Therapists in South Loop, Chicago, IL

Photo of Jeanelle Kline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Jeanelle Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I work with adults, couples, and adolescents struggling to manage life transitions, exploring gender, sexuality, and sex, examining relationships, finding connection and belonging, overcoming shame, and improving emotional health (depression, anxiety) through coping and finding joy and pleasure.
Are you tired of spending all your time in therapy educating your therapist instead of working on what you need? Looking for a therapist who specializes in struggles with identity, sexual orientation, diverse sexual groups, such as kink/BDSM; relationship orientation such as polyamory, relationship anarchy, or swinging; anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic illness; secular or alternative faiths such as paganism; and are seeking patient-centered, compassionate, and affirming care?
I work with adults, couples, and adolescents struggling to manage life transitions, exploring gender, sexuality, and sex, examining relationships, finding connection and belonging, overcoming shame, and improving emotional health (depression, anxiety) through coping and finding joy and pleasure.
Are you tired of spending all your time in therapy educating your therapist instead of working on what you need? Looking for a therapist who specializes in struggles with identity, sexual orientation, diverse sexual groups, such as kink/BDSM; relationship orientation such as polyamory, relationship anarchy, or swinging; anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic illness; secular or alternative faiths such as paganism; and are seeking patient-centered, compassionate, and affirming care?
(773) 322-1031 View (773) 322-1031
Photo of Phoenix Rising Counseling & Guidance, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Phoenix Rising Counseling & Guidance, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605
We work with Individuals, Couples and Families age 4 and up using various therapeutic techniques including; Play Therapy, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Gottman Couples Therapy.
Phoenix Rising Counseling and Guidance, LLC is a holistic practice built on the premise of helping individuals like you to recognize your strengths and potential and rise up from the ashes that have negatively impacted your life. We strive to combine the treatment of mental health with mindfulness and spirituality. We believe that everyone has the tools and the innate ability to change their external world by working through the blockages, thought perceptions and cloud of their internal world.
We work with Individuals, Couples and Families age 4 and up using various therapeutic techniques including; Play Therapy, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Gottman Couples Therapy.
Phoenix Rising Counseling and Guidance, LLC is a holistic practice built on the premise of helping individuals like you to recognize your strengths and potential and rise up from the ashes that have negatively impacted your life. We strive to combine the treatment of mental health with mindfulness and spirituality. We believe that everyone has the tools and the innate ability to change their external world by working through the blockages, thought perceptions and cloud of their internal world.
(773) 673-9474 x1 View (773) 673-9474 x1
Photo of Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago
Counselor
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
Are you looking for an outstanding psychotherapist in the Chicago area? Would you like to speak with someone who can understand your spiritual and religious concerns as well as your emotional needs? The Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago has been in operation since 1965 and offers psychotherapy for adults, children, adolescents, and couples. Fully accredited as a clinical and educational site by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, the Center is staffed by licensed pastoral professional clinical counselors, social workers, and clinical psychologists.
Are you looking for an outstanding psychotherapist in the Chicago area? Would you like to speak with someone who can understand your spiritual and religious concerns as well as your emotional needs? The Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago has been in operation since 1965 and offers psychotherapy for adults, children, adolescents, and couples. Fully accredited as a clinical and educational site by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, the Center is staffed by licensed pastoral professional clinical counselors, social workers, and clinical psychologists.
(312) 263-4368 x9090 View (312) 263-4368 x9090
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 Elizabeth Wasserman, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Elizabeth Wasserman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
Certified in prenatal psychology, I offer a holistic approach (mind, body, spirit) for individuals and couples working toward family planning.
Do you feel lost, anxious, or disconnected from life?  In a compassionate environment, we will explore what has you feeling disempowered or stuck.  Using a mind-body approach and healing modalities from the field of energy psychology, you will discover how to shift these unwanted states. You will learn how to cultivate centeredness and live from a place of balance and conscious choice. Or are you looking to get support on your fertility journey? Healing your own family of origin imprints and past traumas is an important part of this work. I facilitate prenatal bonding which serves conception, pregnancy & childbirth.
Certified in prenatal psychology, I offer a holistic approach (mind, body, spirit) for individuals and couples working toward family planning.
Do you feel lost, anxious, or disconnected from life?  In a compassionate environment, we will explore what has you feeling disempowered or stuck.  Using a mind-body approach and healing modalities from the field of energy psychology, you will discover how to shift these unwanted states. You will learn how to cultivate centeredness and live from a place of balance and conscious choice. Or are you looking to get support on your fertility journey? Healing your own family of origin imprints and past traumas is an important part of this work. I facilitate prenatal bonding which serves conception, pregnancy & childbirth.
(773) 669-5941 View (773) 669-5941
Photo of Johnny White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Johnny White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I bring this experience into counseling to help the individual or Couples to strengthen and to grow as I have grown in life.
Clients are looking for solutions to their Life Challenges, whatever they may be. My role is to help clients to face and to overcome these challenges and to mover forward in their lives.
I bring this experience into counseling to help the individual or Couples to strengthen and to grow as I have grown in life.
Clients are looking for solutions to their Life Challenges, whatever they may be. My role is to help clients to face and to overcome these challenges and to mover forward in their lives.
Photo of Sydney Walden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Sydney Walden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, MDiv
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605
** ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. EVENINGS & WEEKENDS AVAILABLE** Your experiences have forged lifelong crucial connections and skills that may be hard to see right now. Overwhelming burdens, loss, pain, self-doubt and disappointment can overshadow strengths and relationships. You and I will use your strengths, improve your relationships and develop new skills to build positive ways of thinking and living that can help you reach your goals. My practice areas include anxiety and OCD, complex trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, LGBTQIA issues and chronic pain.
** ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. EVENINGS & WEEKENDS AVAILABLE** Your experiences have forged lifelong crucial connections and skills that may be hard to see right now. Overwhelming burdens, loss, pain, self-doubt and disappointment can overshadow strengths and relationships. You and I will use your strengths, improve your relationships and develop new skills to build positive ways of thinking and living that can help you reach your goals. My practice areas include anxiety and OCD, complex trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, LGBTQIA issues and chronic pain.
(630) 509-7834 View (630) 509-7834
Photo of Nik Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Nik Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Being human is messy and the relationships we have with ourselves and others can often feel even messier. However, you, through your lived experiences, have a significant amount of important data about what is working for you versus what is not. Together we can use that data and determine what variables have been supportive as well as what elements may need a revised approach. Therapeutic work with me involves a deep respect for consent – you get to choose our direction, our focus, and where we are headed. I may gently steer us down a path, but ultimately you are the captain of our journey.
Being human is messy and the relationships we have with ourselves and others can often feel even messier. However, you, through your lived experiences, have a significant amount of important data about what is working for you versus what is not. Together we can use that data and determine what variables have been supportive as well as what elements may need a revised approach. Therapeutic work with me involves a deep respect for consent – you get to choose our direction, our focus, and where we are headed. I may gently steer us down a path, but ultimately you are the captain of our journey.
(312) 847-8517 View (312) 847-8517
Photo of Morgan Waggoner, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Morgan Waggoner
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602
Searching for a therapist and starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Whether you are experiencing stress related to work, life transitions, or relationships, the therapeutic process is here to provide an outlet and for you to process your emotions and find relief. My role is to provide you with a welcoming/ judgement-free space, where you can feel heard and understood. I will support you in overcoming adversity, strengthening relationships, and increasing self-awareness. I work with adolescents and adults, and I integrate a wide range of therapeutic methods so I can provide therapy that best fits your personal needs and strengths.
Searching for a therapist and starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Whether you are experiencing stress related to work, life transitions, or relationships, the therapeutic process is here to provide an outlet and for you to process your emotions and find relief. My role is to provide you with a welcoming/ judgement-free space, where you can feel heard and understood. I will support you in overcoming adversity, strengthening relationships, and increasing self-awareness. I work with adolescents and adults, and I integrate a wide range of therapeutic methods so I can provide therapy that best fits your personal needs and strengths.
(312) 273-5671 View (312) 273-5671
Photo of Accelerated Counseling and Treatment, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Accelerated Counseling and Treatment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605
A graduate of Jane Addams School of Social Work with over 20 years of multi-cultural counseling experience with adolescents, adults and families. This evidence based practice, uses questionnaires, treatment plans and scales to assess your progress. You may see significant improvement within 6 visits w/o medication. Bias management, mindfulness, affirmations, nutrition, exercise and supplements are prescribed. These can, on occasion reduce the need for psychiatric medication. (In consultation with your doctor) Isn't it time for you to get results out of therapy? I accept EAP clients. Get better faster.
A graduate of Jane Addams School of Social Work with over 20 years of multi-cultural counseling experience with adolescents, adults and families. This evidence based practice, uses questionnaires, treatment plans and scales to assess your progress. You may see significant improvement within 6 visits w/o medication. Bias management, mindfulness, affirmations, nutrition, exercise and supplements are prescribed. These can, on occasion reduce the need for psychiatric medication. (In consultation with your doctor) Isn't it time for you to get results out of therapy? I accept EAP clients. Get better faster.
(312) 467-8033 View (312) 467-8033
Photo of Yojana Veeramasuneni, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Yojana Veeramasuneni
Psychologist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in Political Science and my Masters in Arts: Social Work from the University of Chicago. I received my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have worked in many settings from community mental health and crisis intervention to victim advocacy. I am a trained medical/legal sexual assault advocate and a trained domestic violence counselor. I completed my psychology internship at the Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School in a program in Asian Mental Health and Child Psychotherapy.
I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in Political Science and my Masters in Arts: Social Work from the University of Chicago. I received my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have worked in many settings from community mental health and crisis intervention to victim advocacy. I am a trained medical/legal sexual assault advocate and a trained domestic violence counselor. I completed my psychology internship at the Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School in a program in Asian Mental Health and Child Psychotherapy.
(312) 818-5290 View (312) 818-5290
Photo of Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037
Photo of Dr. Ariel McGrew, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Dr. Ariel McGrew
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, NPT-C, C-PD, CCATP
Verified Verified
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Ariel McGrew, and I am a licensed professional clinical mental health counselor (LPCC) in New Mexico and LPC in Colorado. I specialize in Telemental Health services and am passionate about providing personalized and compassionate care to my clients. I am certified in various mental health treatment areas. My services are designed to be effective, confidential, and convenient for individuals across NM & CO. Whether you need support for a personality disorder, are struggling with anxiety, or require a comprehensive ADHD assessment and treatment, I am here to guide you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Hello there! My name is Ariel McGrew, and I am a licensed professional clinical mental health counselor (LPCC) in New Mexico and LPC in Colorado. I specialize in Telemental Health services and am passionate about providing personalized and compassionate care to my clients. I am certified in various mental health treatment areas. My services are designed to be effective, confidential, and convenient for individuals across NM & CO. Whether you need support for a personality disorder, are struggling with anxiety, or require a comprehensive ADHD assessment and treatment, I am here to guide you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(708) 316-9868 View (708) 316-9868
Photo of Tamara Roth, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Tamara Roth
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Loop, Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. I work with people recovering from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors, as well as with people who grew up in dysfunctional families or are in a relationship with an addict. I have extensive experience working with people recovering from opiate addiction, including those using Suboxone (buprenorphine) maintenance therapy.
I specialize in individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. I work with people recovering from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors, as well as with people who grew up in dysfunctional families or are in a relationship with an addict. I have extensive experience working with people recovering from opiate addiction, including those using Suboxone (buprenorphine) maintenance therapy.
(847) 607-6806 View (847) 607-6806

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Rieff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Michelle Rieff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
My practice includes individuals, couples and families.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to gain insight, find hope, and make lasting change. With my support, you can gain increased self-awareness and clarity into the self-defeating patterns and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck, distressed, alone or in conflict. I strive to create an atmosphere that is caring, compassionate and safe to empower you to take the necessary steps toward greater fulfillment and meaning. Specializing in issues pertaining to relationships and life transitions, including marriage/divorce, parenting, relocation, career changes and loss, I will help you discover your strengths, enhance self-esteem, improve communication, and ease your anxiety.
My practice includes individuals, couples and families.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to gain insight, find hope, and make lasting change. With my support, you can gain increased self-awareness and clarity into the self-defeating patterns and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck, distressed, alone or in conflict. I strive to create an atmosphere that is caring, compassionate and safe to empower you to take the necessary steps toward greater fulfillment and meaning. Specializing in issues pertaining to relationships and life transitions, including marriage/divorce, parenting, relocation, career changes and loss, I will help you discover your strengths, enhance self-esteem, improve communication, and ease your anxiety.
(240) 301-4723 View (240) 301-4723
Photo of Greg Crisenbery, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Greg Crisenbery
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Hi, I'm Dr. Greg. Helping clients cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues is the focus of my practice. I try to maintain a balanced approach using an individual blend of theory and insight, practical applications, and humor. This can include discussions of physical, emotional, mental, and metaphysical wellbeing. Anger, work stress, frustration, loss, trauma and life's unexpected complications can get in between us and a peaceful experience of living. Assisting people in overcoming these challenges is my life's work. Please reach out to someone if it seems your life is being directed by negative emotions.
Hi, I'm Dr. Greg. Helping clients cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues is the focus of my practice. I try to maintain a balanced approach using an individual blend of theory and insight, practical applications, and humor. This can include discussions of physical, emotional, mental, and metaphysical wellbeing. Anger, work stress, frustration, loss, trauma and life's unexpected complications can get in between us and a peaceful experience of living. Assisting people in overcoming these challenges is my life's work. Please reach out to someone if it seems your life is being directed by negative emotions.
(773) 417-0417 x3 View (773) 417-0417 x3
Photo of Suzanne C Pecoraro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Suzanne C Pecoraro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60631  (Online Only)
I have been practicing for over 25 years, working with individuals and couples.
There are times we all lose our way. It takes courage to reach out for help. You may need healing following a difficult time in your life. You may have feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, stress, or need support in managing relationships, strong emotions and impulsive behaviors. I take a holistic , strength-based approach. Moving at your own pace, we will address what we can change now and what may take more time. Together we will explore behaviors and choices that support you, releasing those that are keeping you from becoming your best self.
I have been practicing for over 25 years, working with individuals and couples.
There are times we all lose our way. It takes courage to reach out for help. You may need healing following a difficult time in your life. You may have feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, stress, or need support in managing relationships, strong emotions and impulsive behaviors. I take a holistic , strength-based approach. Moving at your own pace, we will address what we can change now and what may take more time. Together we will explore behaviors and choices that support you, releasing those that are keeping you from becoming your best self.
(847) 354-4050 View (847) 354-4050
Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
Feeling lost or invisible? Feeling overwhelmed ? Feeling alone and like nobody cares? Your feelings, needs and dreams are of primary importance in the therapeutic process. I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client must be based on mutual respect, trust, and acceptance. I have worked with clients over 20yrs. with issues such as, anxiety, depression, grief, self-identity, and conflicting relationships. I am willing to provide you with a safe, supportive space to help you explore what's meaningful to you, what you want to do with your life and how to have have fulfilling relationships.
Feeling lost or invisible? Feeling overwhelmed ? Feeling alone and like nobody cares? Your feelings, needs and dreams are of primary importance in the therapeutic process. I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client must be based on mutual respect, trust, and acceptance. I have worked with clients over 20yrs. with issues such as, anxiety, depression, grief, self-identity, and conflicting relationships. I am willing to provide you with a safe, supportive space to help you explore what's meaningful to you, what you want to do with your life and how to have have fulfilling relationships.
(224) 302-4973 View (224) 302-4973
Photo of Tenacity Psychological Services, Psychologist in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Tenacity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
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 Casey Tanner, Counselor in South Loop, Chicago, IL
Casey Tanner
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Their first book Feel It All: A Therapist's Guide to Reimagining Your Relationship with Sex has been hailed as “a masterful blend of research, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, Feel It All addresses the profound effects that cultural messaging and attachment wounds have on sexuality.
When her initial pursuit of a career in evangelical ministry was disrupted by a mental health crisis, Casey was forced to reckon with the harmful impact of purity culture and systemic homophobia on her sense of self. After coming out as queer at a college that expressly forbid “homosexual behavior,” Casey made it her mission to disrupt misinformation and barriers to authenticity by pursuing her masters in counseling with a specialization in sexual and gender diversity, and ultimately received her Sexual Health Certificate from University of Michigan.
Their first book Feel It All: A Therapist's Guide to Reimagining Your Relationship with Sex has been hailed as “a masterful blend of research, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, Feel It All addresses the profound effects that cultural messaging and attachment wounds have on sexuality.
When her initial pursuit of a career in evangelical ministry was disrupted by a mental health crisis, Casey was forced to reckon with the harmful impact of purity culture and systemic homophobia on her sense of self. After coming out as queer at a college that expressly forbid “homosexual behavior,” Casey made it her mission to disrupt misinformation and barriers to authenticity by pursuing her masters in counseling with a specialization in sexual and gender diversity, and ultimately received her Sexual Health Certificate from University of Michigan.
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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.