Photo of Collective Insight, Psychologist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Collective Insight
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
As such, I believe that it is vital for people to trust that their therapeutic relationship is welcoming and free of judgment.
I am passionate about using evidence-based practices to help all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulty with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe that it is vital for people to trust the therapeutic space and know that it is safe, welcoming, and free of judgment. I work with clients to help them identify goals of treatment that are align
As such, I believe that it is vital for people to trust that their therapeutic relationship is welcoming and free of judgment.
I am passionate about using evidence-based practices to help all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulty with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe that it is vital for people to trust the therapeutic space and know that it is safe, welcoming, and free of judgment. I work with clients to help them identify goals of treatment that are align
(773) 645-4215 View (773) 645-4215
Photo of Janay Anthony, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Janay Anthony
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
Therefore, the therapeutic relationship with my clients is foundational in our work together, and it’s what allows my clients to take the risks necessary to experience growth and cultivate deeper connections to Self and others.
I identify as a Black, queer, multi-disabled, polyamorous woman, and if we share any of the above identities, I may be the therapist for you! I name the above because these identities and the experiences associated with them inform how I show up in my practice as a therapist. All of who I am comes into the room. Likewise, I encourage clients to show up in their own authenticity. I lead with compassion and work with my clients to co-create a therapeutic environment that is collaborative, trusting, and creative.
Therefore, the therapeutic relationship with my clients is foundational in our work together, and it’s what allows my clients to take the risks necessary to experience growth and cultivate deeper connections to Self and others.
I identify as a Black, queer, multi-disabled, polyamorous woman, and if we share any of the above identities, I may be the therapist for you! I name the above because these identities and the experiences associated with them inform how I show up in my practice as a therapist. All of who I am comes into the room. Likewise, I encourage clients to show up in their own authenticity. I lead with compassion and work with my clients to co-create a therapeutic environment that is collaborative, trusting, and creative.
(872) 266-4189 View (872) 266-4189
Photo of Dr. Rae K. Watkins, Psychologist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Dr. Rae K. Watkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Watkins attempts to foster a since of trust, seeing authenticity in the therapeutic relationship as an essential aspect to her work.
Dr. Watkins is a Clinical Psychologist who's profession experience includes psycho-diagnostic assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, marital guidance, sexuality, juvenile delinquency and phase of life transitions. Dr. Watkins practices from a client-centered framework, focusing on genuineness and unconditional positive regard for clients, with the belief that all persons are capable of functioning at their full, yet personal, potential. Dr. Watkins has served as an Investigator on clinical trials in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
Watkins attempts to foster a since of trust, seeing authenticity in the therapeutic relationship as an essential aspect to her work.
Dr. Watkins is a Clinical Psychologist who's profession experience includes psycho-diagnostic assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, marital guidance, sexuality, juvenile delinquency and phase of life transitions. Dr. Watkins practices from a client-centered framework, focusing on genuineness and unconditional positive regard for clients, with the belief that all persons are capable of functioning at their full, yet personal, potential. Dr. Watkins has served as an Investigator on clinical trials in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
(773) 993-1383 View (773) 993-1383
Photo of Quincey F. Kyles Counseling Services, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Quincey F. Kyles Counseling Services, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu. Let's face it: asking for help isn't always easy, but you've taken the courage to do so. Therapy is an exciting experience of self-discovery! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, individually or as couples. I use a bilateral approach, incorporating a Strength-based practice with a focus on the mind/body connection, in particular Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I assist clients in noticing, when automatic processes are occurring & to alter their reaction to be more of a reflection.
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu. Let's face it: asking for help isn't always easy, but you've taken the courage to do so. Therapy is an exciting experience of self-discovery! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, individually or as couples. I use a bilateral approach, incorporating a Strength-based practice with a focus on the mind/body connection, in particular Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I assist clients in noticing, when automatic processes are occurring & to alter their reaction to be more of a reflection.
(312) 681-7937 View (312) 681-7937
Photo of Ariel Kimble, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Ariel Kimble
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
I am a queer mental health professional who uses trauma-informed care to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all clients of any background. I work with only adults who typically present cPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Many of them come to me seeking help for their religious trauma, betrayal/abandonment trauma, out of control sexual behaviors, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
I am a queer mental health professional who uses trauma-informed care to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all clients of any background. I work with only adults who typically present cPTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Many of them come to me seeking help for their religious trauma, betrayal/abandonment trauma, out of control sexual behaviors, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
(872) 201-6480 View (872) 201-6480
Photo of Celina Huerta, Counselor in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Celina Huerta
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, with 10 years of experience, I have worked with youth & adults to help them overcome obstacles sustained through life’s challenges, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity concerns, behavior issues, relationship problems, and family conflicts. Whether a first therapeutic experience or continued services for you, I focus on building healthy and trusting therapeutic relationships and provide an empowering experience in therapy for individuals of different ethnicities, age and sex.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, with 10 years of experience, I have worked with youth & adults to help them overcome obstacles sustained through life’s challenges, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity concerns, behavior issues, relationship problems, and family conflicts. Whether a first therapeutic experience or continued services for you, I focus on building healthy and trusting therapeutic relationships and provide an empowering experience in therapy for individuals of different ethnicities, age and sex.
(872) 246-9224 View (872) 246-9224
Photo of Myrna Abdel-Aziz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Myrna Abdel-Aziz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
I've worked to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, life transitions, cultural, and self-esteem related issues.
Healing can be a daunting process and I believe no individual should have to go through it alone. The healing journey is unique to each person therefore I strive to create a warm, accepting, and collaborative environment through non-judgment and cultural humility. My main goal is to empower clients to recognize their own resilience despite the obstacles they face. Through a person-centered and diversity affirming lens, I work to create a positive dynamic with each client, meanwhile helping you recognize the impacts that your thoughts and behaviors have on your ability to lead a fulfilling life.
I've worked to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, life transitions, cultural, and self-esteem related issues.
Healing can be a daunting process and I believe no individual should have to go through it alone. The healing journey is unique to each person therefore I strive to create a warm, accepting, and collaborative environment through non-judgment and cultural humility. My main goal is to empower clients to recognize their own resilience despite the obstacles they face. Through a person-centered and diversity affirming lens, I work to create a positive dynamic with each client, meanwhile helping you recognize the impacts that your thoughts and behaviors have on your ability to lead a fulfilling life.
(872) 713-9494 View (872) 713-9494
Photo of Andrae Laws, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Andrae Laws
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
(312) 728-7966 View (312) 728-7966
Photo of Sarena Korni, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Sarena Korni
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
I strive to build meaningful and impactful relationships with anyone who decides to begin individual or couples therapy with me. As we are developing our therapeutic relationship, I seek to understand and demonstrate respect for your identities, your perspective of the world, and to provide a therapeutic space that empowers you to find peace, balance, and security within. You and I will set the tone of our sessions. Our sessions will open and close with open-ended questions, “temperature checks”, recaps, or debriefs in which we will both express whatever concerns, emotions and thoughts come before or during conversation.
I strive to build meaningful and impactful relationships with anyone who decides to begin individual or couples therapy with me. As we are developing our therapeutic relationship, I seek to understand and demonstrate respect for your identities, your perspective of the world, and to provide a therapeutic space that empowers you to find peace, balance, and security within. You and I will set the tone of our sessions. Our sessions will open and close with open-ended questions, “temperature checks”, recaps, or debriefs in which we will both express whatever concerns, emotions and thoughts come before or during conversation.
(312) 487-4303 View (312) 487-4303
Photo of Keesha Beasley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Keesha Beasley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
It is my belief that relationship challenges are the shared responsibility of each member involved.
This is difficult; I get it. Searching for a therapist, placing the initial call, scheduling then attending the first session can truly be overwhelming. I commend you for deciding to make a positive change in your life or the life of a loved one. My goal as a therapist is to help individuals and couples clarify the type of lives they want to live, recognize strengths, identify obstacles, discover realistic solutions, and devise a plan to reach established goals. Our collaborative relationship will increase self-awareness to foster growth and healing.
It is my belief that relationship challenges are the shared responsibility of each member involved.
This is difficult; I get it. Searching for a therapist, placing the initial call, scheduling then attending the first session can truly be overwhelming. I commend you for deciding to make a positive change in your life or the life of a loved one. My goal as a therapist is to help individuals and couples clarify the type of lives they want to live, recognize strengths, identify obstacles, discover realistic solutions, and devise a plan to reach established goals. Our collaborative relationship will increase self-awareness to foster growth and healing.
(773) 570-9282 View (773) 570-9282
Photo of Bridges to Wellness, Psychologist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Bridges to Wellness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
We have experience with anxiety, depression, sexual assault and various types of relationship concerns.
We believe that being the best version of ourselves requires work. Many things can obstruct our path toward self-improvement. We enjoy accompanying our clients on their path and helping them to overcome their challenges. Individuals often become entrenched in patterns of behavior and relationships that are difficult to escape. But if we can assist our clients in honestly assessing their motivations, we believe they can live authentic, meaningful lives every day.
We have experience with anxiety, depression, sexual assault and various types of relationship concerns.
We believe that being the best version of ourselves requires work. Many things can obstruct our path toward self-improvement. We enjoy accompanying our clients on their path and helping them to overcome their challenges. Individuals often become entrenched in patterns of behavior and relationships that are difficult to escape. But if we can assist our clients in honestly assessing their motivations, we believe they can live authentic, meaningful lives every day.
(773) 796-3984 View (773) 796-3984
Photo of According To Sykes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
According To Sykes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
Here at According to Sykes, assistance and guidance is offered through individual, family and group therapy, couples therapy, as well as Professional Development and Training Opportunities. As a group of healing practitioners, we recognize and understand the complicated and complex ways that trauma influences all parts of someone’s life, body, and brain, and make treatment decisions based on that framework. We realize that most people have lived through some type of trauma because trauma is so common and understand treatment through that lens. View our therapist profiles at www.accordingtosykes.com.
Here at According to Sykes, assistance and guidance is offered through individual, family and group therapy, couples therapy, as well as Professional Development and Training Opportunities. As a group of healing practitioners, we recognize and understand the complicated and complex ways that trauma influences all parts of someone’s life, body, and brain, and make treatment decisions based on that framework. We realize that most people have lived through some type of trauma because trauma is so common and understand treatment through that lens. View our therapist profiles at www.accordingtosykes.com.
(773) 649-4122 View (773) 649-4122
Photo of Joshua Terry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Joshua Terry
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
I do my best work with clients who are curious about themselves and interested in understanding themselves and their relationships better. My work primarily focuses on couples, life transitions, and men’s issues. I have a strong commitment to inclusivity and welcome clients from diverse backgrounds, sexual and relationship orientations, and faith practices. My role in the therapy process is to meet you where you're at and support your rediscovery. From there, our work will be focused on re-introductions to the self and those around us in an effort to build and maintain the types of connections we want through the choices we make.
I do my best work with clients who are curious about themselves and interested in understanding themselves and their relationships better. My work primarily focuses on couples, life transitions, and men’s issues. I have a strong commitment to inclusivity and welcome clients from diverse backgrounds, sexual and relationship orientations, and faith practices. My role in the therapy process is to meet you where you're at and support your rediscovery. From there, our work will be focused on re-introductions to the self and those around us in an effort to build and maintain the types of connections we want through the choices we make.
(773) 985-1655 View (773) 985-1655
Photo of Zakiya Harris, Licensed Social Worker in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Zakiya Harris
Licensed Social Worker, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I use a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach that creates safety and trust within the therapist-client relationship, so you feel empowered to work towards your specific goals.
If you're feeling like you need a new beginning, are looking to grow, and want to take initiative in your treatment, I am the therapist for you. You don't have to have all of the answers because figuring out the difficult parts will be what we do together. As long as you come into therapy open to the process and willing to try new things, we can work towards the change that you want to see for yourself and/or your relationships. This could look like gaining new coping skills to use throughout your daily life, healing from past traumas, and achieving deeper levels of self-awareness, self-compassion, and positive self-esteem.
I use a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach that creates safety and trust within the therapist-client relationship, so you feel empowered to work towards your specific goals.
If you're feeling like you need a new beginning, are looking to grow, and want to take initiative in your treatment, I am the therapist for you. You don't have to have all of the answers because figuring out the difficult parts will be what we do together. As long as you come into therapy open to the process and willing to try new things, we can work towards the change that you want to see for yourself and/or your relationships. This could look like gaining new coping skills to use throughout your daily life, healing from past traumas, and achieving deeper levels of self-awareness, self-compassion, and positive self-esteem.
(872) 206-9719 View (872) 206-9719
Photo of Breon Rose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Breon Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
Hello, my name is Breon Rose. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. My approach to therapy involves collaborating with those I serve to decrease their distress and support their overall health. My approach to treatment requires teamwork and authenticity to solve problems. I have much experience supporting working-class clients and communities. I also support teenagers, culturally diverse persons, young adults, aging adults, and LGBTQIA+ persons. My scope of practice includes anxiety, stress, relationship, mood, and trauma-related concerns.
Hello, my name is Breon Rose. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. My approach to therapy involves collaborating with those I serve to decrease their distress and support their overall health. My approach to treatment requires teamwork and authenticity to solve problems. I have much experience supporting working-class clients and communities. I also support teenagers, culturally diverse persons, young adults, aging adults, and LGBTQIA+ persons. My scope of practice includes anxiety, stress, relationship, mood, and trauma-related concerns.
(773) 694-8399 View (773) 694-8399
Photo of Juley-Ann Osbourne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Juley-Ann Osbourne
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
I'm happily accepting NEW clients with immediate openings! I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past experiences inform, and interact with, the present. As a Caribbean immigrant, I bring a broad understanding of issues related to culture and race. I am passionate about working with individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds, as they navigate relationship challenges, life transitions, and family systems. With a focus on empowerment, I encourage clients to explore values and identify ways they can utilize their strengths to make meaningful changes.
I'm happily accepting NEW clients with immediate openings! I work with clients to gain a stronger sense of self by exploring the ways past experiences inform, and interact with, the present. As a Caribbean immigrant, I bring a broad understanding of issues related to culture and race. I am passionate about working with individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds, as they navigate relationship challenges, life transitions, and family systems. With a focus on empowerment, I encourage clients to explore values and identify ways they can utilize their strengths to make meaningful changes.
(312) 847-9946 View (312) 847-9946
Photo of Tenacity Psychological Services, Psychologist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Tenacity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
Our therapists have extensive experience working with people of all ages as well as couples and families with diverse backgrounds and needs.
Along the journey through life challenges are inevitable and there aren't always easy or clear answers about why things happen and what to do about them. We want our lives and life itself to have value, meaning and purpose; and finding or creating these things for ourselves can be confusing, frustrating and even scary. However, finding our deeper reason(s) in life can also be rewarding, exciting and empowering experience that provides the hope, courage, strength and tenacity needed to face life's challenges. Having the courage to begin this process and asking for support along the way doesn't mean you're weak, it makes you strong!
Our therapists have extensive experience working with people of all ages as well as couples and families with diverse backgrounds and needs.
Along the journey through life challenges are inevitable and there aren't always easy or clear answers about why things happen and what to do about them. We want our lives and life itself to have value, meaning and purpose; and finding or creating these things for ourselves can be confusing, frustrating and even scary. However, finding our deeper reason(s) in life can also be rewarding, exciting and empowering experience that provides the hope, courage, strength and tenacity needed to face life's challenges. Having the courage to begin this process and asking for support along the way doesn't mean you're weak, it makes you strong!
(773) 900-7266 View (773) 900-7266
Photo of Yazmine Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Yazmine Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
My name is Yazmine Howard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Chicagoland area and currently have a decade of experience working with primarily African-American adolescents, adults, and families. My experiences include crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, group & individual therapy, along with family therapy. I utilize an integrative approach in my sessions and prioritize the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each client to increase the outcomes of therapy.
My name is Yazmine Howard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Chicagoland area and currently have a decade of experience working with primarily African-American adolescents, adults, and families. My experiences include crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, group & individual therapy, along with family therapy. I utilize an integrative approach in my sessions and prioritize the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each client to increase the outcomes of therapy.
(773) 257-7299 View (773) 257-7299
Photo of Kellie Michelle Ramdeen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Kellie Michelle Ramdeen
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60657
I am dedicated to helping my clients feel supported by fostering a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe, judgment-free space.
You might be feeling tired, numb, or just stuck. Maybe you're feeling like you don't know what to do or what direction to take, You could have lost confidence in yourself or your abilities. You don't have to feel this way- you deserve to move forward with confidence and strength.
I am dedicated to helping my clients feel supported by fostering a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe, judgment-free space.
You might be feeling tired, numb, or just stuck. Maybe you're feeling like you don't know what to do or what direction to take, You could have lost confidence in yourself or your abilities. You don't have to feel this way- you deserve to move forward with confidence and strength.
(773) 923-1039 View (773) 923-1039
Photo of Sara Marsha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake View, Chicago, IL
Sara Marsha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake View, Chicago, IL 60613
I have been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities in navigating points of rupture, disconnected desires, and feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming therapy space that brings clients closer to their healed self. As an individual and relationship therapist, creating an inclusive environment for gender-affirming, ENM, poly, sex-positive, and BDSM & kink-affirming care is part of my practice.
I have been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities in navigating points of rupture, disconnected desires, and feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming therapy space that brings clients closer to their healed self. As an individual and relationship therapist, creating an inclusive environment for gender-affirming, ENM, poly, sex-positive, and BDSM & kink-affirming care is part of my practice.
(773) 985-2669 View (773) 985-2669

See more therapy options for Lake View, Chicago


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.