Photo of Kevin Kelly, Psychologist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Kevin Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
I have extensive experience with couples and family counseling.
For 30 years, I have helped clients overcome depression, anxiety, anger, stress, relationship conflicts, ADD, addictions, workplace, and motivation problems. I am a very interactive, direct (often with humor) and solution focused therapist who challenges clients to instigate the change they want to see. I help clients develop skills in approaching discomfort rather than avoiding. Using cognitive strategies, I can help you change negative thinking to positive. I help clients express their healthiest emotions rather than using emotions to defend or manipulate. I encourage exercise and mindfulness for optimal living.
I have extensive experience with couples and family counseling.
For 30 years, I have helped clients overcome depression, anxiety, anger, stress, relationship conflicts, ADD, addictions, workplace, and motivation problems. I am a very interactive, direct (often with humor) and solution focused therapist who challenges clients to instigate the change they want to see. I help clients develop skills in approaching discomfort rather than avoiding. Using cognitive strategies, I can help you change negative thinking to positive. I help clients express their healthiest emotions rather than using emotions to defend or manipulate. I encourage exercise and mindfulness for optimal living.
(720) 902-8575 View (720) 902-8575
Photo of Annep P Maxwell, Psychologist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Annep P Maxwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach with an emphasis on relationship building and mindfulness.
I enjoy working with children,teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I am certified to treat children, adolescents and adults with internet addictions (gaming, social media, compulsive information seeking).
I have an eclectic approach with an emphasis on relationship building and mindfulness.
I enjoy working with children,teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I am certified to treat children, adolescents and adults with internet addictions (gaming, social media, compulsive information seeking).
(720) 868-9092 View (720) 868-9092
Photo of Emily Black, Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Emily Black
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
(720) 794-9972 View (720) 794-9972
Photo of Dana Cohen, Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Dana Cohen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Nicol Pate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Nicol Pate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I specialize in EFT and trauma therapy for couples, families and individuals. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT) and Supervisor. I also work with Janina Fisher's model of trauma treatment which is a blend of modalities including IFS and sensorimotor psychotherapy. I have been certified in EMDR and Brainspotting and use them for emotionally charged issues, stuck patterns and trauma. I love working with couples to create lasting change that touches the heart of the person and the relationship. See my website for more information: nicolpate.com
I specialize in EFT and trauma therapy for couples, families and individuals. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT) and Supervisor. I also work with Janina Fisher's model of trauma treatment which is a blend of modalities including IFS and sensorimotor psychotherapy. I have been certified in EMDR and Brainspotting and use them for emotionally charged issues, stuck patterns and trauma. I love working with couples to create lasting change that touches the heart of the person and the relationship. See my website for more information: nicolpate.com
(303) 647-5597 View (303) 647-5597
Photo of Kelly Bassin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Kelly Bassin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
(209) 408-1547 View (209) 408-1547
Photo of Taylor Baird, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Taylor Baird
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I use an integrative approach of mindfulness, body-based interventions, CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, and PACT relationship therapy to assist me in supporting people as they tap into their innermost resources and move through hardships.
I help people move through the stuckness that is blocking their full potential. Together, we will navigate pain and trauma from your past, unearth the parts of yourself that are no longer serving you, and create positive change and movement in your life from this point forward. I work to highlight the strength and wisdom you already possess that have helped carry you to this present moment. We will practice patience with the parts of you that are still growing while infusing new habits and self-care routines into your life to create forward momentum and help you rise into the highest version of yourself.
I use an integrative approach of mindfulness, body-based interventions, CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, and PACT relationship therapy to assist me in supporting people as they tap into their innermost resources and move through hardships.
I help people move through the stuckness that is blocking their full potential. Together, we will navigate pain and trauma from your past, unearth the parts of yourself that are no longer serving you, and create positive change and movement in your life from this point forward. I work to highlight the strength and wisdom you already possess that have helped carry you to this present moment. We will practice patience with the parts of you that are still growing while infusing new habits and self-care routines into your life to create forward momentum and help you rise into the highest version of yourself.
(720) 712-1496 View (720) 712-1496
Photo of Lacey Wilkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Lacey Wilkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Through cultivating a relationship built on safety and trust, we'll work toward your goals with a plan that's designed to fit your unique needs.
Hi, how is the therapist search going? It's not always easy to know who to choose. Breathe, and trust your instincts. I'm an LGBTQ+ allied therapist with specialized training in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adult ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma, Religious Trauma, and PTSD. I value a creative, collaborative approach to wellness that honors individuation, authenticity, and autonomy. My highest priority as a therapist is helping my clients gain the insight, awareness, self-compassion, and skills necessary to effectively manage mental and emotional pain and turn it to a place of emotional and mental mastery.
Through cultivating a relationship built on safety and trust, we'll work toward your goals with a plan that's designed to fit your unique needs.
Hi, how is the therapist search going? It's not always easy to know who to choose. Breathe, and trust your instincts. I'm an LGBTQ+ allied therapist with specialized training in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adult ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma, Religious Trauma, and PTSD. I value a creative, collaborative approach to wellness that honors individuation, authenticity, and autonomy. My highest priority as a therapist is helping my clients gain the insight, awareness, self-compassion, and skills necessary to effectively manage mental and emotional pain and turn it to a place of emotional and mental mastery.
(720) 613-2970 View (720) 613-2970
Photo of Aaron Pomerantz in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Aaron Pomerantz
LMFT
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80304
I also provide counseling for couples/partners struggling with communication problems, difficulties with trust or intimacy, infidelity, relationship transitions, or negotiating relationship boundaries/agreements.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
I also provide counseling for couples/partners struggling with communication problems, difficulties with trust or intimacy, infidelity, relationship transitions, or negotiating relationship boundaries/agreements.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
(971) 319-9750 View (971) 319-9750
Photo of Kathleen LeRoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Kathleen LeRoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I offer a dynamic approach to mental health care using holistic, body-mind integrated therapeutic techniques. I believe that often individuals need support to clear what's blocking our natural ability to navigate our lives from our own truth and that each of us have instinctive abilities to heal ourselves. I can partner with you to identify and activate your inner strengths and authentic self. I provide counseling in a safe environment and my clinical focus builds upon clients' existing strengths and aliveness. In office or video counseling available.
I offer a dynamic approach to mental health care using holistic, body-mind integrated therapeutic techniques. I believe that often individuals need support to clear what's blocking our natural ability to navigate our lives from our own truth and that each of us have instinctive abilities to heal ourselves. I can partner with you to identify and activate your inner strengths and authentic self. I provide counseling in a safe environment and my clinical focus builds upon clients' existing strengths and aliveness. In office or video counseling available.
(720) 664-5227 View (720) 664-5227
Photo of Melissa Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Melissa Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I have worked with abused and struggling teens, as well as, adults and couples with a wide range of emotional health issues.
My goal in therapy is to guide others through their struggles, helping them gain insight and providing tools to resolve the challenges they face. It is always my goal to assist my clients toward the achievement of their fullest potential. I have a passion for working with women as they transition through life events; pregnancy, marriage, divorce, career, empty nest.
I have worked with abused and struggling teens, as well as, adults and couples with a wide range of emotional health issues.
My goal in therapy is to guide others through their struggles, helping them gain insight and providing tools to resolve the challenges they face. It is always my goal to assist my clients toward the achievement of their fullest potential. I have a passion for working with women as they transition through life events; pregnancy, marriage, divorce, career, empty nest.
(512) 640-2037 View (512) 640-2037
Photo of Stephanie Cosca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Stephanie Cosca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I am a psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker based in Denver, Colorado. I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, addiction, substance abuse, OCD, relationship issues, perinatal concerns, parenting, and identity work. I am specifically trained in issues related to sexual and gender identity as well as culture and race. Through our work together, we can help you learn about the ways you relate to yourself and others, and identify and break out of patterns that are not serving you anymore while ensuring you feel seen, heard, and understood.
I am a psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker based in Denver, Colorado. I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, addiction, substance abuse, OCD, relationship issues, perinatal concerns, parenting, and identity work. I am specifically trained in issues related to sexual and gender identity as well as culture and race. Through our work together, we can help you learn about the ways you relate to yourself and others, and identify and break out of patterns that are not serving you anymore while ensuring you feel seen, heard, and understood.
(720) 738-5733 View (720) 738-5733
Photo of Diane Henn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Diane Henn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I have an education in both clinical counseling and body psychology. My specialty is the treatment of trauma and PTSD for veterans and victims of sexual assault and violence. Together we explore those life challenges that cause pain and uncertainty, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship issues, using gentle, collaborative methods that ensure safe, supportive results. Through a combination of traditional psychotherapy and body-based modalities, such as polarity therapy, movement techniques, and sensory awareness, I help you access your body's wisdom to gently transform faulty beliefs and dissolve emotional blocks, which often results in relieving physical symptoms as well.
I have an education in both clinical counseling and body psychology. My specialty is the treatment of trauma and PTSD for veterans and victims of sexual assault and violence. Together we explore those life challenges that cause pain and uncertainty, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship issues, using gentle, collaborative methods that ensure safe, supportive results. Through a combination of traditional psychotherapy and body-based modalities, such as polarity therapy, movement techniques, and sensory awareness, I help you access your body's wisdom to gently transform faulty beliefs and dissolve emotional blocks, which often results in relieving physical symptoms as well.
(719) 203-7163 View (719) 203-7163
Photo of Boulder Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Boulder Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I have great success in helping individuals, couples and families overcome their difficulties and unresolved issues that are affecting their day-to-day lives.
It takes courage to ask for help; you have already taken the first step. Life throws us situations we don't anticipate or have encountered before and we need help getting through. You are here because you or someone you care about is in pain. You have come to the right place. We have all had those times when we need someone besides family and friends to talk to. People come to me for a variety of reasons: anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family issues, emotional and social struggles, rebuilding self-esteem, teen difficulties, general life transitions, and personal growth.
I have great success in helping individuals, couples and families overcome their difficulties and unresolved issues that are affecting their day-to-day lives.
It takes courage to ask for help; you have already taken the first step. Life throws us situations we don't anticipate or have encountered before and we need help getting through. You are here because you or someone you care about is in pain. You have come to the right place. We have all had those times when we need someone besides family and friends to talk to. People come to me for a variety of reasons: anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family issues, emotional and social struggles, rebuilding self-esteem, teen difficulties, general life transitions, and personal growth.
(720) 440-2030 View (720) 440-2030
Photo of Ugur Kocataskin, Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Ugur Kocataskin
Counselor, LPC, CAC, I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Various trainings and years of experience in working with individuals, couples and groups allow me to meet my clients where they are around experiences including trauma, chronic medical issues, addictions, mood states, social and cultural identity development, and awareness and transformation of issues around social privilege and oppression.
Welcome to this journey regardless if therapy is new or familiar to you. I strive to create a compassionate, kind, yet appropriately challenging space for self-acceptance, transformation, and insight. Through relational and cultural lenses that include awareness and mindfulness as ground, I believe all obstacles and challenges can be explored. I hope to walk with you along this path of discovering your innate wisdom, potential for growth, healing, and transformation.
Various trainings and years of experience in working with individuals, couples and groups allow me to meet my clients where they are around experiences including trauma, chronic medical issues, addictions, mood states, social and cultural identity development, and awareness and transformation of issues around social privilege and oppression.
Welcome to this journey regardless if therapy is new or familiar to you. I strive to create a compassionate, kind, yet appropriately challenging space for self-acceptance, transformation, and insight. Through relational and cultural lenses that include awareness and mindfulness as ground, I believe all obstacles and challenges can be explored. I hope to walk with you along this path of discovering your innate wisdom, potential for growth, healing, and transformation.
(720) 606-2753 View (720) 606-2753
Photo of Cristina Shaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Cristina Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80305
Providing evidenced based treatment in a supportive environment is the foundation of a strong therapeutic relationship.
For over 20 years, I have provided a number of specialized therapeutic services to those dealing with challenging life experiences. My primary speciality is in the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, emotion related eating issues, anxiety disorders and other related issues. I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide family education/support when appropriate. Because of the complex issues related to these conditions, I have additional experience working with clients on relationship issues, family conflict, mood disorders and personality disorders.
Providing evidenced based treatment in a supportive environment is the foundation of a strong therapeutic relationship.
For over 20 years, I have provided a number of specialized therapeutic services to those dealing with challenging life experiences. My primary speciality is in the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, emotion related eating issues, anxiety disorders and other related issues. I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide family education/support when appropriate. Because of the complex issues related to these conditions, I have additional experience working with clients on relationship issues, family conflict, mood disorders and personality disorders.
(720) 613-9988 View (720) 613-9988
Photo of Gil Shalit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Gil Shalit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP, CACIII
Verified Verified
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
In addition to being a licensed psychotherapist, I am a certified Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, a certified DARe (Dynamic Attachment RePatterning) treatment provider, a certified senior Addictions Counselor and a teacher of the Diamond Approach. I also have certifications in EMDR and Gestalt therapy. I have been adjunct faculty in the Graduate Counseling Psychology programs at Naropa University, and have assisted in professional trauma-resolution trainings domestically & . I have also provided consultation & clinical supervision for therapists and various agencies & hospitals in the Boulder/Denver area. I work with individuals, couples & groups and provide clinical supervision & consultation.
In addition to being a licensed psychotherapist, I am a certified Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, a certified DARe (Dynamic Attachment RePatterning) treatment provider, a certified senior Addictions Counselor and a teacher of the Diamond Approach. I also have certifications in EMDR and Gestalt therapy. I have been adjunct faculty in the Graduate Counseling Psychology programs at Naropa University, and have assisted in professional trauma-resolution trainings domestically & . I have also provided consultation & clinical supervision for therapists and various agencies & hospitals in the Boulder/Denver area. I work with individuals, couples & groups and provide clinical supervision & consultation.
(720) 903-4031 View (720) 903-4031
Photo of Brooks Witter, Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Brooks Witter
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
For couples, I use PACT to promote care and connection between partners.
"If you don't know where you're going, you may never get there." My work supports clients in getting clear with where they want to be going in life, and in learning and applying skills to take meaningful steps aligned with guiding values. I offer clients practical tools and techniques to create more flow and vitality in life. Come away from therapy with more flexibility, humor and confidence to meet life's challenges and see them as opportunities.
For couples, I use PACT to promote care and connection between partners.
"If you don't know where you're going, you may never get there." My work supports clients in getting clear with where they want to be going in life, and in learning and applying skills to take meaningful steps aligned with guiding values. I offer clients practical tools and techniques to create more flow and vitality in life. Come away from therapy with more flexibility, humor and confidence to meet life's challenges and see them as opportunities.
(720) 548-1798 View (720) 548-1798
Photo of Wild Minds Consutling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Wild Minds Consutling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
Ideal clients seeking my guidance encompass a spectrum of individuals, couples, and families. Their issues span from personal struggles to relationship challenges. They seek understanding, connection, and strategies to navigate life's complexities. Their aspirations include finding harmony, fostering stronger bonds, and rediscovering purpose. By equipping them with tools and insights, I facilitate transformative journeys toward enhanced well-being and thriving relationships.
Ideal clients seeking my guidance encompass a spectrum of individuals, couples, and families. Their issues span from personal struggles to relationship challenges. They seek understanding, connection, and strategies to navigate life's complexities. Their aspirations include finding harmony, fostering stronger bonds, and rediscovering purpose. By equipping them with tools and insights, I facilitate transformative journeys toward enhanced well-being and thriving relationships.
(314) 310-0547 View (314) 310-0547
Photo of Blake Helton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Central Boulder, Boulder, CO
Blake Helton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Boulder, Boulder, CO 80302
I have experience in working with couples, addiction, OCD, PTSD and trauma, sobriety management, suicidal clients, incarceration, dissociation, and personality disorders.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Struggling to process real life? Maybe there is a barrier that is stopping you from your full potential? I strive to provide a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe that you as the individual are the expert in your own life. I aim to help others process their emotions and other difficulties that they may have going on in their life.
I have experience in working with couples, addiction, OCD, PTSD and trauma, sobriety management, suicidal clients, incarceration, dissociation, and personality disorders.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Struggling to process real life? Maybe there is a barrier that is stopping you from your full potential? I strive to provide a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe that you as the individual are the expert in your own life. I aim to help others process their emotions and other difficulties that they may have going on in their life.
(303) 622-3461 View (303) 622-3461

See more therapy options for Central Boulder, Boulder

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.