Photo of Daniel Wimsatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Daniel Wimsatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60604
I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping individuals with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I specialize in are: anxiety, depression, addiction, substance abuse, life transitions, and grief and loss. I strive to work from a place of non-judgement, creating support and emotional safety within the therapeutic relationship. I believe that emotional wellness and change in therapy are only possible when people feel encouraged and safe. One of my primary goals is to help my patients find a deeper connection to their authentic selves.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping individuals with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I specialize in are: anxiety, depression, addiction, substance abuse, life transitions, and grief and loss. I strive to work from a place of non-judgement, creating support and emotional safety within the therapeutic relationship. I believe that emotional wellness and change in therapy are only possible when people feel encouraged and safe. One of my primary goals is to help my patients find a deeper connection to their authentic selves.
(773) 922-6558 View (773) 922-6558
Photo of Brigitte Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Brigitte Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
I provide therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in relationship difficulties. My particular interest and expertise is working with people suffering from anxiety, depression and trauma. I use a psychoanalytic approach with an emphasis on genuine connection and empowerment. This is helpful to bring understanding and insight to past experiences, that may be impacting one's behavior, feelings and patterns, allowing them to remain stuck. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and am deeply committed to a strong working alliance with each of my clients, resulting in effective treatment and authentic change.
I provide therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in relationship difficulties. My particular interest and expertise is working with people suffering from anxiety, depression and trauma. I use a psychoanalytic approach with an emphasis on genuine connection and empowerment. This is helpful to bring understanding and insight to past experiences, that may be impacting one's behavior, feelings and patterns, allowing them to remain stuck. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and am deeply committed to a strong working alliance with each of my clients, resulting in effective treatment and authentic change.
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Photo of Rachel Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Rachel Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60640
I am a dedicated Licensed Social Worker with a passion for helping individuals, couples and families achieve their mental health and well-being goals. I hold a degree from Michigan State University and have accumulated a wide range of experience in the field of mental health care. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in evidence-based practices and a client-centered philosophy.
I am a dedicated Licensed Social Worker with a passion for helping individuals, couples and families achieve their mental health and well-being goals. I hold a degree from Michigan State University and have accumulated a wide range of experience in the field of mental health care. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in evidence-based practices and a client-centered philosophy.
(773) 923-2779 View (773) 923-2779
Photo of Anthony Borchardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Anthony Borchardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety management, men's issues (identity, parenting, masculinity), new parent transitions (individual & couples), addictions and gambling recovery, depression, and trauma.
Are you looking to make a change in your life but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? I support my clients through navigating the journey of personal growth and transformation, which can often feel confusing, difficult, and scary. As your therapist, I work to understand your struggles and strengths, so that we may walk step-by-step through your discomfort and toward your goals.
I specialize in anxiety management, men's issues (identity, parenting, masculinity), new parent transitions (individual & couples), addictions and gambling recovery, depression, and trauma.
Are you looking to make a change in your life but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? I support my clients through navigating the journey of personal growth and transformation, which can often feel confusing, difficult, and scary. As your therapist, I work to understand your struggles and strengths, so that we may walk step-by-step through your discomfort and toward your goals.
(312) 584-2016 View (312) 584-2016
Photo of Ruth Hedvat Shorr, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Ruth Hedvat Shorr
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60603
Individuals, Couples, Families.
I'm an experienced, sensitive, insightful psychotherapist & psychoanalyst. On the faculty of The Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. I'm Cultural sensitive, speak English & Hebrew fluently, have a degree in Judaica. I work with Adolescents, Adults, Older Adults. I work with Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals. Individuals, Couples, Families. People in Business, Academia, writers, people in the Arts. Exploring who you are, Enhancing your Creativity, what complicates your Emergence, Expression, Fulfillment. Satisfaction, Individually, & in relationships.Trauma, Cross-Generational Trauma, Gender issues, Conflicts, Creativity Blocks, Performance & Achievement Anxiety, Separation, Loss, Midlife crises. Mood difficulties -- Depression, Anxiety., Attachment Difficulties. Enhancing relationships. SUPERVISION.
Individuals, Couples, Families.
I'm an experienced, sensitive, insightful psychotherapist & psychoanalyst. On the faculty of The Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. I'm Cultural sensitive, speak English & Hebrew fluently, have a degree in Judaica. I work with Adolescents, Adults, Older Adults. I work with Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals. Individuals, Couples, Families. People in Business, Academia, writers, people in the Arts. Exploring who you are, Enhancing your Creativity, what complicates your Emergence, Expression, Fulfillment. Satisfaction, Individually, & in relationships.Trauma, Cross-Generational Trauma, Gender issues, Conflicts, Creativity Blocks, Performance & Achievement Anxiety, Separation, Loss, Midlife crises. Mood difficulties -- Depression, Anxiety., Attachment Difficulties. Enhancing relationships. SUPERVISION.
(312) 239-3012 View (312) 239-3012
Photo of Christine Carpenter and Associates, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Christine Carpenter and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
We treat eating disorders, relationship dissatisfaction, mood/anxiety disorders, addiction, self-injury, grief, emotional dysregulation, poor self-esteem and identity issues.
(She/Her/Hers) Over the years, I have built a practice devoted to improving the lives of people from a wide variety of backgrounds, struggling with a number of different issues. More recently, I have shifted my focus from clinical practice to the training of pre-licensed and early career therapists. I very much enjoy mentoring as it gives me the opportunity to share all that I have learned in my two decades of providing psychotherapy.
We treat eating disorders, relationship dissatisfaction, mood/anxiety disorders, addiction, self-injury, grief, emotional dysregulation, poor self-esteem and identity issues.
(She/Her/Hers) Over the years, I have built a practice devoted to improving the lives of people from a wide variety of backgrounds, struggling with a number of different issues. More recently, I have shifted my focus from clinical practice to the training of pre-licensed and early career therapists. I very much enjoy mentoring as it gives me the opportunity to share all that I have learned in my two decades of providing psychotherapy.
(773) 888-0757 View (773) 888-0757
Photo of Alexandra Brooke Mathewes, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Alexandra Brooke Mathewes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples to address a range of concerns including mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, cancer and chronic illness and trauma. My specialties include working with lawyers and law students, doctors, first responders and professional executives. I also specialize in working with patients and families going through cancer from onset of diagnosis to end of treatment. My role as a LCPC is to be an objective guide and source of support to the people I am working with; A voice to help clarify goals and make changes that have often felt out of reach. Please email for the fastest response time.
I work with individuals and couples to address a range of concerns including mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, cancer and chronic illness and trauma. My specialties include working with lawyers and law students, doctors, first responders and professional executives. I also specialize in working with patients and families going through cancer from onset of diagnosis to end of treatment. My role as a LCPC is to be an objective guide and source of support to the people I am working with; A voice to help clarify goals and make changes that have often felt out of reach. Please email for the fastest response time.
(312) 836-5941 View (312) 836-5941
Photo of Eleanor Wolfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Eleanor Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
How do you overcome the pain of loss? It may be the loss of a job, a romantic or social relationship, the death of a loved one (traumatic or unexpected) or a chronic health issue. Living in a fast paced digital world, we expect instant gratification and often feel the pressure of unrealistic expectations. Life offers us all many challenges. Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or depression? Do you use drugs, alcohol, food and/or destructive relationships to relieve your pain?
How do you overcome the pain of loss? It may be the loss of a job, a romantic or social relationship, the death of a loved one (traumatic or unexpected) or a chronic health issue. Living in a fast paced digital world, we expect instant gratification and often feel the pressure of unrealistic expectations. Life offers us all many challenges. Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or depression? Do you use drugs, alcohol, food and/or destructive relationships to relieve your pain?
(872) 231-3147 View (872) 231-3147
Photo of Ronald K. Phillips, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Ronald K. Phillips
Counselor, LCPC, IL, LLPsych, StateMI, Minn&La
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
Consulting Specialist in career, Individual, Couples, Family & Parenting concerns in conflict resolution.
Sophocles: "Wisdom outweighs any wealth." Fmr. Exec. Consult re: Conflict resolution & 35+ yrs. member CBOT/CME. . Integrate science & 'art' treatment on best practices. Consult Solutions on relationships & interpersonal challenges at Corporate & Individual level. Specialized with Individual/Couples/Adolescent/Elderly. Fmr. clinical Dir. w/ faith communities & specialist in GRIEF w/ prior work in Hospital & educational settings/Grand Rounds/Ethics at Northwestern & U. Chi. All phone calls FREE. "Vision without execution is a daydream and execution without vision is a nightmare." I look forward to helping you secure your vision
Consulting Specialist in career, Individual, Couples, Family & Parenting concerns in conflict resolution.
Sophocles: "Wisdom outweighs any wealth." Fmr. Exec. Consult re: Conflict resolution & 35+ yrs. member CBOT/CME. . Integrate science & 'art' treatment on best practices. Consult Solutions on relationships & interpersonal challenges at Corporate & Individual level. Specialized with Individual/Couples/Adolescent/Elderly. Fmr. clinical Dir. w/ faith communities & specialist in GRIEF w/ prior work in Hospital & educational settings/Grand Rounds/Ethics at Northwestern & U. Chi. All phone calls FREE. "Vision without execution is a daydream and execution without vision is a nightmare." I look forward to helping you secure your vision
(872) 666-9790 View (872) 666-9790
Photo of Robin Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Robin Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
I work with individuals, couples and families.
People enter into therapy for a variety of reasons such as; having experienced a recent or past trauma, struggling with anxiety, depression or a life altering event. Ultimately, we all want to feel better and live more productive lives. I believe that therapy is a collaborative endeavor which takes place in an open and non-judgmental environment. My role is to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, what motivates their behaviors and how they can bring about the desired changes.
I work with individuals, couples and families.
People enter into therapy for a variety of reasons such as; having experienced a recent or past trauma, struggling with anxiety, depression or a life altering event. Ultimately, we all want to feel better and live more productive lives. I believe that therapy is a collaborative endeavor which takes place in an open and non-judgmental environment. My role is to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, what motivates their behaviors and how they can bring about the desired changes.
(312) 487-4088 View (312) 487-4088
Photo of DeVona Alleyne, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
DeVona Alleyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
Clients come to me and receive compassionate care without negative judgment as a means to make meaning of the events of their lives. That new understanding, gained in a supportive coaching relationship with the therapist, becomes the foundation for positive change. Open and self-aware clients tend to want validation of their thoughts and challenges to what hasn't worked. Skeptical clients tend to desire safety and assurance that someone is on their side. Regardless of the category, clients tend to get what they need from one session to the next.
Clients come to me and receive compassionate care without negative judgment as a means to make meaning of the events of their lives. That new understanding, gained in a supportive coaching relationship with the therapist, becomes the foundation for positive change. Open and self-aware clients tend to want validation of their thoughts and challenges to what hasn't worked. Skeptical clients tend to desire safety and assurance that someone is on their side. Regardless of the category, clients tend to get what they need from one session to the next.
(312) 967-9076 View (312) 967-9076
Photo of Christina Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Christina Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with this thing called life;I can help! Whether it is the day to day challenges of your relationships (spouse, children,parents,siblings, friends,boss or co-workers), or how you feel about yourself (physically, emotionally, spiritually); if you are ready to make changes or improvements in any area in your life, I welcome the opportunity to work with you! Also, if you are going through some of life's more serious challenges: divorce, domestic abuse, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders,sexual abuse trauma, or death of a loved one; please contact me.
If you are struggling with this thing called life;I can help! Whether it is the day to day challenges of your relationships (spouse, children,parents,siblings, friends,boss or co-workers), or how you feel about yourself (physically, emotionally, spiritually); if you are ready to make changes or improvements in any area in your life, I welcome the opportunity to work with you! Also, if you are going through some of life's more serious challenges: divorce, domestic abuse, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders,sexual abuse trauma, or death of a loved one; please contact me.
(708) 761-4228 View (708) 761-4228
Photo of Nate Pusateri, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Nate Pusateri
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
Life can be stressful and overwhelming. Feelings of anxiety and depression can occur during challenging times. We all have unique identities and ways of expressing ourselves, and we all view the world and our roles in it in distinctive ways. Non-judgmental, open-minded conversations within the context of a trusting relationship can help. Connecting with someone who can relate to your perspectives helps relieve stress and paves the way to lasting, meaningful change.
Life can be stressful and overwhelming. Feelings of anxiety and depression can occur during challenging times. We all have unique identities and ways of expressing ourselves, and we all view the world and our roles in it in distinctive ways. Non-judgmental, open-minded conversations within the context of a trusting relationship can help. Connecting with someone who can relate to your perspectives helps relieve stress and paves the way to lasting, meaningful change.
(312) 800-0886 View (312) 800-0886
Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Photo of Jens Michael Hussey, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Jens Michael Hussey
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
Areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Addiction / Substance Use Issues (I was a staff therapist at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital's Center for Addiction Medicine), Impaired Professionals, Anger and Stress Management, Relationship Problems, Divorce / Dissolution of Relationship, Grief, Codependency, and Trauma / PTSD.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whose work has been profiled in the Chicago Tribune and I was a former staff therapist at one of the most prestigious behavioral health hospitals in the country. One of my specialties is working with executives, lawyers, physicians and other professionals. I provide counseling, and executive coaching services for those looking for transformation and empowerment. In addition to my private practice, I am an instructor in the Masters Counseling Program at DePaul University. Executive Concierge service is available for the discriminating client.
Areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Addiction / Substance Use Issues (I was a staff therapist at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital's Center for Addiction Medicine), Impaired Professionals, Anger and Stress Management, Relationship Problems, Divorce / Dissolution of Relationship, Grief, Codependency, and Trauma / PTSD.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whose work has been profiled in the Chicago Tribune and I was a former staff therapist at one of the most prestigious behavioral health hospitals in the country. One of my specialties is working with executives, lawyers, physicians and other professionals. I provide counseling, and executive coaching services for those looking for transformation and empowerment. In addition to my private practice, I am an instructor in the Masters Counseling Program at DePaul University. Executive Concierge service is available for the discriminating client.
(708) 328-3094 View (708) 328-3094
Photo of Don Elligan, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Don Elligan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605
My practice specializes in helping clients actualize their personal goals. In my approach I attempt to empower clients to modify their thoughts and behaviors in ways that help them meet their particular goals. I also maintain sensitivity to a clients cultural background. I specialize in helping clients with relationship difficulties, anxiety/stress, depression, and impulsivity. I have extensive experience working with children with behavioral challenges and have developed a free app on managing bullying that is available in the apple itunes store (Hero App).
My practice specializes in helping clients actualize their personal goals. In my approach I attempt to empower clients to modify their thoughts and behaviors in ways that help them meet their particular goals. I also maintain sensitivity to a clients cultural background. I specialize in helping clients with relationship difficulties, anxiety/stress, depression, and impulsivity. I have extensive experience working with children with behavioral challenges and have developed a free app on managing bullying that is available in the apple itunes store (Hero App).
(773) 219-2149 View (773) 219-2149
Photo of Clint Zavakos, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Clint Zavakos
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, supporting them with overcoming issues related to PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties and addiction.
There are times in life where we all feel overwhelmed. Whether the day to day grind is wearing you down or overwhelming anxiety is making it difficult for you to leave the house, I am here to be on your side. I am a big believer that effective therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist and that healing is achieved by working together. I take an integrative approach to therapy, where I tailor the therapy to fit the needs of the client. I am also trained in EMDR therapy for trauma treatment and Gottman level 3 certified for couples work.
I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, supporting them with overcoming issues related to PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties and addiction.
There are times in life where we all feel overwhelmed. Whether the day to day grind is wearing you down or overwhelming anxiety is making it difficult for you to leave the house, I am here to be on your side. I am a big believer that effective therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist and that healing is achieved by working together. I take an integrative approach to therapy, where I tailor the therapy to fit the needs of the client. I am also trained in EMDR therapy for trauma treatment and Gottman level 3 certified for couples work.
(872) 244-6367 View (872) 244-6367
Photo of Chicago Personal Growth Institute in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Chicago Personal Growth Institute
LCSW, LCPC, ATR
Not Verified Not Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60606
We are dedicated to helping people improve emotional, physical and spiritual well-being by focusing on personal growth. Our team of highly qualified therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety. However, we don't dwell on what isn't working; we help you build upon what IS working. Our approach is empowering, empathetic and non-judgmental. We help you identify and release unhealthy behavior patterns, which may interfere with your ability to experience a deeper sense of peace and serenity. We look forward to working with you and in accompanying you upon your journey.
We are dedicated to helping people improve emotional, physical and spiritual well-being by focusing on personal growth. Our team of highly qualified therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety. However, we don't dwell on what isn't working; we help you build upon what IS working. Our approach is empowering, empathetic and non-judgmental. We help you identify and release unhealthy behavior patterns, which may interfere with your ability to experience a deeper sense of peace and serenity. We look forward to working with you and in accompanying you upon your journey.
(312) 620-1924 View (312) 620-1924
Photo of Sabrina Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Sabrina Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
(708) 938-3148 View (708) 938-3148
Photo of Rick Tivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Rick Tivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the crucible within which clients are helped to heal their pain. I take an active role in the therapeutic process by engaging with the client so he or she feels understood, respected, and seen. The feelings of shame, fear, anxiety and other painful emotions are worked through so the client feels taken care of. The clients I treat often come into therapy in a survival mode. I help people in moving from survival to a life of thriving and self love. Dysfunctional behaviors creates people who feel inauthentic, even to themselves. I assist people in developing true authenticity and a real self.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the crucible within which clients are helped to heal their pain. I take an active role in the therapeutic process by engaging with the client so he or she feels understood, respected, and seen. The feelings of shame, fear, anxiety and other painful emotions are worked through so the client feels taken care of. The clients I treat often come into therapy in a survival mode. I help people in moving from survival to a life of thriving and self love. Dysfunctional behaviors creates people who feel inauthentic, even to themselves. I assist people in developing true authenticity and a real self.
(847) 383-0228 View (847) 383-0228

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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.