Photo of Igor Giusti Phd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Igor Giusti Phd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, spiritual crisis/development, and I coach people to help them realize their life goals, what they really want in life, work/career and relationships. I use specialized cognitive, client centered, and somatic approaches. For details please see www.newtranspersonalpsychotherapy.com
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, spiritual crisis/development, and I coach people to help them realize their life goals, what they really want in life, work/career and relationships. I use specialized cognitive, client centered, and somatic approaches. For details please see www.newtranspersonalpsychotherapy.com
(470) 252-4917 View (470) 252-4917
Photo of Nan Hebert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Nan Hebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PhD(c), LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
We specialize in intimacy therapy for both individuals and couples, supporting a broad spectrum of concerns.
Discover a fresh approach to therapy where your individual needs shape every session. At our practice, we believe in the power of real, heartfelt communication coupled with actionable skills that you can take beyond our walls. We don’t just listen; we engage, challenge, and laugh with you. Our sessions are tailored to blend humor and playfulness with open, active listening to foster an environment where you can truly thrive.
We specialize in intimacy therapy for both individuals and couples, supporting a broad spectrum of concerns.
Discover a fresh approach to therapy where your individual needs shape every session. At our practice, we believe in the power of real, heartfelt communication coupled with actionable skills that you can take beyond our walls. We don’t just listen; we engage, challenge, and laugh with you. Our sessions are tailored to blend humor and playfulness with open, active listening to foster an environment where you can truly thrive.
(720) 649-5084 View (720) 649-5084
Photo of Joseph A Toscano, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boulder, CO
Joseph A Toscano
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CACIII, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
They are nature's way of letting us know that something is awry in our lives or something essential is missing- ie, a life that is incongruent with our deepest values, relationship health, spirituality, etc.
With over four decades of experience as an Addiction Specialist, Joseph brings a depth of clinical knowledge and perspective to his counseling practice that is rare. After 15 years of agency work, Joseph went into private practice in 1997. He obtained National Certification as a mental health professional and now combines his expertise with addictive processes with a holistic understanding of how these processes occur within a bigger milieu - often defined through unresolved grief and trauma. He has come to believe, that as human beings, we all have addictive tendencies that can connect us to deeper aspirations and dreams.
They are nature's way of letting us know that something is awry in our lives or something essential is missing- ie, a life that is incongruent with our deepest values, relationship health, spirituality, etc.
With over four decades of experience as an Addiction Specialist, Joseph brings a depth of clinical knowledge and perspective to his counseling practice that is rare. After 15 years of agency work, Joseph went into private practice in 1997. He obtained National Certification as a mental health professional and now combines his expertise with addictive processes with a holistic understanding of how these processes occur within a bigger milieu - often defined through unresolved grief and trauma. He has come to believe, that as human beings, we all have addictive tendencies that can connect us to deeper aspirations and dreams.
(303) 900-7259 View (303) 900-7259
Photo of Evalie Horner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Evalie Horner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ABDPHD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304  (Online Only)
She takes to heart research demonstrating that the therapeutic relationship most strongly predicts growth.
Evalie Horner is especially passionate about supporting artists and writers, trauma survivors, and the LGBTQ community. During the late 1990s, Evalie helped to pioneer C.U. Boulder's LGBTQ studies certificate, one of the country's first programs of this kind. She has several publications in the field of LGBTQ studies, including a book chapter on counseling bisexual clients. Evalie raises her twin girls, Emma and Ryan. Her mother was an astologer who trained her and she has recently enjoyed reading and incorporating client astrological charts when asked. She is also an expert in the unique challenges of LGBTQ plus divorce.
She takes to heart research demonstrating that the therapeutic relationship most strongly predicts growth.
Evalie Horner is especially passionate about supporting artists and writers, trauma survivors, and the LGBTQ community. During the late 1990s, Evalie helped to pioneer C.U. Boulder's LGBTQ studies certificate, one of the country's first programs of this kind. She has several publications in the field of LGBTQ studies, including a book chapter on counseling bisexual clients. Evalie raises her twin girls, Emma and Ryan. Her mother was an astologer who trained her and she has recently enjoyed reading and incorporating client astrological charts when asked. She is also an expert in the unique challenges of LGBTQ plus divorce.
(303) 622-1142 View (303) 622-1142
Photo of Hans Freyberg, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Hans Freyberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Overcome ongoing challenges and discover your best self. The best therapy outcomes occur through a strong relationship with your therapist. Schedule a no-cost consultation and get a sense for how we fit. Please visit my practice website to learn more. Although I do not take insurance, I do provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, which is what many clients choose to do. Please check with your insurance provider to learn more about coverage.
Overcome ongoing challenges and discover your best self. The best therapy outcomes occur through a strong relationship with your therapist. Schedule a no-cost consultation and get a sense for how we fit. Please visit my practice website to learn more. Although I do not take insurance, I do provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, which is what many clients choose to do. Please check with your insurance provider to learn more about coverage.
(720) 864-0518 View (720) 864-0518
Photo of Diane M. Doe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boulder, CO
Diane M. Doe
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Are you living the life you want? I use Gestalt, Existential, psychodynamic, body-oriented, group, couples, and family systems therapy as a way of looking at underlying issues. The aim is personal transformation and more creative living. I have a background in working with addictions, grief, anxiety, depression, self neglect, and abandonment issues. We will focus on self-care, life transitions, self-expression, and support for an abundant life. I especially like working with people where they feel stuck and unable to move forward. My overall approach involves helping people move from the spirit of seriousness to the spirit of play.
Are you living the life you want? I use Gestalt, Existential, psychodynamic, body-oriented, group, couples, and family systems therapy as a way of looking at underlying issues. The aim is personal transformation and more creative living. I have a background in working with addictions, grief, anxiety, depression, self neglect, and abandonment issues. We will focus on self-care, life transitions, self-expression, and support for an abundant life. I especially like working with people where they feel stuck and unable to move forward. My overall approach involves helping people move from the spirit of seriousness to the spirit of play.
(720) 722-4034 View (720) 722-4034
Photo of Dr. Brittany Rubin, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Dr. Brittany Rubin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I also weave in elements of relationship with the earth, ritual and the energetic body.
I am honored to work with humans feeling heartache inside the constraints of our modern world. Through conditioning + relational wounding, we temporarily lose touch with the deep, innate wisdom of our souls + bodies. Life can feel chaotic and daunting - we question ourselves and even feel dead inside. If you long to experience belonging as your true self, I’m here to shepherd you back to safety in relationship with yourself, your body and others. I was brought to this sacred work through my personal experience of rising above trauma. I’m devoted to guiding others out of the depths of struggle and into fulfillment and connection.
I also weave in elements of relationship with the earth, ritual and the energetic body.
I am honored to work with humans feeling heartache inside the constraints of our modern world. Through conditioning + relational wounding, we temporarily lose touch with the deep, innate wisdom of our souls + bodies. Life can feel chaotic and daunting - we question ourselves and even feel dead inside. If you long to experience belonging as your true self, I’m here to shepherd you back to safety in relationship with yourself, your body and others. I was brought to this sacred work through my personal experience of rising above trauma. I’m devoted to guiding others out of the depths of struggle and into fulfillment and connection.
(720) 408-3242 View (720) 408-3242
Photo of Maxine Gower - Clinical Social Worker; Psychoanalyst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Maxine Gower - Clinical Social Worker; Psychoanalyst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
I work with families, couples and individuals, 12 years and older, who experience anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relational issues, gender identity, transgender decisions, fertility difficulties and divorce.
After 34 years in practice, I continue to witness the power of "the talking cure". Through talking, we come to know ourselves intimately and are able to discover what is at the root of painful thoughts, feelings and actions. Feeling seen, heard, understood and accepted is key to restoring hope as well as alleviating pain and suffering. Deep and abiding change can occur because an authentic relationship with a caring and skilled therapist allows for exploration of painful, scary and difficult feelings.
I work with families, couples and individuals, 12 years and older, who experience anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relational issues, gender identity, transgender decisions, fertility difficulties and divorce.
After 34 years in practice, I continue to witness the power of "the talking cure". Through talking, we come to know ourselves intimately and are able to discover what is at the root of painful thoughts, feelings and actions. Feeling seen, heard, understood and accepted is key to restoring hope as well as alleviating pain and suffering. Deep and abiding change can occur because an authentic relationship with a caring and skilled therapist allows for exploration of painful, scary and difficult feelings.
(720) 288-0937 View (720) 288-0937
Photo of Umbrella Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Umbrella Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
Our specialties include working with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and group configuration to address patterned issues related to identity, trauma, relationship dissatisfaction, life transition, codependency, attention challenges, anxiety, mood swings, and depression.
Talk therapy for your intersecting identities. We are adept at navigating the difficult and complex conversations about your intersecting identities that can ebb and flow over one's life. In addition, we are committed to ongoing education and skilled at therapeutic intervention for psychological healing. By talking through the challenges you face, we collaborate with you to interrupt old patterned behavior and install new conclusions and behaviors that lead to constructive coping, personal growth, increased self-awareness, and feeling more comfortable within yourself.
Our specialties include working with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and group configuration to address patterned issues related to identity, trauma, relationship dissatisfaction, life transition, codependency, attention challenges, anxiety, mood swings, and depression.
Talk therapy for your intersecting identities. We are adept at navigating the difficult and complex conversations about your intersecting identities that can ebb and flow over one's life. In addition, we are committed to ongoing education and skilled at therapeutic intervention for psychological healing. By talking through the challenges you face, we collaborate with you to interrupt old patterned behavior and install new conclusions and behaviors that lead to constructive coping, personal growth, increased self-awareness, and feeling more comfortable within yourself.
(720) 410-9468 View (720) 410-9468
Photo of Andrew Bunin, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Andrew Bunin
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
I provide effective, supportive counseling services for adults, individually and in couples, assisting clients with a range of life issues, including: relationships; communication; grief and loss; trauma; life adjustments and transitions; depression; anxiety; substance abuse and addictions; and stress and anger management. My goals are to support clients in developing self-awareness; building interpersonal skills; resolving past trauma; promoting effective decision-making and problem-solving; deepening emotional and psychological wellbeing; achieving personal balance and improving overall quality-of-life. I welcome your inquiries about my work and the opportunity to discuss how I can be of service.
I provide effective, supportive counseling services for adults, individually and in couples, assisting clients with a range of life issues, including: relationships; communication; grief and loss; trauma; life adjustments and transitions; depression; anxiety; substance abuse and addictions; and stress and anger management. My goals are to support clients in developing self-awareness; building interpersonal skills; resolving past trauma; promoting effective decision-making and problem-solving; deepening emotional and psychological wellbeing; achieving personal balance and improving overall quality-of-life. I welcome your inquiries about my work and the opportunity to discuss how I can be of service.
(303) 900-7402 View (303) 900-7402
Photo of Kevin Udis, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Kevin Udis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Human development is a life long process. Feel free to contact me if you are feeling that you, your spouse or children are overwhelmed with the task of adapting to life's challenges. Anxiety, worry, or depression are important symptoms to treat. However, they may also tell one that certain problems require a different approach. My consultations, evaluations and therapeutic services are fully confidential.
Human development is a life long process. Feel free to contact me if you are feeling that you, your spouse or children are overwhelmed with the task of adapting to life's challenges. Anxiety, worry, or depression are important symptoms to treat. However, they may also tell one that certain problems require a different approach. My consultations, evaluations and therapeutic services are fully confidential.
(303) 900-7004 View (303) 900-7004
Photo of Steve Gioielli, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Steve Gioielli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
I am a spouse and a father, and when I am not in the office I like to cook and explore new foods, paddle board, and go on adventures with my family.
I consider my role as a psychologist to be one of great privilege. As I journey with others through the issues that have brought them to therapy, I often feel invited into sacred spaces, filled with suffering, pain, confusion, or one’s deepest longings of the heart. It is in these sacred spaces that there is also opportunity for change, for hope, for healing. My hope is that through the process of psychotherapy people will come to experience greater freedom and vitality, deeper capacities for love and creativity, and more meaningful and redemptive relationships.
I am a spouse and a father, and when I am not in the office I like to cook and explore new foods, paddle board, and go on adventures with my family.
I consider my role as a psychologist to be one of great privilege. As I journey with others through the issues that have brought them to therapy, I often feel invited into sacred spaces, filled with suffering, pain, confusion, or one’s deepest longings of the heart. It is in these sacred spaces that there is also opportunity for change, for hope, for healing. My hope is that through the process of psychotherapy people will come to experience greater freedom and vitality, deeper capacities for love and creativity, and more meaningful and redemptive relationships.
(720) 704-1133 View (720) 704-1133
Photo of Emily Black, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Emily Black
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Lindsey Jigen Wilkinson, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Lindsey Jigen Wilkinson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
Do you want to shift negative patterns that are holding you back? Reduce anxiety and depression? Therapy is a relationship that allows for an exploration into the deepest realms of the self in a nurturing space where you can be honest and open. We create a language for the practice of self-discovery and integration in the spirt of mutual growth and recovery; this looks different for every person. I use many techniques: talk therapy, somatic, EMDR, KAP, Parts work, mindfulness, cognitive, relational and attachment work. I am a contemplative psychotherapist who works from an integral framework, utilizing a non-pathologic view.
Do you want to shift negative patterns that are holding you back? Reduce anxiety and depression? Therapy is a relationship that allows for an exploration into the deepest realms of the self in a nurturing space where you can be honest and open. We create a language for the practice of self-discovery and integration in the spirt of mutual growth and recovery; this looks different for every person. I use many techniques: talk therapy, somatic, EMDR, KAP, Parts work, mindfulness, cognitive, relational and attachment work. I am a contemplative psychotherapist who works from an integral framework, utilizing a non-pathologic view.
(720) 548-1841 View (720) 548-1841
Photo of Christy Weller, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Christy Weller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Hello, I'm so glad you found me! I am a licensed psychologist with over 13 years of experience working with college students, adults and couples who are facing various challenges, ranging from anxiety and depression to life transitions and relationship stress. To put it simply, my goal is to help you better understand yourself so that your experiences and your relationships are meaningful and fulfilling. This process of self-understanding is one of the great gifts of therapy. Whether I'm working with you individually or as a couple, I emphasize the healing power of the therapeutic relationship.
Hello, I'm so glad you found me! I am a licensed psychologist with over 13 years of experience working with college students, adults and couples who are facing various challenges, ranging from anxiety and depression to life transitions and relationship stress. To put it simply, my goal is to help you better understand yourself so that your experiences and your relationships are meaningful and fulfilling. This process of self-understanding is one of the great gifts of therapy. Whether I'm working with you individually or as a couple, I emphasize the healing power of the therapeutic relationship.
(720) 608-4084 View (720) 608-4084
Photo of Eve Kilmer, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Eve Kilmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Although I have 31 years experience working with a broad spectrum of issues, I have particular expertise with anxiety, life transitions, divorce recovery, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, eating disorders and couples therapy.
I'm an interactive, solution-focused psychologist with 31 years experience (website: www.evekilmer.com). My therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help you effectively address personal life challenges in a warm, safe environment. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to you as an individual or couple. With compassion and understanding, I work with you to help you build on your strengths and attain the personal growth that you want.
Although I have 31 years experience working with a broad spectrum of issues, I have particular expertise with anxiety, life transitions, divorce recovery, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, eating disorders and couples therapy.
I'm an interactive, solution-focused psychologist with 31 years experience (website: www.evekilmer.com). My therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help you effectively address personal life challenges in a warm, safe environment. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to you as an individual or couple. With compassion and understanding, I work with you to help you build on your strengths and attain the personal growth that you want.
(303) 536-3214 View (303) 536-3214
Photo of Chappell Marmon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Chappell Marmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
A strong, secure relationship can bring enormous joy to your life, and a struggling relationship can bring tremendous pain, fear, and despair. If your current relationship is in trouble because of conflict, lack of connection, or problems you can't fix on your own, I can help. I work deeply with couples so that they understand their own attachment styles and emotional patterns and those of their partner. Couples gain confidence in their connection so that they can leave behind patterns of emotional reactivity and withdrawal/shutdown, and share their needs, fears and feelings with confidence.
A strong, secure relationship can bring enormous joy to your life, and a struggling relationship can bring tremendous pain, fear, and despair. If your current relationship is in trouble because of conflict, lack of connection, or problems you can't fix on your own, I can help. I work deeply with couples so that they understand their own attachment styles and emotional patterns and those of their partner. Couples gain confidence in their connection so that they can leave behind patterns of emotional reactivity and withdrawal/shutdown, and share their needs, fears and feelings with confidence.
(720) 915-4118 View (720) 915-4118
Photo of Leah Fox, Licensed Social Worker in Boulder, CO
Leah Fox
Licensed Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303  (Online Only)
Within a trusting therapeutic relationship, I'll work with you to co-create a foundation which allows you to hone into your intuition, improve your relationships, decrease emotional suffering, and increase your overall joy.
Many of us are starving to discover the truth, to show the world who we really are, and we need to have our truth held with compassion. We all want to experience being fully seen. We want to feel connected to others. Sadly, many of us don’t often experience being seen in a non-judgmental light. My strength as a therapist is in my capacity to recognize your preciousness and your capacity for wholeness, while helping you to align with your truth. I work with individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups to heal past wounds and evolve out of patterns of self-sabotage. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression.
Within a trusting therapeutic relationship, I'll work with you to co-create a foundation which allows you to hone into your intuition, improve your relationships, decrease emotional suffering, and increase your overall joy.
Many of us are starving to discover the truth, to show the world who we really are, and we need to have our truth held with compassion. We all want to experience being fully seen. We want to feel connected to others. Sadly, many of us don’t often experience being seen in a non-judgmental light. My strength as a therapist is in my capacity to recognize your preciousness and your capacity for wholeness, while helping you to align with your truth. I work with individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups to heal past wounds and evolve out of patterns of self-sabotage. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression.
(720) 868-9425 View (720) 868-9425
Photo of Emily A Hamilton, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Emily A Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD, RSMT/E
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am an experienced clinician and am skilled at creating a safe, warm, empathic environment for my clients in which to heal and grow. I am a generalist with specialized knowledge in the areas of eating disorders, body image, relational issues, trauma recovery, EMDR, couples counseling, family of origin issues, anxiety, post traumatic stress, women's issues, parenting, and mindfulness and yoga as therapeutic endeavors. I work within my clients' multicultural lens and framework to establish safety and rapport. I include my clients in their treatment planning and process of therapy to create greater gains and a sense of mastery.
I am an experienced clinician and am skilled at creating a safe, warm, empathic environment for my clients in which to heal and grow. I am a generalist with specialized knowledge in the areas of eating disorders, body image, relational issues, trauma recovery, EMDR, couples counseling, family of origin issues, anxiety, post traumatic stress, women's issues, parenting, and mindfulness and yoga as therapeutic endeavors. I work within my clients' multicultural lens and framework to establish safety and rapport. I include my clients in their treatment planning and process of therapy to create greater gains and a sense of mastery.
(720) 548-2684 View (720) 548-2684
Photo of Monica Myers Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Monica Myers Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPH, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
" My experience includes eating disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, and navigating transition.
We all contain the inner wisdom to heal ourselves and move towards being an authentic, positive and loving person. The courage to be vulnerable -by moving toward our pain and confusion as well as our joy- utterly transforms and frees us. I am honored to enter into the sacred space of therapy together with my clients. I use an integrative, trauma informed, and strength based approach combining empathy, mindfulness, and radical acceptance as well as a plethora of therapeutic tools (ie--imagery, parts work, role play, body/somatic awareness). I have a passionate social justice orientation and am experienced in a wide breadth of issues.
" My experience includes eating disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, and navigating transition.
We all contain the inner wisdom to heal ourselves and move towards being an authentic, positive and loving person. The courage to be vulnerable -by moving toward our pain and confusion as well as our joy- utterly transforms and frees us. I am honored to enter into the sacred space of therapy together with my clients. I use an integrative, trauma informed, and strength based approach combining empathy, mindfulness, and radical acceptance as well as a plethora of therapeutic tools (ie--imagery, parts work, role play, body/somatic awareness). I have a passionate social justice orientation and am experienced in a wide breadth of issues.
(720) 580-6186 View (720) 580-6186
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.