Couples Counseling Therapists in Frederick, MD

Photo of Dave Sherwin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Dave Sherwin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Choosing a therapist is an important decision. Thank you for your consideration and I hope that we have an opportunity to work together. I believe that all of us have unique strengths and potential. Psychotherapy offers clients the opportunity to utilize these strengths to overcome a variety of life's challenges. These challenges may include anxiety, depression, addiction, career stress, relationship issues, and family conflict. I believe that clients gain the most from therapy when they work hard to explore thoughts and patterns of behavior that might be holding them back.
Choosing a therapist is an important decision. Thank you for your consideration and I hope that we have an opportunity to work together. I believe that all of us have unique strengths and potential. Psychotherapy offers clients the opportunity to utilize these strengths to overcome a variety of life's challenges. These challenges may include anxiety, depression, addiction, career stress, relationship issues, and family conflict. I believe that clients gain the most from therapy when they work hard to explore thoughts and patterns of behavior that might be holding them back.
(240) 772-9681 View (240) 772-9681
Photo of Julie A Hanson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Frederick, MD
Julie A Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT, RYT, CLC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Are your relationships in need of an upgrade? Is it challenging for you not to think about yesterday or worry about tomorrow? Are you ready to untangle your problems and find greater enjoyment in life? I've helped thousands of individuals, couples and families create stronger, more resilient relationships. My trauma informed approach is guided by mindfulness and grounded in the belief that we each have all of the internal resources needed to improve our lives and relationships.
Are your relationships in need of an upgrade? Is it challenging for you not to think about yesterday or worry about tomorrow? Are you ready to untangle your problems and find greater enjoyment in life? I've helped thousands of individuals, couples and families create stronger, more resilient relationships. My trauma informed approach is guided by mindfulness and grounded in the belief that we each have all of the internal resources needed to improve our lives and relationships.
(240) 209-9697 View (240) 209-9697
Photo of David Snipes, Counselor in Frederick, MD
David Snipes
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking a new therapist! It's intimidating to start a therapeutic relationship with a perfect stranger; in doing so however, you've begun (or are continuing) your journey toward a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.
Do you notice swirling thoughts that don't seem to have a viable solution often distracting you to the point you’ve missed several songs on the radio? Perhaps you’ve lost interest in activities you used to find enjoyable. Maybe you’ve found yourself engaging in compulsive behaviors such as online pornography, gambling, video gaming, shopping, or sex to distract yourself from your worries. Many who experience these issues are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, or family/relationship challenges. These symptoms can sap your energy and leave you feeling as though you've lost your way in your life's journey.
Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking a new therapist! It's intimidating to start a therapeutic relationship with a perfect stranger; in doing so however, you've begun (or are continuing) your journey toward a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.
Do you notice swirling thoughts that don't seem to have a viable solution often distracting you to the point you’ve missed several songs on the radio? Perhaps you’ve lost interest in activities you used to find enjoyable. Maybe you’ve found yourself engaging in compulsive behaviors such as online pornography, gambling, video gaming, shopping, or sex to distract yourself from your worries. Many who experience these issues are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, or family/relationship challenges. These symptoms can sap your energy and leave you feeling as though you've lost your way in your life's journey.
(240) 660-4374 View (240) 660-4374
Photo of Alicia Barmon, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Alicia Barmon
Counselor, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I combine Somatic Experiencing with breathwork to build a bridge between the subconscious and conscious mind - the implicit and the explicit - allowing longstanding patterns to emerge and be supported, held and felt in a new way - in relationship with the loving witness and the vast web of relations.
I am transitioning out of one-on-one work and into group work. Please see my Fall Offerings linked.
I combine Somatic Experiencing with breathwork to build a bridge between the subconscious and conscious mind - the implicit and the explicit - allowing longstanding patterns to emerge and be supported, held and felt in a new way - in relationship with the loving witness and the vast web of relations.
I am transitioning out of one-on-one work and into group work. Please see my Fall Offerings linked.
(240) 245-2866 View (240) 245-2866
Photo of Now Accepting Clients For Couples Counseling! , Counselor in Frederick, MD
Now Accepting Clients For Couples Counseling!
Counselor, #1, MD, 5, Star, Rating
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Are you and your partner struggling to get past certain issues in your marriage or relationship? Do you find it hard to communicate how you really feel to them? Is a lack of communication causing gridlock between the two of you, to the point where it is hard to reach a resolution when conflict arises? Maybe betrayal has occurred and you are finding it hard to trust your partner again. Let me help you reestablish and reaffirm the bond that brought you together in the first place. I'll teach you strategies to better communicate and overcome whatever obstacle you are facing in your relationship to help reignite the spark
Are you and your partner struggling to get past certain issues in your marriage or relationship? Do you find it hard to communicate how you really feel to them? Is a lack of communication causing gridlock between the two of you, to the point where it is hard to reach a resolution when conflict arises? Maybe betrayal has occurred and you are finding it hard to trust your partner again. Let me help you reestablish and reaffirm the bond that brought you together in the first place. I'll teach you strategies to better communicate and overcome whatever obstacle you are facing in your relationship to help reignite the spark
(443) 681-6117 View (443) 681-6117
Photo of Elissa Samuels, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Elissa Samuels
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
Hello! I'm Elissa Samuels, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) at Life Change Therapy Now, LLC. With over 15 years of experience in counseling, I specialize in providing support to neurodivergent adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals exploring Kink lifestyles. I offer a warm and welcoming environment where clients can feel safe to explore their identities, navigate relationships, and achieve personal growth. I understand the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
Hello! I'm Elissa Samuels, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) at Life Change Therapy Now, LLC. With over 15 years of experience in counseling, I specialize in providing support to neurodivergent adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals exploring Kink lifestyles. I offer a warm and welcoming environment where clients can feel safe to explore their identities, navigate relationships, and achieve personal growth. I understand the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(240) 201-2478 x1 View (240) 201-2478 x1
Photo of David J Cruzan, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
David J Cruzan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, SRT, CSAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I counsel individuals, couples, and families and the relationships between them.
Things have a way of not working out the way they we thought they would. The stories of our lives begin in the families we are given with all of their foibles and experiences. Pages that become chapters of pain, trauma or loss can engulf the one that feels trapped in the narrative. After a plot twist of epic proportions, I left a 16-year career in the intelligence community and began a new chapter. I’ve had to confront the sources, rewrite the narrative, consult the author and find myself in the pages. The refinement process can be a horrific one but in the truth, freedom is found. Together, we can find healing.
I counsel individuals, couples, and families and the relationships between them.
Things have a way of not working out the way they we thought they would. The stories of our lives begin in the families we are given with all of their foibles and experiences. Pages that become chapters of pain, trauma or loss can engulf the one that feels trapped in the narrative. After a plot twist of epic proportions, I left a 16-year career in the intelligence community and began a new chapter. I’ve had to confront the sources, rewrite the narrative, consult the author and find myself in the pages. The refinement process can be a horrific one but in the truth, freedom is found. Together, we can find healing.
(301) 327-2020 View (301) 327-2020
Photo of Ashley Saltzman, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Ashley Saltzman
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Have you been in therapy before and it wasn't the best fit? Is this your first time searching for a therapist for yourself or for a loved one? Not sure if your stress in life is “enough” to need therapy? Good therapy is built on a relationship of warmth, empathy, and authenticity. Life can be tough and it can be beneficial to have a therapist who really "gets you" by your side to navigate difficult times. Not all therapy sessions must be intense and serious! I can help you embrace the strengths you innately possess to have joy, laughter, and contentment in life.
Have you been in therapy before and it wasn't the best fit? Is this your first time searching for a therapist for yourself or for a loved one? Not sure if your stress in life is “enough” to need therapy? Good therapy is built on a relationship of warmth, empathy, and authenticity. Life can be tough and it can be beneficial to have a therapist who really "gets you" by your side to navigate difficult times. Not all therapy sessions must be intense and serious! I can help you embrace the strengths you innately possess to have joy, laughter, and contentment in life.
(240) 201-2617 View (240) 201-2617
Photo of Blu Haven Wellness Center, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Blu Haven Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
You’re struggling to overcome feelings of shock after an extremely stressful event. You’re experiencing unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, relationship difficulties, or even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. You feel sad & unmotivated about the future. Constantly, you worry that something bad will happen. You have a hard time sleeping. You can't shake the negative thoughts. You want to connect with others but you think its better to avoid situations that cause any anxiety. You find yourself worrying about different topics, events or activities. You’re trying to heal from the things that are causing pain!
You’re struggling to overcome feelings of shock after an extremely stressful event. You’re experiencing unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, relationship difficulties, or even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. You feel sad & unmotivated about the future. Constantly, you worry that something bad will happen. You have a hard time sleeping. You can't shake the negative thoughts. You want to connect with others but you think its better to avoid situations that cause any anxiety. You find yourself worrying about different topics, events or activities. You’re trying to heal from the things that are causing pain!
(301) 710-0386 View (301) 710-0386
Photo of Iwona Gerner, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Iwona Gerner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, FBM, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Welcome anyone who seeks personal growth, struggle with grief and loss, has relationship or parenting matters.
Is your life taking a path you have not expected and it's hard for you to cope? Are you trying to be strong on the outside, but inside you feel like you are falling apart? YES, life changes can become challenges... life crisis that can leave you feeling confused, depressed, anxious, angry and just "not yourself". You don't have to go through this alone... I am here to support you on your journey to feel strong and hopeful again, to understand and manage your emotions, to communicate your needs to others and regain control over your life.
Welcome anyone who seeks personal growth, struggle with grief and loss, has relationship or parenting matters.
Is your life taking a path you have not expected and it's hard for you to cope? Are you trying to be strong on the outside, but inside you feel like you are falling apart? YES, life changes can become challenges... life crisis that can leave you feeling confused, depressed, anxious, angry and just "not yourself". You don't have to go through this alone... I am here to support you on your journey to feel strong and hopeful again, to understand and manage your emotions, to communicate your needs to others and regain control over your life.
(240) 422-8811 View (240) 422-8811
Photo of Aaron T Heaton, Psychologist in Frederick, MD
Aaron T Heaton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Though practiced in cognitive-behavioral and behavioral technologies, which show promise in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, he also believes the relationship itself is an essential ingredient to and catalyst for change.
Aaron is a licensed psychologist. He and his daughters have moved from sunny Southern California to the community of Frederick with the intent to again practice in close community. He graduated with degrees in both Psychology and Biblical Literature from Azusa Pacific University, earned advanced degrees in psychology and clinical psychology from Marymount University and the American School of Professional Psychology, and has pursued advanced training in applied behavioral analysis, a modality well-suited to the treatment of children and adolescents.
Though practiced in cognitive-behavioral and behavioral technologies, which show promise in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, he also believes the relationship itself is an essential ingredient to and catalyst for change.
Aaron is a licensed psychologist. He and his daughters have moved from sunny Southern California to the community of Frederick with the intent to again practice in close community. He graduated with degrees in both Psychology and Biblical Literature from Azusa Pacific University, earned advanced degrees in psychology and clinical psychology from Marymount University and the American School of Professional Psychology, and has pursued advanced training in applied behavioral analysis, a modality well-suited to the treatment of children and adolescents.
(301) 327-2805 View (301) 327-2805
Photo of Bianca Johnson, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Bianca Johnson
Counselor, NCC , LGPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with years of experience working with teens, couples, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, anger issues, parenting difficulties, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and pregnancy-related concerns. My ideal client is motivated to learn more about themselves, open to self-reflection, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and committed to making positive changes in their lives. Additionally, they are motivated to work on their issues, have good communication skills, and are willing to be honest and vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with years of experience working with teens, couples, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, anger issues, parenting difficulties, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and pregnancy-related concerns. My ideal client is motivated to learn more about themselves, open to self-reflection, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and committed to making positive changes in their lives. Additionally, they are motivated to work on their issues, have good communication skills, and are willing to be honest and vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship.
(240) 266-9421 View (240) 266-9421
Photo of Jessica Metzner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Jessica Metzner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703
The relationship you have with your therapist is paramount to treatment and your treatment outcome.
Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are looking for a new clinician or different approach, I welcome you to explore my practice. As a Clinical Social Worker, I believe people’s lives are influenced by a multitude of factors, including their environment, childhood, culture, identities, values, and more. I am passionate about helping people live authentic, intentional, and fulfilling lives. My approach to treatment is collaborative. I strive to provide a space for my patients that is warm, open, genuine, and playful when appropriate. My specialities include gender, sexuality, intimacy, anxiety, and sense of self.
The relationship you have with your therapist is paramount to treatment and your treatment outcome.
Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are looking for a new clinician or different approach, I welcome you to explore my practice. As a Clinical Social Worker, I believe people’s lives are influenced by a multitude of factors, including their environment, childhood, culture, identities, values, and more. I am passionate about helping people live authentic, intentional, and fulfilling lives. My approach to treatment is collaborative. I strive to provide a space for my patients that is warm, open, genuine, and playful when appropriate. My specialities include gender, sexuality, intimacy, anxiety, and sense of self.
(240) 650-3463 View (240) 650-3463
Photo of Catherine Milstead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Catherine Milstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703
I treat adults, teens (17+), couples and families via in-person or telehealth visits.
My passion for helping others to realize their dreams and overcome the obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, grief, poor self-image, addictions and a myriad of other difficulties has led me to learn how closely associated emotional anguish can be with physical pain. In a warm and loving environment, I guide my clients one step at a time toward reaching their goals. I also utilize a variety of other approaches when indicated including CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy. I am uniquely trained in Somatic Experiencing and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I treat adults, teens (17+), couples and families via in-person or telehealth visits.
My passion for helping others to realize their dreams and overcome the obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, grief, poor self-image, addictions and a myriad of other difficulties has led me to learn how closely associated emotional anguish can be with physical pain. In a warm and loving environment, I guide my clients one step at a time toward reaching their goals. I also utilize a variety of other approaches when indicated including CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy. I am uniquely trained in Somatic Experiencing and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(301) 732-4754 View (301) 732-4754
Photo of Bonnie Triantafillos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Bonnie Triantafillos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Are you struggling with a death, divorce, loss of a job, pet or relationship? Have often been referred to as "too sensitive?" My clients are those who have experienced loss through any change, transition or end of life. With a holisitic approach to loss and transition, clients will be able to access resilience and have a safe space to explore possibilities. My clients will discover a compassionate place to explore how life can still have purpose and possibility after life changing transitions. Additionally, my clients will learn about the HSP trait and what gifts this provides to their lives and relationships.
Are you struggling with a death, divorce, loss of a job, pet or relationship? Have often been referred to as "too sensitive?" My clients are those who have experienced loss through any change, transition or end of life. With a holisitic approach to loss and transition, clients will be able to access resilience and have a safe space to explore possibilities. My clients will discover a compassionate place to explore how life can still have purpose and possibility after life changing transitions. Additionally, my clients will learn about the HSP trait and what gifts this provides to their lives and relationships.
(301) 524-0296 View (301) 524-0296
Photo of Daniel Puchala, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Daniel Puchala
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Daniel works with a variety of client populations, including young children through older adults, and with individuals, couples and families.
Daniel is an experienced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who is committed to practicing unconditional positive regard for every client, including recognizing and meeting each client where they are. Daniel strives to support each client in accomplishing their goals effectively and in a genuine manner, finding ways to thrive.
Daniel works with a variety of client populations, including young children through older adults, and with individuals, couples and families.
Daniel is an experienced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who is committed to practicing unconditional positive regard for every client, including recognizing and meeting each client where they are. Daniel strives to support each client in accomplishing their goals effectively and in a genuine manner, finding ways to thrive.
(240) 451-8535 x1 View (240) 451-8535 x1
Photo of Helene G. Brenner, Psychologist in Frederick, MD
Helene G. Brenner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703  (Online Only)
I deeply believe effective therapy depends on building a warm, compassionate, down-to-earth relationship.
Do you feel ready for more growth? Maybe you’re dealing with painful unresolved feelings, or navigating a significant life transition. Perhaps you've been in therapy before, but now want to go deeper. If you're like many of my clients, you function well on the outside but still feel unhappy or unfulfilled inside. Even if you can’t put your finger on it, you sense it’s time to make some changes. You have multifaceted emotions you want to work through, and you want a trusted, experienced professional who can help you move through the impasse you’re experiencing so you can fulfill your life potential.
I deeply believe effective therapy depends on building a warm, compassionate, down-to-earth relationship.
Do you feel ready for more growth? Maybe you’re dealing with painful unresolved feelings, or navigating a significant life transition. Perhaps you've been in therapy before, but now want to go deeper. If you're like many of my clients, you function well on the outside but still feel unhappy or unfulfilled inside. Even if you can’t put your finger on it, you sense it’s time to make some changes. You have multifaceted emotions you want to work through, and you want a trusted, experienced professional who can help you move through the impasse you’re experiencing so you can fulfill your life potential.
(301) 825-9687 View (301) 825-9687
Photo of Illuminate Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Illuminate Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
NOW accepting new patients and scheduling within one week! As a therapist for over 20 years, I have a great deal of experience assisting individuals and couples in meeting their goals. I will work with you to determine the areas in which you are struggling and help you to develop strategies to make the necessary changes. Whether you are dealing with relationship struggles, anxiety, depressed feelings or past trauma I will assist you with moving beyond these difficulties. My approach to therapy is a holistic approach. I will work with you to heal mind, body & spirit.
NOW accepting new patients and scheduling within one week! As a therapist for over 20 years, I have a great deal of experience assisting individuals and couples in meeting their goals. I will work with you to determine the areas in which you are struggling and help you to develop strategies to make the necessary changes. Whether you are dealing with relationship struggles, anxiety, depressed feelings or past trauma I will assist you with moving beyond these difficulties. My approach to therapy is a holistic approach. I will work with you to heal mind, body & spirit.
(301) 298-1903 View (301) 298-1903
Photo of HughesCounselingService, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
HughesCounselingService
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am Ms. Hughes and if you are seeking a therapist to journey along side you as you evolve into an authentic version of yourself, please contact me, I am willing. The following summary describes my experiences to assist you with achieving the above stated endeavor. I am a License Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Trauma Professional. I have over fifteen years of work helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, regulation of emotions, impulsive behaviors and processing traumatic events. I am a seasoned therapist in the helping profession and have helped children, families and couples.
Greetings, I am Ms. Hughes and if you are seeking a therapist to journey along side you as you evolve into an authentic version of yourself, please contact me, I am willing. The following summary describes my experiences to assist you with achieving the above stated endeavor. I am a License Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Trauma Professional. I have over fifteen years of work helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, regulation of emotions, impulsive behaviors and processing traumatic events. I am a seasoned therapist in the helping profession and have helped children, families and couples.
(240) 770-0009 View (240) 770-0009
Photo of Scott Kampschaefer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Scott Kampschaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
I can also help you and your partner turn your relationship around.
Do you feel like you are continually battling uphill due to depression, anxiety, trauma, or sexual addiction issues and it seems like nothing you do helps? Do you have childhood issues that keep seem to always be coming back to haunt you or your relationships? If so, I can help you by showing you how to recover from these and help unlock energy that gets trapped inside yourself and help you be a the most functional person you can. I use a combination of methods to help get your brain and mind to work for you rather than against you, and am a certified EMDR practitioner.
I can also help you and your partner turn your relationship around.
Do you feel like you are continually battling uphill due to depression, anxiety, trauma, or sexual addiction issues and it seems like nothing you do helps? Do you have childhood issues that keep seem to always be coming back to haunt you or your relationships? If so, I can help you by showing you how to recover from these and help unlock energy that gets trapped inside yourself and help you be a the most functional person you can. I use a combination of methods to help get your brain and mind to work for you rather than against you, and am a certified EMDR practitioner.
(301) 205-5629 View (301) 205-5629
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.