Photo of Silver Lining Counseling of Lakeland, LLC, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Silver Lining Counseling of Lakeland, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813
In over 20 years of work with individuals and couples, and as a supervisor of other therapists, I have gained experience in working with problems including motivation and attention issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, procrastination, addictions and relationship problems. I have an interactive style which draws on cognitive-behavioral theory (CBT), interpersonal and developmental psychology. Together we will gain an understanding of the emotional, mental and behavioral habits which are getting in the way of you realizing your potential and preventing you from meeting your needs. " Do the work, see the progress"
In over 20 years of work with individuals and couples, and as a supervisor of other therapists, I have gained experience in working with problems including motivation and attention issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, procrastination, addictions and relationship problems. I have an interactive style which draws on cognitive-behavioral theory (CBT), interpersonal and developmental psychology. Together we will gain an understanding of the emotional, mental and behavioral habits which are getting in the way of you realizing your potential and preventing you from meeting your needs. " Do the work, see the progress"
(863) 546-4874 View (863) 546-4874
Photo of ABC Mental Health & Relationship Counseling, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
ABC Mental Health & Relationship Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MFT
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813
I provide counseling and therapy for couples, families, adults, teenagers, and children, in both individual and group settings.
My name is Yilmaz Taskin. As a certified Marriage & Family Therapist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I offer an open-minded, non-judgmental, and empathetic counseling/therapy approach in a safe and supportive environment. Some problems, in our lives, are either self-imposed or imposed on us by other means. What we perceive might be different than reality. Negative beliefs affect us mentally and physically. Misinterpretations and irrational or self-defeating beliefs can create unhappy feelings, self-doubt, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc. Problems don’t go away by themselves, we need to resolve them.
I provide counseling and therapy for couples, families, adults, teenagers, and children, in both individual and group settings.
My name is Yilmaz Taskin. As a certified Marriage & Family Therapist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I offer an open-minded, non-judgmental, and empathetic counseling/therapy approach in a safe and supportive environment. Some problems, in our lives, are either self-imposed or imposed on us by other means. What we perceive might be different than reality. Negative beliefs affect us mentally and physically. Misinterpretations and irrational or self-defeating beliefs can create unhappy feelings, self-doubt, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc. Problems don’t go away by themselves, we need to resolve them.
(863) 397-3240 View (863) 397-3240
Photo of Dr. Linda K Creech, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Dr. Linda K Creech
Counselor, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33810
As a Christian counselor certified in EFT, I help couples and women move from relationships where they may feel rejected or alone to ones where they experience real love and acceptance, a true haven of safety.
You are made for connection. So why do you feel so disconnected from those who matter most? You find yourself on edge, angry or irritable with those you love. There's no one to lean on, no one to trust. It feels more like you and your spouse are roommates. You feel blamed for what's wrong in your marriage. You’re wondering if this is what life is really all about. You feel so alone in your pain. It's all you can do to just keep functioning day after day. Things seem hopeless, you feel even God has left you alone.
As a Christian counselor certified in EFT, I help couples and women move from relationships where they may feel rejected or alone to ones where they experience real love and acceptance, a true haven of safety.
You are made for connection. So why do you feel so disconnected from those who matter most? You find yourself on edge, angry or irritable with those you love. There's no one to lean on, no one to trust. It feels more like you and your spouse are roommates. You feel blamed for what's wrong in your marriage. You’re wondering if this is what life is really all about. You feel so alone in your pain. It's all you can do to just keep functioning day after day. Things seem hopeless, you feel even God has left you alone.
(863) 333-9411 View (863) 333-9411
Photo of Better Together Marriage and Family Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakeland, FL
Better Together Marriage and Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
I am licensed in the state of Florida since 2011 and I am also a Qualified Supervisor for RCI's. Relationships are a full time job and can be overwhelming yet so worth it. My professional mission is to provide my clients with the tools that they need to make everyday life fulfilling and purposeful. My specialty is working with couples to overcome barriers and to find their love again. Its important to note that yes couples are Better Together but in reality sometimes they are better a part and co parenting at a distance. Lets work together, the Best is Yet to come!
I am licensed in the state of Florida since 2011 and I am also a Qualified Supervisor for RCI's. Relationships are a full time job and can be overwhelming yet so worth it. My professional mission is to provide my clients with the tools that they need to make everyday life fulfilling and purposeful. My specialty is working with couples to overcome barriers and to find their love again. Its important to note that yes couples are Better Together but in reality sometimes they are better a part and co parenting at a distance. Lets work together, the Best is Yet to come!
(239) 230-3806 View (239) 230-3806
Photo of Jamie G Smith, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Lakeland, FL
Jamie G Smith
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33803
I work with couples at any stage in their relationship.
Another fight? Another ugly stare? Another slammed door? I get it. Right now, the negative interactions probably seem to outweigh the positive ones. Or maybe, there is daily tension, anger, or resentment that continues to build causing long silences, avoidance, or loud and heated exchanges. It is possible to create the relationship you truly desire by making small, daily changes based on a realistic understanding of where you are and where you want to be. Stop running in circles and getting the same results. Are you ready to see a change? With time, practice, and a little patience, you will take control AND enjoy life.
I work with couples at any stage in their relationship.
Another fight? Another ugly stare? Another slammed door? I get it. Right now, the negative interactions probably seem to outweigh the positive ones. Or maybe, there is daily tension, anger, or resentment that continues to build causing long silences, avoidance, or loud and heated exchanges. It is possible to create the relationship you truly desire by making small, daily changes based on a realistic understanding of where you are and where you want to be. Stop running in circles and getting the same results. Are you ready to see a change? With time, practice, and a little patience, you will take control AND enjoy life.
(863) 591-8324 View (863) 591-8324
Photo of James Miller, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
James Miller
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
Life is stressful, relationships are tricky, emotions can be tough - and sometimes you need someone to help navigate it all. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families get on steadier ground.
Life is stressful, relationships are tricky, emotions can be tough - and sometimes you need someone to help navigate it all. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families get on steadier ground.
(863) 204-2641 View (863) 204-2641
Photo of Porter's Sound Counseling, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Porter's Sound Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Porter's Sound was created to be a safe harbor for the local community. We offer professional faith-based therapeutic care for Adults, Children, Adolescents, Individuals, Couples, and/or Families.
Porter's Sound was created to be a safe harbor for the local community. We offer professional faith-based therapeutic care for Adults, Children, Adolescents, Individuals, Couples, and/or Families.
(863) 845-1510 View (863) 845-1510
Photo of Jason C Weiland, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Jason C Weiland
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803  (Online Only)
I help you adjust to life's emotional journey by addressing Stress, Depression, Grief/Loss, LGBTQ issues, Anxiety and Relationship issues.
Does your work and home life make you feel like you want to run away and hide? Is your life satisfaction at an all-time low? No surprise...you're stressed out, overwhelmed, anxious and seriously wondering what's the point?!?! Your digital life is a mess, all while juggling endless emails, daunting deadlines, tiresome meetings...and then faking a smile for the latest selfie. Even in the rare breakaway with your co-workers or friends, you find them judging that bald spot on the sides of your head where you're tearing your hair out over all the stress.
I help you adjust to life's emotional journey by addressing Stress, Depression, Grief/Loss, LGBTQ issues, Anxiety and Relationship issues.
Does your work and home life make you feel like you want to run away and hide? Is your life satisfaction at an all-time low? No surprise...you're stressed out, overwhelmed, anxious and seriously wondering what's the point?!?! Your digital life is a mess, all while juggling endless emails, daunting deadlines, tiresome meetings...and then faking a smile for the latest selfie. Even in the rare breakaway with your co-workers or friends, you find them judging that bald spot on the sides of your head where you're tearing your hair out over all the stress.
(863) 301-0309 View (863) 301-0309
Photo of Catherine M Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakeland, FL
Catherine M Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33801
Couples! How did things get this bad? There was a time when you both could talk about anything. You connected so profoundly that the thought of having trouble communicating was laughable. But things have changed, and you're at an impasse. Now, every attempt at communication about what matters most leads to useless fighting or icy silences. When you’re together, you still feel desperately alone. You don’t recognize the person your partner has become. Even worse, you don’t like who this relationship has made you become. You aren’t ready to give up, but you know that things can't continue like this. You’re ready for help.
Couples! How did things get this bad? There was a time when you both could talk about anything. You connected so profoundly that the thought of having trouble communicating was laughable. But things have changed, and you're at an impasse. Now, every attempt at communication about what matters most leads to useless fighting or icy silences. When you’re together, you still feel desperately alone. You don’t recognize the person your partner has become. Even worse, you don’t like who this relationship has made you become. You aren’t ready to give up, but you know that things can't continue like this. You’re ready for help.
(813) 212-2185 View (813) 212-2185
Photo of Alyssia Beckner, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Alyssia Beckner
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
My clients typically feel stuck and want to see the situation through a lens of hope. I love helping people, couples, and polycules see their strengths and work their way out of their struggles to a better life! I can't make bad things stop happening in life, but I can help guide my clients to healthy coping skills and new perspectives to get them to a life worth living. I have a passion for working with the LGBT+, ENM/Polyamorous, minority, and Kink communities. I am proficient in helping with issues related to trauma. I especially love to help empower the oppressed and the people who are made to feel "less than."
My clients typically feel stuck and want to see the situation through a lens of hope. I love helping people, couples, and polycules see their strengths and work their way out of their struggles to a better life! I can't make bad things stop happening in life, but I can help guide my clients to healthy coping skills and new perspectives to get them to a life worth living. I have a passion for working with the LGBT+, ENM/Polyamorous, minority, and Kink communities. I am proficient in helping with issues related to trauma. I especially love to help empower the oppressed and the people who are made to feel "less than."
(863) 591-5616 View (863) 591-5616
Photo of Gary Sawyer, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Gary Sawyer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
I specialize in : Couples counseling, Premarital Counseling, Men's issues, Midlife Issues for Men and Women, Grief counseling, Problems with Adult Children, College Students, Senior Citizens, Help in dealing with Depression and Anxiety.
I counsel from a Biblical worldview to help a variety of people who have been broken and challenged by the trials of life. I am a member of Focus on The Family's Christian Counselor Network. My 30 years in the business world, community and church service have prepared me to care for individuals in a particularly personal way. Life can be very hard, disappointing and messy! Guiding people back to a path of healing, hope, and fulfillment is something I am very passionate about !
I specialize in : Couples counseling, Premarital Counseling, Men's issues, Midlife Issues for Men and Women, Grief counseling, Problems with Adult Children, College Students, Senior Citizens, Help in dealing with Depression and Anxiety.
I counsel from a Biblical worldview to help a variety of people who have been broken and challenged by the trials of life. I am a member of Focus on The Family's Christian Counselor Network. My 30 years in the business world, community and church service have prepared me to care for individuals in a particularly personal way. Life can be very hard, disappointing and messy! Guiding people back to a path of healing, hope, and fulfillment is something I am very passionate about !
(813) 708-1886 View (813) 708-1886
Photo of Bob Scarff, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Bob Scarff
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813
I have worked in a number of client settings to address the needs of children, at-risk teenagers, adults, families, and couples.
Life is challenging. Often more is expected of us while we struggle to manage those demands. This is made even more difficult when dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, and other emotions that can drain us physically and influence our thoughts and behaviors. You don't have to face this alone. We can work together to help you find peace of mind through processing core issues and developing skills to meet future challenges.
I have worked in a number of client settings to address the needs of children, at-risk teenagers, adults, families, and couples.
Life is challenging. Often more is expected of us while we struggle to manage those demands. This is made even more difficult when dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, and other emotions that can drain us physically and influence our thoughts and behaviors. You don't have to face this alone. We can work together to help you find peace of mind through processing core issues and developing skills to meet future challenges.
(863) 840-9544 View (863) 840-9544
Photo of Alina C Ghitea, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakeland, FL
Alina C Ghitea
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33803
My specialties include anxiety disorders and couples counseling.
Our modern culture sets an accelerated external rhythm, As a therapist, I have observed that this rhythm has contributed to higher levels of stress, which has fueled increasing levels of depression, anxiety and loss of connection in relationship. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, racing thoughts, panic, burnout, loneliness and isolation. Using a framework of CBT, I partner with individuals to help them challenge negative messages of worry and self-doubt. In working with couples my goal is to help create emotional intimacy and maturity in relationship. I collaborate with clients in developing growth and optimal functioning.
My specialties include anxiety disorders and couples counseling.
Our modern culture sets an accelerated external rhythm, As a therapist, I have observed that this rhythm has contributed to higher levels of stress, which has fueled increasing levels of depression, anxiety and loss of connection in relationship. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, racing thoughts, panic, burnout, loneliness and isolation. Using a framework of CBT, I partner with individuals to help them challenge negative messages of worry and self-doubt. In working with couples my goal is to help create emotional intimacy and maturity in relationship. I collaborate with clients in developing growth and optimal functioning.
(813) 790-7030 View (813) 790-7030
Photo of Therapeutic Well-Being, LLC , Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakeland, FL
Therapeutic Well-Being, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Florida with six years of professional work experience. I am also registered with the state of Florida as a Mental Health Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, family conflict, anger management, grief, ADHD, self-esteem, career difficulties, intimacy issues, & depression. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Moral Recognition Therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Florida with six years of professional work experience. I am also registered with the state of Florida as a Mental Health Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, family conflict, anger management, grief, ADHD, self-esteem, career difficulties, intimacy issues, & depression. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Moral Recognition Therapy, and EMDR.
(863) 592-8023 View (863) 592-8023
Photo of Katherine Pilarte Emerick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakeland, FL
Katherine Pilarte Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
When working with a therapist, in terms of your relationship, it is important to have a therapist with the education and knowledge base to help bridge families and couples together.
Hablo Español! Are you dealing with overwhelming or racing thoughts, low self-esteem, sadness, relational issues with a loved one or spouse, or adjusting to new life changes? I am a bilingual therapist with experience in working with teens, adults, couples, and families. My approach to counseling is person-centered. I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to open up about their current/past struggles. I utilize ACT therapy to help clients acknowledge their emotions in the moment. I focus on allowing you to live your life according to your personal values.
When working with a therapist, in terms of your relationship, it is important to have a therapist with the education and knowledge base to help bridge families and couples together.
Hablo Español! Are you dealing with overwhelming or racing thoughts, low self-esteem, sadness, relational issues with a loved one or spouse, or adjusting to new life changes? I am a bilingual therapist with experience in working with teens, adults, couples, and families. My approach to counseling is person-centered. I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to open up about their current/past struggles. I utilize ACT therapy to help clients acknowledge their emotions in the moment. I focus on allowing you to live your life according to your personal values.
(863) 591-5145 View (863) 591-5145
Photo of Norma Jo Vaillette, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Norma Jo Vaillette
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Waitlist for new clients
Hi. My personal therapy style is to use all of my life learning and apply it to help you achieve your goals for feeling better. Many of my clients are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma or relationship conflict and behavior issues. I have training in substance abuse, hypnosis and Emotional Freedom Technique (an energy psychology technique), plus those therapy staples of Cognitive Behavioral Technique, Behavior Modification and relaxation training. I started in Music Therapy. I see children, teens, couples, families and individuals. I will be expanding to incorporate the Bonny Method of GIM which is trance work for healing.
Hi. My personal therapy style is to use all of my life learning and apply it to help you achieve your goals for feeling better. Many of my clients are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma or relationship conflict and behavior issues. I have training in substance abuse, hypnosis and Emotional Freedom Technique (an energy psychology technique), plus those therapy staples of Cognitive Behavioral Technique, Behavior Modification and relaxation training. I started in Music Therapy. I see children, teens, couples, families and individuals. I will be expanding to incorporate the Bonny Method of GIM which is trance work for healing.
(863) 578-5235 View (863) 578-5235
Photo of Kevin Berry, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Kevin Berry
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
As a mental health counselor, I love having the opportunity to help individuals, and couples work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated by someone who genuinely cares, can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. In truth, we all have moments of feeling overwhelmed by life. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive and have positive relationships. I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples. I hope that you will allow me to help you too!
As a mental health counselor, I love having the opportunity to help individuals, and couples work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated by someone who genuinely cares, can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. In truth, we all have moments of feeling overwhelmed by life. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive and have positive relationships. I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples. I hope that you will allow me to help you too!
(863) 592-2597 View (863) 592-2597
Photo of Robinson-Kyles Counseling and Testing Services, Psychologist in Lakeland, FL
Robinson-Kyles Counseling and Testing Services
Psychologist, PhD, MHC-sup
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33801
In working with individuals, couples or families, the counseling process fosters symptom relief while exploring new ways of functioning to enhance life fulfillment.
**Weekend and Evening appointments are now available!! Offering Services in Spanish, Creole and in English!! ** As a supervising clinical psychologist, Dr. Kyles has over 10 years of experience. At the center, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly from a variety of backgrounds gain the insight and strength to overcome a wide range of challenges. The persons that have sought assistance at the center have gained relief from depression, anxiety, conduct disorders, relationship conflict, career uncertainty, adjustments to change, major life events as well as other mental health concerns.
In working with individuals, couples or families, the counseling process fosters symptom relief while exploring new ways of functioning to enhance life fulfillment.
**Weekend and Evening appointments are now available!! Offering Services in Spanish, Creole and in English!! ** As a supervising clinical psychologist, Dr. Kyles has over 10 years of experience. At the center, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly from a variety of backgrounds gain the insight and strength to overcome a wide range of challenges. The persons that have sought assistance at the center have gained relief from depression, anxiety, conduct disorders, relationship conflict, career uncertainty, adjustments to change, major life events as well as other mental health concerns.
(863) 292-6459 View (863) 292-6459
Photo of Crystin Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Lakeland, FL
Crystin Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, RMFTI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
I work with couples, affair recovery, sexual issues, pregnancy, and postpartum support for couples or individuals.
My ideal clients value relationships and seek to improve them, whether as couples facing communication problems, conflicts, or infidelity, or as individuals struggling with self-esteem, sexual concerns, or emotional wounds. They need a safe space for open communication, skill development, and healing. Their goals include rebuilding trust, enhancing intimacy, fostering loving partnerships, improving communication, and achieving personal growth. They want to honor their self and each other. They understand the value of professional guidance for more fulfilling and harmonious relationships.
I work with couples, affair recovery, sexual issues, pregnancy, and postpartum support for couples or individuals.
My ideal clients value relationships and seek to improve them, whether as couples facing communication problems, conflicts, or infidelity, or as individuals struggling with self-esteem, sexual concerns, or emotional wounds. They need a safe space for open communication, skill development, and healing. Their goals include rebuilding trust, enhancing intimacy, fostering loving partnerships, improving communication, and achieving personal growth. They want to honor their self and each other. They understand the value of professional guidance for more fulfilling and harmonious relationships.
(813) 492-2058 View (813) 492-2058
Photo of Gary Sawyer, Counselor in Lakeland, FL
Gary Sawyer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33801
I specialize in : Couples counseling, Premarital Counseling, Men's issues, Midlife Issues for Men and Women, Grief counseling, Problems with Adult Children, Senior Citizens, Help in dealing with Depression and Anxiety.
ASK ABOUT VIDEO AND PHONE SESSIONS ! I counsel from a Biblical worldview to help a variety of people who have been broken and challenged by the trials of life. I am a member of Focus on the Family's Christian Counselors Network. My 30 years in the business world, community and church service have prepared me to care for individuals in a particularly personal way. Life can be very hard, disappointing and messy! Guiding people back to a path of healing, hope, and fulfillment is something I am very passionate about !
I specialize in : Couples counseling, Premarital Counseling, Men's issues, Midlife Issues for Men and Women, Grief counseling, Problems with Adult Children, Senior Citizens, Help in dealing with Depression and Anxiety.
ASK ABOUT VIDEO AND PHONE SESSIONS ! I counsel from a Biblical worldview to help a variety of people who have been broken and challenged by the trials of life. I am a member of Focus on the Family's Christian Counselors Network. My 30 years in the business world, community and church service have prepared me to care for individuals in a particularly personal way. Life can be very hard, disappointing and messy! Guiding people back to a path of healing, hope, and fulfillment is something I am very passionate about !
(813) 343-2666 View (813) 343-2666
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.