Photo of Sylvia Samy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temecula, CA
Sylvia Samy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
I view our relationship as a partnership where we both provide input to your treatment plan based on the goals you set for yourself.
You deserve peace, it is possible to have I have seen in happen in my work. Life can be hard, and some challenges we face can be draining and overwhelming or too much to bear. Are you too exhausted ? Is it difficult to motivate yourself? Does your anxiety interfere with you being able to accomplish life? coping methods you've used before are not working? unhappy with your life or your relationships? therapy can help. Short term process for a long term change. Through practice & education, I offer you a confidential, non judgmental space to find peace.
I view our relationship as a partnership where we both provide input to your treatment plan based on the goals you set for yourself.
You deserve peace, it is possible to have I have seen in happen in my work. Life can be hard, and some challenges we face can be draining and overwhelming or too much to bear. Are you too exhausted ? Is it difficult to motivate yourself? Does your anxiety interfere with you being able to accomplish life? coping methods you've used before are not working? unhappy with your life or your relationships? therapy can help. Short term process for a long term change. Through practice & education, I offer you a confidential, non judgmental space to find peace.
(951) 387-4823 View (951) 387-4823
Photo of Rebecca Heisler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Rebecca Heisler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591
Life is relationship. People come to therapy because their relationships seem strained: You feel misunderstood by your partner, fights increasing, the distance between you growing. You're not on the same page parenting the kids. There are fewer "good times." You feel alone. You crave a renewing, loving relationship, more family harmony. Perhaps you have not succeeded in creating the fulfilling relationship you desire and suffer in its absence, flying solo- anxious, depressed, bored. Can't relax, overwhelmed by your job. The therapeutic work we do together can help you overcome these challenges, building more satisfying, loving relationships, a better fitting life.
Life is relationship. People come to therapy because their relationships seem strained: You feel misunderstood by your partner, fights increasing, the distance between you growing. You're not on the same page parenting the kids. There are fewer "good times." You feel alone. You crave a renewing, loving relationship, more family harmony. Perhaps you have not succeeded in creating the fulfilling relationship you desire and suffer in its absence, flying solo- anxious, depressed, bored. Can't relax, overwhelmed by your job. The therapeutic work we do together can help you overcome these challenges, building more satisfying, loving relationships, a better fitting life.
(619) 383-1957 View (619) 383-1957
Photo of Sue M. Bushrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Sue M. Bushrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
With Couples I use Gottman or Emotionally Focused Therapy approach , helping to find relief and begin to thrive again.
Is life hard and your heart hurting ? Are you struggling ? Do you need relief? Has your family suffered from trauma, loss, change, or heartache? Are you a Veteran struggling? Is your marriage hard? Is your teenager struggling? Are you in professional ministry with no safe place to express the difficulties of ministry. Do you feel depressed after a major life event? I would love to help you or your family!
With Couples I use Gottman or Emotionally Focused Therapy approach , helping to find relief and begin to thrive again.
Is life hard and your heart hurting ? Are you struggling ? Do you need relief? Has your family suffered from trauma, loss, change, or heartache? Are you a Veteran struggling? Is your marriage hard? Is your teenager struggling? Are you in professional ministry with no safe place to express the difficulties of ministry. Do you feel depressed after a major life event? I would love to help you or your family!
(951) 305-4150 View (951) 305-4150
Photo of Katherine Garcia- Crumity, Pre-Licensed Professional in Temecula, CA
Katherine Garcia- Crumity
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591  (Online Only)
My other areas of specialty include men’s wellness, overcoming relationship issues, self- esteem, developing and honoring boundaries, building confidence, working through parental stressors and demands, as well as supporting neurodivergent communities.
Do you find yourself constantly overwhelmed by daily pressures? Do you feel weighed down and anxious about the expectations others place on you? Do you find it hard to speak up and advocate for yourself out of fear of being targeted in some way? As a Mexican- American woman, I have encountered these hurdles which is why I am so passionate about helping ethnically and culturally diverse populations have the opportunity to be seen, heard, valued, and understood in their daily experiences.
My other areas of specialty include men’s wellness, overcoming relationship issues, self- esteem, developing and honoring boundaries, building confidence, working through parental stressors and demands, as well as supporting neurodivergent communities.
Do you find yourself constantly overwhelmed by daily pressures? Do you feel weighed down and anxious about the expectations others place on you? Do you find it hard to speak up and advocate for yourself out of fear of being targeted in some way? As a Mexican- American woman, I have encountered these hurdles which is why I am so passionate about helping ethnically and culturally diverse populations have the opportunity to be seen, heard, valued, and understood in their daily experiences.
(619) 378-1809 View (619) 378-1809
Photo of Lindsey J Ritter-Ingorvaia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Temecula, CA
Lindsey J Ritter-Ingorvaia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, APCC, AMFT, CBTF, CAMS
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
I am committed to bringing support, hope and healing to individuals, couples, or those facing significant life challenges and change. My methods are unique and have developed over the years with increasing resources, research, support, and growing community awareness. I want to empower my clients to find their best version of themselves, their whole happy healthy individuality and do so by helping anyone needing services and welcome all communities and persons to work with me. Mental health is just as real as physical health and believe that everyone needs to have their voice and inner self heard.
I am committed to bringing support, hope and healing to individuals, couples, or those facing significant life challenges and change. My methods are unique and have developed over the years with increasing resources, research, support, and growing community awareness. I want to empower my clients to find their best version of themselves, their whole happy healthy individuality and do so by helping anyone needing services and welcome all communities and persons to work with me. Mental health is just as real as physical health and believe that everyone needs to have their voice and inner self heard.
(951) 944-2689 View (951) 944-2689
Photo of Christine Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Christine Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
Hi, I'm Christine Clarke, LMFT. I have practiced psychotherapy for 30 years with specific advanced training and experience in treating PTSD, mood disorders, and those suffering from wounds from narcissistic abuse. I work in body-centered, Gestalt, movement therapy, and art therapy as well as cognitive behavioral techniques. I'm dedicated to my clients and to the art of psychotherapy. My clients are those who have been frustrated by repeating negative, self-destructive relationship dynamics and personally limiting beliefs.
Hi, I'm Christine Clarke, LMFT. I have practiced psychotherapy for 30 years with specific advanced training and experience in treating PTSD, mood disorders, and those suffering from wounds from narcissistic abuse. I work in body-centered, Gestalt, movement therapy, and art therapy as well as cognitive behavioral techniques. I'm dedicated to my clients and to the art of psychotherapy. My clients are those who have been frustrated by repeating negative, self-destructive relationship dynamics and personally limiting beliefs.
(951) 499-4115 View (951) 499-4115
Photo of Shanda Brennan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temecula, CA
Shanda Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
You are doing your best managing a personal, professional, family, and social life while also navigating this constant state of change and unknowns that has become our new normal. Pandemic fatigue, anxiety and depression, relationship, career and parenting struggles, as well as challenges coping with medical and health issues have become more frequent than ever. We experience such a vast number of life transitions and role changes that having a safe, non-judgemental space and empathetic therapist to support you as you process life’s stressors is a great first step to investing in yourself and creating the change you seek.
You are doing your best managing a personal, professional, family, and social life while also navigating this constant state of change and unknowns that has become our new normal. Pandemic fatigue, anxiety and depression, relationship, career and parenting struggles, as well as challenges coping with medical and health issues have become more frequent than ever. We experience such a vast number of life transitions and role changes that having a safe, non-judgemental space and empathetic therapist to support you as you process life’s stressors is a great first step to investing in yourself and creating the change you seek.
(951) 404-1962 View (951) 404-1962
Photo of Nick Bustos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Nick Bustos
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591  (Online Only)
I see individuals, families and do couples work.
Emotional wounds, challenging life experiences and persistent relationship problems can rob us of our feelings of joy and connection. I offer a compassionate and focused therapy approach to help you learn new ways of looking your problems and concerns, such that you come away feeling more centered and at peace. You will learn: novel, individualized approaches to heal problematic thoughts and emotions; tools for effective communication; new ways to understand yourself, your relationships and your life. We are far more than what we appear to be, and my aim is to help you regain contact with your true self.
I see individuals, families and do couples work.
Emotional wounds, challenging life experiences and persistent relationship problems can rob us of our feelings of joy and connection. I offer a compassionate and focused therapy approach to help you learn new ways of looking your problems and concerns, such that you come away feeling more centered and at peace. You will learn: novel, individualized approaches to heal problematic thoughts and emotions; tools for effective communication; new ways to understand yourself, your relationships and your life. We are far more than what we appear to be, and my aim is to help you regain contact with your true self.
(951) 666-2623 View (951) 666-2623
Photo of David Thurman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
David Thurman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAADC, ICAADC, DBTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship problems, and or stress, then therapy can help you discover new ways to cope and manage these issues. Together we define your core values and use mindfulness techniques to build self-esteem, confidence, hope, resiliency, and a sense of belonging. Our partnership means we take a solution-focused approach in a warm, safe environment. I would love to help you find a life that is authentically you through safe exploration that provides insight and awareness for lasting change in your life.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship problems, and or stress, then therapy can help you discover new ways to cope and manage these issues. Together we define your core values and use mindfulness techniques to build self-esteem, confidence, hope, resiliency, and a sense of belonging. Our partnership means we take a solution-focused approach in a warm, safe environment. I would love to help you find a life that is authentically you through safe exploration that provides insight and awareness for lasting change in your life.
(951) 397-0960 View (951) 397-0960
Photo of Gemma Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Gemma Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
While my work has primarily focused on youth, family, and couples, I also work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
In the 21st century, it is common knowledge that adolescence can be an extremely trying time filled with struggles of self-exploration, changing social norms, budding sexuality, and academic stressors. It can be a shock to learn of a time back before the 20th century where the concept of the teenage years did not exist and youth were expected to act and respond as adults as soon as signs of childhood waned. Fortunately, modern science and psychology in particular have been instrumental in recognizing and standing up for the unique needs of this essential growing period of milestones and distinctive struggles.
While my work has primarily focused on youth, family, and couples, I also work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
In the 21st century, it is common knowledge that adolescence can be an extremely trying time filled with struggles of self-exploration, changing social norms, budding sexuality, and academic stressors. It can be a shock to learn of a time back before the 20th century where the concept of the teenage years did not exist and youth were expected to act and respond as adults as soon as signs of childhood waned. Fortunately, modern science and psychology in particular have been instrumental in recognizing and standing up for the unique needs of this essential growing period of milestones and distinctive struggles.
(951) 338-6776 View (951) 338-6776
Photo of Roxana Alas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Temecula, CA
Roxana Alas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590  (Online Only)
I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed, and Couples therapy.
Life can be challenging at times, influenced by events that can cause lingering symptoms. These can include anxiety, depression, and grief and loss among other symptoms that can affect your daily living. Together we can work on building on your strengths and improving your overall well-being. By utilizing different modalities, coping techniques such as mindfulness, grounding/thought-stopping deep breathing, and relaxation skills, it will assist in decreasing the intensity and severity of they symptoms.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed, and Couples therapy.
Life can be challenging at times, influenced by events that can cause lingering symptoms. These can include anxiety, depression, and grief and loss among other symptoms that can affect your daily living. Together we can work on building on your strengths and improving your overall well-being. By utilizing different modalities, coping techniques such as mindfulness, grounding/thought-stopping deep breathing, and relaxation skills, it will assist in decreasing the intensity and severity of they symptoms.
(951) 396-4869 View (951) 396-4869
Photo of Yolonda M. Young-Adisa, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Temecula, CA
Yolonda M. Young-Adisa
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591  (Online Only)
Welcome! Thank you for your interest in my commitment to trauma-informed and culturally relevant services. I believe in our shared ability to co-create meaning that will lead to greater insight, and ultimately positive changes in your life. Everything that shapes your perspective will be central to our work together. I work relationally by utilizing an intersectional culturally inclusive approach to address the complex realities of your relationship to race, gender, culture, neurodiversity, and sexuality. I value mindfulness as a therapeutic tool that enhances awareness, and ultimately positive change.​
Welcome! Thank you for your interest in my commitment to trauma-informed and culturally relevant services. I believe in our shared ability to co-create meaning that will lead to greater insight, and ultimately positive changes in your life. Everything that shapes your perspective will be central to our work together. I work relationally by utilizing an intersectional culturally inclusive approach to address the complex realities of your relationship to race, gender, culture, neurodiversity, and sexuality. I value mindfulness as a therapeutic tool that enhances awareness, and ultimately positive change.​
(510) 298-3964 View (510) 298-3964
Photo of Nanette Sebourn Couples-Individual-Sex specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Nanette Sebourn Couples-Individual-Sex specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
Ms. Sebourn is IMPARTIAL, KIND AND ACCURATE. She treats individuals and couples AT THE SAME TIME. She specializes in sex therapy for individuals and couples. She is a Psychologist, a Healer and an Educator so her treatments use all three modes to help with any issue. Her hours are 12noon to 7pm to accommodate everyone's schedule on Mondays thru Thursday. She wrote a book titled "Love with a Brain" ( ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0578661698 ) and it is available on Amazon. She offers a free meet & greet so please call to find out more. She honestly cares about her clients. See for yourself at Nanettesebourn.com
Ms. Sebourn is IMPARTIAL, KIND AND ACCURATE. She treats individuals and couples AT THE SAME TIME. She specializes in sex therapy for individuals and couples. She is a Psychologist, a Healer and an Educator so her treatments use all three modes to help with any issue. Her hours are 12noon to 7pm to accommodate everyone's schedule on Mondays thru Thursday. She wrote a book titled "Love with a Brain" ( ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0578661698 ) and it is available on Amazon. She offers a free meet & greet so please call to find out more. She honestly cares about her clients. See for yourself at Nanettesebourn.com
(951) 291-0563 View (951) 291-0563
Photo of Grace Family Counseling, Inc., Counselor in Temecula, CA
Grace Family Counseling, Inc.
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
We specialize in seeing clients with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, social struggles, interpersonal conflict, and self-esteem concerns.
Looking for an encouraging place where you can experience HOPE, HEALING, and GROWTH? Our skilled therapists are ready to meet with you, your child or teen and walk with you on this journey towards healing. We provide therapy for all ages, couples and families. We are client-focused, meaning we are centered on helping you identify the therapy goals that are important for you and we partner together to help you achieve those goals.
We specialize in seeing clients with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, social struggles, interpersonal conflict, and self-esteem concerns.
Looking for an encouraging place where you can experience HOPE, HEALING, and GROWTH? Our skilled therapists are ready to meet with you, your child or teen and walk with you on this journey towards healing. We provide therapy for all ages, couples and families. We are client-focused, meaning we are centered on helping you identify the therapy goals that are important for you and we partner together to help you achieve those goals.
(951) 251-1937 x1 View (951) 251-1937 x1
Photo of David R Butters, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
David R Butters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Couples, Men, Veterans, and Families. I strive to make therapy a comfortable place where you can explore the deepest insights about yourself with compassion and empathy. Therapy becomes an experience and journey about who YOU are and where YOU want to go. Is something standing in the way? Are you stuck in repetitive patterns or plagued by underlying issues? Sometimes we feel frustrated and hurt by those we so want to feel close to. You are not alone in the possible fears that might come along with seeking help. It's vulnerable. It can feel scary. Let me take that step with you to Keep Moving Forward.
Couples, Men, Veterans, and Families. I strive to make therapy a comfortable place where you can explore the deepest insights about yourself with compassion and empathy. Therapy becomes an experience and journey about who YOU are and where YOU want to go. Is something standing in the way? Are you stuck in repetitive patterns or plagued by underlying issues? Sometimes we feel frustrated and hurt by those we so want to feel close to. You are not alone in the possible fears that might come along with seeking help. It's vulnerable. It can feel scary. Let me take that step with you to Keep Moving Forward.
(951) 441-2308 View (951) 441-2308
Photo of Amanda Vadney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Amanda Vadney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel unsatisfied with where your life is right now? Are you unhappy because of a relationship, job or family situation? Perhaps things are going well on the surface, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you've become so stressed out that you don't even feel like yourself anymore. Stress, depression, and anxiety can change your personality, the dynamics of your relationship, and how you react to others. Whether you are dealing with these or other issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I can help.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel unsatisfied with where your life is right now? Are you unhappy because of a relationship, job or family situation? Perhaps things are going well on the surface, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you've become so stressed out that you don't even feel like yourself anymore. Stress, depression, and anxiety can change your personality, the dynamics of your relationship, and how you react to others. Whether you are dealing with these or other issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I can help.
(951) 639-8263 View (951) 639-8263
Photo of Tania Mclean-Nicholas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Tania Mclean-Nicholas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
16 yrs experience working with adults, couples, children, foster children, teens.
In life individuals and families will experience difficult and challenging events that lead to confusion, frustration, and grief. These emotions if not managed properly could interfere with one's ability to manage their personal and professional life in a healthy manner. My desire is to help find a "Renewed Hope" for your situation. I will walk along side you and your family, providing encouragement and guidance, as you work towards positive change and growth.
16 yrs experience working with adults, couples, children, foster children, teens.
In life individuals and families will experience difficult and challenging events that lead to confusion, frustration, and grief. These emotions if not managed properly could interfere with one's ability to manage their personal and professional life in a healthy manner. My desire is to help find a "Renewed Hope" for your situation. I will walk along side you and your family, providing encouragement and guidance, as you work towards positive change and growth.
(951) 432-5313 View (951) 432-5313
Photo of Susy Alanis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Temecula, CA
Susy Alanis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to individual, couples, and families.
Are you overwhelmed by negative thought, or feeling depressed or anxious? No matter how hard you try, your life just doesn’t seem like it use too. Even on a good day, when everything is going well, you still have those feelings that you are unable to shake off. Waking up telling yourself today will be a new day, just to find yourself with those unpleasant feelings and not understanding why you keep doing the things you do, and unable to recognize the person you have become. So weather it is wanting better connections with loved ones, to better yourself or to heal from the pain of your past, I would like to help you
I provide counseling services to individual, couples, and families.
Are you overwhelmed by negative thought, or feeling depressed or anxious? No matter how hard you try, your life just doesn’t seem like it use too. Even on a good day, when everything is going well, you still have those feelings that you are unable to shake off. Waking up telling yourself today will be a new day, just to find yourself with those unpleasant feelings and not understanding why you keep doing the things you do, and unable to recognize the person you have become. So weather it is wanting better connections with loved ones, to better yourself or to heal from the pain of your past, I would like to help you
(909) 352-4469 View (909) 352-4469
Photo of Alene McDowell-Ibanez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Alene McDowell-Ibanez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
I have experience working with Adults, Teens, Couples, Law Enforcement, Veterans and Forensic populations.
I am owner of McDowell-Ibanez Counseling Services with over 15 years experience. My focus has been transforming peoples lives through insight, empathy and understanding. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step in your journey and I will be with you every step of the way.I believe in fostering a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. I will help you find your inner peace and work with you to fulfill your goals. It is an honor to be able to work with you.
I have experience working with Adults, Teens, Couples, Law Enforcement, Veterans and Forensic populations.
I am owner of McDowell-Ibanez Counseling Services with over 15 years experience. My focus has been transforming peoples lives through insight, empathy and understanding. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step in your journey and I will be with you every step of the way.I believe in fostering a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. I will help you find your inner peace and work with you to fulfill your goals. It is an honor to be able to work with you.
(951) 309-9370 View (951) 309-9370
Photo of Sonia Gonzini (Formerly Halim), Marriage & Family Therapist in Temecula, CA
Sonia Gonzini (Formerly Halim)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR , CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
I can do group, individual or couples therapy.
Hi. First, I want to congratulate you for taking the initiative to start a new journey in your life. This chapter of your life, may be a difficult one. However, by you being here, you are demonstrating that you are ready for a change. Making the decision to get counseling support is not easy. I work with substance abuse and recovery, marriage and family, relationship issues, domestic violence recovery, trauma, abuse, recovery through movement, exercise, sports and activity and identity concerns. I offer a safe space for my clients to talk openly & honestly to me about whatever your concerns are.
I can do group, individual or couples therapy.
Hi. First, I want to congratulate you for taking the initiative to start a new journey in your life. This chapter of your life, may be a difficult one. However, by you being here, you are demonstrating that you are ready for a change. Making the decision to get counseling support is not easy. I work with substance abuse and recovery, marriage and family, relationship issues, domestic violence recovery, trauma, abuse, recovery through movement, exercise, sports and activity and identity concerns. I offer a safe space for my clients to talk openly & honestly to me about whatever your concerns are.
(951) 934-0059 View (951) 934-0059
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.