Therapists in South Loop, Chicago, IL

Photo of Baheia Derweesh, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Baheia Derweesh
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
أنّ رحلة العثور على معالج نفسي يتمتع بالمؤهلات العلمية والخبرة الطويلة في العمل في مجال الإرشاد والعلاج النفسي، تبدو صعبة في بعض.الأحيان. كمعالجة نفسية حاصلة على درجة الدكتوراه، وعملت لمدة عشرين عاما في الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية، والعالم العربي، وفي نطاق واسع من الاضطرابات والمشاكل النفسية والأسرية، بدءاً اضطرابات القلق والمزاج، وتحسين المهارات الاجتماعية ومهارات تأكيد الذات، ومشكلات الأطفال والمراهقين، والعلاقات الأسرية والزواجية، بالإضافة إلى التعامل مع ضحايا العنف (الجسدي والنفسي والحروب، فضلا عن الإرشاد المهني وإرشاد كبار السن. كمعالجة نفسي، أؤمن أن العلاج النفسي رحلة مشتركة يتقاسمها المرشد والمسترشد (العميل) لمساعدة المسترشد
أنّ رحلة العثور على معالج نفسي يتمتع بالمؤهلات العلمية والخبرة الطويلة في العمل في مجال الإرشاد والعلاج النفسي، تبدو صعبة في بعض.الأحيان. كمعالجة نفسية حاصلة على درجة الدكتوراه، وعملت لمدة عشرين عاما في الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية، والعالم العربي، وفي نطاق واسع من الاضطرابات والمشاكل النفسية والأسرية، بدءاً اضطرابات القلق والمزاج، وتحسين المهارات الاجتماعية ومهارات تأكيد الذات، ومشكلات الأطفال والمراهقين، والعلاقات الأسرية والزواجية، بالإضافة إلى التعامل مع ضحايا العنف (الجسدي والنفسي والحروب، فضلا عن الإرشاد المهني وإرشاد كبار السن. كمعالجة نفسي، أؤمن أن العلاج النفسي رحلة مشتركة يتقاسمها المرشد والمسترشد (العميل) لمساعدة المسترشد
(312) 626-6611 x2 View (312) 626-6611 x2
Photo of Lana El Masri, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Lana El Masri
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with singles, individuals, and couples and can help you with a variety of areas such as: communicating effectively, conflict resolution, understanding your attachment bond to your partner, managing your emotions, handling your anxiety and depression, and relationship and life stressors. These stressors include infidelity, deciding if you want to stay or leave your relationship, different attachment styles, cultural and religious differences, and general life unhappiness.
I work with singles, individuals, and couples and can help you with a variety of areas such as: communicating effectively, conflict resolution, understanding your attachment bond to your partner, managing your emotions, handling your anxiety and depression, and relationship and life stressors. These stressors include infidelity, deciding if you want to stay or leave your relationship, different attachment styles, cultural and religious differences, and general life unhappiness.
(312) 374-6387 View (312) 374-6387
Photo of Maggie Bishay, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Maggie Bishay
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
I specializes in working with couples at all different stages in their relationship.
I specialize in working with couples, families and individuals. My experience has covered the full gamut of socioeconomic statuses and diagnoses. I hold a PsyD. from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I also have a Masters from the Chicago school of Professional Psychology. I work with clients by meeting them at the stage in their life and walking with them in their journey towards a better self."
I specializes in working with couples at all different stages in their relationship.
I specialize in working with couples, families and individuals. My experience has covered the full gamut of socioeconomic statuses and diagnoses. I hold a PsyD. from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I also have a Masters from the Chicago school of Professional Psychology. I work with clients by meeting them at the stage in their life and walking with them in their journey towards a better self."
(773) 839-0230 View (773) 839-0230
Photo of Samiha Jallouqa, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Samiha Jallouqa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
Allowing yourself to be supported is the first step towards becoming your best self. However, without adequate support, overcoming feelings of sadness, overwhelm, disconnection or insecurity can be an exhausting and isolating experience. This is why I understand the importance of finding the right therapist. You may be seeking to feel truly heard and understood without judgment by someone you can trust to help you feel more grounded, confident, and satisfied in your everyday life. As a therapist, my main goal is to create that safe and trusting relationship to guide and empower you towards achieving ultimate personal growth.
Allowing yourself to be supported is the first step towards becoming your best self. However, without adequate support, overcoming feelings of sadness, overwhelm, disconnection or insecurity can be an exhausting and isolating experience. This is why I understand the importance of finding the right therapist. You may be seeking to feel truly heard and understood without judgment by someone you can trust to help you feel more grounded, confident, and satisfied in your everyday life. As a therapist, my main goal is to create that safe and trusting relationship to guide and empower you towards achieving ultimate personal growth.
(773) 609-0361 View (773) 609-0361
Photo of Maria Fakhouri, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Maria Fakhouri
Pre-Licensed Professional, Psy D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
Sometimes, we find ourselves trapped in unhealthy patterns and oppressive systems where we feel unappreciated, uncared for, and distressed. I believe that relationships can be a mechanism for change, and that this starts with the therapeutic relationship. Through a healing relationship, we can gain insight into harmful patterns, receive support and validation, and then be empowered to make a change in order to a live a life that is more authentic and aligned with our own needs.
Sometimes, we find ourselves trapped in unhealthy patterns and oppressive systems where we feel unappreciated, uncared for, and distressed. I believe that relationships can be a mechanism for change, and that this starts with the therapeutic relationship. Through a healing relationship, we can gain insight into harmful patterns, receive support and validation, and then be empowered to make a change in order to a live a life that is more authentic and aligned with our own needs.
(312) 262-3042 View (312) 262-3042
Photo of Amira Farrag, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Amira Farrag
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
I work well with individuals and couples at various stages in their mental health journey.
Our past can impact how we navigate the present. In my opinion, understanding our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space where you can freely explore those vulnerabilities. This is a space where you can vent, laugh, and make greater meaning out of your experiences. I use a strength-based approach to empower you to be your most authentic self. This approach can include times of humor and times when I challenge you. I believe the therapeutic relationship is integral to exploring uncomfortable emotions and relationship dynamics.
I work well with individuals and couples at various stages in their mental health journey.
Our past can impact how we navigate the present. In my opinion, understanding our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space where you can freely explore those vulnerabilities. This is a space where you can vent, laugh, and make greater meaning out of your experiences. I use a strength-based approach to empower you to be your most authentic self. This approach can include times of humor and times when I challenge you. I believe the therapeutic relationship is integral to exploring uncomfortable emotions and relationship dynamics.
(312) 313-7602 View (312) 313-7602
Photo of Lois Tawfik, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Lois Tawfik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult; however, you are here and that's your first step. Do you find yourself struggling in relationships, dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, or trauma? I want to be available to help you through that. I work with individuals and couples. I have a particular passion for working with women who have experienced infidelity in a relationship. Betrayal trauma comes in forms such as having multiple partners, emotional affairs, lying, and gaslighting. I want you to find healing, rebuild trust in yourself, and become whole again.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult; however, you are here and that's your first step. Do you find yourself struggling in relationships, dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, or trauma? I want to be available to help you through that. I work with individuals and couples. I have a particular passion for working with women who have experienced infidelity in a relationship. Betrayal trauma comes in forms such as having multiple partners, emotional affairs, lying, and gaslighting. I want you to find healing, rebuild trust in yourself, and become whole again.
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Photo of HealingWorks , Marriage & Family Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
HealingWorks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605
Are you searching for effective couples therapy to improve your relationship, resolve conflicts, and enhance your emotional connection? At HealingWorks, we offer professional couples therapy services designed to help you navigate challenges, strengthen your partnership, and foster deeper emotional intimacy. Our experienced therapists are skilled in working with couples from diverse backgrounds and experiences to help you achieve a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. We will help you improve communication, resolve conflicts, and reignite the spark in your relationship.
Are you searching for effective couples therapy to improve your relationship, resolve conflicts, and enhance your emotional connection? At HealingWorks, we offer professional couples therapy services designed to help you navigate challenges, strengthen your partnership, and foster deeper emotional intimacy. Our experienced therapists are skilled in working with couples from diverse backgrounds and experiences to help you achieve a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. We will help you improve communication, resolve conflicts, and reignite the spark in your relationship.
(720) 893-9408 View (720) 893-9408
Photo of Flourish Counseling & Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Flourish Counseling & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60604
Our compassionate team provides individual, couples, group and family therapy, as well as medication management, both in office and securely online.
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling, advocacy and resources focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychologists, PhDs, marriage/family therapists, certified perinatal mental health clinicians, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Our compassionate team provides individual, couples, group and family therapy, as well as medication management, both in office and securely online.
Flourish Counseling & Wellness is a group practice providing counseling, advocacy and resources focused on women's and perinatal mental health - from fertility to pregnancy, through postpartum and parenthood. We envision a world where families have the information and support they need to heal, connect and flourish. To support that vision, we have assembled an experienced group of clinicians to serve clients in Chicago, Oak Park, and throughout Illinois. Our team consists of clinical social workers, psychologists, PhDs, marriage/family therapists, certified perinatal mental health clinicians, and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
(630) 394-8367 View (630) 394-8367
Photo of Sarah Hamza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Sarah Hamza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
We all deserve a space that is exclusively ours. A non-judgmental, accepting, and healing space where we can transform our minds, feelings, and experiences. A space to reflect and grow. I provide holistic therapy that is person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is eclectic - I incorporate various treatment modalities and approaches into my work (mindfulness, CBT, DBT, etc.) and provide anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive therapy. The identities you carry are seen, valued, and celebrated. I consider all aspects of your life, including the systems and environments that impact us.
We all deserve a space that is exclusively ours. A non-judgmental, accepting, and healing space where we can transform our minds, feelings, and experiences. A space to reflect and grow. I provide holistic therapy that is person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is eclectic - I incorporate various treatment modalities and approaches into my work (mindfulness, CBT, DBT, etc.) and provide anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive therapy. The identities you carry are seen, valued, and celebrated. I consider all aspects of your life, including the systems and environments that impact us.
(630) 593-7474 View (630) 593-7474
Photo of Dr. Angie Ahmed Morssal, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Dr. Angie Ahmed Morssal
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
You feel alone, misunderstood and anxious about showing up as your full, authentic self. You feel emotionally disconnected from loved ones because they don’t get you anymore. Or maybe they never did. You find yourself searching for meaning in life while trying to understand who you are and where you belong. You feel lost and terrified. Those around you don’t understand, nor do they see how much you’re struggling. You’ve become good at hiding how you really feel. Sometimes you feel others may be better off without you. You're close to giving up, but you want to make a change. You long to be understood and accepted, and to belong.
You feel alone, misunderstood and anxious about showing up as your full, authentic self. You feel emotionally disconnected from loved ones because they don’t get you anymore. Or maybe they never did. You find yourself searching for meaning in life while trying to understand who you are and where you belong. You feel lost and terrified. Those around you don’t understand, nor do they see how much you’re struggling. You’ve become good at hiding how you really feel. Sometimes you feel others may be better off without you. You're close to giving up, but you want to make a change. You long to be understood and accepted, and to belong.
(718) 504-0876 View (718) 504-0876
Photo of Psychological Evaluations for Immigration, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Psychological Evaluations for Immigration
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand these services can be expensive and that is why we offer affordable fees. We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Cancellation, and N-648 cases. Our evaluations are completed in a timely fashion by a bilingual (Chinese)Licensed Therapist. We also work with clients who speak other languages, including Spanish, Russian, French, Arabic, Cambodian, Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, Vietnamese, Kirundi, and Farsi through professional interpreters.
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand these services can be expensive and that is why we offer affordable fees. We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Cancellation, and N-648 cases. Our evaluations are completed in a timely fashion by a bilingual (Chinese)Licensed Therapist. We also work with clients who speak other languages, including Spanish, Russian, French, Arabic, Cambodian, Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, Vietnamese, Kirundi, and Farsi through professional interpreters.
(312) 766-6441 View (312) 766-6441
Photo of Malachite Institute for Behavioral Health, LLC, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Malachite Institute for Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
(202) 759-3831 View (202) 759-3831
Photo of Lutfi Alkaddour, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Lutfi Alkaddour
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60606
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in treating trauma.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in treating trauma.
Every person deserves to be valued for who they are and where they are in life. Life challenges can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves. There can be great value in reclaiming our entire selves, with all we have been through and currently face, while stepping into the unknown. Being truly witnessed can help us reconcile our realities, regain hope, and remember our gifts. I wish to honor your life by offering a warm, accepting haven for you to exist, unpack, discover, heal, and co-create your life in light of who you are and the unique opportunities and challenges you experience. You deserve to feel at home with yourself.
(224) 207-4028 View (224) 207-4028

Online Therapists

Photo of Nadia Hallak, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Nadia Hallak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I am well versed in working with couples and utilize The Gottman Method.
With all the stressors in our society today, you may benefit from a caring clinician who can be a main source of support and offer effective therapeutic treatment. I believe the most important element in a therapeutic relationship is empathy and rapport. I try to understand your world and the experiences that you have had, because only then can we process your emotions and perspectives together. I hope to help you reach your goals while offering a supportive and safe environment.
I am well versed in working with couples and utilize The Gottman Method.
With all the stressors in our society today, you may benefit from a caring clinician who can be a main source of support and offer effective therapeutic treatment. I believe the most important element in a therapeutic relationship is empathy and rapport. I try to understand your world and the experiences that you have had, because only then can we process your emotions and perspectives together. I hope to help you reach your goals while offering a supportive and safe environment.
(872) 241-2284 View (872) 241-2284
Photo of Mounia Sami, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Mounia Sami
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
Issues of self-esteem and self-worth are core to my practice. I also focus on identity work, trauma, and relationship with self and others. My work includes the exploration of my clients’ values and what is truly important to them, which leads to a meaningful and satisfying life. While warm and empathic, my therapeutic style also includes direct feedback and guidance to give you practical tools that will empower you to face the world despite your struggles.
Issues of self-esteem and self-worth are core to my practice. I also focus on identity work, trauma, and relationship with self and others. My work includes the exploration of my clients’ values and what is truly important to them, which leads to a meaningful and satisfying life. While warm and empathic, my therapeutic style also includes direct feedback and guidance to give you practical tools that will empower you to face the world despite your struggles.
(312) 584-3781 x524 View (312) 584-3781 x524
Photo of Lena Elkhatib, Marriage & Family Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Lena Elkhatib
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I work with individuals and couples on concerns such as: personal development, relationship issues, sexual/intimacy issues, post-partum mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Sometimes life can get rough. Relationships can feel disconnected or heavy with resentment and distrust. Sex and intimacy can get lost in the shuffle of every day. Babies can come along making life feel completely out of control. Through it all, maybe you feel like you just don’t have what it takes, or you feel stuck in cycles of worry, sadness or loneliness. Here’s the good news: CHANGE IS POSSIBLE. Better yet, you have within you what it takes to make it happen. Together through therapy we can work to identify, challenge and reimagine the undesirable aspects of your life and relationships, making space for something better.
I work with individuals and couples on concerns such as: personal development, relationship issues, sexual/intimacy issues, post-partum mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Sometimes life can get rough. Relationships can feel disconnected or heavy with resentment and distrust. Sex and intimacy can get lost in the shuffle of every day. Babies can come along making life feel completely out of control. Through it all, maybe you feel like you just don’t have what it takes, or you feel stuck in cycles of worry, sadness or loneliness. Here’s the good news: CHANGE IS POSSIBLE. Better yet, you have within you what it takes to make it happen. Together through therapy we can work to identify, challenge and reimagine the undesirable aspects of your life and relationships, making space for something better.
(847) 383-0272 View (847) 383-0272
Photo of Thamani Counseling Services, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Thamani Counseling Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Finding a therapist is often difficult and can feel overwhelming. Therefore, we strive to match you with a clinician who is the right fit for you in terms of style, expertise, and availability. Our team of caring and experienced clinicians provide individual, family, couples, and group psychotherapy. We specialize in areas such as trauma, relationship distress, anxiety, depression, coping with change/transitions, life-stress, and grief/mourning.
Finding a therapist is often difficult and can feel overwhelming. Therefore, we strive to match you with a clinician who is the right fit for you in terms of style, expertise, and availability. Our team of caring and experienced clinicians provide individual, family, couples, and group psychotherapy. We specialize in areas such as trauma, relationship distress, anxiety, depression, coping with change/transitions, life-stress, and grief/mourning.
(773) 832-5140 View (773) 832-5140
Photo of Dr. John Nofar, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Dr. John Nofar
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Nofar also provides therapy to those going through life events such as life transitions, relationship stress, and many more.
Having space to be supported, challenged, heard, and respected is the key to change. In therapy I aim to work with you as a team to best meet your goals and create growth, internally and externally. I greatly enjoy getting to know those I serve and being part of their ongoing movement though life. It is truly a gift being able to support so many people in their life development. I work under the supervision of Dr. Samantha Soll. Please visit our website for additional information. It should be noted that Dr. Soll will respond to inquiries and provide initial services regarding insurance review, questions and initial scheduling.
Nofar also provides therapy to those going through life events such as life transitions, relationship stress, and many more.
Having space to be supported, challenged, heard, and respected is the key to change. In therapy I aim to work with you as a team to best meet your goals and create growth, internally and externally. I greatly enjoy getting to know those I serve and being part of their ongoing movement though life. It is truly a gift being able to support so many people in their life development. I work under the supervision of Dr. Samantha Soll. Please visit our website for additional information. It should be noted that Dr. Soll will respond to inquiries and provide initial services regarding insurance review, questions and initial scheduling.
(773) 537-4158 View (773) 537-4158
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
We have worked with those experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/body image, health and relationship issues, trauma, stress, work/life balance issues and loneliness.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have worked with those experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/body image, health and relationship issues, trauma, stress, work/life balance issues and loneliness.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612

See more therapy options for South Loop, 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.