Photo of Behavioral Healthcare Partners, Psychologist in San Marcos, CA
Behavioral Healthcare Partners
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Gonzales have extensive training working with children/adolescents, adults, families and couples.
At Behavioral Healthcare Partners, our goal is to promote behavioral health and wellness to achieve life's potential and fulfillment within the individual, family, and community. Dr. Vincent Castro and Dr. Denise Gonzales, both Licensed Psychologists, have 43 years combined experience in providing therapeutic services on concerns related to child/adolescent behavioral problems, abuse and neglect, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, coping with medical concerns, family discord, parenting, couples therapy, military/law enforcement concerns, personal growth/wellness, stress/anger management, trauma, and work/career issues. BHP services also include assessment and evaluation, short-term solution focused interventions, consultations, and psychological testing.
Gonzales have extensive training working with children/adolescents, adults, families and couples.
At Behavioral Healthcare Partners, our goal is to promote behavioral health and wellness to achieve life's potential and fulfillment within the individual, family, and community. Dr. Vincent Castro and Dr. Denise Gonzales, both Licensed Psychologists, have 43 years combined experience in providing therapeutic services on concerns related to child/adolescent behavioral problems, abuse and neglect, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, coping with medical concerns, family discord, parenting, couples therapy, military/law enforcement concerns, personal growth/wellness, stress/anger management, trauma, and work/career issues. BHP services also include assessment and evaluation, short-term solution focused interventions, consultations, and psychological testing.
(760) 684-8835 View (760) 684-8835
Photo of Sarah Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Marcos, CA
Sarah Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078
I work with adults from late teens through the elder population. Areas of specialty include trauma, anxiety, stress management, self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, communication difficulties and life transitions. When working with clients my goal is to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and validating while we explore any negative beliefs or experiences that may be holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. My role is to help guide and support you through your challenges while also empowering you to connect to your inner strength and resiliency.
I work with adults from late teens through the elder population. Areas of specialty include trauma, anxiety, stress management, self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, communication difficulties and life transitions. When working with clients my goal is to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and validating while we explore any negative beliefs or experiences that may be holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. My role is to help guide and support you through your challenges while also empowering you to connect to your inner strength and resiliency.
(760) 465-8372 View (760) 465-8372
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(760) 819-7879 View (760) 819-7879

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mark Brewer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Mark Brewer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) is the leading therapy to treat COUPLES! ! We focus on making the bond between a couple stronger and that each partner is Accessible-Responsive-Engaged (A.
WAVE THERAPY (Wisdom-Action-Vision-Encouragement) will help you get the support for which you are looking. We offer therapy. Call Now!! We will help you discover your inner resources, build self-esteem and develop new healthy patterns and solutions to life's challenges. INSURANCES Accepted!! WAVE specializes in EMDR for Depression, Anxiety & Trauma as well as EFT for couples and Solution Focused to help you achieve your goals. Low Self Esteem,Intense Anger or Rage, Unsatisfying relationships,Depression,Anxiety, Fears, Obsessing or ruminating over an idea or someone, social fears or phobias. WEBSITE-www.wavetherapist.com
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) is the leading therapy to treat COUPLES! ! We focus on making the bond between a couple stronger and that each partner is Accessible-Responsive-Engaged (A.
WAVE THERAPY (Wisdom-Action-Vision-Encouragement) will help you get the support for which you are looking. We offer therapy. Call Now!! We will help you discover your inner resources, build self-esteem and develop new healthy patterns and solutions to life's challenges. INSURANCES Accepted!! WAVE specializes in EMDR for Depression, Anxiety & Trauma as well as EFT for couples and Solution Focused to help you achieve your goals. Low Self Esteem,Intense Anger or Rage, Unsatisfying relationships,Depression,Anxiety, Fears, Obsessing or ruminating over an idea or someone, social fears or phobias. WEBSITE-www.wavetherapist.com
(760) 354-9910 View (760) 354-9910
Photo of James B Schmid, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
James B Schmid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
I am a Cognitive Behavioral therapist with a very relational approach. My directive style is balanced with a sense of humor that provides for a disarming and helpful relationship. I mostly work with teens through adults with a significant portion of my practice going to couples. I have offices in Corona and Carlsbad. I would love to have the opportunity to help you through whatever struggles you might be facing. I am available to meet with you for phone or video sessions when it is allowed.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral therapist with a very relational approach. My directive style is balanced with a sense of humor that provides for a disarming and helpful relationship. I mostly work with teens through adults with a significant portion of my practice going to couples. I have offices in Corona and Carlsbad. I would love to have the opportunity to help you through whatever struggles you might be facing. I am available to meet with you for phone or video sessions when it is allowed.
(951) 992-1324 View (951) 992-1324
Photo of Deborah K Berman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Deborah K Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My wide range of experience provides me with the ability to approach many situations you may be facing with confidence and knowledge. I want to start where you are and I will respect your goals in the therapeutic process. I understand your need for confidentiality, privacy and trust. I have enjoyed providing extensive work and focusing my continued education on helping those with PTSD (to include military combat related PTSD), chronic illness, chronic pain, relationship problems, life transition issues, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
My wide range of experience provides me with the ability to approach many situations you may be facing with confidence and knowledge. I want to start where you are and I will respect your goals in the therapeutic process. I understand your need for confidentiality, privacy and trust. I have enjoyed providing extensive work and focusing my continued education on helping those with PTSD (to include military combat related PTSD), chronic illness, chronic pain, relationship problems, life transition issues, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
(760) 764-4621 View (760) 764-4621
Photo of WAVE Therapy Group Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
WAVE Therapy Group Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
We work with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families of all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations.
We are a large group practice with over 35 therapists at 5 locations throughout San Diego and Orange County. We have been serving the San Diego community since 2014 and WAVE is a family owned and operated company. We specialize in a variety of issues and see clients from all age groups. We take most major insurances and also have affordable cash rates. Call today for immediate openings and therapy for the whole family in one place. We have locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, Rancho Bernardo, and Mission Valley. See our website for more information: www.wavetherapist.org
We work with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families of all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations.
We are a large group practice with over 35 therapists at 5 locations throughout San Diego and Orange County. We have been serving the San Diego community since 2014 and WAVE is a family owned and operated company. We specialize in a variety of issues and see clients from all age groups. We take most major insurances and also have affordable cash rates. Call today for immediate openings and therapy for the whole family in one place. We have locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, Rancho Bernardo, and Mission Valley. See our website for more information: www.wavetherapist.org
(442) 219-7795 View (442) 219-7795

Online Therapists

Photo of Mercedes Quiceno, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Mercedes Quiceno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whittier, CA 90601
I enjoy working with couples and adults of all life stages, suffering from anxiety, depression, trying improve communications, relationships, functioning, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with you to come up with reasonable and attainable goals for positive life changes. You will experience a confidential and non-judgmental environment, where you are heard, understood, and appreciated. We explore your unique beliefs, thoughts, feelings and circumstances while discovering the therapy approach that works best for you. I am expanding my business working hours to early mornings and some Saturdays.
I enjoy working with couples and adults of all life stages, suffering from anxiety, depression, trying improve communications, relationships, functioning, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with you to come up with reasonable and attainable goals for positive life changes. You will experience a confidential and non-judgmental environment, where you are heard, understood, and appreciated. We explore your unique beliefs, thoughts, feelings and circumstances while discovering the therapy approach that works best for you. I am expanding my business working hours to early mornings and some Saturdays.
(562) 275-7033 View (562) 275-7033
Photo of Through the Sea Marriage & Family Counseling Inc, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Through the Sea Marriage & Family Counseling Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Covina, CA 91791
Through the Sea offers professional licensed therapists and compassionate certified Biblical counselors to help you navigate your life. We provide couples, individual, child, and family counseling. Specialities include depression, anxiety, ptsd, domestic abuse and sexual trauma, infidelity recovery, parenting, spiritual issues, or simply adjusting to changes in life.
Through the Sea offers professional licensed therapists and compassionate certified Biblical counselors to help you navigate your life. We provide couples, individual, child, and family counseling. Specialities include depression, anxiety, ptsd, domestic abuse and sexual trauma, infidelity recovery, parenting, spiritual issues, or simply adjusting to changes in life.
(714) 905-5931 View (714) 905-5931
Photo of R. Inez Salcido-Kasteiner, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
R. Inez Salcido-Kasteiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CMDP, CMC-1
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90602  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialties in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief & loss issues, self-esteem and body image issues, trauma, disruptive behaviors, relationship issues, and substance abuse issues.
Note: Emails receive a quicker response. Awareness allows for change. This is a phrase I have coined that you will hear from me often. Let's discuss this topic together. When we achieve awareness within ourselves, awareness of our environment, and awareness of our patterns of thought and behaviors - that's when positive changes can start to happen. One of the most important things that therapy can help you to achieve is awareness. As your therapist, I will be an additional resource for you as you endeavor to explore the areas of your life that need your energy and attention.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with specialties in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief & loss issues, self-esteem and body image issues, trauma, disruptive behaviors, relationship issues, and substance abuse issues.
Note: Emails receive a quicker response. Awareness allows for change. This is a phrase I have coined that you will hear from me often. Let's discuss this topic together. When we achieve awareness within ourselves, awareness of our environment, and awareness of our patterns of thought and behaviors - that's when positive changes can start to happen. One of the most important things that therapy can help you to achieve is awareness. As your therapist, I will be an additional resource for you as you endeavor to explore the areas of your life that need your energy and attention.
(562) 655-8523 View (562) 655-8523
Photo of Samira Vafadar, Psychologist in San Marcos, CA
Samira Vafadar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My training includes children, teenagers, adults, elderly, couples in the areas of chronic pain, addictions, depression, anxiety & cultural/ethnic.
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
My training includes children, teenagers, adults, elderly, couples in the areas of chronic pain, addictions, depression, anxiety & cultural/ethnic.
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
(949) 835-4916 View (949) 835-4916
Photo of Holly Plummer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Holly Plummer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Waitlist for new clients
It is my belief that the most healing aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. For it is only through this foundation that our deepest and most personal wounds can be healed. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families and teens and helping patients gain a greater understanding of themselves and the important people in their life. My goal is to empower patients to be vulnerable and honest with themselves and others and thereby make healthy life choices and impact change in their relationships.
It is my belief that the most healing aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. For it is only through this foundation that our deepest and most personal wounds can be healed. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families and teens and helping patients gain a greater understanding of themselves and the important people in their life. My goal is to empower patients to be vulnerable and honest with themselves and others and thereby make healthy life choices and impact change in their relationships.
(949) 954-5668 View (949) 954-5668
Photo of New Hope Family Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
New Hope Family Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downey, CA 90241
Se Habla Español. Llame para una consulta gratis. Are you finding yourself questioning what is your life's purpose? Wondering if this is where you need to be in life. Asking if you are making the right decision/choice? Are you experiencing periods of sadness, worry, frustration or sleepless nights? Are recent changes in life difficult to manage? Are you a new parent, a newlywed, are you going through a separation/Divorce? Have you been married for a while but have been struggling in communicating with your spouse? Do everyday life tasks seem difficult to complete and manage? Is your concern your child?
Se Habla Español. Llame para una consulta gratis. Are you finding yourself questioning what is your life's purpose? Wondering if this is where you need to be in life. Asking if you are making the right decision/choice? Are you experiencing periods of sadness, worry, frustration or sleepless nights? Are recent changes in life difficult to manage? Are you a new parent, a newlywed, are you going through a separation/Divorce? Have you been married for a while but have been struggling in communicating with your spouse? Do everyday life tasks seem difficult to complete and manage? Is your concern your child?
(562) 582-7424 View (562) 582-7424
Photo of Tanya Belloso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Tanya Belloso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92654  (Online Only)
Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of healing and peace. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!
Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of healing and peace. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!
(949) 304-6204 View (949) 304-6204
Photo of Brittany A. Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Brittany A. Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106  (Online Only)
I have 10 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals, families, and couples who deal with a wide range of problems including; anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family conflicts, etc.
Taking the steps to locate and secure a therapist are not easy. You’ve probably been through some tough challenges that have brought you to this place today. However, you don’t have to navigate the hardships of life on your own. Allow me to help you build the skills you need to tap into your own resilience and create lasting changes!
I have 10 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals, families, and couples who deal with a wide range of problems including; anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family conflicts, etc.
Taking the steps to locate and secure a therapist are not easy. You’ve probably been through some tough challenges that have brought you to this place today. However, you don’t have to navigate the hardships of life on your own. Allow me to help you build the skills you need to tap into your own resilience and create lasting changes!
(314) 742-7182 View (314) 742-7182
Photo of Christina Joanitis, Psychologist in San Marcos, CA
Christina Joanitis
Psychologist, MAT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harbor City, CA 90710  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently only providing short term and long term virtual/tele-therapy counseling for individual and couples needing a bit of extra support to navigate various stressors and life challenges.
It can be so difficult to reach out for help, so when you do, you can be assured you will be met with quality care and professionalism. My goal is to ensure you are heard, cared for, and supported on your journey towards health and healing. I am passionate about seeing individuals find healing and wholeness. By providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to emote, process past hurts and traumas, and identify unhealthy behavioral patterns, my goal is to work with my clients to normalize emotions, challenge cognitive distortions, and develop a healthier view of self.
I am currently only providing short term and long term virtual/tele-therapy counseling for individual and couples needing a bit of extra support to navigate various stressors and life challenges.
It can be so difficult to reach out for help, so when you do, you can be assured you will be met with quality care and professionalism. My goal is to ensure you are heard, cared for, and supported on your journey towards health and healing. I am passionate about seeing individuals find healing and wholeness. By providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to emote, process past hurts and traumas, and identify unhealthy behavioral patterns, my goal is to work with my clients to normalize emotions, challenge cognitive distortions, and develop a healthier view of self.
(424) 396-2079 View (424) 396-2079
Photo of Dorina Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Dorina Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples on relationship and marital issues, and also specialize in working with adolescents with issues such as ADHD, low self-esteem, self-destructive behavior, depression, trauma, lack of motivation and confusion regarding the future.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples on relationship and marital issues, and also specialize in working with adolescents with issues such as ADHD, low self-esteem, self-destructive behavior, depression, trauma, lack of motivation and confusion regarding the future.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
(949) 514-8852 View (949) 514-8852
Photo of Dr. Philip Lance, Psychologist in San Marcos, CA
Dr. Philip Lance
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Philip Lance and his associates serve a diverse range of clients; from anxious entertainment professionals to gay men and couples exploring issues of sexuality and relationship conflicts. Therapy with Dr. Lance promotes individuation, intimacy, the discovery of one's realistic limits, and finding hope for expanded possibilities.
Philip Lance and his associates serve a diverse range of clients; from anxious entertainment professionals to gay men and couples exploring issues of sexuality and relationship conflicts. Therapy with Dr. Lance promotes individuation, intimacy, the discovery of one's realistic limits, and finding hope for expanded possibilities.
(323) 484-4212 View (323) 484-4212
Photo of Navid Messian, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Marcos, CA
Navid Messian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I welcome adults, adolescents, and couples of all cultural, religious, and sexual orientations.
Are you experiencing life circumstances that are hurting your sense of well being and relationships? I’d like to congratulate you on taking the first step to reach out! This is a sign of strength and the first step in feeling better. My sessions provide insight, feedback, emotional support, depth, mindfulness, coping tools aimed to increase your ability to manage stress & personal difficulties, increase self awareness, feel validated & empowered, and strengthen relationships.
I welcome adults, adolescents, and couples of all cultural, religious, and sexual orientations.
Are you experiencing life circumstances that are hurting your sense of well being and relationships? I’d like to congratulate you on taking the first step to reach out! This is a sign of strength and the first step in feeling better. My sessions provide insight, feedback, emotional support, depth, mindfulness, coping tools aimed to increase your ability to manage stress & personal difficulties, increase self awareness, feel validated & empowered, and strengthen relationships.
(747) 205-0035 View (747) 205-0035
Photo of Dr. Gilbert Chalepas - Reconnect Relationship, Psychologist in San Marcos, CA
Dr. Gilbert Chalepas - Reconnect Relationship
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
Are you tired of the dating game, feeling like you're stuck on the sidelines while everyone else finds love? I'm here to help you break free from the cycle of disappointment & heartache. As a dating psychologist expert, I specialize in guiding individuals who have faced difficulties in finding a meaningful relationship. Whether you've been hurt in the past or are simply afraid to take the plunge, my goal is to empower you to overcome these obstacles and embark on a fulfilling romantic journey. It's time to turn the page, leave behind the old patterns & start a new chapter in your love life. Don't let fear hold you back any longer.
Are you tired of the dating game, feeling like you're stuck on the sidelines while everyone else finds love? I'm here to help you break free from the cycle of disappointment & heartache. As a dating psychologist expert, I specialize in guiding individuals who have faced difficulties in finding a meaningful relationship. Whether you've been hurt in the past or are simply afraid to take the plunge, my goal is to empower you to overcome these obstacles and embark on a fulfilling romantic journey. It's time to turn the page, leave behind the old patterns & start a new chapter in your love life. Don't let fear hold you back any longer.
(949) 334-5936 View (949) 334-5936
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.