Photo of Tanya A Barkley-Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Tanya A Barkley-Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
I have over 25 years of social work practice and experience working within government agencies, non- profit organizations, and in a private practice setting. I work with individuals, couples, and families to support them in identifying challenges and setting goals to design the life they desire.
I have over 25 years of social work practice and experience working within government agencies, non- profit organizations, and in a private practice setting. I work with individuals, couples, and families to support them in identifying challenges and setting goals to design the life they desire.
(941) 260-1921 View (941) 260-1921
Photo of Danielle Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Danielle Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
I provide intensive weekend and week-long retreats for families, couples and groups throughout the US, Europe and India.
I provide a safe environment to explore and resolve beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that stand in the way of living a fully conscious and authentic life. Specialties include work with anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, death, attachment ruptures, and ancestral/ inter-generational shame, and PTSD. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have studied at the Graduate Theological Union - University of California, Berkeley, The Graduate School for Marriage and Family Therapy, Ca.Institute of Integral Studies (San Francisco), and The Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. I hold two Masters degrees and a Ph D in Psychology.
I provide intensive weekend and week-long retreats for families, couples and groups throughout the US, Europe and India.
I provide a safe environment to explore and resolve beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that stand in the way of living a fully conscious and authentic life. Specialties include work with anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, death, attachment ruptures, and ancestral/ inter-generational shame, and PTSD. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have studied at the Graduate Theological Union - University of California, Berkeley, The Graduate School for Marriage and Family Therapy, Ca.Institute of Integral Studies (San Francisco), and The Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. I hold two Masters degrees and a Ph D in Psychology.
(941) 203-3351 View (941) 203-3351
Photo of DeLorr Pickering, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
DeLorr Pickering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, IMHP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
Struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other difficulties? Do you find life's transitions difficult? Create the life you love! As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I am certified in Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy that helps people process deeply-felt experiences presenting barriers to fulfilling lives. Experience working with: Individuals, couples, families, experiencing anxiety, depression, GLBT issues, domestic violence, sports trauma, performance in athletes, musicians, actors, and test-taking anxiety. Independently licensed in MN, WI, FL, NE, WY. Let's begin creating your happier, healthier life!
Struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other difficulties? Do you find life's transitions difficult? Create the life you love! As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I am certified in Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy that helps people process deeply-felt experiences presenting barriers to fulfilling lives. Experience working with: Individuals, couples, families, experiencing anxiety, depression, GLBT issues, domestic violence, sports trauma, performance in athletes, musicians, actors, and test-taking anxiety. Independently licensed in MN, WI, FL, NE, WY. Let's begin creating your happier, healthier life!
(941) 229-1131 View (941) 229-1131
Photo of Diane Bader-Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Diane Bader-Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34237  (Online Only)
Sincerity, empathy, compassion and authenticity all important to the therapeutic relationship. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience in treating children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I have a warm, caring approach to assessment and treatment focusing on anxiety, trauma, depression, psychological aspects of illness, life transitions, family issues, and marital or relationship concerns. Therapy modalities include: CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused and Family Systems. All therapy is tailored to the individual and or couple and their unique circumstances.
Sincerity, empathy, compassion and authenticity all important to the therapeutic relationship. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience in treating children, adolescents, adults, elders and couples. I have a warm, caring approach to assessment and treatment focusing on anxiety, trauma, depression, psychological aspects of illness, life transitions, family issues, and marital or relationship concerns. Therapy modalities include: CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused and Family Systems. All therapy is tailored to the individual and or couple and their unique circumstances.
(941) 876-5519 View (941) 876-5519
Photo of Davenport Psychology , Psychologist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Davenport Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
If you need individual therapy or couples counseling in Sarasota or Venice, call us today at 941-702-2457 to schedule an appointment.
Welcome to Davenport Psychology, your trusted provider of evidence-based therapy in Sarasota and Venice, FL. Our experienced doctors of psychology are dedicated to helping you overcome mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, career stress, life transitions, and more. We also offer marriage counseling and individual therapy to help you achieve your goals and live life according to what matters to you.Our exceptional services have earned us the title of Best Psychologist in Venice, FL for 2021. When you call us, a licensed psychologist will either answer or return your call within 24 hours.
If you need individual therapy or couples counseling in Sarasota or Venice, call us today at 941-702-2457 to schedule an appointment.
Welcome to Davenport Psychology, your trusted provider of evidence-based therapy in Sarasota and Venice, FL. Our experienced doctors of psychology are dedicated to helping you overcome mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, career stress, life transitions, and more. We also offer marriage counseling and individual therapy to help you achieve your goals and live life according to what matters to you.Our exceptional services have earned us the title of Best Psychologist in Venice, FL for 2021. When you call us, a licensed psychologist will either answer or return your call within 24 hours.
(941) 702-2457 View (941) 702-2457
Photo of David Umbras, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
David Umbras
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
Even though I help with most individual and relationship challenges, helping individuals work through current or past trauma, abuse or adverse experiences is an area in my practice that is highlighted by a compassionate, empathetic, non-judgmental and shame-free connection.
My approach to counseling is framed around two perspectives. The first is that each individual knows themselves best. Because of that belief I am available to help individuals achieve the change they seek based on an understanding that each person may just need some guidance to access the knowledge they already have inside of them. The second perspective involves not dwelling on the origins of problems. Knowing the roots of a problem doesn't mean that the effects of a problem suddenly disappear. I often rely on a solutions focused approach rather than a problem centric focus with helping individuals work toward change.
Even though I help with most individual and relationship challenges, helping individuals work through current or past trauma, abuse or adverse experiences is an area in my practice that is highlighted by a compassionate, empathetic, non-judgmental and shame-free connection.
My approach to counseling is framed around two perspectives. The first is that each individual knows themselves best. Because of that belief I am available to help individuals achieve the change they seek based on an understanding that each person may just need some guidance to access the knowledge they already have inside of them. The second perspective involves not dwelling on the origins of problems. Knowing the roots of a problem doesn't mean that the effects of a problem suddenly disappear. I often rely on a solutions focused approach rather than a problem centric focus with helping individuals work toward change.
(941) 584-4184 View (941) 584-4184
Photo of Diane A McKay, PsyD, PA, Psychologist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Diane A McKay, PsyD, PA
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
"Our goal is to get you back to being you". Psychological services are offered for depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship difficulties. Dr. McKay is a clinical psychologist providing evidence-based treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral or dialectical behavioral therapy. She has extensive experience working with patients who have eating disorders or medical problems, as well as onducting psychological evaluations. Dr. McKay is also a Level 2 Gottman Therapist using an evidence-based method to help couples build a better relationship. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care in the community and treat all of our patients with respect and compassion.
"Our goal is to get you back to being you". Psychological services are offered for depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship difficulties. Dr. McKay is a clinical psychologist providing evidence-based treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral or dialectical behavioral therapy. She has extensive experience working with patients who have eating disorders or medical problems, as well as onducting psychological evaluations. Dr. McKay is also a Level 2 Gottman Therapist using an evidence-based method to help couples build a better relationship. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care in the community and treat all of our patients with respect and compassion.
(941) 877-6456 View (941) 877-6456
Photo of Dr. Emily Deming, Psychologist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Dr. Emily Deming
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
(727) 626-0608 View (727) 626-0608
Photo of Dale Thompson, LMHC, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Dale Thompson, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Stress or Addictions? Are you in the middle of a Crisis? If so I am here to help. I regularly treat CEO's, Professionals, Executives, Elite Athletes, Pastors and other Therapists in addressing issues that they face. I am Identified as a Licensure Supervisor and have trained thousands of therapists for professional development since 1993. I specialize in treating Couples, Men, Male Teens and Women that prefer a male therapist and I have 30 years of experience as a professional counselor.
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Stress or Addictions? Are you in the middle of a Crisis? If so I am here to help. I regularly treat CEO's, Professionals, Executives, Elite Athletes, Pastors and other Therapists in addressing issues that they face. I am Identified as a Licensure Supervisor and have trained thousands of therapists for professional development since 1993. I specialize in treating Couples, Men, Male Teens and Women that prefer a male therapist and I have 30 years of experience as a professional counselor.
(941) 845-6590 View (941) 845-6590
Photo of Justin Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Justin Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
I empower individuals, families, and couples to live life to their fullest. I believe strongly in helping clients to help themselves. We are not robots. We are humans. As humans, we are not perfect and we all have emotions. Embracing and accepting our emotions is a key component in moving towards reaching our goals. I provide care, support, and guidance in working with clients while they participate in therapy. This is a collaborative and team approach. Since we are not robots, I work with everyone on an individualized (non-cookie cutter) basis unique to their situation.
I empower individuals, families, and couples to live life to their fullest. I believe strongly in helping clients to help themselves. We are not robots. We are humans. As humans, we are not perfect and we all have emotions. Embracing and accepting our emotions is a key component in moving towards reaching our goals. I provide care, support, and guidance in working with clients while they participate in therapy. This is a collaborative and team approach. Since we are not robots, I work with everyone on an individualized (non-cookie cutter) basis unique to their situation.
(727) 594-0197 View (727) 594-0197
Photo of Kimberley E May, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Kimberley E May
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, CEAP, SAP, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
I am a Licensed therapist, Certified Addictions Professional, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Employee Assistance Professional as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have worked and practiced in the Tampa area for over 20 years. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. My treatment specialization includes: *PTSD *Children *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety *Couples Counseling *Family "Repair" *Parenting Support *Grief Counseling * *Addiction & Recovery *DUI evaluations *DOT SAP evaluation * I am EMDR trained. Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, PTSD
I am a Licensed therapist, Certified Addictions Professional, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Employee Assistance Professional as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have worked and practiced in the Tampa area for over 20 years. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. My treatment specialization includes: *PTSD *Children *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety *Couples Counseling *Family "Repair" *Parenting Support *Grief Counseling * *Addiction & Recovery *DUI evaluations *DOT SAP evaluation * I am EMDR trained. Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, PTSD
(813) 579-2530 View (813) 579-2530
Photo of Aurora Family Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Aurora Family Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
I love working with women, adolescents, couples, and families.
Hi! My name is Michele D. Della Costa. If you feel that help has been hard to find, give me a call. If you are struggling with self-love, relationships, depression, trauma, divorce, or adolescent issues, you are not alone. If you are ready to feel better and take control of your happiness, I am ready, too. You are Worthy of love and kindness, both from yourself and from others.
I love working with women, adolescents, couples, and families.
Hi! My name is Michele D. Della Costa. If you feel that help has been hard to find, give me a call. If you are struggling with self-love, relationships, depression, trauma, divorce, or adolescent issues, you are not alone. If you are ready to feel better and take control of your happiness, I am ready, too. You are Worthy of love and kindness, both from yourself and from others.
(941) 214-2071 View (941) 214-2071
Photo of Tanya Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Tanya Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Therapy, QS-CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
I offer individual, family, and couples therapy .
Accepting New Clients -Treating Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar or troubled relationships. Together we will unstuck life by finding the balance you are looking for. You deserve to be heard. Life can be overwhelming. It is time to take care of YOU. I am glad you are taking the first steps to feel better and resolve the concerns that have been bothering you and keeping you away from living the meaningful happier life you want to live. Perhaps you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or troubled marital relationships? Maybe you've had a crisis and need help to get back on track, let's start to rebuild you back up.
I offer individual, family, and couples therapy .
Accepting New Clients -Treating Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar or troubled relationships. Together we will unstuck life by finding the balance you are looking for. You deserve to be heard. Life can be overwhelming. It is time to take care of YOU. I am glad you are taking the first steps to feel better and resolve the concerns that have been bothering you and keeping you away from living the meaningful happier life you want to live. Perhaps you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or troubled marital relationships? Maybe you've had a crisis and need help to get back on track, let's start to rebuild you back up.
(321) 607-3562 View (321) 607-3562
Photo of Ellen C Ferguson, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Ellen C Ferguson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
(941) 304-5250 View (941) 304-5250
Photo of Evolve Psych Group, PLLC in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Evolve Psych Group, PLLC
LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
At Evolve, we have an engaged style of therapy that doesn’t let you “monologue” the session. We believe in the power of venting, and while listening is at the core of any therapeutic relationship, we are also trained to challenge those thoughts and feelings that are not serving you well. Many of our clients have had previous experiences that left them with that “been there, done that” type of feeling. That is why they came to us. We support you every step of the way, but we also challenge you and lead you to live the life you deserve. Your journey starts here.
At Evolve, we have an engaged style of therapy that doesn’t let you “monologue” the session. We believe in the power of venting, and while listening is at the core of any therapeutic relationship, we are also trained to challenge those thoughts and feelings that are not serving you well. Many of our clients have had previous experiences that left them with that “been there, done that” type of feeling. That is why they came to us. We support you every step of the way, but we also challenge you and lead you to live the life you deserve. Your journey starts here.
(704) 842-9734 View (704) 842-9734
Photo of Katherine Ann Best, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Katherine Ann Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MPH, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
Dr. Katherine Best is dedicated to your wellbeing by providing a quick response and flexible hours of care. Building upon strengths, she uses a positive, non-judgmental approach to encourage growth and change. Dr. Best offers: psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, trauma resolution, pre and post divorce counseling, family mediation for conflict resolution, clinical hypnosis, EMDR, archetypal pattern dream analysis, and life coaching. In addition, Dr. Katherine Best offers treatment for stress, anxiety, procrastination, depression, cumulative exposures to trauma, priest and clergy abuse, chronic pain, and insomnia.
Dr. Katherine Best is dedicated to your wellbeing by providing a quick response and flexible hours of care. Building upon strengths, she uses a positive, non-judgmental approach to encourage growth and change. Dr. Best offers: psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, trauma resolution, pre and post divorce counseling, family mediation for conflict resolution, clinical hypnosis, EMDR, archetypal pattern dream analysis, and life coaching. In addition, Dr. Katherine Best offers treatment for stress, anxiety, procrastination, depression, cumulative exposures to trauma, priest and clergy abuse, chronic pain, and insomnia.
(941) 487-0956 View (941) 487-0956
Photo of Dr. Sharon Diane Forrest, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Dr. Sharon Diane Forrest
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, MBA, BA, LMFT, PCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
Are you overwhelmed by depression, guilt, anger, fear, alcoholism, drug addition, grief, or heartbreak and feel out of control of your life or relationships? My practice focuses on the individual, family, and marriage in a Christ-centered counseling setting. With a Doctorate in Education-Pastoral Counseling/ MBA in Business, I provide a unique form of therapy addressing your spiritual and professional needs collectively. I seek to assist you in re-shaping the circumstances that have temporarily gotten you off track. You may have experienced a setback but working together we can make this a SET UP for something GREAT!
Are you overwhelmed by depression, guilt, anger, fear, alcoholism, drug addition, grief, or heartbreak and feel out of control of your life or relationships? My practice focuses on the individual, family, and marriage in a Christ-centered counseling setting. With a Doctorate in Education-Pastoral Counseling/ MBA in Business, I provide a unique form of therapy addressing your spiritual and professional needs collectively. I seek to assist you in re-shaping the circumstances that have temporarily gotten you off track. You may have experienced a setback but working together we can make this a SET UP for something GREAT!
(941) 803-1243 View (941) 803-1243
Photo of Patti Thompson, M.A., Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Patti Thompson, M.A.
Counselor, MA, CAP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
You have so many choices! One of which is with whom do you work when seeking professional help. Selection of a psychotherapist is important and equal to the reasons for pursuing therapy. Safety, compassion and respect are critical aspects of any therapeutic process. Your confidential and effective treatment is my highest priority. Our work together will help you understand yourself, address life patterns and influences - all in the interest of moving forward to attain your goals and objectives. Please call me to discuss what you are looking for and how we may work together to achieve your satisfaction.
You have so many choices! One of which is with whom do you work when seeking professional help. Selection of a psychotherapist is important and equal to the reasons for pursuing therapy. Safety, compassion and respect are critical aspects of any therapeutic process. Your confidential and effective treatment is my highest priority. Our work together will help you understand yourself, address life patterns and influences - all in the interest of moving forward to attain your goals and objectives. Please call me to discuss what you are looking for and how we may work together to achieve your satisfaction.
(941) 584-5083 View (941) 584-5083
Photo of Allison Phinney, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Allison Phinney
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
Waitlist for new clients
While my primary focus is on adolescents and parents, if you think my style may fit your needs, let's talk about it. Research shows teens experience intense emotional experiences, even more so than adults, which can lead to strong feelings of unhappiness and disruption. I aim to help you and your teen navigate this ever-changing world and how it affects them and your family unit. Teens come to me for issues around self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, navigating social media, and more. Parents find the therapeutic alliance helpful in creating a safe space to connect, refocus, and share respectfully and proactively.
While my primary focus is on adolescents and parents, if you think my style may fit your needs, let's talk about it. Research shows teens experience intense emotional experiences, even more so than adults, which can lead to strong feelings of unhappiness and disruption. I aim to help you and your teen navigate this ever-changing world and how it affects them and your family unit. Teens come to me for issues around self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, navigating social media, and more. Parents find the therapeutic alliance helpful in creating a safe space to connect, refocus, and share respectfully and proactively.
(941) 239-7791 View (941) 239-7791
Photo of Audrey Oxenhorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Audrey Oxenhorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34235
As a holistic practitioner, who is also a psychotherapist, artist, healer and grandmother, I offer children and their families practical life changing tools and knowledge to meet everyday challenges. Children and adolescents are living a completely different childhood than we did and it is helpful to get a skilled and intuitive perpsective about these shifts. Some of the tools that I offer include: Mindfulness for kids and adolescents, Tapping or Emotional Freedom Techniques, Creative Arts, Hypnotherapy and Personalized Meditations.
As a holistic practitioner, who is also a psychotherapist, artist, healer and grandmother, I offer children and their families practical life changing tools and knowledge to meet everyday challenges. Children and adolescents are living a completely different childhood than we did and it is helpful to get a skilled and intuitive perpsective about these shifts. Some of the tools that I offer include: Mindfulness for kids and adolescents, Tapping or Emotional Freedom Techniques, Creative Arts, Hypnotherapy and Personalized Meditations.
(941) 271-0240 View (941) 271-0240

See more therapy options for Downtown, Sarasota

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.