Photo of Cynthia Rebholz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Cynthia Rebholz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34120  (Online Only)
We help couples repair and rekindle.
At Vibrant Life Practice, we believe everyone is worthy of connection and acceptance. It's important to feel comfortable in your own skin. Today's fast paced world is sometimes stressful, and life experiences can leave emotional wounds, rob our self-confidence, entangle our relationships and drain our energy to move towards our goals and dreams. Our therapy helps you connect to your inner world, reduce negative thinking, anxiety and shame to find solutions built on truth and trust. Come be the best version of yourself, everything you need is already part of you. Let's work together to find your vibrant life.
We help couples repair and rekindle.
At Vibrant Life Practice, we believe everyone is worthy of connection and acceptance. It's important to feel comfortable in your own skin. Today's fast paced world is sometimes stressful, and life experiences can leave emotional wounds, rob our self-confidence, entangle our relationships and drain our energy to move towards our goals and dreams. Our therapy helps you connect to your inner world, reduce negative thinking, anxiety and shame to find solutions built on truth and trust. Come be the best version of yourself, everything you need is already part of you. Let's work together to find your vibrant life.
(239) 310-6370 View (239) 310-6370
Photo of Elizabeth Perrogon, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Naples, FL
Elizabeth Perrogon
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34104
I help individuals, couples, and families comprehend their goals by using appropriate and suitable diagnoses, assessments, and a variety of evidence-based treatment interventions. I embrace the counseling profession’s importance on progress, wellness, encouragement, and empowerment when working with clients facing problems and seeking our support. I provide a warm and welcoming environment that allows clients to feel safe and secure in order to open themselves up when they feel ready. I am here as a tool to guide and encourage my clients by working with them and helping them to develop a plan to be able to achieve their goals.
I help individuals, couples, and families comprehend their goals by using appropriate and suitable diagnoses, assessments, and a variety of evidence-based treatment interventions. I embrace the counseling profession’s importance on progress, wellness, encouragement, and empowerment when working with clients facing problems and seeking our support. I provide a warm and welcoming environment that allows clients to feel safe and secure in order to open themselves up when they feel ready. I am here as a tool to guide and encourage my clients by working with them and helping them to develop a plan to be able to achieve their goals.
(239) 946-1982 View (239) 946-1982
Photo of Udo Fischer, Counselor in Naples, FL
Udo Fischer
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, Dipl, Psych
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34108
Utilizing the wealth of this background, I employ a conflict management approach for couples and families equally applicable in educational, business and diplomatic contexts.
"All that we are is the result of what we have thought." For generations, this wisdom has been a cornerstone of the philosophies and religions of man. It reflects the essence of dynamic and transformational therapy and provides the keys to our happiness and success. With a true understanding of the profound yet practical validity of this statement, there is no psychological or life issue that I can not show you how to manage! Proven by research to be the most effective approach both in long and short term outcome, Cognitive Behavior Therapy lies in perfect harmony with such wisdom.
Utilizing the wealth of this background, I employ a conflict management approach for couples and families equally applicable in educational, business and diplomatic contexts.
"All that we are is the result of what we have thought." For generations, this wisdom has been a cornerstone of the philosophies and religions of man. It reflects the essence of dynamic and transformational therapy and provides the keys to our happiness and success. With a true understanding of the profound yet practical validity of this statement, there is no psychological or life issue that I can not show you how to manage! Proven by research to be the most effective approach both in long and short term outcome, Cognitive Behavior Therapy lies in perfect harmony with such wisdom.
(239) 321-5635 View (239) 321-5635
Photo of Robin Fatovic, Pre-Licensed Professional in Naples, FL
Robin Fatovic
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34102
Fatovic has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, grief, substance abuse, attentional issues, medical conditions, trauma, adjustment issues, and many other presenting concerns.
Dr. Fatovic completed her clinical internship at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, Florida. Her work there included providing mental health services to the veteran population in a variety of settings. This work included individual therapy and group therapy, comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments, pre-surgical clearance assessments, bedside therapy for physical rehabilitation, psychosocial and substance abuse rehabilitation, outreach with law enforcement, and interdisciplinary work with the Miami-Dade courts to advocate for justice-involved veterans.
Fatovic has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, grief, substance abuse, attentional issues, medical conditions, trauma, adjustment issues, and many other presenting concerns.
Dr. Fatovic completed her clinical internship at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami, Florida. Her work there included providing mental health services to the veteran population in a variety of settings. This work included individual therapy and group therapy, comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments, pre-surgical clearance assessments, bedside therapy for physical rehabilitation, psychosocial and substance abuse rehabilitation, outreach with law enforcement, and interdisciplinary work with the Miami-Dade courts to advocate for justice-involved veterans.
(239) 522-8083 View (239) 522-8083
Photo of April Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
April Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34108
As a psychotherapist, relationship specialist, and health coach, I have extensive experience and training to help clients who are suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship and health issues.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, angry or stuck? Are you experiencing issues with your relationships: marriage, family, friends, or career? Are you having difficulty making decisions? Is fear, lack of motivation or sabotaging behaviors getting in the way of your true potential? Does the fear of letting go and creating something new feel uncomfortable or impossible? If you have answered "Yes" to any of the above questions, I can help!
As a psychotherapist, relationship specialist, and health coach, I have extensive experience and training to help clients who are suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship and health issues.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, angry or stuck? Are you experiencing issues with your relationships: marriage, family, friends, or career? Are you having difficulty making decisions? Is fear, lack of motivation or sabotaging behaviors getting in the way of your true potential? Does the fear of letting go and creating something new feel uncomfortable or impossible? If you have answered "Yes" to any of the above questions, I can help!
(239) 230-4475 View (239) 230-4475
Photo of V. Colleen Carr, Psychologist in Naples, FL
V. Colleen Carr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
V. Colleen Carr, Ph.D. is a licensed Psychologist who has been in practice in the Naples and Fort Myers area for about 20 years. Confidentiality, caring and the highest professional standards are hallmarks of her practice. She draws upon her extensive experience and knowledge of differing theoretical approaches in her work with individuals, couples and families as well as adults, adolescents and elders. Problems addressed include, depression, post trauma, anxiety, and related behavioral disorders. She earned her undergraduate degree from Cornell University and her doctorate and master's degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi.
V. Colleen Carr, Ph.D. is a licensed Psychologist who has been in practice in the Naples and Fort Myers area for about 20 years. Confidentiality, caring and the highest professional standards are hallmarks of her practice. She draws upon her extensive experience and knowledge of differing theoretical approaches in her work with individuals, couples and families as well as adults, adolescents and elders. Problems addressed include, depression, post trauma, anxiety, and related behavioral disorders. She earned her undergraduate degree from Cornell University and her doctorate and master's degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi.
(239) 494-5308 View (239) 494-5308
Photo of Dr. Sonya Boggs, Licensed Master Social Worker in Naples, FL
Dr. Sonya Boggs
Licensed Master Social Worker, DMFT, DHA, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34104  (Online Only)
Meeting with a therapist can also be anxiety inducing especially if you are a private person, you have trust issues, trained not to share your problems with others, or there is a negative stigma about seeking professional help for relationship and/or mental health in your culture.
Congratulations on taking the first step to a new beginning. I would love to assist you during your transition from the life you have now to the life you want. As a Doctor of Marriage & Family Therapy and trauma specialist, I am passionate about treating issues caused by stress, anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, addictions, relationships, PTSD, OCD, and culture/religion. My aim is to help others improve their overall well-being by assisting clients with enhancing their emotional intelligence, developing effective communication patterns, facilitating positive behavioral changes, and identifying healthy coping strategies.
Meeting with a therapist can also be anxiety inducing especially if you are a private person, you have trust issues, trained not to share your problems with others, or there is a negative stigma about seeking professional help for relationship and/or mental health in your culture.
Congratulations on taking the first step to a new beginning. I would love to assist you during your transition from the life you have now to the life you want. As a Doctor of Marriage & Family Therapy and trauma specialist, I am passionate about treating issues caused by stress, anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, addictions, relationships, PTSD, OCD, and culture/religion. My aim is to help others improve their overall well-being by assisting clients with enhancing their emotional intelligence, developing effective communication patterns, facilitating positive behavioral changes, and identifying healthy coping strategies.
(239) 388-7332 View (239) 388-7332
Photo of Molli E. Mercer, Counselor in Naples, FL
Molli E. Mercer
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34119
I earned my master's degree in Couples and Family Counseling and my doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. Whether you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, a couple experiencing a loss of intimacy, or a child adjusting to life transitions, I can help you develop the best solutions to your problems. I specialize in building healthy relationships, healthy expressions of sexuality and sex positivity, play therapy, and utilize a solution-focused approach. I am passionate about working with people from all walks of life to help them move toward the healthiest versions of themselves.
I earned my master's degree in Couples and Family Counseling and my doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. Whether you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, a couple experiencing a loss of intimacy, or a child adjusting to life transitions, I can help you develop the best solutions to your problems. I specialize in building healthy relationships, healthy expressions of sexuality and sex positivity, play therapy, and utilize a solution-focused approach. I am passionate about working with people from all walks of life to help them move toward the healthiest versions of themselves.
(239) 572-0974 View (239) 572-0974
Photo of Mary Ann Whalen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
Mary Ann Whalen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
I work with adults as individuals and in couples and families.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
I work with adults as individuals and in couples and families.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
(707) 236-8794 View (707) 236-8794
Photo of Sara L Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Sara L Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
therapeutically engaging with individuals and families to support optimal behavioral functioning, emotional healing, positive relationship formation, personal empowerment and validation/positive development of the client's sense of meaning; and, 3.
My Treatment Mission is to provide cutting edge psychotherapy treatment services for individuals and families applying specializations in developmental psychology, relationship-based treatment, biological individual differences, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I deliver advanced methodologies, which are unique in Southwest Florida, for children 0-5 and for individuals of any age with what are often misunderstood neurodevelopment issues: including, but not limited to, issues of attachment, autism spectrum, mood disorders, and in utero toxic exposure. I also treat survivors of trauma, those seeking therapy for personal growth and help in working through challenging life events and relationships.
therapeutically engaging with individuals and families to support optimal behavioral functioning, emotional healing, positive relationship formation, personal empowerment and validation/positive development of the client's sense of meaning; and, 3.
My Treatment Mission is to provide cutting edge psychotherapy treatment services for individuals and families applying specializations in developmental psychology, relationship-based treatment, biological individual differences, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I deliver advanced methodologies, which are unique in Southwest Florida, for children 0-5 and for individuals of any age with what are often misunderstood neurodevelopment issues: including, but not limited to, issues of attachment, autism spectrum, mood disorders, and in utero toxic exposure. I also treat survivors of trauma, those seeking therapy for personal growth and help in working through challenging life events and relationships.
(239) 676-0926 View (239) 676-0926
Photo of Dr. Amy Clark, Pastoral Counselor in Naples, FL
Dr. Amy Clark
Pastoral Counselor, DMin
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
I offer Individual, Family, and Couples counseling.
You are one step closer to feeling more in control of your life. Reaching out for help is a brave, and sometimes scary, thing to do. My goal is to help you through the immediate problems that have led you here, and to also teach the skills needed to have better control of your emotions in the future. You can find peace within yourself and your relationships through a process of self-reflection, effective communication, and healthy boundaries.
I offer Individual, Family, and Couples counseling.
You are one step closer to feeling more in control of your life. Reaching out for help is a brave, and sometimes scary, thing to do. My goal is to help you through the immediate problems that have led you here, and to also teach the skills needed to have better control of your emotions in the future. You can find peace within yourself and your relationships through a process of self-reflection, effective communication, and healthy boundaries.
(239) 309-2681 View (239) 309-2681
Photo of Carol Cirabisi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Carol Cirabisi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34102
Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, I can help you navigate through the stuck places.
We all want to feel connected, right? To feel we belong and are seen, understood, valued and accepted for who we are. Often, how we protect ourselves from our own fears and vulnerabilities keeps us from allowing others to really know who we are. We hide our tender hearts and limit our true selves, for fear of being hurt. However, in doing so, we live "small;" our lives and our relationships can become diminished, unsatisfying, and hopeless. Wouldn't you rather live in truth, shining your brightest light?
Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, I can help you navigate through the stuck places.
We all want to feel connected, right? To feel we belong and are seen, understood, valued and accepted for who we are. Often, how we protect ourselves from our own fears and vulnerabilities keeps us from allowing others to really know who we are. We hide our tender hearts and limit our true selves, for fear of being hurt. However, in doing so, we live "small;" our lives and our relationships can become diminished, unsatisfying, and hopeless. Wouldn't you rather live in truth, shining your brightest light?
(239) 471-4469 View (239) 471-4469
Photo of Cynthia Ochoa Yzaguirre, Counselor in Naples, FL
Cynthia Ochoa Yzaguirre
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MEd, RYT-200, ADOS
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
I have over 30 years of experience in helping individuals of all ages, couples and families learn to survive life's struggles. I have counseled individuals for anxiety, grief, stress, anger, relationship issues and more. I've interned in an adult addiction program, domestic violence program and a healing arts program. Now, serving Lee and Collier Counties, I'm honored to be able to help many more individuals, couples, and families. If you are in the Naples, Fort Myers Beach, or Immokalee areas call me. I look forward to collaborating together with you. I am also available to administer the ADOS-2 assessment for autism.
I have over 30 years of experience in helping individuals of all ages, couples and families learn to survive life's struggles. I have counseled individuals for anxiety, grief, stress, anger, relationship issues and more. I've interned in an adult addiction program, domestic violence program and a healing arts program. Now, serving Lee and Collier Counties, I'm honored to be able to help many more individuals, couples, and families. If you are in the Naples, Fort Myers Beach, or Immokalee areas call me. I look forward to collaborating together with you. I am also available to administer the ADOS-2 assessment for autism.
(239) 208-5193 View (239) 208-5193
Photo of Natalie Davidson, Counselor in Naples, FL
Natalie Davidson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
I work with Existential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, & Couples/Family Therapy most often.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I provide Individual therapy (ages 10+), Family therapy, and Marriage therapy sessions. I offer a safe space to explore your emotions and past experiences. I will offer you unconditional positive regard and advocate for you deeply with empathy and understanding. I will offer techniques and exercises to help you. I will help to improve the quality of your relationships & your life through better communication and boundaries. I offer a Communication Workshop for couples and families. Typically clients stay with my practice long term. You can read client reviews on my website or on Google Maps.
I work with Existential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, & Couples/Family Therapy most often.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I provide Individual therapy (ages 10+), Family therapy, and Marriage therapy sessions. I offer a safe space to explore your emotions and past experiences. I will offer you unconditional positive regard and advocate for you deeply with empathy and understanding. I will offer techniques and exercises to help you. I will help to improve the quality of your relationships & your life through better communication and boundaries. I offer a Communication Workshop for couples and families. Typically clients stay with my practice long term. You can read client reviews on my website or on Google Maps.
(239) 299-9638 View (239) 299-9638
Photo of Holly Zazo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Naples, FL
Holly Zazo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34109
Feeling stuck, lost and unsure where to turn? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I am passionate about working with adults and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, addictions and unhealthy relationship patterns. I can help you to heal and move forward into a life in which you feel secure, joyful and capable. I am also passionate about using Art Therapy to help children and teens struggling to cope with the many challenges they face, or heal from traumatic experiences.
Feeling stuck, lost and unsure where to turn? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I am passionate about working with adults and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, addictions and unhealthy relationship patterns. I can help you to heal and move forward into a life in which you feel secure, joyful and capable. I am also passionate about using Art Therapy to help children and teens struggling to cope with the many challenges they face, or heal from traumatic experiences.
(786) 244-7768 View (786) 244-7768
Photo of Brian Granneman, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Naples, FL
Brian Granneman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CAP, RMHCI, TIRF
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34102
I have used my life to serve others in a variety of ways - a Police Officer, a Child Protective Investigator, and now as a Counselor and Certified Addictions Professional. It is truly my honor to be a collaborative partner in helping others heal, stop self-defeating patterns, and break their own personal chains, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.
I have used my life to serve others in a variety of ways - a Police Officer, a Child Protective Investigator, and now as a Counselor and Certified Addictions Professional. It is truly my honor to be a collaborative partner in helping others heal, stop self-defeating patterns, and break their own personal chains, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.
(239) 212-1500 View (239) 212-1500
Photo of Alison M. Slater, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
Alison M. Slater, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34108  (Online Only)
Whether struggling with a specific challenge in life or relationship, or continuing your growth on the ever-expanding spiritual path of life, it is my passion to share this journey with you. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and utilize mindfulness-based techniques (such as meditation, visualization and body awareness) united with elements of more traditional modalities. Encompassing a holistic approach to therapy, all aspects of the client's life are included to increase balance and self-awareness, identify personal therapeutic goals, and then to co-create the most enriching path toward optimal health.
Whether struggling with a specific challenge in life or relationship, or continuing your growth on the ever-expanding spiritual path of life, it is my passion to share this journey with you. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and utilize mindfulness-based techniques (such as meditation, visualization and body awareness) united with elements of more traditional modalities. Encompassing a holistic approach to therapy, all aspects of the client's life are included to increase balance and self-awareness, identify personal therapeutic goals, and then to co-create the most enriching path toward optimal health.
(239) 747-1044 View (239) 747-1044
Photo of Alicia Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
Alicia Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW-QS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34109
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to holding a Masters in Social Work and a Masters of Education, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Incident Reduction (TIR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Clinical Sexology.
Currently, I am not accepting clients, but I have therapists in my office who do! Call our office to match you to one of our amazing therapists! You are doing the best you can and yet, it can seem like it's not enough sometimes. You may be struggling with the effects of a painful past, neglect, abuse, unhealthy relationship(s), family struggles, professional underachievement, loss, depression, and/or anxiety. I strive to provide a place where you can feel safe to do the work you need. I have specialized training in relationships, trauma, and sexuality.
In addition to holding a Masters in Social Work and a Masters of Education, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Incident Reduction (TIR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Clinical Sexology.
Currently, I am not accepting clients, but I have therapists in my office who do! Call our office to match you to one of our amazing therapists! You are doing the best you can and yet, it can seem like it's not enough sometimes. You may be struggling with the effects of a painful past, neglect, abuse, unhealthy relationship(s), family struggles, professional underachievement, loss, depression, and/or anxiety. I strive to provide a place where you can feel safe to do the work you need. I have specialized training in relationships, trauma, and sexuality.
(239) 451-5983 View (239) 451-5983
Photo of Carol Roldan, Counselor in Naples, FL
Carol Roldan
Counselor, LMHC, CMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
Let me help you to reset your brain, heal your emotions and renew your life NOW. Are you depressed, anxious? Engaging in toxic relationships? Lonely? Feeling stuck? Going through divorce or separation? Grieving? Change your mind and your life will change; guidance awaits, start today! Learn to become the master of mind. Accepting individuals, families and couples.
Let me help you to reset your brain, heal your emotions and renew your life NOW. Are you depressed, anxious? Engaging in toxic relationships? Lonely? Feeling stuck? Going through divorce or separation? Grieving? Change your mind and your life will change; guidance awaits, start today! Learn to become the master of mind. Accepting individuals, families and couples.
(239) 319-4484 View (239) 319-4484
Photo of Mary Leanes, Counselor in Naples, FL
Mary Leanes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34119  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
(727) 359-0335 View (727) 359-0335
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.