Photo of Dennis Jay Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Dennis Jay Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ukiah, CA 95482
In my 25 years of psychotherapy practice for individuals, couples, and families, I have helped people identify, explore and heal the issues that have kept them from accomplishing what they want with their lives. My experience has shown that moving beyond right/wrong thinking, judgments and emotional reactivity can greatly facilitate growth and freedom. Paying attention to the sensations and feeling in our bodies and relaxing through deep breathing can create insights to quickly reveal one's essential issues. Over the last ten years I have spent considerable time doing couples therapy.
In my 25 years of psychotherapy practice for individuals, couples, and families, I have helped people identify, explore and heal the issues that have kept them from accomplishing what they want with their lives. My experience has shown that moving beyond right/wrong thinking, judgments and emotional reactivity can greatly facilitate growth and freedom. Paying attention to the sensations and feeling in our bodies and relaxing through deep breathing can create insights to quickly reveal one's essential issues. Over the last ten years I have spent considerable time doing couples therapy.
(707) 574-8994 View (707) 574-8994
Photo of Shannon Ashburn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Shannon Ashburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ukiah, CA 95482
I work with a wide variety of clients including minors, adults, and couples.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I have experience working in Child Welfare, non-profit, and private practice settings with individuals, couples, families, and groups who are experiencing a wide range of challenges. Much of my experience has been dedicated to helping those affected by trauma. My experience with this hurting population spans over 12 years. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Practice and have assisted individuals and families in overcoming barriers to personal emotional and psychological safety.
I work with a wide variety of clients including minors, adults, and couples.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I have experience working in Child Welfare, non-profit, and private practice settings with individuals, couples, families, and groups who are experiencing a wide range of challenges. Much of my experience has been dedicated to helping those affected by trauma. My experience with this hurting population spans over 12 years. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Practice and have assisted individuals and families in overcoming barriers to personal emotional and psychological safety.
(562) 662-8604 View (562) 662-8604
Photo of Richard C Alongi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Richard C Alongi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ukiah, CA 95482  (Online Only)
In my practice, I attempt to address suffering: what makes us suffer, how we suffer, and how suffering can be alleviated. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with life issues and are not afraid to take on the suffering consciously, with my support, in order to transform their lives. I specialize in the treatment of addictions of all kinds, but primarily chemical, co-dependency, sex and romance, and gambling. I also specialize in the treatment of trauma/PTSD, both from current life situations and from childhood experiences.
In my practice, I attempt to address suffering: what makes us suffer, how we suffer, and how suffering can be alleviated. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with life issues and are not afraid to take on the suffering consciously, with my support, in order to transform their lives. I specialize in the treatment of addictions of all kinds, but primarily chemical, co-dependency, sex and romance, and gambling. I also specialize in the treatment of trauma/PTSD, both from current life situations and from childhood experiences.
(707) 639-1259 View (707) 639-1259

Online Therapists

Photo of Montriel V Jamari, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Montriel V Jamari
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for help with your relationship or personal improvement? Let's work together! I am committed to offering a safe, caring, and confidential space to take an in-depth look at what is and is not working for you in life, be it with a partner or regarding your own personal growth. We'll explore feelings, beliefs, behaviors, and discuss past experiences to problem-solve current situations. - To join the waiting list for therapy sessions visit Montrieljamari.com and sign up.
Are you looking for help with your relationship or personal improvement? Let's work together! I am committed to offering a safe, caring, and confidential space to take an in-depth look at what is and is not working for you in life, be it with a partner or regarding your own personal growth. We'll explore feelings, beliefs, behaviors, and discuss past experiences to problem-solve current situations. - To join the waiting list for therapy sessions visit Montrieljamari.com and sign up.
(530) 317-4495 View (530) 317-4495
Photo of Michael Brollini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Michael Brollini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Pablo, CA 94806
I also have been treating non-mental health issues such as interpersonal effectiveness issues, communication effectiveness, phase of life issues, family conflicts, marital / relationship conflicts, and individual issues (some known and some to explore to gain a better understanding of what an issue might be).
My Name is Michael Bollini, I am Licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist, with 6 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders and non-mental health disorders. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.
I also have been treating non-mental health issues such as interpersonal effectiveness issues, communication effectiveness, phase of life issues, family conflicts, marital / relationship conflicts, and individual issues (some known and some to explore to gain a better understanding of what an issue might be).
My Name is Michael Bollini, I am Licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist, with 6 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders and non-mental health disorders. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.
(661) 689-5598 View (661) 689-5598
Photo of Helen Star, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Helen Star
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Sometimes anxiety, depression and trauma responses impact your relationships and work. My approach is to provide deep, abiding support to help you come back to center, allowing a more resilient self to emerge. Together we will build on your strengths to address life challenges with the aim that the consultation room is a safe space where actual life strategies are developed. You and I can address issues ranging from phase of life challenges, Work stress, relationship conflicts, trauma resolution, depression and anxiety management or the impacts of addictive processes in your life.
Sometimes anxiety, depression and trauma responses impact your relationships and work. My approach is to provide deep, abiding support to help you come back to center, allowing a more resilient self to emerge. Together we will build on your strengths to address life challenges with the aim that the consultation room is a safe space where actual life strategies are developed. You and I can address issues ranging from phase of life challenges, Work stress, relationship conflicts, trauma resolution, depression and anxiety management or the impacts of addictive processes in your life.
(415) 237-6307 View (415) 237-6307
Photo of Darryl Moore, Psychologist in Ukiah, CA
Darryl Moore
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Woodland, CA 95695
HI, I'm Darryl Moore, clinical psychologist focusing on treatment of and recovery for those effected by the consequences of compulsive sexual behaviors. I use a practical systematic and individualized approach from the Patrick Carnes recovery methods. My specialty is working with addiction and in particular harmful compulsive sexual behaviors or sex addiction. This includes working with both the addict and with the partner.
HI, I'm Darryl Moore, clinical psychologist focusing on treatment of and recovery for those effected by the consequences of compulsive sexual behaviors. I use a practical systematic and individualized approach from the Patrick Carnes recovery methods. My specialty is working with addiction and in particular harmful compulsive sexual behaviors or sex addiction. This includes working with both the addict and with the partner.
(530) 684-1678 View (530) 684-1678
Photo of Jean Hayes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Jean Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
(415) 574-0967 View (415) 574-0967
Photo of Christine Dufond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Christine Dufond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
My client focus is men, women, couples, adolescents, & therapists.
Is the suffering that you keep circling back around to your soul calling out to you to dig deeper and really heal yourself? Many of us wonder why we suffer so much in our relationships, why we are afraid of love, why we stay in less fulfilling places in life rather than taking the steps to live a more meaningful, larger life. The calling for humanity is coming from our souls. If you can at least be open to this possibility, I invite you into the therapy process of tapping into your soul's wisdom and letting it guide you.
My client focus is men, women, couples, adolescents, & therapists.
Is the suffering that you keep circling back around to your soul calling out to you to dig deeper and really heal yourself? Many of us wonder why we suffer so much in our relationships, why we are afraid of love, why we stay in less fulfilling places in life rather than taking the steps to live a more meaningful, larger life. The calling for humanity is coming from our souls. If you can at least be open to this possibility, I invite you into the therapy process of tapping into your soul's wisdom and letting it guide you.
(707) 927-1244 View (707) 927-1244
Photo of Kurt Meyers, Psychologist in Ukiah, CA
Kurt Meyers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94558
Because I believe the relationship and connection between the client and therapist is so important, and can produce great changes, I offer a free consultation so you can feel comfortable that you are making the right choice in working with me.
Choose to live your life to the fullest! I can help you on your journey. I provide positive solutions focused psychological services that help you to deal effectively with life's challenges. For many people therapy can be anxiety producing and uncomfortable. I work hard to make you feel comfortable while achieving your treatment goals. My clients often comment on how helpful and easy it is to talk with me. Experience treating anxiety, depression, relationship problems, performance issues, life and career adjustments, and phase of life struggles. Short-term and long-term treatment is available.
Because I believe the relationship and connection between the client and therapist is so important, and can produce great changes, I offer a free consultation so you can feel comfortable that you are making the right choice in working with me.
Choose to live your life to the fullest! I can help you on your journey. I provide positive solutions focused psychological services that help you to deal effectively with life's challenges. For many people therapy can be anxiety producing and uncomfortable. I work hard to make you feel comfortable while achieving your treatment goals. My clients often comment on how helpful and easy it is to talk with me. Experience treating anxiety, depression, relationship problems, performance issues, life and career adjustments, and phase of life struggles. Short-term and long-term treatment is available.
(707) 321-1132 View (707) 321-1132
Photo of Kurt Meyers, Psychologist in Ukiah, CA
Kurt Meyers
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
Because I believe the relationship and connection between the client and therapist is so important, and can produce great changes, I offer a free consultation so you can feel comfortable that you are making the right choice in working with me.
For many people therapy can be anxiety producing and uncomfortable. I work hard to make you feel comfortable while we are working to achieve your treatment goals. My clients often comment on how easy it is to talk with me. I enjoy working with a wide range of diagnoses and issues. Short-term and long-term treatment is available. I provide positive solutions focused psychological services that help you learn how to better deal with life's challenges. I am very comfortable and work well treating depression, anxiety, new adjustments, relationship problems, career adjustments, and phase of life struggles.
Because I believe the relationship and connection between the client and therapist is so important, and can produce great changes, I offer a free consultation so you can feel comfortable that you are making the right choice in working with me.
For many people therapy can be anxiety producing and uncomfortable. I work hard to make you feel comfortable while we are working to achieve your treatment goals. My clients often comment on how easy it is to talk with me. I enjoy working with a wide range of diagnoses and issues. Short-term and long-term treatment is available. I provide positive solutions focused psychological services that help you learn how to better deal with life's challenges. I am very comfortable and work well treating depression, anxiety, new adjustments, relationship problems, career adjustments, and phase of life struggles.
(707) 321-1132 View (707) 321-1132
Photo of Hilary Beech, Psychologist in Ukiah, CA
Hilary Beech
Psychologist, PhD, MBA, MSEE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Anselmo, CA 94979  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in serving GIFTED PROFESSIONAL AND CREATIVE ADULTS AND COUPLES. Being gifted is a minority experience, which is hard to own or talk about due to cultural (mis)attributions of elitism and arrogance, so many gifted people have not explored this aspect of their identity and how this may be related to difficulties in their life. You may feel out of step with the world or misunderstood, and not know why, or that you have to hide aspects of yourself. Or have trouble making friends, be told you’re "too intense", feel socially awkward, not understand why others seem to respond negatively to your ideas, or feel deeply disappointed with the world’s imperfections. IN MY OFFICE, YOU CAN BE UNRESERVEDLY YOURSELF. Talking frankly about being gifted can improve your self-esteem and offer relief from self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, or depression, as you develop strategies to meet the majority culture more effectively. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked for 25 years in startups, nonprofits, academia, and F500 companies. I hold a Stanford MBA and Berkeley MSEE, and have special training in assisting gifted clients. I've also published research on the creative process.
I specialize in serving GIFTED PROFESSIONAL AND CREATIVE ADULTS AND COUPLES. Being gifted is a minority experience, which is hard to own or talk about due to cultural (mis)attributions of elitism and arrogance, so many gifted people have not explored this aspect of their identity and how this may be related to difficulties in their life. You may feel out of step with the world or misunderstood, and not know why, or that you have to hide aspects of yourself. Or have trouble making friends, be told you’re "too intense", feel socially awkward, not understand why others seem to respond negatively to your ideas, or feel deeply disappointed with the world’s imperfections. IN MY OFFICE, YOU CAN BE UNRESERVEDLY YOURSELF. Talking frankly about being gifted can improve your self-esteem and offer relief from self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, or depression, as you develop strategies to meet the majority culture more effectively. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked for 25 years in startups, nonprofits, academia, and F500 companies. I hold a Stanford MBA and Berkeley MSEE, and have special training in assisting gifted clients. I've also published research on the creative process.
(415) 200-2685 View (415) 200-2685
Photo of Michael Skrodzki, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Michael Skrodzki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960
I believe human beings change and develop throughout their life span. In some 30 years of practicing psychotherapy I have come to view most emotional symptoms and all relationship crises as opportunities for re-engaging and supporting aspects of self development. I was educated in Germany and the US: my professional experience ranges from work in very traditional clinical settings to being a therapist and group facilitator for staff at the Esalen Institute.
I believe human beings change and develop throughout their life span. In some 30 years of practicing psychotherapy I have come to view most emotional symptoms and all relationship crises as opportunities for re-engaging and supporting aspects of self development. I was educated in Germany and the US: my professional experience ranges from work in very traditional clinical settings to being a therapist and group facilitator for staff at the Esalen Institute.
(650) 262-3430 View (650) 262-3430
Photo of Linda Terry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Linda Terry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CCTP, CDHWP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals families and couples impacted by trauma, co-dependency, addiction and co-occurring disorders. Having worked in residential drug and alcohol treatment for over 10 years I bring those years of resources and compassionate experience to my work. My focus on family systems and attachment allow me to treat the entire family, offering the best possible outcomes. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist, a Gottman trained couples therapist and I am one of the few therapists working with Internet and Gaming Addiction.
I have extensive experience working with individuals families and couples impacted by trauma, co-dependency, addiction and co-occurring disorders. Having worked in residential drug and alcohol treatment for over 10 years I bring those years of resources and compassionate experience to my work. My focus on family systems and attachment allow me to treat the entire family, offering the best possible outcomes. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist, a Gottman trained couples therapist and I am one of the few therapists working with Internet and Gaming Addiction.
(415) 299-8396 View (415) 299-8396
Photo of Brian Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Brian Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPCC, SAP
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Brian’s practice is open to all clients – be them young, older, single, gay, married, etc. He has particular experience working with difficult family situations, teens and young adults, military, firemen, and law enforcement officers. Many of Brian’s clients present with concerns over depression, anxiety, substance abuse, attention deficit disorder, parent/child relationship difficulties and relationships. Brian is a US Department of Transportation Substance Abuse Professional. Brian has a strong skill set for working with high conflict divorces - including reunification and co-parenting.
Brian’s practice is open to all clients – be them young, older, single, gay, married, etc. He has particular experience working with difficult family situations, teens and young adults, military, firemen, and law enforcement officers. Many of Brian’s clients present with concerns over depression, anxiety, substance abuse, attention deficit disorder, parent/child relationship difficulties and relationships. Brian is a US Department of Transportation Substance Abuse Professional. Brian has a strong skill set for working with high conflict divorces - including reunification and co-parenting.
(707) 829-5474 View (707) 829-5474
Photo of Kathryn R Denham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Kathryn R Denham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I specialize in working with couples and families, teens and children. I also run three womens groups per week and treat those suffering from addictions, mood disorders, depression, and codependency issues. I also have a strong spiritual focus in my practice and strive to help others create peaceful collaboration within their relationships. I have a bias towards saving marriages whenever possible.
I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I specialize in working with couples and families, teens and children. I also run three womens groups per week and treat those suffering from addictions, mood disorders, depression, and codependency issues. I also have a strong spiritual focus in my practice and strive to help others create peaceful collaboration within their relationships. I have a bias towards saving marriages whenever possible.
(707) 549-6634 View (707) 549-6634
Photo of James G Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ukiah, CA
James G Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with clients who often have addiction issues, sexual issues, legal issues, internet/gaming addiction, relationship issues and parenting issues, and struggles with self image and self worth.
I AM CURRENTLY ONLY ABLE TO SEE CLIENTS VIA V-TEL. I enjoy working with individuals that recognize that something needs to change and just aren't sure which way to go. Together, we can explore your motivation to change and learn to live life based on your values, goals, and dreams. We will take a solution focused approach, strength-based approach to help you become more aware, more loving and capable of self love, and create a fuller, richer life. Clients that see me will find themselves in a safe, non-judgmental space. We are free to explore problems from a variety of angles and approaches.
I have experience in working with clients who often have addiction issues, sexual issues, legal issues, internet/gaming addiction, relationship issues and parenting issues, and struggles with self image and self worth.
I AM CURRENTLY ONLY ABLE TO SEE CLIENTS VIA V-TEL. I enjoy working with individuals that recognize that something needs to change and just aren't sure which way to go. Together, we can explore your motivation to change and learn to live life based on your values, goals, and dreams. We will take a solution focused approach, strength-based approach to help you become more aware, more loving and capable of self love, and create a fuller, richer life. Clients that see me will find themselves in a safe, non-judgmental space. We are free to explore problems from a variety of angles and approaches.
(530) 319-5215 View (530) 319-5215
Photo of Lisa Bialy, Psychologist in Ukiah, CA
Lisa Bialy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I help individuals, couples, and families identify their goals, face their fears, and explore old patterns of behavior so they can make the desired changes in their lives that lead to more meaningful, happy futures as well as better relationships with themselves and others. I am interested in why we keep doing things that don't seem to work. My approach is both pragmatic and depth oriented and my style is collaborative.
I help individuals, couples, and families identify their goals, face their fears, and explore old patterns of behavior so they can make the desired changes in their lives that lead to more meaningful, happy futures as well as better relationships with themselves and others. I am interested in why we keep doing things that don't seem to work. My approach is both pragmatic and depth oriented and my style is collaborative.
(415) 799-8984 View (415) 799-8984
Photo of Aleta Greenspan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Aleta Greenspan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
My clients are individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families, and I enjoy engaging with a full spectrum of issues across the lifespan.
The word “heal” comes from “to make whole.” Psychotherapy, more aptly psyche-therapy, is a sacred process of tending to the soul wound and waking more fully to one’s aliveness and inherent wholeness. I am deeply passionate about supporting you in healing the fragmented and disowned parts of self that hinder you from living a life of meaningful connections, purposeful self-agency and joy. We work collaboratively to creatively transform unconscious and limiting belief structures, access your resiliencies, welcome emerging truths, skillfully navigate adversity with new tools, and integrate insights for profound and evolving change.
My clients are individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families, and I enjoy engaging with a full spectrum of issues across the lifespan.
The word “heal” comes from “to make whole.” Psychotherapy, more aptly psyche-therapy, is a sacred process of tending to the soul wound and waking more fully to one’s aliveness and inherent wholeness. I am deeply passionate about supporting you in healing the fragmented and disowned parts of self that hinder you from living a life of meaningful connections, purposeful self-agency and joy. We work collaboratively to creatively transform unconscious and limiting belief structures, access your resiliencies, welcome emerging truths, skillfully navigate adversity with new tools, and integrate insights for profound and evolving change.
(707) 475-3119 View (707) 475-3119
Photo of Edward L Prothero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ukiah, CA
Edward L Prothero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yuba City, CA 95991
Edward Prothero, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist service specializing in individual, couples and family therapy, teletherapy within our private practices in Yuba City, CA and Roseville, CA.
As a Cognitive Behavioral / Object relations therapist, my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. With a broad spectrum of clients, common areas of focus are Trauma based anxiety and depression, PTSD, Childhood Trauma, Marriage challenges, Blended families.
Edward Prothero, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist service specializing in individual, couples and family therapy, teletherapy within our private practices in Yuba City, CA and Roseville, CA.
As a Cognitive Behavioral / Object relations therapist, my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. With a broad spectrum of clients, common areas of focus are Trauma based anxiety and depression, PTSD, Childhood Trauma, Marriage challenges, Blended families.
(916) 668-4149 View (916) 668-4149

See more therapy options for Ukiah

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.