Couples Counseling Therapists in Windham County, CT

Photo of Donna A Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Donna A Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainfield, CT 06374
I have my Master's Degree in Social Work and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My clinical work experience includes individual assessments, individual, couples, and family counseling. I work with adults ages 21 & older. I specialize in spirituality, domestic violence, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, couples/family counseling, and high conflict parenting. I also offer K-9 assisted therapy. My dog, Brody, has been professionally trained as a therapy dog and Bentley has recently joined our team too. Animal assisted therapy is an option, not a requirement, for any client who is interested.
I have my Master's Degree in Social Work and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My clinical work experience includes individual assessments, individual, couples, and family counseling. I work with adults ages 21 & older. I specialize in spirituality, domestic violence, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, couples/family counseling, and high conflict parenting. I also offer K-9 assisted therapy. My dog, Brody, has been professionally trained as a therapy dog and Bentley has recently joined our team too. Animal assisted therapy is an option, not a requirement, for any client who is interested.
(860) 467-0631 View (860) 467-0631
Photo of Jennifer Emile Kruczek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Jennifer Emile Kruczek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Putnam, CT 06260
I believe that we all experience times in our lives when we realize we need help to cope or to figure out how to work through a difficult situation. We can either continue to struggle and suffer or take steps to improve our situation. My experience has included mastering and utilizing evidenced-based, psychotherapeutic techniques to help individuals, couples and entire families to identify and solve issues that are interfering with individual and/or family functioning. I have helped countless individuals to take positive steps to make long-lasting changes and I look forward to helping you do the same!
I believe that we all experience times in our lives when we realize we need help to cope or to figure out how to work through a difficult situation. We can either continue to struggle and suffer or take steps to improve our situation. My experience has included mastering and utilizing evidenced-based, psychotherapeutic techniques to help individuals, couples and entire families to identify and solve issues that are interfering with individual and/or family functioning. I have helped countless individuals to take positive steps to make long-lasting changes and I look forward to helping you do the same!
(860) 787-5003 View (860) 787-5003
Photo of NAFI Outpatient Clinic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
NAFI Outpatient Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Waitlist for new clients
As of March 4, 2024 the NAFI Outpatient Clinic has a waitlist of about 8+ weeks. NAFI Outpatient Clinic provides both in-person and telehealth therapeutic services as well as psychiatric evaluations/medication management services. We offer individual, family, and couples therapy for ages 6 through the lifespan. Our clinic has experience in servicing clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral management, family interaction issues, and trauma. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the services we provide.
As of March 4, 2024 the NAFI Outpatient Clinic has a waitlist of about 8+ weeks. NAFI Outpatient Clinic provides both in-person and telehealth therapeutic services as well as psychiatric evaluations/medication management services. We offer individual, family, and couples therapy for ages 6 through the lifespan. Our clinic has experience in servicing clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral management, family interaction issues, and trauma. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the services we provide.
(860) 615-2145 View (860) 615-2145
Photo of Laurie Mazzarella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Laurie Mazzarella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Windham, CT 06266  (Online Only)
After almost 30 years in mental health, I'm still passionate about the work I do. With that said, I'm here to help with the problems that have brought you to therapy. Gathering information and developing our relationship, along with trust and creating a safe space to share are my strengths in helping others. I use various approaches to assist clients. Along with this, I enjoy educating about how we learn and form in an inter-generational family system and how we can transmit problems in that family system unconsciously. This can inform and empower growth and change.
After almost 30 years in mental health, I'm still passionate about the work I do. With that said, I'm here to help with the problems that have brought you to therapy. Gathering information and developing our relationship, along with trust and creating a safe space to share are my strengths in helping others. I use various approaches to assist clients. Along with this, I enjoy educating about how we learn and form in an inter-generational family system and how we can transmit problems in that family system unconsciously. This can inform and empower growth and change.
(959) 207-8416 View (959) 207-8416
Photo of George Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
George Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Canterbury, CT 06331  (Online Only)
I have maintained an active practice for many years. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking tools and strategies to become more confident and successful in their relationships at home, work, and other aspects of their lives. I have a very strong background in treatment of anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. I try to offer perspective and concrete suggestions wherever possible. It is important to me to help my clients feel comfortable throughout the process and I see myself as a guide and personal coach as part of the therapy.
I have maintained an active practice for many years. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking tools and strategies to become more confident and successful in their relationships at home, work, and other aspects of their lives. I have a very strong background in treatment of anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. I try to offer perspective and concrete suggestions wherever possible. It is important to me to help my clients feel comfortable throughout the process and I see myself as a guide and personal coach as part of the therapy.
(860) 788-4584 View (860) 788-4584
Photo of Corinne Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Corinne Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, CT 06234
What would you say about your sex life right now? "It's complicated"! These words have been spoken by countless clients. Sex therapy is a specific type of counseling designed to treat sexual problems affecting both individuals and couples. Sex therapy can alleviate a wide variety of issues including: body image and self-esteem issues; conflict with religious belief/sexuality; confusion about sexual orientation; gender identification; difficulty experiencing orgasm; difficulty maintaining errections; erectile dysfunction; lack of sexual desire; negative attitudes or fear towards sex due to previous traumatic experience; premature ejaculation; health/disability; BDSM/various fetishes; and stress/anxiety regarding sexual performance.
What would you say about your sex life right now? "It's complicated"! These words have been spoken by countless clients. Sex therapy is a specific type of counseling designed to treat sexual problems affecting both individuals and couples. Sex therapy can alleviate a wide variety of issues including: body image and self-esteem issues; conflict with religious belief/sexuality; confusion about sexual orientation; gender identification; difficulty experiencing orgasm; difficulty maintaining errections; erectile dysfunction; lack of sexual desire; negative attitudes or fear towards sex due to previous traumatic experience; premature ejaculation; health/disability; BDSM/various fetishes; and stress/anxiety regarding sexual performance.
(860) 323-0141 View (860) 323-0141
Photo of Meghann L Whittemore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Meghann L Whittemore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Putnam, CT 06260
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a supportive environment that allows you to feel comfortable, empowered, challenged, and understood, which is an integral piece to the therapeutic relationship.
**CURRENT WAITLIST INTO SUMMER 2024** Are you ready to start making changes to improve your life? Is it time to develop your strengths to increase positivity? Would you like to learn ways to cope effectively with life's challenges? Have you decided that you no longer like the way you feel? Do you want to improve your mood and motivation? Are you looking for positive ways to improve relationships with your partners, kids, parents, friends, or coworkers? Do you wonder when the grief/loss will subside? Do you struggle with setting boundaries with those that you love? Do you struggle with your gender identity?
I offer a supportive environment that allows you to feel comfortable, empowered, challenged, and understood, which is an integral piece to the therapeutic relationship.
**CURRENT WAITLIST INTO SUMMER 2024** Are you ready to start making changes to improve your life? Is it time to develop your strengths to increase positivity? Would you like to learn ways to cope effectively with life's challenges? Have you decided that you no longer like the way you feel? Do you want to improve your mood and motivation? Are you looking for positive ways to improve relationships with your partners, kids, parents, friends, or coworkers? Do you wonder when the grief/loss will subside? Do you struggle with setting boundaries with those that you love? Do you struggle with your gender identity?
(860) 339-0548 View (860) 339-0548
Photo of Joann Averill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Joann Averill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chaplin, CT 06235
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Crises or life stressors are often what initially bring people to therapy. Others come to work on old issues that continue to re-surface, causing problems for the individuals themselves or in their relationships with family, or at work. Many people find therapy to be a place where they can work on increasing personal insight and self-awareness in order to live more fulfilling lives, and work toward achieving their highest potential. Whatever brings you here, therapy can be a place to help you restore balance in your life and live life to the fullest. In therapy, we work together to bring about lasting change.
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Crises or life stressors are often what initially bring people to therapy. Others come to work on old issues that continue to re-surface, causing problems for the individuals themselves or in their relationships with family, or at work. Many people find therapy to be a place where they can work on increasing personal insight and self-awareness in order to live more fulfilling lives, and work toward achieving their highest potential. Whatever brings you here, therapy can be a place to help you restore balance in your life and live life to the fullest. In therapy, we work together to bring about lasting change.
(860) 926-0134 View (860) 926-0134
Photo of Meredith Richards, Marriage & Family Therapist in Windham County, CT
Meredith Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Danielson, CT 06239  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with couples- especially those with mood disorders, trauma histories, relationship issues, & family conflict.
Welcome! Finding a therapist can be an intimidating task and can also be a huge relief. Are you going through a difficult transition? Experiencing an untimely loss? Trying to save your marriage or family? We all have times in our lives where we could use a little direction or help. Maybe you have decided to work on your addiction. Sometimes we just need a neutral person to listen and validate our experiences and feelings. Whatever it is, I look forward to working with you, meeting you where you are, and finding ways to help you move in the direction you hope for.
I specialize in working with couples- especially those with mood disorders, trauma histories, relationship issues, & family conflict.
Welcome! Finding a therapist can be an intimidating task and can also be a huge relief. Are you going through a difficult transition? Experiencing an untimely loss? Trying to save your marriage or family? We all have times in our lives where we could use a little direction or help. Maybe you have decided to work on your addiction. Sometimes we just need a neutral person to listen and validate our experiences and feelings. Whatever it is, I look forward to working with you, meeting you where you are, and finding ways to help you move in the direction you hope for.
(860) 497-4125 View (860) 497-4125
Photo of Ashley Diogo Cleary, Marriage & Family Therapist in Windham County, CT
Ashley Diogo Cleary
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Danielson, CT 06239
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut and have been working in the counseling field since 2007. My approach is client centered, strength based, and solution focused. I believe in the importance of understanding how individuals function within their systems. I have experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, and families experiencing various mental health, developmental, and transitional issues. I also work with couples who are experiencing difficulties navigating the challenge of maintaining positive healthy relationships. My professional experiences include crisis counseling, home-based therapy, school counseling, and private practice.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut and have been working in the counseling field since 2007. My approach is client centered, strength based, and solution focused. I believe in the importance of understanding how individuals function within their systems. I have experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, and families experiencing various mental health, developmental, and transitional issues. I also work with couples who are experiencing difficulties navigating the challenge of maintaining positive healthy relationships. My professional experiences include crisis counseling, home-based therapy, school counseling, and private practice.
(860) 398-6796 View (860) 398-6796
Photo of Andrea M. Delage, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Andrea M. Delage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danielson, CT 06239  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field since 2005. I have worked with groups, families, couples and individuals of all age groups with various issues that include safety/crisis, depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, legal involvement, addiction/recovery, anger, family dynamics, grief and loss, educational planning and I have a special interest in relationships, sexuality, identity and young adults. I utilize a solutions focused, strengths based approach that encourages empowerment, healthy decision making and mindfulness and am passionate about supporting you on your journey of wellness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field since 2005. I have worked with groups, families, couples and individuals of all age groups with various issues that include safety/crisis, depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, legal involvement, addiction/recovery, anger, family dynamics, grief and loss, educational planning and I have a special interest in relationships, sexuality, identity and young adults. I utilize a solutions focused, strengths based approach that encourages empowerment, healthy decision making and mindfulness and am passionate about supporting you on your journey of wellness.
(860) 357-6697 View (860) 357-6697
Photo of Leah Wessels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Leah Wessels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
I work with clients that identify with the following: Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, grief, LGBTQ+, anger, school/work issues and sleep disturbances.
Are you feeling a lack of emotional control that’s leading to self-esteem, motivation, or relationship issues? Are negative thought patterns getting the best of you during difficult times? As the Founder of Swift Running Waters Counseling, I maintain hope that you can take charge of your well-being and build resilience. In our sessions together, I aim to create a trusting environment where you will learn the necessary tools and strategies to face your stress with confidence. I prioritize highlighting your strengths and celebrating your wins as you move through the change process toward your identified goals.
I work with clients that identify with the following: Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, grief, LGBTQ+, anger, school/work issues and sleep disturbances.
Are you feeling a lack of emotional control that’s leading to self-esteem, motivation, or relationship issues? Are negative thought patterns getting the best of you during difficult times? As the Founder of Swift Running Waters Counseling, I maintain hope that you can take charge of your well-being and build resilience. In our sessions together, I aim to create a trusting environment where you will learn the necessary tools and strategies to face your stress with confidence. I prioritize highlighting your strengths and celebrating your wins as you move through the change process toward your identified goals.
(860) 845-0801 View (860) 845-0801
Photo of Lisa Marie Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Lisa Marie Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Our areas of expertise include school based mental health, ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, parent-child relationship, parent management skills, allowing us to tailor therapeutic interventions to meet the specific needs of each child and family.
We are Full Circle Family Services At White Brook Farm, LLC and we are passionate about supporting children and families on their journey to emotional well-being and resilience. With backgrounds in Clinical Social Work, we bring over 10 years of experience in child and family therapy. Our commitment to creating a safe and nurturing space for children and their families has been the driving force behind our practice. We believe that each child and family is unique, and our therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration.
Our areas of expertise include school based mental health, ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, parent-child relationship, parent management skills, allowing us to tailor therapeutic interventions to meet the specific needs of each child and family.
We are Full Circle Family Services At White Brook Farm, LLC and we are passionate about supporting children and families on their journey to emotional well-being and resilience. With backgrounds in Clinical Social Work, we bring over 10 years of experience in child and family therapy. Our commitment to creating a safe and nurturing space for children and their families has been the driving force behind our practice. We believe that each child and family is unique, and our therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration.
(860) 775-6330 View (860) 775-6330
Photo of Aimee Cooney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Windham County, CT
Aimee Cooney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, CT 06377  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to manage anxiety and stress? Are you feeling sad, and maybe frustrated with how you feel versus how you think you should be feeling? Is tension and distress with your partner(s) frequent, or do you feel like you need help to find common ground? When so much feels uncertain, I will be there to help and to listen, and to work with you to achieve what you need out of therapy. I provide an empathetic and secure therapy space for you to create compassion and security in relationships – even when that relationship is with yourself. I see life as a learning process, and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.
Are you struggling to manage anxiety and stress? Are you feeling sad, and maybe frustrated with how you feel versus how you think you should be feeling? Is tension and distress with your partner(s) frequent, or do you feel like you need help to find common ground? When so much feels uncertain, I will be there to help and to listen, and to work with you to achieve what you need out of therapy. I provide an empathetic and secure therapy space for you to create compassion and security in relationships – even when that relationship is with yourself. I see life as a learning process, and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.
(860) 288-5446 View (860) 288-5446
Photo of Daniel Gallant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windham County, CT
Daniel Gallant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Danielson, CT 06239
If you are struggling to move forward in life. If your marriage relationship is in need of healing. If you just need someone to listen and help you through your hurt. I am here to provide professional counseling specializing in depression, anxiety, attachment, mood disorders, anger management, substance abuse, addiction, and couples therapy. I want to help encourage & teach those who are hurting how to live a healthy and purposeful life.
If you are struggling to move forward in life. If your marriage relationship is in need of healing. If you just need someone to listen and help you through your hurt. I am here to provide professional counseling specializing in depression, anxiety, attachment, mood disorders, anger management, substance abuse, addiction, and couples therapy. I want to help encourage & teach those who are hurting how to live a healthy and purposeful life.
(860) 821-7829 x103 View (860) 821-7829 x103
Photo of Druanne Cahill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Windham County, CT
Druanne Cahill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Chaplin, CT 06235
Thank you for reading my profile. I am a licensed professional counselor with over thirty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1984 with my bachelors degree and Tufts University in 1987 with my masters degree I see my role as a therapist who guides clients through the difficult journeys we all struggle with. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in which we can develop a constructive therapeutic relationship to address the issues. I can assist with skills such as communication skills, assertiveness skills, relaxation skills and relationship skills. .
Thank you for reading my profile. I am a licensed professional counselor with over thirty years of experience. I graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1984 with my bachelors degree and Tufts University in 1987 with my masters degree I see my role as a therapist who guides clients through the difficult journeys we all struggle with. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in which we can develop a constructive therapeutic relationship to address the issues. I can assist with skills such as communication skills, assertiveness skills, relaxation skills and relationship skills. .
(959) 666-6949 View (959) 666-6949
Photo of Tim Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Tim Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Windham, CT 06256
Choosing a therapist to help guide you on your life's journey can be difficult. Congratulations on taking this step! With nearly 30 years of clinical experience I have come to believe that it is the relationship between therapist and client that supports client growth and change. I provide a gentle, challenging approach to guide your journey in identifying, understanding and actualizing your goals. My areas of specialty include trauma and loss, grief work, men's issues and those challenges associated with aging and retirement. I accept most major insurance companies and sliding fees are available if needed.
Choosing a therapist to help guide you on your life's journey can be difficult. Congratulations on taking this step! With nearly 30 years of clinical experience I have come to believe that it is the relationship between therapist and client that supports client growth and change. I provide a gentle, challenging approach to guide your journey in identifying, understanding and actualizing your goals. My areas of specialty include trauma and loss, grief work, men's issues and those challenges associated with aging and retirement. I accept most major insurance companies and sliding fees are available if needed.
(959) 666-6356 View (959) 666-6356
Photo of Mary E Buckley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Mary E Buckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thompson, CT 06277
Aging, medical frailty/caregiver issues, relationship strain and spirituality barriers are my keen interests, along with pre- and post- organ transplantation and associated coping around medical and existential strain.
"The true warrior accepts what he (she) is in ultimate humility, not as grounds for regret, but as a living challenge" - Carlos Casteneda. Treatment issues require an empathic listener. I am most effective in connecting with clients. I see a therapist's role as supporting clients in their grief and helping them identify realistic expectations of self /others in a non-judgemental and affirming atmosphere. My undergraduate degree was Anthropology, helping me at cross cultural problem solving. Employment in Community Mental Health and inpatient hospital care settings I have worked with medical/psychiatric difficulties:
Aging, medical frailty/caregiver issues, relationship strain and spirituality barriers are my keen interests, along with pre- and post- organ transplantation and associated coping around medical and existential strain.
"The true warrior accepts what he (she) is in ultimate humility, not as grounds for regret, but as a living challenge" - Carlos Casteneda. Treatment issues require an empathic listener. I am most effective in connecting with clients. I see a therapist's role as supporting clients in their grief and helping them identify realistic expectations of self /others in a non-judgemental and affirming atmosphere. My undergraduate degree was Anthropology, helping me at cross cultural problem solving. Employment in Community Mental Health and inpatient hospital care settings I have worked with medical/psychiatric difficulties:
(401) 396-2221 View (401) 396-2221
Photo of Susan M Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Susan M Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
(860) 322-5084 View (860) 322-5084
Photo of Hillary Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Windham County, CT
Hillary Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADTR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
(860) 606-4278 View (860) 606-4278

See more therapy options for Windham County

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.