino, CA 91710
As a psychotherapist, I develop an understanding of your individual 'story' through a collaborative relationship and help you to know yourself better so that you can ask the right questions in finding your unique path, begin the process of change, and live a holistic, fulfilled life.
My name is Ruth Tyson. As License Marriage Family Child therapy, I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a therapist, I help you identify problem areas and patterns that are causing distress, the source(s) of these issues, and ways to enact positive change to find your unique voice. My specialty is partnering with you in finding your life purpose, helping you in the process of self-discovery and leading you to your fullest potential. Together we will explore your upbringing and process feelings associated with your childhood.
As a psychotherapist, I develop an understanding of your individual 'story' through a collaborative relationship and help you to know yourself better so that you can ask the right questions in finding your unique path, begin the process of change, and live a holistic, fulfilled life.
My name is Ruth Tyson. As License Marriage Family Child therapy, I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a therapist, I help you identify problem areas and patterns that are causing distress, the source(s) of these issues, and ways to enact positive change to find your unique voice. My specialty is partnering with you in finding your life purpose, helping you in the process of self-discovery and leading you to your fullest potential. Together we will explore your upbringing and process feelings associated with your childhood.
(909) 248-2633 View (909) 248-2633
Photo of Bayley Dark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Bayley Dark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baldwin Park, CA 91706
I am a partner alongside your journey, never dictating where you go and when to go.
My name is Bayley Dark LCSW 110397, and I have been working with young children and adolescents for the last 4-6 years. My approach to therapy is to provide all my clients a safe space to verbalize their thoughts and feelings without any judgment and to address any concerns or topics that they feel are important to them. Most of my experience is with teenage boys who are within the juvenile justice system and within the child welfare system. The clients I typically see have severe trauma, history of substance use, and severe mental health diagnoses.
I am a partner alongside your journey, never dictating where you go and when to go.
My name is Bayley Dark LCSW 110397, and I have been working with young children and adolescents for the last 4-6 years. My approach to therapy is to provide all my clients a safe space to verbalize their thoughts and feelings without any judgment and to address any concerns or topics that they feel are important to them. Most of my experience is with teenage boys who are within the juvenile justice system and within the child welfare system. The clients I typically see have severe trauma, history of substance use, and severe mental health diagnoses.
(626) 631-5366 View (626) 631-5366
Photo of Fernando Estrada, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Fernando Estrada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91762
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I offer a holistic approach to assist you in developing a balanced emotional state of mind. During my years in practice I specialize in treating adolescents and their families who are experiencing depression, drug addiction, anxiety, parent-child relationship issues, impulsive behaviors. In family therapy sessions the main goal is rebuild strong, healthy, family relations, with effective communication skills. I work collaboratively with youth/ their parents. I help clients manage unhealthy marital and family relationships.
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I offer a holistic approach to assist you in developing a balanced emotional state of mind. During my years in practice I specialize in treating adolescents and their families who are experiencing depression, drug addiction, anxiety, parent-child relationship issues, impulsive behaviors. In family therapy sessions the main goal is rebuild strong, healthy, family relations, with effective communication skills. I work collaboratively with youth/ their parents. I help clients manage unhealthy marital and family relationships.
(909) 833-7226 View (909) 833-7226
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Dimas, CA
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Cleansing Conversations , Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Cleansing Conversations
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
Congratulations on your fist step towards clarity and relief. Struggles in life can be overwhelming and not having a positive, non-biased support system makes them seem even harder. We understand and are honored to walk this journey along with you. Therapy can be scary that is why we will tailor our approach to your needs and comfort level. We accept a variety of insurances to help lighten the financial cost. If you feel that we can help guide you through your circumstances, please call us.
Congratulations on your fist step towards clarity and relief. Struggles in life can be overwhelming and not having a positive, non-biased support system makes them seem even harder. We understand and are honored to walk this journey along with you. Therapy can be scary that is why we will tailor our approach to your needs and comfort level. We accept a variety of insurances to help lighten the financial cost. If you feel that we can help guide you through your circumstances, please call us.
(909) 281-8374 View (909) 281-8374

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Ray Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Dr. Ray Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Park, CA 91377
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is the EXPERT of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. Many times therapists tend to talk about their ideal client...this seems backwards to me...why does it matter about the therapists' needs? Clients should be empowered to seek out their ideal therapist and what the therapist has to offer them individually, their family, spouse, partner, children, etc.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is the EXPERT of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. Many times therapists tend to talk about their ideal client...this seems backwards to me...why does it matter about the therapists' needs? Clients should be empowered to seek out their ideal therapist and what the therapist has to offer them individually, their family, spouse, partner, children, etc.
(818) 485-2998 View (818) 485-2998
Photo of Community Behavioral Health Research Foundation, Counselor in San Dimas, CA
Community Behavioral Health Research Foundation
Counselor, MS, CPRP, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, CA 93534
I am a licensed therapist and certified psychiatric rehabilitation practitioner providing individual, and family therapy to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have experience treating anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorder, panic disorder, self-injurious behaviors, relationship difficulties, family conflicts, and significant life transitions. I am a practical therapist helping individuals deal with childhood trauma, substance use, addiction, job stress, anger, loss, and grief. I also focus my practice on helping individuals, families, and couples cope with life challenges with a culturally sensitive approach.
I am a licensed therapist and certified psychiatric rehabilitation practitioner providing individual, and family therapy to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have experience treating anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorder, panic disorder, self-injurious behaviors, relationship difficulties, family conflicts, and significant life transitions. I am a practical therapist helping individuals deal with childhood trauma, substance use, addiction, job stress, anger, loss, and grief. I also focus my practice on helping individuals, families, and couples cope with life challenges with a culturally sensitive approach.
(661) 463-3980 View (661) 463-3980
Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
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.
(562) 502-8669 View (562) 502-8669
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Counselor in San Dimas, CA
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(562) 685-9636 View (562) 685-9636
Photo of Lori Shnorhokian, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Lori Shnorhokian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
I, Lori Shnorhokian 83954, provide a safe environment and compassionate, non-judgmental counseling to help you explore the personal and relationship challenges you are facing and begin working toward lasting solutions. By fostering an interactive and collaborative setting during our sessions, I can help you feel comfortable taking an active role in engaging and addressing the difficult symptoms, thoughts, and emotions you are dealing with.
I, Lori Shnorhokian 83954, provide a safe environment and compassionate, non-judgmental counseling to help you explore the personal and relationship challenges you are facing and begin working toward lasting solutions. By fostering an interactive and collaborative setting during our sessions, I can help you feel comfortable taking an active role in engaging and addressing the difficult symptoms, thoughts, and emotions you are dealing with.
(714) 880-8739 View (714) 880-8739
Photo of Adrien Survol Rivin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Adrien Survol Rivin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
I am certified in couples therapy.
Therapy is a process of self discovery that helps you understand yourself and resolve difficulties in relationships with others. I have been working with adults, teenagers, families and couples for over 30 years. I treat depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. I work with many couples. I see people who have been neglected and abused emotionally. I work deeply and personally with each person/couple to understand their fears and pain. I do my work with great involvement. I am very easy to talk to. I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere that enhances positive change and increased self-esteem.
I am certified in couples therapy.
Therapy is a process of self discovery that helps you understand yourself and resolve difficulties in relationships with others. I have been working with adults, teenagers, families and couples for over 30 years. I treat depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. I work with many couples. I see people who have been neglected and abused emotionally. I work deeply and personally with each person/couple to understand their fears and pain. I do my work with great involvement. I am very easy to talk to. I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere that enhances positive change and increased self-esteem.
(747) 271-5968 View (747) 271-5968
Photo of Jamie Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Dimas, CA
Jamie Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
(626) 317-9711 View (626) 317-9711
Photo of Remarkable Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
RS provides therapy counseling support to children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
RS provides therapy counseling support to children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Adria Scovel, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Adria Scovel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
My therapeutic approach combines psychotherapy and neuro-science concepts to transform outdated neuro-belief systems, unconscious states of behaviors and unconscious wiring that often manifests in depression, anxiety, conflict, stress, and relationship issues which inhibits the power of true potential.
The current unprecedented state of our world has presented many challenges and taken a toll on mental health and wellness, triggering the body's stress response, de-activating the immune system, and putting our mind/body in survival mode. This has the propensity to escalate anxiety, depression, addiction, and disease and reactivates outdated coping skills and keeps our body in fight or flight. Let's work together to create a strong support system to manage and navigate the stress and uncertainty and minimize the toll on our mental health, physical health, and relationships, and empower ourselves for the future.
My therapeutic approach combines psychotherapy and neuro-science concepts to transform outdated neuro-belief systems, unconscious states of behaviors and unconscious wiring that often manifests in depression, anxiety, conflict, stress, and relationship issues which inhibits the power of true potential.
The current unprecedented state of our world has presented many challenges and taken a toll on mental health and wellness, triggering the body's stress response, de-activating the immune system, and putting our mind/body in survival mode. This has the propensity to escalate anxiety, depression, addiction, and disease and reactivates outdated coping skills and keeps our body in fight or flight. Let's work together to create a strong support system to manage and navigate the stress and uncertainty and minimize the toll on our mental health, physical health, and relationships, and empower ourselves for the future.
(747) 203-0951 View (747) 203-0951
Photo of Leslie Munguia, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Leslie Munguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
(747) 269-6106 View (747) 269-6106
Photo of Robin Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Dimas, CA
Robin Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92507
Life is full of changes; changes can cause anxiety, depression, fear, or grief. Whether from relationship changes, loss or misunderstandings change can be overwhelming. My experience has shown that there are a number of ways to help someone; however, there is no one size fits all approach. Utilizing your strength we can find the best approach to fit your needs to gain empowerment to overcome the challenges of change. My style is compassionate, yet direct. Utilizing compassion, empathy and reality we can build the necessary skills needed to navigate the change, as well as the tools needed for future challenges.
Life is full of changes; changes can cause anxiety, depression, fear, or grief. Whether from relationship changes, loss or misunderstandings change can be overwhelming. My experience has shown that there are a number of ways to help someone; however, there is no one size fits all approach. Utilizing your strength we can find the best approach to fit your needs to gain empowerment to overcome the challenges of change. My style is compassionate, yet direct. Utilizing compassion, empathy and reality we can build the necessary skills needed to navigate the change, as well as the tools needed for future challenges.
(951) 643-4753 View (951) 643-4753
Photo of David Ibrahim, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Dimas, CA
David Ibrahim
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
(323) 531-5725 View (323) 531-5725

See more therapy options for San Dimas

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.