Photo of Linda Abdelsayed, Psychologist in Walnut, CA
Linda Abdelsayed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut, CA 91789  (Online Only)
I have been practicing therapy since 2005. My focus when working with clients is holistic. This means I want to help you work toward the best possible whole you - incorporating your best academic, vocational, familial, relational, spiritual, emotional, physical you! My approach is one that uses the best scientifically proven and modern methods with a heart of empathy, genuineness, safety and hope. Together we can transform your difficult, hurting life experiences into new meaning and purpose. Please email, call or visit me at www.healingpeace.weebly.com!
I have been practicing therapy since 2005. My focus when working with clients is holistic. This means I want to help you work toward the best possible whole you - incorporating your best academic, vocational, familial, relational, spiritual, emotional, physical you! My approach is one that uses the best scientifically proven and modern methods with a heart of empathy, genuineness, safety and hope. Together we can transform your difficult, hurting life experiences into new meaning and purpose. Please email, call or visit me at www.healingpeace.weebly.com!
(626) 624-4081 View (626) 624-4081

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of John Vail, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
John Vail
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
My passion is working with individuals, couples, and families.
Feeling out of control over what you care about the most can make you feel like your world is crumbling around you. Feelings of worry, fear, confusion, anger, and sadness can make your relationships, parenting, work, or your education seem impossible and feel like a heavy burden. My passion is helping people realize or remember that they are capable, strong, worthy, and significant. I look to understand your pain and concern, and I want to tell you that you CAN overcome these obstacles that come your way in life. Having peace of mind is a mind frame.
My passion is working with individuals, couples, and families.
Feeling out of control over what you care about the most can make you feel like your world is crumbling around you. Feelings of worry, fear, confusion, anger, and sadness can make your relationships, parenting, work, or your education seem impossible and feel like a heavy burden. My passion is helping people realize or remember that they are capable, strong, worthy, and significant. I look to understand your pain and concern, and I want to tell you that you CAN overcome these obstacles that come your way in life. Having peace of mind is a mind frame.
(562) 303-5079 View (562) 303-5079
Photo of Brittney Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
I also help my couples and families to discover their internal parts and help conflicting parts to de-escalate, and utilize new skills to meet one another where they are.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I also help my couples and families to discover their internal parts and help conflicting parts to de-escalate, and utilize new skills to meet one another where they are.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(714) 592-2028 View (714) 592-2028
Photo of Ansely Henriquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut, CA
Ansely Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Covina, CA 91724
“Now accepting new clients!” I am a bi-lingual Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of social work and mental health. I am trained in multiple evidenced-based practices which has elevated my experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
“Now accepting new clients!” I am a bi-lingual Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of social work and mental health. I am trained in multiple evidenced-based practices which has elevated my experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(562) 526-1467 View (562) 526-1467
Photo of Rudy Hayek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Rudy Hayek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Glendora, CA 91741
Waitlist for new clients
Whether it is time for you to mend an emotional wound, get relief from anxiety and depression, seek the right relationship, repair the current one, or to create a larger purpose for your life, including a therapist during your journey can help you discover what is possible for you. In addition to his main therapy approaches, Rudy believes that psychotherapy can be vastly improved by integrating deeper exploration into your EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE (EQ): Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Motivation, Empathy, and Social skills. Optimizing these primary components of EQ with your therapist can be a game-changer during your work together.
Whether it is time for you to mend an emotional wound, get relief from anxiety and depression, seek the right relationship, repair the current one, or to create a larger purpose for your life, including a therapist during your journey can help you discover what is possible for you. In addition to his main therapy approaches, Rudy believes that psychotherapy can be vastly improved by integrating deeper exploration into your EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE (EQ): Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Motivation, Empathy, and Social skills. Optimizing these primary components of EQ with your therapist can be a game-changer during your work together.
(626) 385-8962 View (626) 385-8962
Photo of Alex Osorio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut, CA
Alex Osorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92831
I believe that we have within us, the power to create the life we desire. We possess inner strengths and skills that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilled life. However, accessing this power can be an overwhelming task that may require support. Allow me to be an unbiased, compassionate and caring partner in your journey. I help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions, reframe distorted beliefs, replace unhealthy patterns and unblock past traumas. I use elements of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Parts Work, Brainspotting, and other modalities to help you achieve your goals.
I believe that we have within us, the power to create the life we desire. We possess inner strengths and skills that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilled life. However, accessing this power can be an overwhelming task that may require support. Allow me to be an unbiased, compassionate and caring partner in your journey. I help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions, reframe distorted beliefs, replace unhealthy patterns and unblock past traumas. I use elements of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Parts Work, Brainspotting, and other modalities to help you achieve your goals.
(562) 242-3353 View (562) 242-3353
Photo of Lynn Stenske, Psychologist in Walnut, CA
Lynn Stenske
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chino, CA 91708
My areas of expertise include working with clients who have anxieties, depression, relationship problems, ongoing guilt and shame, often have histories of trauma.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist trained in integrating spiritual and Christian beliefs in short term and long term therapies for children, adults, couples and families. I have over 30 years experience working in the public sector conducting thorough assessments and evaluations, as well as in private practice, seeing clients of diverse age range and cultural backgrounds.
My areas of expertise include working with clients who have anxieties, depression, relationship problems, ongoing guilt and shame, often have histories of trauma.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist trained in integrating spiritual and Christian beliefs in short term and long term therapies for children, adults, couples and families. I have over 30 years experience working in the public sector conducting thorough assessments and evaluations, as well as in private practice, seeing clients of diverse age range and cultural backgrounds.
(909) 543-1807 View (909) 543-1807
Photo of Jodi Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Jodi Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Dimas, CA 91773
I work with Families, Individuals, Children, and Couples in providing therapy for, and dealing with relationship struggles and enhancements, traumas, anxieties, abuse, childhood developmental and behavioral issues, play therapy, couples & marriage therapy, child therapy, as well as other related modalities and client concerns.
I work with variety of people in the midst of their life journey. focus on client-centered therapy. B taking this approach, working with each individual, couple, family, and child, a stronger connection for growth can be created. am privileged to walk along with my clients through their lives. Together we process challenges, traumas, heartaches, , life adjustments, losses, relationships, and more related to personal experiences. Therapy helps increase abilities to communicate, & process. We work to go beyond surviving, through healing, to truly thriving, striving toward a life with strong relationships, filled with joy, and hope.
I work with Families, Individuals, Children, and Couples in providing therapy for, and dealing with relationship struggles and enhancements, traumas, anxieties, abuse, childhood developmental and behavioral issues, play therapy, couples & marriage therapy, child therapy, as well as other related modalities and client concerns.
I work with variety of people in the midst of their life journey. focus on client-centered therapy. B taking this approach, working with each individual, couple, family, and child, a stronger connection for growth can be created. am privileged to walk along with my clients through their lives. Together we process challenges, traumas, heartaches, , life adjustments, losses, relationships, and more related to personal experiences. Therapy helps increase abilities to communicate, & process. We work to go beyond surviving, through healing, to truly thriving, striving toward a life with strong relationships, filled with joy, and hope.
(909) 906-9272 View (909) 906-9272
Photo of Bella Boas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Bella Boas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Covina, CA 91791
I love working with adolescents, adults, and couples/marriages, including fellow colleagues who need a place to be seen and heard.
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
I love working with adolescents, adults, and couples/marriages, including fellow colleagues who need a place to be seen and heard.
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
(805) 600-3821 View (805) 600-3821
Photo of Caroline Connolly Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Walnut, CA
Caroline Connolly Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711  (Online Only)
As a strengths-based therapist, I believe in working alongside my clients to help them feel empowered and to develop a more positive sense of self. While life stressors and adjustments are inevitable, I create a safe therapeutic environment for my clients to access and strengthen their resilience in the face of challenges. I work with couples, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship and self-esteem issues, life adjustments, and trauma-related symptoms. I am fundamentally a client-centered therapist, and my first priority is to cultivate a connection with my clients that is built upon trust.
As a strengths-based therapist, I believe in working alongside my clients to help them feel empowered and to develop a more positive sense of self. While life stressors and adjustments are inevitable, I create a safe therapeutic environment for my clients to access and strengthen their resilience in the face of challenges. I work with couples, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship and self-esteem issues, life adjustments, and trauma-related symptoms. I am fundamentally a client-centered therapist, and my first priority is to cultivate a connection with my clients that is built upon trust.
(626) 684-3831 View (626) 684-3831
Photo of Roger Scott Wenger, Psychologist in Walnut, CA
Roger Scott Wenger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
People come to the crossroads of seeking mental health treatment for many different reasons and with many different paths. I would like to meet you on that path and help you through it. I have over 30 years experience in counseling and therapy with 20 years working in addictions, dual diagnosis, inpatient mental health with persistent mental illness and outpatient with individuals and couples for both the Veterans Administration and as adjunct faculty at Loma Linda University Department of Psychiatry. I also do psychological assessment for diagnosis clarification and treatment planning. Visit our website www.drscottwenger.com.
People come to the crossroads of seeking mental health treatment for many different reasons and with many different paths. I would like to meet you on that path and help you through it. I have over 30 years experience in counseling and therapy with 20 years working in addictions, dual diagnosis, inpatient mental health with persistent mental illness and outpatient with individuals and couples for both the Veterans Administration and as adjunct faculty at Loma Linda University Department of Psychiatry. I also do psychological assessment for diagnosis clarification and treatment planning. Visit our website www.drscottwenger.com.
(909) 906-9247 View (909) 906-9247
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in Walnut, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
I also specialize in couples therapy.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
I also specialize in couples therapy.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(714) 622-7419 View (714) 622-7419
Photo of Stephanie Goldsmith, Psychologist in Walnut, CA
Stephanie Goldsmith
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
Waitlist for new clients
Initiating counseling can be an intimidating or difficult process and it is extremely important that you feel safe and comfortable with the therapist you choose. I strive to provide a safe and collaborative environment to help you achieve your therapeutic goals and facilitate meaningful change in your life. Although I enjoy working with a variety of issues and concerns, some of my specialty areas include trauma, couples and relationships, eating disorders and body image concerns, self-harm behaviors, identity development, LGBTQI issues, and whole person care.
Initiating counseling can be an intimidating or difficult process and it is extremely important that you feel safe and comfortable with the therapist you choose. I strive to provide a safe and collaborative environment to help you achieve your therapeutic goals and facilitate meaningful change in your life. Although I enjoy working with a variety of issues and concerns, some of my specialty areas include trauma, couples and relationships, eating disorders and body image concerns, self-harm behaviors, identity development, LGBTQI issues, and whole person care.
(909) 742-8100 View (909) 742-8100
Photo of Tranquilidad Wellbeing and Psychological Services, Psychologist in Walnut, CA
Tranquilidad Wellbeing and Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790  (Online Only)
Are you looking for ways to manage your emotions and learn more about yourself and your relationship with others? I invite you to reach out and consult with me to see if we are a good fit and I can help you along your therapeutic journey.
My name is Dr. Leticia Gutiérrez-López, a Psychologist serving all age groups. My treatment philosophy is focused on overall wellbeing and I believe in treating the whole person and not just their symptoms or diagnosis. I listen with empathy, help my clients develop a tool kit of wellbeing coping strategies, and strive to instill hope.
Are you looking for ways to manage your emotions and learn more about yourself and your relationship with others? I invite you to reach out and consult with me to see if we are a good fit and I can help you along your therapeutic journey.
My name is Dr. Leticia Gutiérrez-López, a Psychologist serving all age groups. My treatment philosophy is focused on overall wellbeing and I believe in treating the whole person and not just their symptoms or diagnosis. I listen with empathy, help my clients develop a tool kit of wellbeing coping strategies, and strive to instill hope.
(909) 443-2170 View (909) 443-2170
Photo of Earthing Mental Health Counseling - Hablo Espanol, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Earthing Mental Health Counseling - Hablo Espanol
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra Heights, CA 90631
Waitlist for new clients
Mrs. Zuarez, Is a Licensed Psychotherapist, who has dedicated her career helping individuals, couples, and families navigate & process life challenges. She specializes in Solutions Focus, Cognitive – Behavioral Therapy, & Family Systems. Are you seeking to feel happier/better? Want balance in your life? Want to repair your relationship/s or Marriage? Are you dealing with a health diagnosis? Do you question life, its purpose and wonder why you are here? Are you curious how you can connect to your subconscious (Higher Self) and discover your life purpose? Mrs. Zuarez, will help you gain clarity and help uncover the root cause of your
Mrs. Zuarez, Is a Licensed Psychotherapist, who has dedicated her career helping individuals, couples, and families navigate & process life challenges. She specializes in Solutions Focus, Cognitive – Behavioral Therapy, & Family Systems. Are you seeking to feel happier/better? Want balance in your life? Want to repair your relationship/s or Marriage? Are you dealing with a health diagnosis? Do you question life, its purpose and wonder why you are here? Are you curious how you can connect to your subconscious (Higher Self) and discover your life purpose? Mrs. Zuarez, will help you gain clarity and help uncover the root cause of your
(562) 210-0334 View (562) 210-0334
Photo of Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist), Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of hand, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and confused.
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of hand, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and confused.
(888) 912-7556 View (888) 912-7556
Photo of Megan Collins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Megan Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711  (Online Only)
Relationships are often the most difficult part of our lives. Whether the relationship is with a partner, our children, our clients, or ourselves, there are many issues that can interfere with having healthy and whole relationships. Oftentimes, there are underlying beliefs we aren't aware of that prevent us from getting unstuck and out of the dysfunctional relationship patterns holding us back. If you are ready to repair your relationship with yourself or others, I provide a nonjudgemental and supportive environment for you to start that process. If you are a therapist yourself, I specialize in therapy with other therapists.
Relationships are often the most difficult part of our lives. Whether the relationship is with a partner, our children, our clients, or ourselves, there are many issues that can interfere with having healthy and whole relationships. Oftentimes, there are underlying beliefs we aren't aware of that prevent us from getting unstuck and out of the dysfunctional relationship patterns holding us back. If you are ready to repair your relationship with yourself or others, I provide a nonjudgemental and supportive environment for you to start that process. If you are a therapist yourself, I specialize in therapy with other therapists.
(657) 332-0141 View (657) 332-0141
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(714) 577-2982 View (714) 577-2982
Photo of Wilfredo Canizalez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Walnut, CA
Wilfredo Canizalez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Azusa, CA 91702
I have professional experience with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, forgiveness, multi-generational family reconciliation, individuals, couples, and families, parenting skills, domestic violence, trauma, and history of abuse.
I believe you're here for a reason, and that God has a purpose for you. Depression, anxiety, marital issues, eating disorders, and many other problems, keep us from living full lives. I became a therapist because I have a passion for helping people who are hurting, and want more out of life. I believe my greatest strength is helping people find the missing keys needed to make positive change. I believe I connect well with my clients by not judging them and by empathizing with their struggles. I am passionate about helping people find the happiness they're looking for.
I have professional experience with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, forgiveness, multi-generational family reconciliation, individuals, couples, and families, parenting skills, domestic violence, trauma, and history of abuse.
I believe you're here for a reason, and that God has a purpose for you. Depression, anxiety, marital issues, eating disorders, and many other problems, keep us from living full lives. I became a therapist because I have a passion for helping people who are hurting, and want more out of life. I believe my greatest strength is helping people find the missing keys needed to make positive change. I believe I connect well with my clients by not judging them and by empathizing with their struggles. I am passionate about helping people find the happiness they're looking for.
(818) 272-1095 View (818) 272-1095
Photo of Alice Loomis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut, CA
Alice Loomis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
In this world, we face trials and challenges of various kinds that can leave us feeling many difficult emotions. Know that you are not alone – there is hope and help ahead in getting through your struggles. Using an integrative and goal-oriented approach, I strive to walk alongside those in emotional pain and seeking healing, growth, or transformational change. I have experience working with clients struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, negative self-concept, and relationship issues. I have also enjoyed helping couples work towards restoration and reconciliation, resolving communication and marital issues.
In this world, we face trials and challenges of various kinds that can leave us feeling many difficult emotions. Know that you are not alone – there is hope and help ahead in getting through your struggles. Using an integrative and goal-oriented approach, I strive to walk alongside those in emotional pain and seeking healing, growth, or transformational change. I have experience working with clients struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, negative self-concept, and relationship issues. I have also enjoyed helping couples work towards restoration and reconciliation, resolving communication and marital issues.
(626) 709-2698 View (626) 709-2698
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.