Photo of Gail Zarbin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Gail Zarbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304
I can provide references from individuals and couples that have offered to be a reference as to their experience of being in counselling with me and many agencies that have referred the surrogate, or egg donor or Intended Parent to me for the required psychological evaluation.
I Welcome being able to help you with the challenges that are causing stress and concerns for you. I work with individuals, couple, and children. I can help you improve your parenting tools to decrease conflict. I can assist with tools to decrease anviety aboiut life challenges and transitions. I counsel individuals and couples going through the challenges of infertility and family planning choices. I am dedicated to offering support and guidance to find hope during this journey . I conduct required psychological assessment for Intended Parents, egg donors, and surrogates.
I can provide references from individuals and couples that have offered to be a reference as to their experience of being in counselling with me and many agencies that have referred the surrogate, or egg donor or Intended Parent to me for the required psychological evaluation.
I Welcome being able to help you with the challenges that are causing stress and concerns for you. I work with individuals, couple, and children. I can help you improve your parenting tools to decrease conflict. I can assist with tools to decrease anviety aboiut life challenges and transitions. I counsel individuals and couples going through the challenges of infertility and family planning choices. I am dedicated to offering support and guidance to find hope during this journey . I conduct required psychological assessment for Intended Parents, egg donors, and surrogates.
(312) 763-8169 View (312) 763-8169
Photo of Hannah Heitz, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Hannah Heitz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I work with young adults, adults, couples and families.
Are you going through a life transition and finding it difficult to cope with all the change? Are you or your child preparing for the next phase of life? Did you just move, graduate, start a new job, or are you having a hard time with social connections? Change can be hard. Do you have negative body image or have negative thoughts towards yourself often, maybe even daily? If you need assistance in exploring these answers or other difficult questions/issues in your life, I would be honored to lead you on this journey.
I work with young adults, adults, couples and families.
Are you going through a life transition and finding it difficult to cope with all the change? Are you or your child preparing for the next phase of life? Did you just move, graduate, start a new job, or are you having a hard time with social connections? Change can be hard. Do you have negative body image or have negative thoughts towards yourself often, maybe even daily? If you need assistance in exploring these answers or other difficult questions/issues in your life, I would be honored to lead you on this journey.
(708) 787-2586 View (708) 787-2586
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
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
Photo of Kristin R Davisson, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Kristin R Davisson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
I specialize in: Depression, Anxiety/Fear, Lack of Fulfillment, College/Graduate Student Issues, GLBTQ Issues, Multiculturalism, Grief and Loss, Family of Origin Issues, Sexual Issues, Relationship Concerns, as well as Sexual Abuse and Trauma.
Each of us encounters struggle in our lives: the essential element of my approach to psychotherapy involves the sharing of these struggles in a therapeutic relationship. Once this foundation has been laid, we progress toward mutually agreed upon goals. My patients often find that problems bringing them into therapy are connected to other parts of their lives. We work together to uncover these elements and open doors to greater satisfaction and self understanding.
I specialize in: Depression, Anxiety/Fear, Lack of Fulfillment, College/Graduate Student Issues, GLBTQ Issues, Multiculturalism, Grief and Loss, Family of Origin Issues, Sexual Issues, Relationship Concerns, as well as Sexual Abuse and Trauma.
Each of us encounters struggle in our lives: the essential element of my approach to psychotherapy involves the sharing of these struggles in a therapeutic relationship. Once this foundation has been laid, we progress toward mutually agreed upon goals. My patients often find that problems bringing them into therapy are connected to other parts of their lives. We work together to uncover these elements and open doors to greater satisfaction and self understanding.
(708) 726-9104 View (708) 726-9104
Photo of Regan Kasprak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Regan Kasprak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I believe that forming a strong client-therapist relationship is at the heart of making change, so I am intentional about bringing my authentic self, creativity, and sense of humor to sessions.
I am passionate about helping people navigate challenging interpersonal relationships, process family of origin trauma, and develop mindfulness skills to cope with anxiety, phobias, OCD, and burnout. Many of my adult clients tend to be curious about how their upbringings have shaped them, be part of public service professions (e.g., teachers, social workers, etc.), have some “perfectionistic” or “people-pleasing” tendencies, feel “separate” or “different” from other people, and/or identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I also work with children and adolescents using art and play therapy techniques!
I believe that forming a strong client-therapist relationship is at the heart of making change, so I am intentional about bringing my authentic self, creativity, and sense of humor to sessions.
I am passionate about helping people navigate challenging interpersonal relationships, process family of origin trauma, and develop mindfulness skills to cope with anxiety, phobias, OCD, and burnout. Many of my adult clients tend to be curious about how their upbringings have shaped them, be part of public service professions (e.g., teachers, social workers, etc.), have some “perfectionistic” or “people-pleasing” tendencies, feel “separate” or “different” from other people, and/or identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I also work with children and adolescents using art and play therapy techniques!
(708) 719-2316 View (708) 719-2316
Photo of Allyson Blasius, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Allyson Blasius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
" I believe it is important to work collaboratively with clients, offering hope and guidance in addressing and resolving problems of living. I assist individuals, couples and families to feel happier and more in control of their lives by engaging them sensitively, with due attention to each person's unique circumstances and personal strengths. Providing education about mental health issues and feedback about the successes and failures of the various solutions that clients have tried are central to my approach."
" I believe it is important to work collaboratively with clients, offering hope and guidance in addressing and resolving problems of living. I assist individuals, couples and families to feel happier and more in control of their lives by engaging them sensitively, with due attention to each person's unique circumstances and personal strengths. Providing education about mental health issues and feedback about the successes and failures of the various solutions that clients have tried are central to my approach."
(773) 966-2309 View (773) 966-2309
Photo of Kayla Wingert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Kayla Wingert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer and polyamorous therapist, I am passionate about working with queer and trans people, polyamorous individuals and relationships, kink and BDSM communities, and folks living life outside the religious traditions they were raised in. I particularly enjoy working with couples who are exploring opening their relationship or otherwise restructuring their relationship. I also work with triads, polycules, metamours, and other non-monogamous relationship configurations around communication and conflict, jealousy and insecurity, dating and breakups, and rethinking relationships.
As a queer and polyamorous therapist, I am passionate about working with queer and trans people, polyamorous individuals and relationships, kink and BDSM communities, and folks living life outside the religious traditions they were raised in. I particularly enjoy working with couples who are exploring opening their relationship or otherwise restructuring their relationship. I also work with triads, polycules, metamours, and other non-monogamous relationship configurations around communication and conflict, jealousy and insecurity, dating and breakups, and rethinking relationships.
(312) 815-5198 View (312) 815-5198
Photo of Jenvey Psychotherapy & Coaching , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Jenvey Psychotherapy & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I emphasize the close relationship between physical and mental health and the importance of developing specific, achievable goals in the context of your overarching dreams & values.
Breaking unhealthy habits, getting "unstuck", or working through life’s challenges requires creativity. But when we are feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, our brains tend to follow rigid patterns of thinking, feeling, and reacting. And that makes creativity difficult to access. As a therapist, my goal is to develop a fully creative process with each client and provide a comfortable space to explore and discuss different perspectives and self-care strategies.
I emphasize the close relationship between physical and mental health and the importance of developing specific, achievable goals in the context of your overarching dreams & values.
Breaking unhealthy habits, getting "unstuck", or working through life’s challenges requires creativity. But when we are feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, our brains tend to follow rigid patterns of thinking, feeling, and reacting. And that makes creativity difficult to access. As a therapist, my goal is to develop a fully creative process with each client and provide a comfortable space to explore and discuss different perspectives and self-care strategies.
(773) 341-2296 View (773) 341-2296
Photo of Terry L Stagman, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Terry L Stagman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
In addition, I am an experienced divorce mediator and collaborative law professional, helping couples to divorce without litigation.
For many years, I have been helping my clients to lead happier and more fulfilling lives. One of my main psychotherapy approaches is cognitive-behavioral therapy, a well-established, efficient and effective form of psychotherapy. It directly targets the patient's thinking, and behavior, patterns that are producing psychological problems, and teaches the patient to change those patterns. In marital and family therapy, I help the parties to communicate better with one another and to reach agreements acceptable to all. If the children have behavior problems, I often help the parents to become more effective disciplinarians.
In addition, I am an experienced divorce mediator and collaborative law professional, helping couples to divorce without litigation.
For many years, I have been helping my clients to lead happier and more fulfilling lives. One of my main psychotherapy approaches is cognitive-behavioral therapy, a well-established, efficient and effective form of psychotherapy. It directly targets the patient's thinking, and behavior, patterns that are producing psychological problems, and teaches the patient to change those patterns. In marital and family therapy, I help the parties to communicate better with one another and to reach agreements acceptable to all. If the children have behavior problems, I often help the parents to become more effective disciplinarians.
(312) 854-2763 View (312) 854-2763
Photo of Jae Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Jae Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who works from a client centered lens with diverse populations experiencing challenges. I work with adults, couples, adolescents, and is particularly passionate about helping immigrant families work through familial conflicts. I am skilled in working with clients who experience anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their feelings, develop coping skills, and work towards their goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who works from a client centered lens with diverse populations experiencing challenges. I work with adults, couples, adolescents, and is particularly passionate about helping immigrant families work through familial conflicts. I am skilled in working with clients who experience anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their feelings, develop coping skills, and work towards their goals.
(708) 627-2124 View (708) 627-2124
Photo of Sarah Perez, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Sarah Perez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I have experience treating a wide range of presenting issues including managing and reducing anxiety, stress, and depression, improving self-esteem, processing grief, loss, or trauma, addressing relationship challenges, managing adjustment difficulties, and making healthy lifestyle changes.
Life can be full of overwhelming challenges. Through therapy I can help you overcome these struggles and work towards meeting your own personal goals and improving your overall quality of life. I am a licensed clinical counselor trained in working with individuals and families who are looking for symptom relief, personal growth, or to improve their relationships.
I have experience treating a wide range of presenting issues including managing and reducing anxiety, stress, and depression, improving self-esteem, processing grief, loss, or trauma, addressing relationship challenges, managing adjustment difficulties, and making healthy lifestyle changes.
Life can be full of overwhelming challenges. Through therapy I can help you overcome these struggles and work towards meeting your own personal goals and improving your overall quality of life. I am a licensed clinical counselor trained in working with individuals and families who are looking for symptom relief, personal growth, or to improve their relationships.
(872) 241-1073 View (872) 241-1073
Photo of Dennisah Dampeer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oak Park, IL
Dennisah Dampeer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adult individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, body image, low self-esteem, and more.
Are feelings of fear and overwhelm getting in the way of you making the changes you would like to see in your life? Do you want greater self-love, stronger relationships, and to meet the goals you have for yourself, but don't know how to cultivate these things? I bring a calming, empathic and confident energy into the room that can help you slow down your thoughts to understand yourself and what is keeping you from succeeding in the ways you desire. We will co-create a treatment plan that lays out a path for you. I will be by your side supporting you, giving my expertise, and challenging you in ways that will help you grow.
I enjoy working with adult individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, body image, low self-esteem, and more.
Are feelings of fear and overwhelm getting in the way of you making the changes you would like to see in your life? Do you want greater self-love, stronger relationships, and to meet the goals you have for yourself, but don't know how to cultivate these things? I bring a calming, empathic and confident energy into the room that can help you slow down your thoughts to understand yourself and what is keeping you from succeeding in the ways you desire. We will co-create a treatment plan that lays out a path for you. I will be by your side supporting you, giving my expertise, and challenging you in ways that will help you grow.
(708) 809-2994 View (708) 809-2994
Photo of Jeanette Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Jeanette Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I support individuals, couples, and families under stress. Together, we uncover contexts and patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are causing challenges. Often, you as the client may already know the answers but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
I support individuals, couples, and families under stress. Together, we uncover contexts and patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are causing challenges. Often, you as the client may already know the answers but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
(708) 498-3785 View (708) 498-3785
Photo of Therapy Health Clinic: Tony D. Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Therapy Health Clinic: Tony D. Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Through more than 20 years of experience, I have worked extensively with individuals, couples and multi-generational families providing treatment for a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. I grew up in a large & humble home; learning and understanding the complexities of dealing with different types of personalities, sometimes in difficult circumstances at an early age. My goal is to see clients do amazing work in treatment by strengthening their coping skills, removing limiting beliefs, resolving conflicts, and lifestyle changes through a positive way of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
Through more than 20 years of experience, I have worked extensively with individuals, couples and multi-generational families providing treatment for a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. I grew up in a large & humble home; learning and understanding the complexities of dealing with different types of personalities, sometimes in difficult circumstances at an early age. My goal is to see clients do amazing work in treatment by strengthening their coping skills, removing limiting beliefs, resolving conflicts, and lifestyle changes through a positive way of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
(708) 300-0261 View (708) 300-0261
Photo of Erin M Ader, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Erin M Ader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My goal as a therapist is to create a space where you feel comfortable and at ease. Building a trusting relationship is key. Within this accepting and empathic setting personal introspection and growth can take place. Whether you have been in therapy previously or are new to the journey, seeking therapy is not always easy. I understand that taking this first step can often be one of the biggest challenges. I will work with you in a partnership to identify what is currently working in your life and what may be holding you back.
My goal as a therapist is to create a space where you feel comfortable and at ease. Building a trusting relationship is key. Within this accepting and empathic setting personal introspection and growth can take place. Whether you have been in therapy previously or are new to the journey, seeking therapy is not always easy. I understand that taking this first step can often be one of the biggest challenges. I will work with you in a partnership to identify what is currently working in your life and what may be holding you back.
(773) 879-3557 View (773) 879-3557
Photo of Hope Psychological Services, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Hope Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We provide individual, couples, and family therapy services as well as a wide range of psychological and neuropsychological evaluations.
Emotional well-being is central to our overall quality of life, and we believe everyone deserves the chance to live in healthy and healed ways. We are a diverse group of practitioners committed to providing effective and helpful treatment to improve emotional and psychological well-being. We will work together with you or your loved one to relieve emotional and psychological distress, increase self-awareness and healthy coping skills, foster insight, and to improve overall well-being within daily life and in relationships with others.
We provide individual, couples, and family therapy services as well as a wide range of psychological and neuropsychological evaluations.
Emotional well-being is central to our overall quality of life, and we believe everyone deserves the chance to live in healthy and healed ways. We are a diverse group of practitioners committed to providing effective and helpful treatment to improve emotional and psychological well-being. We will work together with you or your loved one to relieve emotional and psychological distress, increase self-awareness and healthy coping skills, foster insight, and to improve overall well-being within daily life and in relationships with others.
(708) 290-7345 View (708) 290-7345
Photo of Tamar Levinson, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Tamar Levinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Hello! For over 30 years, I have worked with clients as a clinical psychologist providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for adolescents, adults, and couples of all genders and sexualities. My counseling focuses on embracing tools for self-empowerment, self-worth, self-compassion, self-care, and assertiveness through reclaiming parts of oneself to feel whole. Reaching out for therapy can be intimidating and my goal is to make this experience as comfortable, safe and welcoming as possible!
Hello! For over 30 years, I have worked with clients as a clinical psychologist providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for adolescents, adults, and couples of all genders and sexualities. My counseling focuses on embracing tools for self-empowerment, self-worth, self-compassion, self-care, and assertiveness through reclaiming parts of oneself to feel whole. Reaching out for therapy can be intimidating and my goal is to make this experience as comfortable, safe and welcoming as possible!
(773) 900-4586 View (773) 900-4586
Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I've counseled marriage couples, couples before marriage, families dealing with death, and individuals with anger management issues.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
I've counseled marriage couples, couples before marriage, families dealing with death, and individuals with anger management issues.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Jamie Tubbs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Jamie Tubbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I specialize in working with couples in distress- whether that's the recent discovery of infidelity, long held hurts or gradual disconnection.
You make sense. Your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, sensations- they all make sense. Therapy is a great place to figure out how, and find ways you can change some of those things, or accept them and live with greater ease. In sessions with me, we will work to deepen your understanding of yourself, add skills for better tolerance of emotions and connection with others, and clarify your vision for what you want out of life. In my work with both individuals and couples, I enjoy bringing skills for better emotional awareness, communication, and values based action.
I specialize in working with couples in distress- whether that's the recent discovery of infidelity, long held hurts or gradual disconnection.
You make sense. Your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, sensations- they all make sense. Therapy is a great place to figure out how, and find ways you can change some of those things, or accept them and live with greater ease. In sessions with me, we will work to deepen your understanding of yourself, add skills for better tolerance of emotions and connection with others, and clarify your vision for what you want out of life. In my work with both individuals and couples, I enjoy bringing skills for better emotional awareness, communication, and values based action.
(708) 726-4655 View (708) 726-4655
Photo of Molly Michaels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Molly Michaels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
New Availability Limited Spots Open Wednesdays and Fridays 10 am - 12 pm! I understand that life transitions, making decisions, and feeling comfortable with who you are can feel isolating and I want you to know you are not alone. I focus on creating a meaningful, therapeutic, and authentic relationship. Seeking support can feel overwhelming, so I commit to fostering a space that is non-judgmental, empathetic, and validating. My approach to psychotherapy involves creative exploration through person-centered and strength-based techniques.
New Availability Limited Spots Open Wednesdays and Fridays 10 am - 12 pm! I understand that life transitions, making decisions, and feeling comfortable with who you are can feel isolating and I want you to know you are not alone. I focus on creating a meaningful, therapeutic, and authentic relationship. Seeking support can feel overwhelming, so I commit to fostering a space that is non-judgmental, empathetic, and validating. My approach to psychotherapy involves creative exploration through person-centered and strength-based techniques.
(630) 491-3746 View (630) 491-3746
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.