Photo of Bryn Dawson, Counselor in Maine
Bryn Dawson
Counselor, MA, LCPC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I offer presence and connection to support couples and individuals towards greater authenticity and fulfillment. I understand well the tremendous capacity for the psyche to accommodate unresolved trauma by intricate and patterned coping means. This tempers my approach towards one of gentle courage with clients. Together we learn to find a pacing that creates safety for making contact with what hurts. I am deeply interested in supporting the recognition of your intrinsic capacity to grow towards wholeness. This occurs through dialogue, active processing of emotions, and encountering your truth in the present.
I offer presence and connection to support couples and individuals towards greater authenticity and fulfillment. I understand well the tremendous capacity for the psyche to accommodate unresolved trauma by intricate and patterned coping means. This tempers my approach towards one of gentle courage with clients. Together we learn to find a pacing that creates safety for making contact with what hurts. I am deeply interested in supporting the recognition of your intrinsic capacity to grow towards wholeness. This occurs through dialogue, active processing of emotions, and encountering your truth in the present.
(207) 506-0287 View (207) 506-0287
Photo of Dr. Natasha Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Dr. Natasha Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
Hi my name is Dr. Natasha Wilson and I'm trained as both a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a cultural anthropologist (PhD) and I blend the skills I have gained in both these fields to work with individuals, couples and communities to realize their inherent strengths. I operate from a philosophy that people have the ability to recover and heal and the power to do so lies within them. My job is simply to facilitate the process. You are the answer! I specialize in online therapy and counseling services using HIPPA compliant video and tele-mental health technology. To schedule: www.thejourneyhome11.com
Hi my name is Dr. Natasha Wilson and I'm trained as both a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a cultural anthropologist (PhD) and I blend the skills I have gained in both these fields to work with individuals, couples and communities to realize their inherent strengths. I operate from a philosophy that people have the ability to recover and heal and the power to do so lies within them. My job is simply to facilitate the process. You are the answer! I specialize in online therapy and counseling services using HIPPA compliant video and tele-mental health technology. To schedule: www.thejourneyhome11.com
(207) 536-2507 View (207) 536-2507
Photo of Elizabeth MacInnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Elizabeth MacInnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107  (Online Only)
I work with Individuals and couples crossing life’s thresholds, personal growth, infertility, motherhood, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, self-esteem, and grief.
As a certified Internal Family Systems therapist, I aim to cultivate a space with room to understand our own inherent truth and wisdom within. Through sessions that combine both holistic psychotherapy and counseling, I will support you in building a relationship with yourself that is rooted in love and nourishment. I believe that our lives, sexuality, and gender are all fluid, and aim to facilitate exploration and discovery without judgement. I utilize intuition, card pulling, and astrology within session.
I work with Individuals and couples crossing life’s thresholds, personal growth, infertility, motherhood, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, self-esteem, and grief.
As a certified Internal Family Systems therapist, I aim to cultivate a space with room to understand our own inherent truth and wisdom within. Through sessions that combine both holistic psychotherapy and counseling, I will support you in building a relationship with yourself that is rooted in love and nourishment. I believe that our lives, sexuality, and gender are all fluid, and aim to facilitate exploration and discovery without judgement. I utilize intuition, card pulling, and astrology within session.
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Photo of Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
(207) 370-5389 View (207) 370-5389
Photo of Serenity Counseling P.C./Karin Rapel, LCPC, Counselor in Maine
Serenity Counseling P.C./Karin Rapel, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wells, ME 04090
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I am currently experiencing a one month waiting period for new appointments. I have been working as a strength-based counselor for the past 24 years. Through building a therapeutic relationship, we can address stressors and concerns in your life and focus on setting goals that will decrease anxiety, and have the potential to improve the overall quality of your life. I believe in self-care and ultimately achieving a sense of pride and self-esteem. I will work with you to recognize your individual strengths, set boundaries when needed, and use communication skills to assert needs to friends, family, and co-workers.
I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I am currently experiencing a one month waiting period for new appointments. I have been working as a strength-based counselor for the past 24 years. Through building a therapeutic relationship, we can address stressors and concerns in your life and focus on setting goals that will decrease anxiety, and have the potential to improve the overall quality of your life. I believe in self-care and ultimately achieving a sense of pride and self-esteem. I will work with you to recognize your individual strengths, set boundaries when needed, and use communication skills to assert needs to friends, family, and co-workers.
(207) 518-7458 View (207) 518-7458
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Counselor in Maine
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(207) 962-1355 View (207) 962-1355
Photo of Carrie Louise Roberts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Carrie Louise Roberts, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Yarmouth, ME 04096
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I provide both individual & couples therapy. You might be curious about couples therapy because… you are in a new relationship and want to build solid skills for the future, or you and your partner are at a crossroads. Couples may seek a trained therapist for many reasons, but ultimately to support their relationship and learn new skills. As an individual, you may be struggling with anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma, or relationship conflict and longing for a space to put yourself first and work on your growth.
Hello, I provide both individual & couples therapy. You might be curious about couples therapy because… you are in a new relationship and want to build solid skills for the future, or you and your partner are at a crossroads. Couples may seek a trained therapist for many reasons, but ultimately to support their relationship and learn new skills. As an individual, you may be struggling with anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma, or relationship conflict and longing for a space to put yourself first and work on your growth.
(207) 560-0439 View (207) 560-0439
Photo of Dan Creek, Counselor in Maine
Dan Creek
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Welcome - thank you for your interest. For many years I've been a counselor and educator, working with people through transformative learning experiences. I'll strive to help you gain self understanding and develop your natural abilities to work through life challenges. I offer a variety of therapeutic approaches that address concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and performance problems (e.g., work/academics, physical intimacy).
Welcome - thank you for your interest. For many years I've been a counselor and educator, working with people through transformative learning experiences. I'll strive to help you gain self understanding and develop your natural abilities to work through life challenges. I offer a variety of therapeutic approaches that address concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and performance problems (e.g., work/academics, physical intimacy).
(207) 618-9870 View (207) 618-9870
Photo of Yara A Perez, Counselor in Maine
Yara A Perez
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Are you struggling with worries, fears, sadness, relationship issues, or other stressors? Is it difficult to talk to people in your life about what you're going through. Are these feelings preventing you from having meaningful relationships with others and with yourself? Such emotions can be overwhelming and can affect us in negative ways. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and interactive environment to help you cope with and overcome these obstacles, and restore balance to your life.
Are you struggling with worries, fears, sadness, relationship issues, or other stressors? Is it difficult to talk to people in your life about what you're going through. Are these feelings preventing you from having meaningful relationships with others and with yourself? Such emotions can be overwhelming and can affect us in negative ways. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and interactive environment to help you cope with and overcome these obstacles, and restore balance to your life.
(207) 358-6331 View (207) 358-6331
Photo of Leslie Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Leslie Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm licensed in ME & NY. I believe the work is to find our way back to what is already whole. My mission is to help you reshape your neural landscape and support a life of meaning and resilience. Additionally, my approach can be directive & challenge you to be courageous & confront yourself in order to unburden & heal. This can be intense work as we together invite the best version of yourself to step up & evolve, by befriending your nervous system and creating more effective patterns/beliefs & internal resources. I truly enjoy this work & bringing humor & levity to my sessions with individuals, families, couples & groups.
Welcome! I'm licensed in ME & NY. I believe the work is to find our way back to what is already whole. My mission is to help you reshape your neural landscape and support a life of meaning and resilience. Additionally, my approach can be directive & challenge you to be courageous & confront yourself in order to unburden & heal. This can be intense work as we together invite the best version of yourself to step up & evolve, by befriending your nervous system and creating more effective patterns/beliefs & internal resources. I truly enjoy this work & bringing humor & levity to my sessions with individuals, families, couples & groups.
(207) 218-0102 View (207) 218-0102
Photo of Michael Scheib, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Michael Scheib
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, MS Ed
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I often work with individuals that are struggling with Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Intimate relationship issues, Sexual issues, and Autism.
Hello! I am glad you have taken a step to better your mental health! I am primarily working with Adults at this time, but will work with children 14+. I use goal-oriented therapy that involves the individual in every step of the process. The modalities of therapy I use, are evidence-based (CBT, ACT, DBT, etc.), which aim to decrease interfering thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as increase happiness and success in life. We will also work together in a holistic manner to insure we are addressing all aspects of your life that could affect mental health!
I often work with individuals that are struggling with Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Intimate relationship issues, Sexual issues, and Autism.
Hello! I am glad you have taken a step to better your mental health! I am primarily working with Adults at this time, but will work with children 14+. I use goal-oriented therapy that involves the individual in every step of the process. The modalities of therapy I use, are evidence-based (CBT, ACT, DBT, etc.), which aim to decrease interfering thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as increase happiness and success in life. We will also work together in a holistic manner to insure we are addressing all aspects of your life that could affect mental health!
(207) 501-3392 View (207) 501-3392
Photo of Emily McCauley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Emily McCauley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
I work with all age groups in individual, couples, and family therapy. I am trained in Functional Family Therapy which focuses on observing and breaking conflict cycles that are no longer serving you or your relationships. I am also trained as a Gottman level 2 therapist which I utilize in my couples work. My relational approach translates well for all ages and for a range of presenting concerns for treatment. My particular areas of specialty are working with adolescents, couples, and adult women. Modalities often used in my sessions include CBT, ARC, Attachment Theory, ACT, FFT, and Gottman Methods.
I work with all age groups in individual, couples, and family therapy. I am trained in Functional Family Therapy which focuses on observing and breaking conflict cycles that are no longer serving you or your relationships. I am also trained as a Gottman level 2 therapist which I utilize in my couples work. My relational approach translates well for all ages and for a range of presenting concerns for treatment. My particular areas of specialty are working with adolescents, couples, and adult women. Modalities often used in my sessions include CBT, ARC, Attachment Theory, ACT, FFT, and Gottman Methods.
(207) 218-0185 View (207) 218-0185
Photo of April Reeves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
April Reeves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04102  (Online Only)
As well as those who are looking for support from sex therapy, have depression, anxiety, a life transitions and relationship issues.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where all parts of you are welcomed to come forward, and will be met with curiosity, empathy and some humor. I am drawn to, and inspired by, the power of human resiliency. I believe we naturally have information, experiences, and tools inside of us, to guide us to a deeper sense of ourselves. I am passionate about helping you discover, explore, and connect to all parts of you, in order to live a more full and embodied life.
As well as those who are looking for support from sex therapy, have depression, anxiety, a life transitions and relationship issues.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where all parts of you are welcomed to come forward, and will be met with curiosity, empathy and some humor. I am drawn to, and inspired by, the power of human resiliency. I believe we naturally have information, experiences, and tools inside of us, to guide us to a deeper sense of ourselves. I am passionate about helping you discover, explore, and connect to all parts of you, in order to live a more full and embodied life.
(207) 690-6927 View (207) 690-6927
Photo of Deborah Como Kepler, Counselor in Maine
Deborah Como Kepler
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
I have been in the psychotherapy field for over 25 years working with people who stuggle with addictions, infertility, adoption, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. I am down to earth and easy to talk with. I'm an active participant in the cleint's process of self discovery and movement towards health.
I have been in the psychotherapy field for over 25 years working with people who stuggle with addictions, infertility, adoption, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. I am down to earth and easy to talk with. I'm an active participant in the cleint's process of self discovery and movement towards health.
(207) 358-4408 View (207) 358-4408
Photo of Adrienne J Bentsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Adrienne J Bentsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
NOTE: Full/Waitlisting. I'm a Gestalt & Certified Gottman Therapist, specialized in couples therapy. I help both individuals & couples explore barriers to connection, processing underlying trauma and/or loss. Together, we seek insight in issues related to boundaries, dishonesty, anger, confidence, culture, sexuality, depression, anxiety, etc. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for open communication so we can focus on deeper unmet needs. It's each individual's choice to lean into difficulty to create more meaning and intimacy, and I want to help you do this in healthy ways.
NOTE: Full/Waitlisting. I'm a Gestalt & Certified Gottman Therapist, specialized in couples therapy. I help both individuals & couples explore barriers to connection, processing underlying trauma and/or loss. Together, we seek insight in issues related to boundaries, dishonesty, anger, confidence, culture, sexuality, depression, anxiety, etc. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for open communication so we can focus on deeper unmet needs. It's each individual's choice to lean into difficulty to create more meaning and intimacy, and I want to help you do this in healthy ways.
(207) 536-6081 View (207) 536-6081
Photo of Healing Relationships, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Healing Relationships
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
We have been specializing in couples work since 2003 when we both became certified IMAGO Relationship Therapists.
HEALING RELATIONSHIPS is the counseling practice of Leslie Bartlett, L.C.P.C. & Steven Klockow, L.C.S.W. We specialize in transformational couples work. We teach what it takes to be fully alive, attuned and present with each other so that repair and connection are the natural outcome. We routinely help couples who are navigating addictions & affairs, sexuality, co-parenting & blended family challenges as well as other stressful life situations such as infertility, medical/mental health issues and loss. Our work is ideally suited for couples who feel ready to take on the challenge of living more consciously together.
We have been specializing in couples work since 2003 when we both became certified IMAGO Relationship Therapists.
HEALING RELATIONSHIPS is the counseling practice of Leslie Bartlett, L.C.P.C. & Steven Klockow, L.C.S.W. We specialize in transformational couples work. We teach what it takes to be fully alive, attuned and present with each other so that repair and connection are the natural outcome. We routinely help couples who are navigating addictions & affairs, sexuality, co-parenting & blended family challenges as well as other stressful life situations such as infertility, medical/mental health issues and loss. Our work is ideally suited for couples who feel ready to take on the challenge of living more consciously together.
(207) 517-2312 View (207) 517-2312
Photo of Leslie Mulligan, Counselor in Maine
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Machias, ME 04654  (Online Only)
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
(207) 843-9672 View (207) 843-9672
Photo of Lindsay Woodward, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine
Lindsay Woodward
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I’m a Health at Every Size (HAES) practitioner who celebrates body diversity and focuses on repairing the relationship between mind and body.
Therapy is an interactive process where we explore solutions and experience ourselves in new ways. Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), a proven approach to treating trauma and anxiety disorders. I believe memories shape the way we feel about ourselves, others, and the world, and EMDR can help neutralize the negative energy we hold in the body. I’ve uncovered so much about the healing process and how to let go of burdens both big and small, which allows us to move through the world more freely.
I’m a Health at Every Size (HAES) practitioner who celebrates body diversity and focuses on repairing the relationship between mind and body.
Therapy is an interactive process where we explore solutions and experience ourselves in new ways. Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), a proven approach to treating trauma and anxiety disorders. I believe memories shape the way we feel about ourselves, others, and the world, and EMDR can help neutralize the negative energy we hold in the body. I’ve uncovered so much about the healing process and how to let go of burdens both big and small, which allows us to move through the world more freely.
(207) 517-2015 View (207) 517-2015
Photo of Kaleigh McAfee, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Maine
Kaleigh McAfee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have supported individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues including sexual trauma, depression, death/dying/grief, identity issues, premarital counseling, infidelity, relational ambivalence, life transitions, and marital conflict.
If you’re ready for change, I’m ready to be with you through it. I'm client-led and allow expansive space for your growth. I value humor, honesty, direct communication, and deep personal connection in the therapeutic relationship. While I’m trained in many types of therapy to provide treatment unique to each client, I gravitate to the deep internal work performed with Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused, Experiential, and Narrative therapies. I am an iRest Yoga Nidra meditation teacher and yoga teacher, and can use this style of meditation or movement collaboratively for self-exploration and/or regulation during sessions.
I have supported individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues including sexual trauma, depression, death/dying/grief, identity issues, premarital counseling, infidelity, relational ambivalence, life transitions, and marital conflict.
If you’re ready for change, I’m ready to be with you through it. I'm client-led and allow expansive space for your growth. I value humor, honesty, direct communication, and deep personal connection in the therapeutic relationship. While I’m trained in many types of therapy to provide treatment unique to each client, I gravitate to the deep internal work performed with Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused, Experiential, and Narrative therapies. I am an iRest Yoga Nidra meditation teacher and yoga teacher, and can use this style of meditation or movement collaboratively for self-exploration and/or regulation during sessions.
(207) 204-3248 View (207) 204-3248
Photo of Jennifer Wiessner Healthy Sexuality, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jennifer Wiessner Healthy Sexuality
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Licensed Clinical Social Worker and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist experienced in working with individuals, couples and women's issues including infertility and illness. Predominantly, I work with couples and individuals on issues requiring sex therapy. I ha the honor and distinction of being the only female AASECT certified Sex Therapist in the state of Maine when certified in 2012. Clients with sexuality concerns, sexual dysfunction and pain, gender identity questioning and intimate relationship issues are welcome. Consults with parents and educators as well as workshops on raising sexually healthy children is also a specialty.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist experienced in working with individuals, couples and women's issues including infertility and illness. Predominantly, I work with couples and individuals on issues requiring sex therapy. I ha the honor and distinction of being the only female AASECT certified Sex Therapist in the state of Maine when certified in 2012. Clients with sexuality concerns, sexual dysfunction and pain, gender identity questioning and intimate relationship issues are welcome. Consults with parents and educators as well as workshops on raising sexually healthy children is also a specialty.
(207) 358-4284 View (207) 358-4284
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.