Photo of TrueYou Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
TrueYou Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
We specialize in Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, and Trauma therapy.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
We specialize in Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, and Trauma therapy.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
(301) 918-5812 View (301) 918-5812
Photo of iHeal Wellness Therapy and Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
iHeal Wellness Therapy and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Are you dealing with stress, relationship issues, mood disorders, career/professional concerns, or life transitions? Are you feeling overwhelmed and imbalanced? When this happens, everything else suffers from your personal to your professional life, including how you feel. You may find it challenging to find the right therapist who can help you heal. Just know that you are not alone. It can be difficult to seek therapy, especially if you tried it before and felt like it didn't work. “One size does not fit all.” Our approaches are tailored to the needs of each individual to help you find long lasting solutions. We can help.
Are you dealing with stress, relationship issues, mood disorders, career/professional concerns, or life transitions? Are you feeling overwhelmed and imbalanced? When this happens, everything else suffers from your personal to your professional life, including how you feel. You may find it challenging to find the right therapist who can help you heal. Just know that you are not alone. It can be difficult to seek therapy, especially if you tried it before and felt like it didn't work. “One size does not fit all.” Our approaches are tailored to the needs of each individual to help you find long lasting solutions. We can help.
(202) 952-9428 View (202) 952-9428
Photo of Alex Honigman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alex Honigman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have specialized in psychotherapy with individuals and couples working toward healing, growth and change, emphasizing healthy relationships.
Are you looking to improve your relationships, dating and love life? Or are you trying to work through some anxiety, depression or trauma? Maybe you just need a safe space to process. I'm here for you. I'm a passionate and experienced therapist who absolutely believes that mental health should be accessible, practical and centered around you. I love working with both couples and individual clients who are seeking therapy to enhance their lives. I provide treatment tailored and geared toward making daily improvements utilizing evidence based practice. My goal is to assist you in meeting your full potential.
I have specialized in psychotherapy with individuals and couples working toward healing, growth and change, emphasizing healthy relationships.
Are you looking to improve your relationships, dating and love life? Or are you trying to work through some anxiety, depression or trauma? Maybe you just need a safe space to process. I'm here for you. I'm a passionate and experienced therapist who absolutely believes that mental health should be accessible, practical and centered around you. I love working with both couples and individual clients who are seeking therapy to enhance their lives. I provide treatment tailored and geared toward making daily improvements utilizing evidence based practice. My goal is to assist you in meeting your full potential.
(562) 352-1789 View (562) 352-1789
Photo of John C Parkhurst, Psychologist in Washington, DC
John C Parkhurst
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Dr. Parkhurst's practice frequently centers on self esteem and identity development issues, especially, but not necessarily, as they relate to sexual orientation. Depression, anxiety, obsessiveness, relationship problems, and intimacy issues characterize the types of concerns with which he is often presented by clients. His competencies include couples counseling, parenting and child development issues, and academic concerns as counseling issues. He also has considerable experience in learning and cognition, and in career development from his years of counseling and training within the educational system.
Dr. Parkhurst's practice frequently centers on self esteem and identity development issues, especially, but not necessarily, as they relate to sexual orientation. Depression, anxiety, obsessiveness, relationship problems, and intimacy issues characterize the types of concerns with which he is often presented by clients. His competencies include couples counseling, parenting and child development issues, and academic concerns as counseling issues. He also has considerable experience in learning and cognition, and in career development from his years of counseling and training within the educational system.
(202) 568-8626 View (202) 568-8626
Photo of EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, EMDR-C, BSP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
I specialize in treating PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression and dissociative disorders, sports trauma therapy, performance issues, relationship therapy and more without the use of medications.
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
I specialize in treating PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression and dissociative disorders, sports trauma therapy, performance issues, relationship therapy and more without the use of medications.
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
(202) 804-9954 View (202) 804-9954
Photo of Lynn Hamerling, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Lynn Hamerling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I also offer group therapy, couples therapy and professional supervision.
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, shame or perhaps even self-loathing? These feelings can make it extremely difficult to seek the very treatment which might offer relief and change. It can feel risky and sometimes exquisitely shameful to reveal oneself to a another person. I can help reduce your shame and make the therapeutic process more bearable and productive. Together we will look honestly and fully at your conflicts, strengths, relationships and experiences - in a manner that is gentle, yet steadfast; warm, yet serious; and attentive to you in all your individual complexity.
I also offer group therapy, couples therapy and professional supervision.
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, shame or perhaps even self-loathing? These feelings can make it extremely difficult to seek the very treatment which might offer relief and change. It can feel risky and sometimes exquisitely shameful to reveal oneself to a another person. I can help reduce your shame and make the therapeutic process more bearable and productive. Together we will look honestly and fully at your conflicts, strengths, relationships and experiences - in a manner that is gentle, yet steadfast; warm, yet serious; and attentive to you in all your individual complexity.
(202) 722-1507 View (202) 722-1507
Photo of Courtney Fraser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Courtney Fraser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I have worked for over a decade with clients across the lifespan. Currently I work with adults and couples. My main goal is to first and foremost get an understanding of what someone is struggling with so I can determine how I can best assist them in their therapy process. I pride myself on my ability to meet people where they are at, build a supportive relationship, and help them work towards achieving their goals. I am currently working towards AASECT certification and obtaining my PhD in Clinical Sexology, so I have a particular interest working with couples and individuals in the areas of sex therapy.
I have worked for over a decade with clients across the lifespan. Currently I work with adults and couples. My main goal is to first and foremost get an understanding of what someone is struggling with so I can determine how I can best assist them in their therapy process. I pride myself on my ability to meet people where they are at, build a supportive relationship, and help them work towards achieving their goals. I am currently working towards AASECT certification and obtaining my PhD in Clinical Sexology, so I have a particular interest working with couples and individuals in the areas of sex therapy.
(202) 930-8277 View (202) 930-8277
Photo of Gordon Cohen, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Gordon Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
The time is right to take action and start therapy, begin to relieve your pain and transform your life. Most of us can’t do it alone. I am here to help you navigate life’s twists and turns, find lasting change and thrive. Together, we will work to resolve day-to-day problems and dive deeper into larger issues: anxiety, depression, isolation, family crises, complicated relationships, grief, lose, abuse and trauma. My clients come from around the world and different walks of life: straight, adult women and men; members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities; interracial couples; and adoptive parents.
The time is right to take action and start therapy, begin to relieve your pain and transform your life. Most of us can’t do it alone. I am here to help you navigate life’s twists and turns, find lasting change and thrive. Together, we will work to resolve day-to-day problems and dive deeper into larger issues: anxiety, depression, isolation, family crises, complicated relationships, grief, lose, abuse and trauma. My clients come from around the world and different walks of life: straight, adult women and men; members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities; interracial couples; and adoptive parents.
(202) 738-5020 View (202) 738-5020
Photo of Angela C Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Angela C Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My areas of focus includes: Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Grief/Loss, Relationship Issues, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, PTSD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety and Mood Disorders.
I believe that by mastering our past we have the power to change our future. I use integrative approaches to assist clients with identifying their strengths and overcoming barriers that are impeding their happiness and emotional well being. I firmly believe that if we change our thoughts we can change our lives and my goal is to assist you through the process to lasting change.
My areas of focus includes: Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Grief/Loss, Relationship Issues, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, PTSD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety and Mood Disorders.
I believe that by mastering our past we have the power to change our future. I use integrative approaches to assist clients with identifying their strengths and overcoming barriers that are impeding their happiness and emotional well being. I firmly believe that if we change our thoughts we can change our lives and my goal is to assist you through the process to lasting change.
(240) 293-2588 View (240) 293-2588
Photo of Carlos Durana Ph.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Carlos Durana Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
In relationship and couples counseling, I help clients develop effective communication and conflict management skills, and relationship building blocks which generate understanding, intimacy, satisfaction, respect, affection, appreciation, and the mutual support that is so important for reaching personal aspirations.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
In relationship and couples counseling, I help clients develop effective communication and conflict management skills, and relationship building blocks which generate understanding, intimacy, satisfaction, respect, affection, appreciation, and the mutual support that is so important for reaching personal aspirations.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
(202) 849-7840 View (202) 849-7840
Photo of Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABS, LICSW, LCSW, CCATP, CST
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, issues with intimacy, and sexual desire? I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Let's work together! Perhaps you lack self-compassion, you are self-conscious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. Contact me today!
Are you experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, issues with intimacy, and sexual desire? I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Let's work together! Perhaps you lack self-compassion, you are self-conscious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. Contact me today!
(202) 816-6098 View (202) 816-6098
Photo of John J Hartman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
John J Hartman
Psychologist, PhD, FABP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I use the relationship that develops in the course of therapy to better understand the individual conflicts that originate in childhood which underlie the difficulties you experience in your life.
I see people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other unpleasant emotions who want to learn more about themselves as a way of relieving their stress. These unpleasant emotions may involve problems in work, school, or close interpersonal relationships.
I use the relationship that develops in the course of therapy to better understand the individual conflicts that originate in childhood which underlie the difficulties you experience in your life.
I see people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other unpleasant emotions who want to learn more about themselves as a way of relieving their stress. These unpleasant emotions may involve problems in work, school, or close interpersonal relationships.
(813) 701-2459 View (813) 701-2459
Photo of Pride Therapy DC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Pride Therapy DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
More than your Therapist -Your Biographer-- In sharing your story- you can get Perspective , Power and Peace. LGBTQ- Supportive Therapy-providing an empathetic ear and concrete solutions. Whether your struggling with Anxiety, Trauma or Relationship Issues- or not being in one -you don't have to do it alone. Have You - your kid or spouse come out as Transgender, Lesbian Bisexual or Gay or HIV+ and have questions I have helped many others like you and have trained thousands of Healthcare Providers on how to be more clinically competent and sensitive in their care. Let's do the work together!
More than your Therapist -Your Biographer-- In sharing your story- you can get Perspective , Power and Peace. LGBTQ- Supportive Therapy-providing an empathetic ear and concrete solutions. Whether your struggling with Anxiety, Trauma or Relationship Issues- or not being in one -you don't have to do it alone. Have You - your kid or spouse come out as Transgender, Lesbian Bisexual or Gay or HIV+ and have questions I have helped many others like you and have trained thousands of Healthcare Providers on how to be more clinically competent and sensitive in their care. Let's do the work together!
(202) 899-8456 View (202) 899-8456
Photo of Joanne Zucchetto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Joanne Zucchetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
My belief that the therapeutic relationship is the key element of successful treatment informs my practice. This working relationship, based on mutual trust and shared goals, allows for self-exploration and ultimately personal growth. In working with individuals, couples, families and/or groups I think that connecting the dots between past and present allows the client to have a better grasp on what is influencing her/his feelings and life choices leading to greater empowerment and life satisfaction.
My belief that the therapeutic relationship is the key element of successful treatment informs my practice. This working relationship, based on mutual trust and shared goals, allows for self-exploration and ultimately personal growth. In working with individuals, couples, families and/or groups I think that connecting the dots between past and present allows the client to have a better grasp on what is influencing her/his feelings and life choices leading to greater empowerment and life satisfaction.
(410) 988-2167 View (410) 988-2167
Photo of Christopher Straley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Christopher Straley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CGP, CST
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience providing mental health services, primarily to men, individuals and couples, who are struggling with relationship issues, sexual health, and/or substance use issues, my focus is on helping you feel better. If you are struggling to feel connected with your partner, or others in your life, therapy can help. As a relationship specialist, I work with you, to help understand and improve communication, heal past ruptures, and increase intimacy - emotional and sexual. We may also work together to decrease your sexual performance anxiety, increase confidence, and pleasure.
With over 20 years of experience providing mental health services, primarily to men, individuals and couples, who are struggling with relationship issues, sexual health, and/or substance use issues, my focus is on helping you feel better. If you are struggling to feel connected with your partner, or others in your life, therapy can help. As a relationship specialist, I work with you, to help understand and improve communication, heal past ruptures, and increase intimacy - emotional and sexual. We may also work together to decrease your sexual performance anxiety, increase confidence, and pleasure.
(202) 670-6926 View (202) 670-6926
Photo of Alexander Gorodetsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Alexander Gorodetsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My professional and personal experience makes me uniquely qualified to help bilingual couples and families, recent immigrants as well as foreign professionals and students to cope with multi-cultural and adjustment issues, immigration and acculturation stress, emotional disturbances and identity problems.
As children, we are learning from interactions with our parents who we are and how to fit into the world around us. After we leave home, we become our own parents as we continue to learn about ourselves and how to find our own place in life. And when we have families of our own, we are now parents both for our children and for ourselves, as we continue to understand more about who we are. I provide a warm, empathic and accepting environment where you can explore your current life challenges, as well as address past issues that impact your everyday life.
My professional and personal experience makes me uniquely qualified to help bilingual couples and families, recent immigrants as well as foreign professionals and students to cope with multi-cultural and adjustment issues, immigration and acculturation stress, emotional disturbances and identity problems.
As children, we are learning from interactions with our parents who we are and how to fit into the world around us. After we leave home, we become our own parents as we continue to learn about ourselves and how to find our own place in life. And when we have families of our own, we are now parents both for our children and for ourselves, as we continue to understand more about who we are. I provide a warm, empathic and accepting environment where you can explore your current life challenges, as well as address past issues that impact your everyday life.
(301) 355-2172 View (301) 355-2172
Photo of William G McVey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
William G McVey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals regain control and find fulfillment. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals regain control and find fulfillment. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
(202) 915-2081 View (202) 915-2081
Photo of Michael A Vigorito, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Michael A Vigorito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CGP, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
(202) 949-7872 View (202) 949-7872
Photo of Lori Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lori Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
(240) 669-2573 View (240) 669-2573
Photo of Alloy Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Alloy Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Are you tired of arguing and not seeing eye to eye in any of your relationships? Has infidelity resulted in trust concerns in your marriage? Are you struggling with being able to successful have hard conversations with your employees? Are you struggling with childhood trauma? Are you and your partner thinking about marriage? As a wellness practice, Alloy Wellness believe's that relationship's are the central tenant of our lives. Our philosophy is that in order to begin creating change, one must first understand the complexities of their interpersonal relationships. We provide therapy for Individuals, couples, and families.
Are you tired of arguing and not seeing eye to eye in any of your relationships? Has infidelity resulted in trust concerns in your marriage? Are you struggling with being able to successful have hard conversations with your employees? Are you struggling with childhood trauma? Are you and your partner thinking about marriage? As a wellness practice, Alloy Wellness believe's that relationship's are the central tenant of our lives. Our philosophy is that in order to begin creating change, one must first understand the complexities of their interpersonal relationships. We provide therapy for Individuals, couples, and families.
View
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.