Photo of Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy
Counselor, LPC, CST, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
(757) 568-7277 View (757) 568-7277
Photo of Dr. Maureen Vernon, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Dr. Maureen Vernon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Life can be challenging and at times we can all use a little extra help. If you are experiencing increased feelings of stress & anxiety, relationship problems with your spouse, child, other family members, friends, or coworkers I will listen and offer new coping tools. You will grow and develop the confidence to create the happy and healthy life you want and deserve.
Life can be challenging and at times we can all use a little extra help. If you are experiencing increased feelings of stress & anxiety, relationship problems with your spouse, child, other family members, friends, or coworkers I will listen and offer new coping tools. You will grow and develop the confidence to create the happy and healthy life you want and deserve.
(410) 376-8663 View (410) 376-8663
Photo of Brooke Aherne, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Brooke Aherne
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Brooke’s first priority when working with clients is creating a warm, inviting, and welcome space, a space where clients sense acceptance and comfort. A counseling relationship is like no other and can be daunting and uncertain at first. Brooke hopes to create a place and relationship within which clients feel safe to speak their truth. Brooke’s philosophy towards helping people is to help them find meaning, purpose, and hope even in the face of difficult and overwhelming circumstances. Ultimately finding insight into exactly why a client is sitting in her office is the goal and it is a collaborative relationship.
Brooke’s first priority when working with clients is creating a warm, inviting, and welcome space, a space where clients sense acceptance and comfort. A counseling relationship is like no other and can be daunting and uncertain at first. Brooke hopes to create a place and relationship within which clients feel safe to speak their truth. Brooke’s philosophy towards helping people is to help them find meaning, purpose, and hope even in the face of difficult and overwhelming circumstances. Ultimately finding insight into exactly why a client is sitting in her office is the goal and it is a collaborative relationship.
(410) 264-1567 View (410) 264-1567
Photo of Laura Mckenna, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Laura Mckenna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC, CSAT, CCPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Are you navigating the challenging terrain of intimate partner betrayal? Are you a couple who seeks to heal the wounds that happens after betrayal? Or are you seeking healing from childhood developmental trauma? In our work together, we will unravel layers of pain, fostering healing, and rebuilding the ability to trust. In our compassionate space, both individuals and couples embark on a courageous journey to reclaim well-being and foster profound connections.
Are you navigating the challenging terrain of intimate partner betrayal? Are you a couple who seeks to heal the wounds that happens after betrayal? Or are you seeking healing from childhood developmental trauma? In our work together, we will unravel layers of pain, fostering healing, and rebuilding the ability to trust. In our compassionate space, both individuals and couples embark on a courageous journey to reclaim well-being and foster profound connections.
(410) 994-5654 View (410) 994-5654
Photo of Jennifer L. Oatman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Jennifer L. Oatman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am experienced working with diverse populations and a wide range of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, eating issues, parenting problems, career difficulties, and with federal government employees.
Hello and Welcome! Relationships are key to understanding who we are. From birth to the present, our past relationships affect our current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. At some point in life, most of us encounter personal roadblocks that create stress and unhappiness, overwhelm our coping mechanisms and undermine growth. Psychotherapy is a resource to help people heal, learn new skills, and develop greater self-awareness and strength. I offer clinical expertise to provide guidance, new perspectives, and to raise awareness of root issues that may be behind current problems. Together we will address these problems and underlying dynamics.
I am experienced working with diverse populations and a wide range of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, eating issues, parenting problems, career difficulties, and with federal government employees.
Hello and Welcome! Relationships are key to understanding who we are. From birth to the present, our past relationships affect our current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. At some point in life, most of us encounter personal roadblocks that create stress and unhappiness, overwhelm our coping mechanisms and undermine growth. Psychotherapy is a resource to help people heal, learn new skills, and develop greater self-awareness and strength. I offer clinical expertise to provide guidance, new perspectives, and to raise awareness of root issues that may be behind current problems. Together we will address these problems and underlying dynamics.
(410) 394-5663 View (410) 394-5663
Photo of Lauri McCormack, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Lauri McCormack
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Taking the first step to a better you, or even a better relationship, is challenging- yet exciting! I have a deep desire to guide my clients to achieve their goals and ultimately improve their overall life satisfaction. I provide an environment where I seek to inspire my clients to learn, explore and grow throughout our therapy sessions. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Clinical Supervisor with experience treating a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety and mood disorders, couples therapy and grief.
Taking the first step to a better you, or even a better relationship, is challenging- yet exciting! I have a deep desire to guide my clients to achieve their goals and ultimately improve their overall life satisfaction. I provide an environment where I seek to inspire my clients to learn, explore and grow throughout our therapy sessions. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Clinical Supervisor with experience treating a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety and mood disorders, couples therapy and grief.
(667) 660-4533 View (667) 660-4533
Photo of Kendra Jackson-Ralph, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Kendra Jackson-Ralph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, AASECT, NBCCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
(240) 896-2791 View (240) 896-2791
Photo of Dara Alewine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Dara Alewine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
With 30 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families, I practice an insight oriented and holistic approach, attending to physical, emotional and spiritual healing and wellness.
In today's culture, we are often so focused on dealing with the many stressors of everyday life and on taking care of others, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious and depleted. Making an appointment for therapy is the first step towards taking care of yourself and feeling better. In my experience, lasting change can begin to take place as you share with a therapist who will listen compassionately, join with you to understand your experience, and guide you to find and use the tools to make postive changes and create the life you want.
With 30 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families, I practice an insight oriented and holistic approach, attending to physical, emotional and spiritual healing and wellness.
In today's culture, we are often so focused on dealing with the many stressors of everyday life and on taking care of others, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious and depleted. Making an appointment for therapy is the first step towards taking care of yourself and feeling better. In my experience, lasting change can begin to take place as you share with a therapist who will listen compassionately, join with you to understand your experience, and guide you to find and use the tools to make postive changes and create the life you want.
(410) 941-8616 View (410) 941-8616
Photo of Jason Hovey, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Jason Hovey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
As a Clinical Pastoral Counselor I work with individuals, couples, families and groups in the healing process.
"Fear lives in the head. And courage lives in the heart. The job is to get from one to the other" - Louis Penny. It is inevitable that we will be wounded during the journey of life. Many of those wounds generally heal on their own. However some wounds cut deeper. They are unable to heal themselves and leave scars causing broken relationships, anxiety, addiction, insecurity, fear, and pain. Facing these wounds can be frightening and overwhelming, especially when facing them alone. Together we find the courage and strength to face and heal these wounds.
As a Clinical Pastoral Counselor I work with individuals, couples, families and groups in the healing process.
"Fear lives in the head. And courage lives in the heart. The job is to get from one to the other" - Louis Penny. It is inevitable that we will be wounded during the journey of life. Many of those wounds generally heal on their own. However some wounds cut deeper. They are unable to heal themselves and leave scars causing broken relationships, anxiety, addiction, insecurity, fear, and pain. Facing these wounds can be frightening and overwhelming, especially when facing them alone. Together we find the courage and strength to face and heal these wounds.
(410) 734-2187 View (410) 734-2187
Photo of Lakeside Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lakeside Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Licensed in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, LaKeisha Jackson of Lakeside Wellness, offers mental healthcare to adults, adolescents, couples & families to help you with coping and making more affirming life choices. Lakeside Wellness is a safe space for you to explore your feelings, behaviors, better solve problems, relieve stress and to do the work of achieving healing.
Licensed in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, LaKeisha Jackson of Lakeside Wellness, offers mental healthcare to adults, adolescents, couples & families to help you with coping and making more affirming life choices. Lakeside Wellness is a safe space for you to explore your feelings, behaviors, better solve problems, relieve stress and to do the work of achieving healing.
(667) 200-1238 View (667) 200-1238
Photo of Susan G Krohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Susan G Krohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
In working with families that are going through transitions I provide Individual therapy, couples and family therapy as well as parent coordination, supervised visitation, parent-child reunification, child access mediation, and I am collaborative trained.
I am a licensed clinical social worker since 1978 with an active practice in Annapolis and the surrounding areas as well as the Eastern Shore. I provide counseling services to adult, adolescents, and children who are experiencing life changes due to marital discord, divorce, or the death of a loved one and I assist families heal from disagreement, emotional pain, trauma, loss and change through the use of individual, couples, and family therapy.
In working with families that are going through transitions I provide Individual therapy, couples and family therapy as well as parent coordination, supervised visitation, parent-child reunification, child access mediation, and I am collaborative trained.
I am a licensed clinical social worker since 1978 with an active practice in Annapolis and the surrounding areas as well as the Eastern Shore. I provide counseling services to adult, adolescents, and children who are experiencing life changes due to marital discord, divorce, or the death of a loved one and I assist families heal from disagreement, emotional pain, trauma, loss and change through the use of individual, couples, and family therapy.
(410) 504-1205 View (410) 504-1205
Photo of Ashlee Sapienza, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Ashlee Sapienza
Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
Through my studies at Johns Hopkins, I learned that the strongest predictors of successful therapy is the relationship between a therapist and client.
Welcome! Chances are, if you're coming to this page you're struggling with something. Making that first step to see a therapist takes a lot of courage and shows a ton of strength. It is my belief that we all need support and a safe place to process and grow. Creating that space and working with you to understand and grow through this time, is an honor for me. I love working with families, couples, individuals and adolescents and feel that one of my strengths is my ability to put you at ease and make the challenging process of therapy more comfortable for you.  
Through my studies at Johns Hopkins, I learned that the strongest predictors of successful therapy is the relationship between a therapist and client.
Welcome! Chances are, if you're coming to this page you're struggling with something. Making that first step to see a therapist takes a lot of courage and shows a ton of strength. It is my belief that we all need support and a safe place to process and grow. Creating that space and working with you to understand and grow through this time, is an honor for me. I love working with families, couples, individuals and adolescents and feel that one of my strengths is my ability to put you at ease and make the challenging process of therapy more comfortable for you.  
(410) 267-4268 View (410) 267-4268
Photo of Keith T Foster, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Keith T Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
I serve on the faculty of a Family Medicine Residency Program where I teach physicians the importance of establishing an empathic relationship with their patients; the value of effective communication; and the need to include the patient in the decision-making involved in their medical care.
My years of experience and training have taught me the importance of good listening. By learning who you are and what you want in your life, I am best able to help you restore or enhance the quality of life you seek. I limit my practice to adults in individual therapy or relationship counseling. While there is no magic in therapy, there is an opportunity to feel better now, avoid future emotional pitfalls and be better able to deal with those that cannot be avoided. As a compassionate and experienced professional, I look forward to assisting you.
I serve on the faculty of a Family Medicine Residency Program where I teach physicians the importance of establishing an empathic relationship with their patients; the value of effective communication; and the need to include the patient in the decision-making involved in their medical care.
My years of experience and training have taught me the importance of good listening. By learning who you are and what you want in your life, I am best able to help you restore or enhance the quality of life you seek. I limit my practice to adults in individual therapy or relationship counseling. While there is no magic in therapy, there is an opportunity to feel better now, avoid future emotional pitfalls and be better able to deal with those that cannot be avoided. As a compassionate and experienced professional, I look forward to assisting you.
(410) 415-1431 View (410) 415-1431
Photo of Matthew Yeazel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Matthew Yeazel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My specialty areas include working with families, relationship issues, ADHD, trauma, and personal growth development.
We are all unique individuals and bring so much to the world. My goal is to empower you to tap into your uniqueness and help you overcome any issues that might be causing you to not reach your full potential. Life can sometimes be quite difficult- I welcome the opportunity to be of assistance on your journey.
My specialty areas include working with families, relationship issues, ADHD, trauma, and personal growth development.
We are all unique individuals and bring so much to the world. My goal is to empower you to tap into your uniqueness and help you overcome any issues that might be causing you to not reach your full potential. Life can sometimes be quite difficult- I welcome the opportunity to be of assistance on your journey.
(410) 983-6586 View (410) 983-6586
Photo of Yvonka De Ridder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Yvonka De Ridder
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I specialize in couples/marriage counseling, sex therapy, trauma, career counseling, motivational therapy, life coaching, family therapy, child/teen counseling.
Life should be about happiness! So often we are a product of our environment while being held captive by society's standards, taboos, and the expectations of those around us. It is amazing to learn how quickly we've adopted the beliefs and perspectives of those around us living by their rules and ideas of our life. When we actually take a moment in time to explore, evaluate, and change those - we can begin living our lives for ourselves. Those changes can make an incredible impact on changing your life for the better. It's never too late!
I specialize in couples/marriage counseling, sex therapy, trauma, career counseling, motivational therapy, life coaching, family therapy, child/teen counseling.
Life should be about happiness! So often we are a product of our environment while being held captive by society's standards, taboos, and the expectations of those around us. It is amazing to learn how quickly we've adopted the beliefs and perspectives of those around us living by their rules and ideas of our life. When we actually take a moment in time to explore, evaluate, and change those - we can begin living our lives for ourselves. Those changes can make an incredible impact on changing your life for the better. It's never too late!
(813) 701-3280 View (813) 701-3280
Photo of W. R. Nay, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
W. R. Nay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) believes that how you think determines how you feel and act when a situation with your spouse, child, friend or co-worker arises.
I am a professor (University of Illinois, currently: Georgetown Medical School) and in private practice. As a teacher of tools, skills and strategies, my clients quickly learn new, more effective behaviors to reduce discomfort and be more successful. My approach is not so much placing a label on people but in offering ideas for what they can DO NOW and in the future to learn and implement new successful behaviors. I enjoy working with mood, anxiety, anger and behavioral problems for all the ages. My approach is pragmatic, behavioral and usually is short-term to achieve well-defined results.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) believes that how you think determines how you feel and act when a situation with your spouse, child, friend or co-worker arises.
I am a professor (University of Illinois, currently: Georgetown Medical School) and in private practice. As a teacher of tools, skills and strategies, my clients quickly learn new, more effective behaviors to reduce discomfort and be more successful. My approach is not so much placing a label on people but in offering ideas for what they can DO NOW and in the future to learn and implement new successful behaviors. I enjoy working with mood, anxiety, anger and behavioral problems for all the ages. My approach is pragmatic, behavioral and usually is short-term to achieve well-defined results.
(703) 468-8142 View (703) 468-8142
Photo of Kimberly Sibley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Kimberly Sibley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
For the past 20 years, I have worked as a Social Worker, Therapist, Care Counselor, Children’s Behavioral Consultant and Case Manager. I have experience providing individual/family/couples therapy, crisis intervention, children's behavioral consulting, working with juvenile & adult victims/offenders of domestic violence and sexual abuse, IOP, EAP, as well as clients with various mental health diagnosis & addictions. Together we will be using various treatment modalities depending on your presenting concerns, which could include, CBT, DBT, and Family Systems.
For the past 20 years, I have worked as a Social Worker, Therapist, Care Counselor, Children’s Behavioral Consultant and Case Manager. I have experience providing individual/family/couples therapy, crisis intervention, children's behavioral consulting, working with juvenile & adult victims/offenders of domestic violence and sexual abuse, IOP, EAP, as well as clients with various mental health diagnosis & addictions. Together we will be using various treatment modalities depending on your presenting concerns, which could include, CBT, DBT, and Family Systems.
(301) 690-9242 View (301) 690-9242
Photo of Relationship Consultants in Annapolis, MD
Relationship Consultants
MA
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
(217) 776-9523 View (217) 776-9523
Photo of Leslie Stanbury, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Leslie Stanbury
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD, CHT
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Are you experiencing anxiety or difficulty adjusting to a recent change in your life or relationship problems? Perhaps I can help you clarify and work through some of your concerns. I believe the relationship between patient and counselor is a crucial element in the process of making changes in therapy. Addressing issues of substance abuse, relationship problems, anxiety or depression can seem overwhelming and frightening. Taking this first step and exploring counseling indicates courage and a desire to change. I can help you navigate through this difficult time.
Are you experiencing anxiety or difficulty adjusting to a recent change in your life or relationship problems? Perhaps I can help you clarify and work through some of your concerns. I believe the relationship between patient and counselor is a crucial element in the process of making changes in therapy. Addressing issues of substance abuse, relationship problems, anxiety or depression can seem overwhelming and frightening. Taking this first step and exploring counseling indicates courage and a desire to change. I can help you navigate through this difficult time.
(410) 656-4889 View (410) 656-4889
Photo of Douglas Tilley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Douglas Tilley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Please visit Doug's relationship blog at www.
I am a psychotherapist and a marriage and family therapist in private practice in Annapolis, Maryland. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical and am designated as a Clinical Member and an Approved Supervisor by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. My practice includes Couple, Family and Individual Psychotherapy including relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, anger, couple issues, sexual issues, separation and divorce issues, life transitions, grief and loss issues, mid-life issues, child and teen issues, and dysfunctional family issues. In addition I teach and train couple therapists in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for Couples.
Please visit Doug's relationship blog at www.
I am a psychotherapist and a marriage and family therapist in private practice in Annapolis, Maryland. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical and am designated as a Clinical Member and an Approved Supervisor by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. My practice includes Couple, Family and Individual Psychotherapy including relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, anger, couple issues, sexual issues, separation and divorce issues, life transitions, grief and loss issues, mid-life issues, child and teen issues, and dysfunctional family issues. In addition I teach and train couple therapists in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for Couples.
(410) 927-6137 View (410) 927-6137
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.