Photo of Keating Coffey, Psy.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Keating Coffey, Psy.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PsyD, BCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Finding the right therapist is hard—harder than it ought to be. Especially when you’re already struggling. But it’s essential. The person of the therapist, their fit for you, and the therapeutic relationship are all more important to successful therapy than any degree, license, orientation, or even years of experience. Making the call and actually doing therapy is even harder—but worth it. Psychotherapy works. It can be one of the most significant and transformative experiences of your life. It's also a big investment of time, money and effort. I honor your courage and support your commitment to yourself to even consider it.
Finding the right therapist is hard—harder than it ought to be. Especially when you’re already struggling. But it’s essential. The person of the therapist, their fit for you, and the therapeutic relationship are all more important to successful therapy than any degree, license, orientation, or even years of experience. Making the call and actually doing therapy is even harder—but worth it. Psychotherapy works. It can be one of the most significant and transformative experiences of your life. It's also a big investment of time, money and effort. I honor your courage and support your commitment to yourself to even consider it.
(720) 513-9487 View (720) 513-9487
Photo of Lynn McGregor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Lynn McGregor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80218
Working with couples is a significant part of my practice.
I have built a specialized practice integrating my clinical skills and credentials with my broad life experiences in corporate communication and product management in a Fortune 500 Corporation, commercial design, teaching, and owning a small business. I focus on young professionals who are facing relationship, social, academic, mental health, and professional issues, to increase self-awareness and make better informed decisions. I counsel with parents of young adults who want to address issues of autonomy, accountability, finances, and boundaries. The goal is to reach a healthy balance of independence while remaining connected.
Working with couples is a significant part of my practice.
I have built a specialized practice integrating my clinical skills and credentials with my broad life experiences in corporate communication and product management in a Fortune 500 Corporation, commercial design, teaching, and owning a small business. I focus on young professionals who are facing relationship, social, academic, mental health, and professional issues, to increase self-awareness and make better informed decisions. I counsel with parents of young adults who want to address issues of autonomy, accountability, finances, and boundaries. The goal is to reach a healthy balance of independence while remaining connected.
(610) 733-1400 View (610) 733-1400
Photo of Tess Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Tess Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
You deserve to feel seen and heard and validated for your experience. You are stronger than you believe and have everything you need within you already. Sometimes we all just need some help unlocking our strengths within. Through a safe and secure therapeutic relationship, I believe it is possible to heal from trauma and no longer just survive, but actually thrive. My passion for empowering others to heal from their trauma is inspired by my own lifelong healing journey and soul's purpose of healing my trauma so that I can assist others by empowering them to heal theirs.
You deserve to feel seen and heard and validated for your experience. You are stronger than you believe and have everything you need within you already. Sometimes we all just need some help unlocking our strengths within. Through a safe and secure therapeutic relationship, I believe it is possible to heal from trauma and no longer just survive, but actually thrive. My passion for empowering others to heal from their trauma is inspired by my own lifelong healing journey and soul's purpose of healing my trauma so that I can assist others by empowering them to heal theirs.
(720) 703-9424 View (720) 703-9424
Photo of Rebekah Sorkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Rebekah Sorkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
The longest relationship you’ll ever have is the relationship you have with yourself. I help folx explore how things like depression, anxiety, trauma and attachment impact the relationship they have with themselves, others, and the world around them. My name is Rebekah, and I am so glad that you’re here. We will work together to build holistic practices that lead to deeper, more authentic connection with yourself and with those you care about, while nurturing and healing the parts of your story impacted by trauma, disconnection, and loss.
The longest relationship you’ll ever have is the relationship you have with yourself. I help folx explore how things like depression, anxiety, trauma and attachment impact the relationship they have with themselves, others, and the world around them. My name is Rebekah, and I am so glad that you’re here. We will work together to build holistic practices that lead to deeper, more authentic connection with yourself and with those you care about, while nurturing and healing the parts of your story impacted by trauma, disconnection, and loss.
(720) 650-8230 View (720) 650-8230
Photo of Ruth Weinberg in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Ruth Weinberg
LPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80218
We all struggle at times, whether we are experiencing anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, trauma or just feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward in our lives. These times can feel frustrating, overwhelming and exhausting! Come to a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can share your emotional struggles, pain and stress. Together, we can create effective strategies for healing and self-acceptance, discover and develop your inner strengths, resources and joy and allow you to more fully enjoy life. I bring years of experience, compassion and a sense of humor to the therapy room. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
We all struggle at times, whether we are experiencing anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, trauma or just feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward in our lives. These times can feel frustrating, overwhelming and exhausting! Come to a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can share your emotional struggles, pain and stress. Together, we can create effective strategies for healing and self-acceptance, discover and develop your inner strengths, resources and joy and allow you to more fully enjoy life. I bring years of experience, compassion and a sense of humor to the therapy room. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(720) 466-2106 View (720) 466-2106
Photo of Cole Estrada, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Cole Estrada
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
My areas of focus are working with adult individuals and couples.
Finding a therapist is often such a difficult process. It is hard to know what is going to feel helpful when life feels too hard to manage. My hope is that I can help you on the journey and create spaces where it feels safe and accessible to find the help and healing you are seeking. My approach focuses on being curious about how you have learned to relate to others, the ways you feel internally as a result of your experience, and the ways you have learned to protect yourself because of the pain you have endured. The goal is to gain insight into barriers that hinder deep connection with others and hinder your ability to flourish.
My areas of focus are working with adult individuals and couples.
Finding a therapist is often such a difficult process. It is hard to know what is going to feel helpful when life feels too hard to manage. My hope is that I can help you on the journey and create spaces where it feels safe and accessible to find the help and healing you are seeking. My approach focuses on being curious about how you have learned to relate to others, the ways you feel internally as a result of your experience, and the ways you have learned to protect yourself because of the pain you have endured. The goal is to gain insight into barriers that hinder deep connection with others and hinder your ability to flourish.
(720) 619-3286 View (720) 619-3286
Photo of Catherine Tenedios Hayes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Catherine Tenedios Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
surfacing in your life by supporting you through possible topics of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship concerns, intimacy/ sexual issues, communication problems, trauma, life transitions and many more.
Many of us live with higher levels of stress than we desire, experience unfulfilling relationships, and arguments full of miscommunication and we are so hopeful that there is another side to all of this. You may have already tried many things to relieve the stress, worry, and burdens of your life…and yet still find that you are struggling, but believe that relief is possible, and it is. ​ I have experience working with children, adults & couples who are interested in a powerful exploration of what is currently
surfacing in your life by supporting you through possible topics of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship concerns, intimacy/ sexual issues, communication problems, trauma, life transitions and many more.
Many of us live with higher levels of stress than we desire, experience unfulfilling relationships, and arguments full of miscommunication and we are so hopeful that there is another side to all of this. You may have already tried many things to relieve the stress, worry, and burdens of your life…and yet still find that you are struggling, but believe that relief is possible, and it is. ​ I have experience working with children, adults & couples who are interested in a powerful exploration of what is currently
(720) 802-6621 View (720) 802-6621
Photo of Susan Heitler, Psychologist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Susan Heitler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
I specialize in rapid treatment of individuals' depression, anxiety, and anger, and, primarily, in helping couples to build a harmonious and loving relationship.
Living in Israel? That's where my private practice now is located. Looking to enjoy a more gratifying couple relationship? Struggling with depression, anxiety, or anger? If you live within driving distance to Raanana, I would love to help you out. If you are living elsewhere, please feel welcome to check out my books: The Power of Two (a book and workbook on the skills for marriage success) and Prescriptions Without PIlls (for overcoming anxiety, depression, and anger). Meanwhile, wishing you all the best.
I specialize in rapid treatment of individuals' depression, anxiety, and anger, and, primarily, in helping couples to build a harmonious and loving relationship.
Living in Israel? That's where my private practice now is located. Looking to enjoy a more gratifying couple relationship? Struggling with depression, anxiety, or anger? If you live within driving distance to Raanana, I would love to help you out. If you are living elsewhere, please feel welcome to check out my books: The Power of Two (a book and workbook on the skills for marriage success) and Prescriptions Without PIlls (for overcoming anxiety, depression, and anger). Meanwhile, wishing you all the best.
(303) 900-5618 View (303) 900-5618
Photo of Lynette Garber, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Lynette Garber
Clinical Social Work Candidate , MSW, LSW, MFT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Additionally, I am trained in and primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) when working with couples.
Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and healing! I am Lynette Garber, a dedicated and compassionate licensed social worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate. I strive to help individuals navigate the complexities of their mental and emotional well-being. My focus is to incorporate compassion and humor to help build self-awareness, resiliency and freedom from unhealthy patterns and past pains.
Additionally, I am trained in and primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) when working with couples.
Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and healing! I am Lynette Garber, a dedicated and compassionate licensed social worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate. I strive to help individuals navigate the complexities of their mental and emotional well-being. My focus is to incorporate compassion and humor to help build self-awareness, resiliency and freedom from unhealthy patterns and past pains.
(720) 796-4917 View (720) 796-4917
Photo of Tanner Straight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Tanner Straight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
My primary areas of expertise are in sex therapy, LGBTQ populations, couples, parent coaching, child behavioral challenges, intimacy, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and depression.
Working to improve relationships, sex, intimacy, sexuality and gender identity to enhance quality of life. I strive to create a safe and accepting space to explore and discover an authentic lifestyle within these aspects of life. Through a sex positive approach, the goal is to reduce shame and enhance authenticity. Beginning with the exploration with relationship to self, my clients are able to enhance their relationships with others. Challenging the messages, beliefs and values family and societal has created allows for clients to learn and create their own narrative for the life that aligns with them.
My primary areas of expertise are in sex therapy, LGBTQ populations, couples, parent coaching, child behavioral challenges, intimacy, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and depression.
Working to improve relationships, sex, intimacy, sexuality and gender identity to enhance quality of life. I strive to create a safe and accepting space to explore and discover an authentic lifestyle within these aspects of life. Through a sex positive approach, the goal is to reduce shame and enhance authenticity. Beginning with the exploration with relationship to self, my clients are able to enhance their relationships with others. Challenging the messages, beliefs and values family and societal has created allows for clients to learn and create their own narrative for the life that aligns with them.
(720) 790-5459 View (720) 790-5459
Photo of Catherine Jensen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Catherine Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
I address a range of concerns with clients including depression, anxiety, relationships, addiction and trauma. I believe that therapy offers the unique opportunity to work on your relationship with yourself, which consequently improves your relationships with others. I guide clients towards a deeper self-awareness and greater emotional resiliency. In my work, I emphasize the importance of self-compassion and taking a mindful stance towards your thoughts and emotions. When we are able to approach our internal life with curiosity and compassion, life is much easier to navigate, and strong emotion states won't overwhelm us.
I address a range of concerns with clients including depression, anxiety, relationships, addiction and trauma. I believe that therapy offers the unique opportunity to work on your relationship with yourself, which consequently improves your relationships with others. I guide clients towards a deeper self-awareness and greater emotional resiliency. In my work, I emphasize the importance of self-compassion and taking a mindful stance towards your thoughts and emotions. When we are able to approach our internal life with curiosity and compassion, life is much easier to navigate, and strong emotion states won't overwhelm us.
(720) 773-2284 View (720) 773-2284
Photo of Ashley Banister Riley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Ashley Banister Riley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Ashley believes some of life’s most difficult moments can be processed and healed through the therapeutic relationship. Whether a person is in a difficult life transition, dealing with chronic anxiety, or working on a challenging relationship; therapy can be the vehicle to help them get to the other side. As a therapist, one of Ashley’s greatest joys is to help clients successfully learn and develop practical skills, which will help them live a more fulfilled and joyful life.
Ashley believes some of life’s most difficult moments can be processed and healed through the therapeutic relationship. Whether a person is in a difficult life transition, dealing with chronic anxiety, or working on a challenging relationship; therapy can be the vehicle to help them get to the other side. As a therapist, one of Ashley’s greatest joys is to help clients successfully learn and develop practical skills, which will help them live a more fulfilled and joyful life.
(720) 928-9443 View (720) 928-9443
Photo of Megan Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Megan Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Are you in a relationship and feeling trapped in communication patterns that leave you feeling disconnected, alone, or unheard? Are you an individual who is feeling challenged with anxiety, your relationship with food, your relationships in general, or "getting past your past". I work regularly with couples and individuals to find healing within themselves and within their relationships, to learn ways to regulate emotion in order to experience life with more joy, and to feel more able to organize around their emotion vs. feel overwhelmed from it. I am currently working online via video with clients. I see clients in person at times.
Are you in a relationship and feeling trapped in communication patterns that leave you feeling disconnected, alone, or unheard? Are you an individual who is feeling challenged with anxiety, your relationship with food, your relationships in general, or "getting past your past". I work regularly with couples and individuals to find healing within themselves and within their relationships, to learn ways to regulate emotion in order to experience life with more joy, and to feel more able to organize around their emotion vs. feel overwhelmed from it. I am currently working online via video with clients. I see clients in person at times.
(970) 825-0195 View (970) 825-0195
Photo of Kate Sideras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Kate Sideras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Your relationship is the centerpiece of our work together, I will not pick sides.
I believe one small tweak, one degree of change, might be all we need to achieve our wildest dreams. I specialize in working with couples who are in a committed relationship that feels stuck in unhelpful patterns. I empower clients to move away from critical and defensive relationship dynamics, and move toward security. Together, we will explore the strengths and challenges within your relationship using in-session assessment and a set of evidence based questionnaires.
Your relationship is the centerpiece of our work together, I will not pick sides.
I believe one small tweak, one degree of change, might be all we need to achieve our wildest dreams. I specialize in working with couples who are in a committed relationship that feels stuck in unhelpful patterns. I empower clients to move away from critical and defensive relationship dynamics, and move toward security. Together, we will explore the strengths and challenges within your relationship using in-session assessment and a set of evidence based questionnaires.
(720) 575-1987 View (720) 575-1987
Photo of Kelly Howell, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Kelly Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Waitlist for new clients
I am a relational therapist who supports individuals and couples who are wanting to pursue healing. My clients often feel overwhelmed, stuck, and confused as they go through challenging transitions, relationship difficulties, or begin to face past trauma. I help couples who want to deepen intimacy and rebuild a meaningful sense of connection. I help individuals gain more understanding and compassion as we explore the unique challenges they face, past or present.
I am a relational therapist who supports individuals and couples who are wanting to pursue healing. My clients often feel overwhelmed, stuck, and confused as they go through challenging transitions, relationship difficulties, or begin to face past trauma. I help couples who want to deepen intimacy and rebuild a meaningful sense of connection. I help individuals gain more understanding and compassion as we explore the unique challenges they face, past or present.
(720) 782-5411 View (720) 782-5411
Photo of Elliot Helt, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Elliot Helt
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFT-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Waitlist for new clients
I am adept at facilitating growth addressing trauma, self-worth, identity, body image, gender dysphoria, relationship dynamics (including nonmonogamy) and communication.
I have a passion for supporting partners, families, and individuals in the queer community and who identify as neurodivergent. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with navigating experiences and relationships from these lived experiences. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where all expressions of love and identity are celebrated and to support clients in being their authentic self, embrace their identities, and build healthy relationships.
I am adept at facilitating growth addressing trauma, self-worth, identity, body image, gender dysphoria, relationship dynamics (including nonmonogamy) and communication.
I have a passion for supporting partners, families, and individuals in the queer community and who identify as neurodivergent. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with navigating experiences and relationships from these lived experiences. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where all expressions of love and identity are celebrated and to support clients in being their authentic self, embrace their identities, and build healthy relationships.
(720) 704-1238 View (720) 704-1238
Photo of Veronica Walton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Veronica Walton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80218
I specialize in working with individuals and couples to explore dating, relationship patterns, attachment, and trauma. I'm especially passionate in supporting the queer community. Together, we work to identify and examine recurring patterns with care and curiosity. In individual work, this can look like exploring your early experiences that informed your attachment style and connecting these patterns to the way you show up or abandon yourself today. In relationship therapy, we bring awareness to the dynamic between partners these individual experiences create to deepen connection, enhance vulnerability, and improve communication.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples to explore dating, relationship patterns, attachment, and trauma. I'm especially passionate in supporting the queer community. Together, we work to identify and examine recurring patterns with care and curiosity. In individual work, this can look like exploring your early experiences that informed your attachment style and connecting these patterns to the way you show up or abandon yourself today. In relationship therapy, we bring awareness to the dynamic between partners these individual experiences create to deepen connection, enhance vulnerability, and improve communication.
(970) 463-8819 View (970) 463-8819
Photo of Marina Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Marina Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Gottman, Method, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
COUPLES: Too long since you felt connected to your partner? Fight all the time? Has there been a betrayal? A lack of intimacy? I show you how to understand each other, break down barriers, and create better habits. Couples who use my tools create more joy and connection - permanently. For the cost of a divorce you can instead have the loving, connected, joyous relationship you want. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist, which is a couples method. NOW Offering Discernment Counseling: if you aren't sure if you want to end the relationship, this is a process to help you gain clarity and confidence about your decision, whatever you choose.
COUPLES: Too long since you felt connected to your partner? Fight all the time? Has there been a betrayal? A lack of intimacy? I show you how to understand each other, break down barriers, and create better habits. Couples who use my tools create more joy and connection - permanently. For the cost of a divorce you can instead have the loving, connected, joyous relationship you want. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist, which is a couples method. NOW Offering Discernment Counseling: if you aren't sure if you want to end the relationship, this is a process to help you gain clarity and confidence about your decision, whatever you choose.
(720) 465-8926 View (720) 465-8926
Photo of Chris Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
Chris Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Does your relationship cause you more pain than joy? Do you feel misheard or misunderstood in conflicts with your partner? Do you feel blamed by your partner, even when you weren't at fault? These may be signs you are in an emotionally/verbally abusive relationship. All couples have conflict, but emotionally abusive relationships wear away our sense of who we are and leave us doubting our sanity. I can help you understand what is your responsibility in the relationship, and what is not, and help you to cope if you decide to stay, or to move forward and recover if you decide to leave.
Does your relationship cause you more pain than joy? Do you feel misheard or misunderstood in conflicts with your partner? Do you feel blamed by your partner, even when you weren't at fault? These may be signs you are in an emotionally/verbally abusive relationship. All couples have conflict, but emotionally abusive relationships wear away our sense of who we are and leave us doubting our sanity. I can help you understand what is your responsibility in the relationship, and what is not, and help you to cope if you decide to stay, or to move forward and recover if you decide to leave.
(720) 897-5650 View (720) 897-5650
Photo of iAmClinic - LGBTQ Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Capitol Hill, Denver, CO
iAmClinic - LGBTQ Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Hill, Denver, CO 80203
Put more simply, we believe that there are better ways to exist in the world and be in relationship.
At iAmClinic, our primary goal is to help the LGBTQ+ community and beyond establish internal solidarity, rooted identities, and long-term relational health. Each member of the iAmClinic team has experienced their own growth and healing, which fosters the excitement to offer the same life-changing process to those in our community. We created a safe place where people can share their stories, their pain, and their confusion, and what we’ve discovered most is that we created a place where people watch their lives change – a place where celebration happens and joy blossoms.
Put more simply, we believe that there are better ways to exist in the world and be in relationship.
At iAmClinic, our primary goal is to help the LGBTQ+ community and beyond establish internal solidarity, rooted identities, and long-term relational health. Each member of the iAmClinic team has experienced their own growth and healing, which fosters the excitement to offer the same life-changing process to those in our community. We created a safe place where people can share their stories, their pain, and their confusion, and what we’ve discovered most is that we created a place where people watch their lives change – a place where celebration happens and joy blossoms.
(720) 398-0290 View (720) 398-0290

See more therapy options for Capitol Hill, Denver


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.