Photo of Natalie Quiñones - Mental Health Y Vida Sana, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mental Health Y Vida Sana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Family Conflict Infidelity, Life Transition Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Spirituality, Stress, Trauma.
Hola y welcome- Natalie specializes in working with BIPOC, young adults (15+), college students, undocumented/immigrant individuals, and therapy first-timers. As a proud Latina and first-generation American, Natalie understands the complexities of navigating different cultures, languages, and identities. The goal is to help you embrace your heritage while integrating it into your journey toward self-acceptance and resilience. With a deep understanding of the immigrant experience, I provide a culturally sensitive perspective to better serve your needs
Family Conflict Infidelity, Life Transition Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem Spirituality, Stress, Trauma.
Hola y welcome- Natalie specializes in working with BIPOC, young adults (15+), college students, undocumented/immigrant individuals, and therapy first-timers. As a proud Latina and first-generation American, Natalie understands the complexities of navigating different cultures, languages, and identities. The goal is to help you embrace your heritage while integrating it into your journey toward self-acceptance and resilience. With a deep understanding of the immigrant experience, I provide a culturally sensitive perspective to better serve your needs
(970) 695-9473 View (970) 695-9473
Photo of Chelsea Twiss, PhD, Psychologist
Chelsea Twiss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist offering individual therapy and ADHD assessment. I believe the therapeutic relationship can facilitate growth and healing. My approach to counseling is one that balances warmth and validation with growth-fostering challenge. I am a reliable, dedicated and authentic counselor. I work from a relational/attachment lens. Areas of specialty include women's sexual & reproductive health, working with veterinarians and healthcare workers, ADHD and neurodiversity, intimate partner relationships, chronic pain/illness, art/creativity, and family of origin relationships.
I am a licensed psychologist offering individual therapy and ADHD assessment. I believe the therapeutic relationship can facilitate growth and healing. My approach to counseling is one that balances warmth and validation with growth-fostering challenge. I am a reliable, dedicated and authentic counselor. I work from a relational/attachment lens. Areas of specialty include women's sexual & reproductive health, working with veterinarians and healthcare workers, ADHD and neurodiversity, intimate partner relationships, chronic pain/illness, art/creativity, and family of origin relationships.
(970) 517-3974 View (970) 517-3974
Photo of Laurie Underwood - Kidstuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C., LPC, LMFT, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kidstuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
We offer support for families, couples and individuals ages 0-99.
Now offering TELEHEALTH. KIDSTUFF Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids and families navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. We help kids AND ADULTS overcome a variety of issues including family conflict, domestic violence, divorce, blended families, academic and social challenges, bullying, addiction (including gaming,) low self esteem, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and much more. Our LICENSED counselors have many years of experience providing evidence- based techniques including expressive therapies like art, music, play and trauma-informed yoga therapy. Also offering reunification therapy.
We offer support for families, couples and individuals ages 0-99.
Now offering TELEHEALTH. KIDSTUFF Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids and families navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. We help kids AND ADULTS overcome a variety of issues including family conflict, domestic violence, divorce, blended families, academic and social challenges, bullying, addiction (including gaming,) low self esteem, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and much more. Our LICENSED counselors have many years of experience providing evidence- based techniques including expressive therapies like art, music, play and trauma-informed yoga therapy. Also offering reunification therapy.
(970) 422-1964 View (970) 422-1964
Photo of Jessica Shiveley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Shiveley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80523  (Online Only)
As a mental health therapist with a holistic approach, I am committed to your healing journey. I prioritize your needs, fostering a collaborative and non-judgmental space where you are heard and understood. Self-love and authenticity are essential, and we'll work on developing a compassionate relationship with yourself. Your privacy is paramount, and I adhere to strict confidentiality and ethical standards. I continuously update my knowledge to provide you with the most effective interventions. Together, we will uncover insights and tools for personal transformation, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and authentic life.
As a mental health therapist with a holistic approach, I am committed to your healing journey. I prioritize your needs, fostering a collaborative and non-judgmental space where you are heard and understood. Self-love and authenticity are essential, and we'll work on developing a compassionate relationship with yourself. Your privacy is paramount, and I adhere to strict confidentiality and ethical standards. I continuously update my knowledge to provide you with the most effective interventions. Together, we will uncover insights and tools for personal transformation, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and authentic life.
(970) 548-0390 View (970) 548-0390
Photo of Higher Sights Counseling - Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management, LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHNP
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management
LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 465-7959 View (720) 465-7959
Photo of Grace Kackstaetter, MA, MFTC
Grace Kackstaetter
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
I love the imagery of a phoenix. Sometimes in life, it feels like we are burning up due to circumstances beyond our control. What we are left with is a pile of ashes. But from those ashes, I believe we all have the power to change and grow into these beautiful creatures, free to make our lives what we want them to be. My goal is to work with and stand by you through whatever the flames and ashes of your life are, and to help empower you as you learn and grow into your own version of a phoenix, whatever that looks like for you.
I love the imagery of a phoenix. Sometimes in life, it feels like we are burning up due to circumstances beyond our control. What we are left with is a pile of ashes. But from those ashes, I believe we all have the power to change and grow into these beautiful creatures, free to make our lives what we want them to be. My goal is to work with and stand by you through whatever the flames and ashes of your life are, and to help empower you as you learn and grow into your own version of a phoenix, whatever that looks like for you.
(970) 279-1354 View (970) 279-1354
Photo of Christopher M. Dickson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher M. Dickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80522
(970) 847-6845 View (970) 847-6845

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C., LPC, LCSW, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80031
Our therapists have diverse professional expertise and a depth of understanding of what you may be experiencing: trauma, anxiety, depression, conflict, low self-worth, abuse, attachment disruption, relationship stress, etc.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists have diverse professional expertise and a depth of understanding of what you may be experiencing: trauma, anxiety, depression, conflict, low self-worth, abuse, attachment disruption, relationship stress, etc.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(719) 394-9745 View (719) 394-9745
Photo of Higher Sights Counseling (Therapy Emdr Medication Management), LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHNP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Higher Sights Counseling (Therapy Emdr Medication Management)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients NOW! Immediate openings! At Higher Sights Counseling we understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way. A better life starts today.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients NOW! Immediate openings! At Higher Sights Counseling we understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way. A better life starts today.
(303) 952-1463 View (303) 952-1463
Photo of Mareayna Caine, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mareayna Caine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80249
Mareayna is a dedicated therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults navigating a range of challenges including anxiety, PTSD, depression, and identity loss. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Mareayna provides a safe and supportive environment for those facing relationship issues, self-esteem concerns, and intrapersonal struggles. Additionally, she offers guidance for career development and support for individuals impacted by domestic violence. Dr. Harper’s practice is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to heal and grow, fostering resilience and self-love.
Mareayna is a dedicated therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults navigating a range of challenges including anxiety, PTSD, depression, and identity loss. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Mareayna provides a safe and supportive environment for those facing relationship issues, self-esteem concerns, and intrapersonal struggles. Additionally, she offers guidance for career development and support for individuals impacted by domestic violence. Dr. Harper’s practice is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to heal and grow, fostering resilience and self-love.
(636) 389-4034 View (636) 389-4034
Photo of Tammis Jahn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammis Jahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80232
I offer a varieties of specialties with families, couples and individuals.
I love hearing your story, we all have one but has anyone taken the time to really listen to yours? I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, struggling with different issues or just needing a safe place to talk about your thoughts and ideas. I have worked with addiction and substance abuse for over ten years as well as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, veterans, children, couples/family & trauma. I am someone who enjoys watching my clients' journey and show them a different perspective. I am real and down to earth and love getting to know people. I do a free consult so we can make sure that we are a good fit.
I offer a varieties of specialties with families, couples and individuals.
I love hearing your story, we all have one but has anyone taken the time to really listen to yours? I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, struggling with different issues or just needing a safe place to talk about your thoughts and ideas. I have worked with addiction and substance abuse for over ten years as well as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, veterans, children, couples/family & trauma. I am someone who enjoys watching my clients' journey and show them a different perspective. I am real and down to earth and love getting to know people. I do a free consult so we can make sure that we are a good fit.
(720) 492-1069 View (720) 492-1069
Photo of Adam Fyler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Fyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, trauma, addictions, relationship challenges, navigating careers, and more. With a background in music therapy and social work, beginning in 2008, I went on to fulfill a master’s degree in professional counseling from the University of Colorado Denver with a specialization in Couple and Family Therapy. Through mindfulness and acceptance practices, I help clients gain a better understanding of their relationships to life experiences to help create flexibility in moving toward personal growth and development.
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, trauma, addictions, relationship challenges, navigating careers, and more. With a background in music therapy and social work, beginning in 2008, I went on to fulfill a master’s degree in professional counseling from the University of Colorado Denver with a specialization in Couple and Family Therapy. Through mindfulness and acceptance practices, I help clients gain a better understanding of their relationships to life experiences to help create flexibility in moving toward personal growth and development.
(719) 624-3946 View (719) 624-3946
Photo of Britt Mahrer - Colorado Accelerated Counseling, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colorado Accelerated Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Designed for high-functioning adolescents, adults, and couples.
Mental health counseling designed to be efficient and effective. Also offering DBT groups and clinical supervision. At CAC, we deeply respect the courage it takes to start therapy and are committed to providing an experience that resonates with you. All sessions are safe and non-judgmental, all lifestyle choices are welcome. Together, we will explore ways to proactively approach your goals and makes changes to what holds you back. When you enter into our work, you are no longer alone.
Designed for high-functioning adolescents, adults, and couples.
Mental health counseling designed to be efficient and effective. Also offering DBT groups and clinical supervision. At CAC, we deeply respect the courage it takes to start therapy and are committed to providing an experience that resonates with you. All sessions are safe and non-judgmental, all lifestyle choices are welcome. Together, we will explore ways to proactively approach your goals and makes changes to what holds you back. When you enter into our work, you are no longer alone.
(720) 594-4103 View (720) 594-4103
Photo of Colin Foster, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Colin Foster
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
By building a strong therapeutic relationship, I help my clients develop a deeper awareness of their behavioral and emotional patterns.
I primarily work with individuals struggling with addiction, intrusive thoughts, unwanted sexual behavior, and challenges with developing and maintaining intimacy. I also have expertise in dealing with childhood trauma, particularly male childhood sexual abuse. My work with clients centers around clarifying their connection with their intuition. In doing so, I focus on creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where one can freely express their thoughts and feelings and begin to truly understand their internal experience.
By building a strong therapeutic relationship, I help my clients develop a deeper awareness of their behavioral and emotional patterns.
I primarily work with individuals struggling with addiction, intrusive thoughts, unwanted sexual behavior, and challenges with developing and maintaining intimacy. I also have expertise in dealing with childhood trauma, particularly male childhood sexual abuse. My work with clients centers around clarifying their connection with their intuition. In doing so, I focus on creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where one can freely express their thoughts and feelings and begin to truly understand their internal experience.
(720) 636-8981 View (720) 636-8981
Photo of Sarah Swedlow, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Swedlow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Schedule instantly through my website in my bio! Sarah earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling with a specialization in art therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally from Austin, Texas, she has a deep appreciation for art, music, and all other modalities of expression. Sarah works to provide a welcoming space for adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a client-centered approach to ensure you are receiving the kind of care you desire.
Schedule instantly through my website in my bio! Sarah earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling with a specialization in art therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally from Austin, Texas, she has a deep appreciation for art, music, and all other modalities of expression. Sarah works to provide a welcoming space for adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a client-centered approach to ensure you are receiving the kind of care you desire.
(303) 529-1703 View (303) 529-1703
Photo of Ramy Bakke - Safe Harbours Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LMFT, ADDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Safe Harbours Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ADDC
Verified Verified
Thornton, CO 80241
These painful seasons can be eased by partnering with a trained professional who can walk with you through your experiences.
Life can feel difficult at times. Some problems are brief and only need a few sessions to work through, other problems take much longer. If you are feeling overwhelmed and are not coping with life, consider making an appointment. I offer a wholistic systemic approach. I also offer the Gottman Check-up Assessment for couples seeking to find out how to build a stronger marriage. Getting to a healthier life is possible, schedule a session now!
These painful seasons can be eased by partnering with a trained professional who can walk with you through your experiences.
Life can feel difficult at times. Some problems are brief and only need a few sessions to work through, other problems take much longer. If you are feeling overwhelmed and are not coping with life, consider making an appointment. I offer a wholistic systemic approach. I also offer the Gottman Check-up Assessment for couples seeking to find out how to build a stronger marriage. Getting to a healthier life is possible, schedule a session now!
(720) 634-0865 View (720) 634-0865
Photo of Sarah E. Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah E. Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I see adults, couples, and adolescents in California and Colorado.
My style is active, empowering, solution-focused, down-to-earth, non-judgmental, and humorous. You can expect me to help lead conversations, develop insights, and teach coping skills. My approach is collaborative — we'll work together to help identify and reach your goals. I welcome an open dialogue to create the best therapy for you as an individual. I see the immense strength, value, and potential for self-growth in each of my clients.
I see adults, couples, and adolescents in California and Colorado.
My style is active, empowering, solution-focused, down-to-earth, non-judgmental, and humorous. You can expect me to help lead conversations, develop insights, and teach coping skills. My approach is collaborative — we'll work together to help identify and reach your goals. I welcome an open dialogue to create the best therapy for you as an individual. I see the immense strength, value, and potential for self-growth in each of my clients.
(415) 903-7914 View (415) 903-7914
Photo of Keith Edmonds - Brightside Counseling Services
Brightside Counseling Services
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80112
Our practice specialties include stress management, anxiety, grief, trauma, work-life balance, postpartum, relationship stressors, relationship counseling, adolescent counseling, domestic voilence survivors, PTSD, and individuals experiencing life changes that have been difficult to work through alone.
Brightside Counseling Services has licensed and certified mental health providers that are able to treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. We are best able to support individuals who are ready to work through their emotions, create goals for themselves, and address their needs. While there are a lot of unknows in the world, we are able to help you make sense of your circumstances, and create ways for you to thrive that are beneficial for your overall wellbeing.
Our practice specialties include stress management, anxiety, grief, trauma, work-life balance, postpartum, relationship stressors, relationship counseling, adolescent counseling, domestic voilence survivors, PTSD, and individuals experiencing life changes that have been difficult to work through alone.
Brightside Counseling Services has licensed and certified mental health providers that are able to treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. We are best able to support individuals who are ready to work through their emotions, create goals for themselves, and address their needs. While there are a lot of unknows in the world, we are able to help you make sense of your circumstances, and create ways for you to thrive that are beneficial for your overall wellbeing.
(720) 679-8915 View (720) 679-8915
Photo of Robbie E Watterson - Robbie Watterson-Individual and Couples Therapist, MPH, MA, LPCC
Robbie Watterson-Individual and Couples Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MPH, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
You strive for career success and want to make a big impact, but you feel overwhelmed and anxious about getting everything right. You long for love and connection with your partner but often feel lonely and frustrated even when you're together. What once worked for you no longer does, and despite putting in the same effort, you’re not seeing results. As an eager, high-performing, deeply feeling individual or couple, you seek the skills and resources to get unstuck. You want to find wholeness in yourself, feel like enough, and be seen and heard in your relationship, feeling important and validated by your significant other.
You strive for career success and want to make a big impact, but you feel overwhelmed and anxious about getting everything right. You long for love and connection with your partner but often feel lonely and frustrated even when you're together. What once worked for you no longer does, and despite putting in the same effort, you’re not seeing results. As an eager, high-performing, deeply feeling individual or couple, you seek the skills and resources to get unstuck. You want to find wholeness in yourself, feel like enough, and be seen and heard in your relationship, feeling important and validated by your significant other.
(720) 666-6750 View (720) 666-6750
Photo of M Pacheco, MSSW, CSWC, ADDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
M Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, CSWC, ADDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80011
My work centers with LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Immigrant & Refugee community members. Client specialty; Intergenerational Trauma, Grief & Loss, Domestic Violence, Family Violence, Foster Care, Adoption, Life transitions, First-Generation Professionals, Therapy for the Therapist, Post-Partum, Last-Chance Couples Therapy, Substance Use (not an exhaustive list). To co-elevate with community members intersectionality, resilience and journey toward healing.
My work centers with LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Immigrant & Refugee community members. Client specialty; Intergenerational Trauma, Grief & Loss, Domestic Violence, Family Violence, Foster Care, Adoption, Life transitions, First-Generation Professionals, Therapy for the Therapist, Post-Partum, Last-Chance Couples Therapy, Substance Use (not an exhaustive list). To co-elevate with community members intersectionality, resilience and journey toward healing.
(720) 973-1475 View (720) 973-1475

See more therapy options for Fort Collins

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.