Photo of Elana Hoffman, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(301) 610-3456 View (301) 610-3456
Photo of Dr. Leila Jarrahi, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Dr. Leila Jarrahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and have particular interest and skill working with couples and individuals struggling in their relationships.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and have particular interest and skill working with couples and individuals struggling in their relationships.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
(301) 882-1440 View (301) 882-1440
Photo of Vivian Levi, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Vivian Levi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Are you struggling to find fulfillment and joy in life? Are your interpersonal relationships exhausting you? Do You want your relationships to bring you a feeling of togetherness and contentment but there is too much water under the bridge? Healing from past hurts and creating meaningful, healthy relationships are the bedrock of contentment and emotional well-being. I provide EMDR to help you heal from the past and Imago couples therapy to help you develop meaningful, healthy relationships with your partner and heal from the lasting, painful impact of old pains and resentments.
Are you struggling to find fulfillment and joy in life? Are your interpersonal relationships exhausting you? Do You want your relationships to bring you a feeling of togetherness and contentment but there is too much water under the bridge? Healing from past hurts and creating meaningful, healthy relationships are the bedrock of contentment and emotional well-being. I provide EMDR to help you heal from the past and Imago couples therapy to help you develop meaningful, healthy relationships with your partner and heal from the lasting, painful impact of old pains and resentments.
(240) 547-2578 View (240) 547-2578
Photo of Molly J. McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Molly J. McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
(202) 765-3876 View (202) 765-3876

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gail Guttman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Gail Guttman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
(301) 304-4781 View (301) 304-4781
Photo of Melanie Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Melanie Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Many of us have trouble making decisions or deepening relationships, because we learned to connect with others needs above our own. While this was adaptive, it can lead to disappointment and resentment. I work with individuals and couples stuck in this cycle. Since change doesn't occur spontaneously, time is dedicated to your patterns and how they are impacting your relationships both positively & negatively.
Many of us have trouble making decisions or deepening relationships, because we learned to connect with others needs above our own. While this was adaptive, it can lead to disappointment and resentment. I work with individuals and couples stuck in this cycle. Since change doesn't occur spontaneously, time is dedicated to your patterns and how they are impacting your relationships both positively & negatively.
(301) 685-7872 View (301) 685-7872
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Our group practice, Guttman and Pearl Associates, offers individual and couples psychotherapy.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
Our group practice, Guttman and Pearl Associates, offers individual and couples psychotherapy.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
(202) 618-9869 View (202) 618-9869
Photo of Amy Zimmerman, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Amy Zimmerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LGMFT, LGPC, LPMT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
With a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, Amy fosters compassion while working with individuals, couples, and families across all age groups. Amy is deeply committed to enhancing relationships, guiding clients from discord and distress to connection and emotional security. With a background in Music Therapy, Amy also integrates mediums like music, art, and imagery to empower clients to articulate and navigate complex emotions. Whether confronting challenges like relationship issues, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, or trauma, Amy offers support, guidance, and empathy on the path to healing and transformation.
With a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, Amy fosters compassion while working with individuals, couples, and families across all age groups. Amy is deeply committed to enhancing relationships, guiding clients from discord and distress to connection and emotional security. With a background in Music Therapy, Amy also integrates mediums like music, art, and imagery to empower clients to articulate and navigate complex emotions. Whether confronting challenges like relationship issues, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, or trauma, Amy offers support, guidance, and empathy on the path to healing and transformation.
(240) 883-5386 View (240) 883-5386
Photo of Alicia Beltran, LCPC and Associates, LLC, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Alicia Beltran, LCPC and Associates, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20851
Those with a history of difficult life events that impacts present day, sexual violence, couples issues, life transitions, and sexual issues experienced in life or in relationships.
My goal is to foster your inner strengths to aid you during your difficult path. Many experience times of depression, anxiety, trouble in relationships, sexual difficulties, or life transitions. My experience has focused on working with clients who strive to heal from past trauma, improve their sexual health, and reconnect in relationships. I work hard to guide couples to improve communication, regaining intimacy, and lessen disconnect. I work with individuals and couples who want to have more passion in their sex lives, as well as those who are dealing with personal crises of infidelity, strain, or sexual dysfunction.
Those with a history of difficult life events that impacts present day, sexual violence, couples issues, life transitions, and sexual issues experienced in life or in relationships.
My goal is to foster your inner strengths to aid you during your difficult path. Many experience times of depression, anxiety, trouble in relationships, sexual difficulties, or life transitions. My experience has focused on working with clients who strive to heal from past trauma, improve their sexual health, and reconnect in relationships. I work hard to guide couples to improve communication, regaining intimacy, and lessen disconnect. I work with individuals and couples who want to have more passion in their sex lives, as well as those who are dealing with personal crises of infidelity, strain, or sexual dysfunction.
(240) 258-2833 View (240) 258-2833
Photo of Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington
Psychologist, Psy-D
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
ITGW works with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages and stages in the lifespan. We believe that people can learn from what their bodies (and not just their thoughts) might be trying to communicate in order to be their best selves. We see our clients in individual therapy, couples counseling, group therapy, and family therapy. Additionally, we offer psychoeducational, neuropsychological and psychological assessments as well as CogMed.
ITGW works with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages and stages in the lifespan. We believe that people can learn from what their bodies (and not just their thoughts) might be trying to communicate in order to be their best selves. We see our clients in individual therapy, couples counseling, group therapy, and family therapy. Additionally, we offer psychoeducational, neuropsychological and psychological assessments as well as CogMed.
(301) 259-3027 View (301) 259-3027
Photo of Marissa Josiah, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Marissa Josiah
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LPC, CCT, CCISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
(301) 638-8129 View (301) 638-8129
Photo of Sonia Salmon-Gayle, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Sonia Salmon-Gayle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Aspen Hill, MD 20906  (Online Only)
I am a relationship therapist helping couples to remove the stumbling blocks, misunderstandings that breach the relationship contract to foster a healthier relationship.
Salmon-Gayle is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), health advocate, strategist, and doctoral candidate in health psychology. With an educational background in pastoral counseling, she incorporates the spiritual beliefs of her clients into the therapeutic process. With a focus on couple’s counseling she believes communication, validation and connectedness are the areas that builds the bridge to a healthy fun loving relationships. Ms Salmon- Gayle celebrates the client's increased self-awareness, acceptance, and authentic growth throughout the therapeutic process.
I am a relationship therapist helping couples to remove the stumbling blocks, misunderstandings that breach the relationship contract to foster a healthier relationship.
Salmon-Gayle is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), health advocate, strategist, and doctoral candidate in health psychology. With an educational background in pastoral counseling, she incorporates the spiritual beliefs of her clients into the therapeutic process. With a focus on couple’s counseling she believes communication, validation and connectedness are the areas that builds the bridge to a healthy fun loving relationships. Ms Salmon- Gayle celebrates the client's increased self-awareness, acceptance, and authentic growth throughout the therapeutic process.
(301) 678-1654 View (301) 678-1654
Photo of Ken Richard Thau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Ken Richard Thau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, MSW, JD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
I work extensively with couples for relationship / marriage issues such as loss of trust, infidelity, conflict and poor communication.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 32 years of experience in private practice, CMH centers, the public school system and the legal system. I offer solution focused approaches to therapy with the objective of obtaining results. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy which is considered to be one of the most effective evidence based therapies according to the NIMH. I work with my clients to identify the factors contributing to the problems they are experiencing and collaboratively we implement realistic strategies that produce change.
I work extensively with couples for relationship / marriage issues such as loss of trust, infidelity, conflict and poor communication.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 32 years of experience in private practice, CMH centers, the public school system and the legal system. I offer solution focused approaches to therapy with the objective of obtaining results. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy which is considered to be one of the most effective evidence based therapies according to the NIMH. I work with my clients to identify the factors contributing to the problems they are experiencing and collaboratively we implement realistic strategies that produce change.
(301) 329-8049 View (301) 329-8049
Photo of Sheila Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Sheila Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
If you have concerns, worries or anxieties or feel overwhelmed sometimes, we can look at these together and work toward resolution in a relationship of trust, empathy, insight and honesty. I search for each person's strengths to enable them to have more control over their life. Most people have difficulty in relationships..........with friends, family members, or individuals in their work setting. We work together on improving communication to empower you to be more successful.
If you have concerns, worries or anxieties or feel overwhelmed sometimes, we can look at these together and work toward resolution in a relationship of trust, empathy, insight and honesty. I search for each person's strengths to enable them to have more control over their life. Most people have difficulty in relationships..........with friends, family members, or individuals in their work setting. We work together on improving communication to empower you to be more successful.
(301) 321-7269 View (301) 321-7269
Photo of Rivka Sidorsky & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Rivka Sidorsky & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you struggling with your intimate relationship? As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, this is all we do. With 10 years of experience in the field of sex therapy, men, women, and couples come to us for our expertise in female and male sexual dysfunction and intimacy concerns. Rivka Sidorsky & Associates is designed to improve all the areas of intimacy and sexuality. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, unconsummated marriage, Vaginismus, sexual anxiety, sexual aversion, libido concerns, differences in desire, infidelity, sexual trauma, male sexual dysfunction, relationship and other concerns, you have come to the right place.
Are you struggling with your intimate relationship? As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, this is all we do. With 10 years of experience in the field of sex therapy, men, women, and couples come to us for our expertise in female and male sexual dysfunction and intimacy concerns. Rivka Sidorsky & Associates is designed to improve all the areas of intimacy and sexuality. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, unconsummated marriage, Vaginismus, sexual anxiety, sexual aversion, libido concerns, differences in desire, infidelity, sexual trauma, male sexual dysfunction, relationship and other concerns, you have come to the right place.
(339) 237-5976 View (339) 237-5976
Photo of Ellen Cohen Ottenstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Ellen Cohen Ottenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Finding the right therapist is the first step toward achieving the life you desire. As a psychotherapist and Life Coach, I work with adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and major life changes. In feeling safe to fully express yourself in the warm environment of my office, you make continuous progress toward reaching your goals.
Finding the right therapist is the first step toward achieving the life you desire. As a psychotherapist and Life Coach, I work with adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and major life changes. In feeling safe to fully express yourself in the warm environment of my office, you make continuous progress toward reaching your goals.
(301) 812-4382 View (301) 812-4382
Photo of Cindy Learn, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Cindy Learn
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Do you feel unsettled, out of balance, or like you don't have a voice? Are you at a crossroads in your life and not sure which path to take? In the safety of my office, I help clients find their balance, gain insight, make intentional changes, heal and grow - as individuals and in relationships. I have found that empowering clients with practical strategies to incorporate into their daily living while supporting clients in doing the deeper work of increasing their understanding of themselves and their partners (for clients in couples counseling), ultimately leads to the most meaningful changes.
Do you feel unsettled, out of balance, or like you don't have a voice? Are you at a crossroads in your life and not sure which path to take? In the safety of my office, I help clients find their balance, gain insight, make intentional changes, heal and grow - as individuals and in relationships. I have found that empowering clients with practical strategies to incorporate into their daily living while supporting clients in doing the deeper work of increasing their understanding of themselves and their partners (for clients in couples counseling), ultimately leads to the most meaningful changes.
(304) 337-5508 View (304) 337-5508
Photo of Julia Kirvan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Julia Kirvan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
"Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or irritable? Finding a therapist you can connect with to help you explore an unbiased view of your struggles or concerns can be difficult. As a clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience, I help adults, adolescents, and couples through a variety of life transitions. I offer help to clients struggling from a variety of issues, ranging from: marital difficulties, anxiety and depression, separation and divorce, grief, parenting and workplace difficulties. In addition, I am a trained collaborative divorce coach and child specialist.
"Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or irritable? Finding a therapist you can connect with to help you explore an unbiased view of your struggles or concerns can be difficult. As a clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience, I help adults, adolescents, and couples through a variety of life transitions. I offer help to clients struggling from a variety of issues, ranging from: marital difficulties, anxiety and depression, separation and divorce, grief, parenting and workplace difficulties. In addition, I am a trained collaborative divorce coach and child specialist.
(301) 678-8681 View (301) 678-8681
Photo of Ellen Carol Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Ellen Carol Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
“I have enormous respect for couples who have the courage to embark on couples counseling.
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
“I have enormous respect for couples who have the courage to embark on couples counseling.
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
(240) 702-2188 View (240) 702-2188
Photo of Samantha Rodman Whiten, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Samantha Rodman Whiten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with dissatisfied couples, Highly Sensitive People, men with difficulty expressing emotions, adult children of dysfunctional parents, sex issues, and high achievers.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
I enjoy working with dissatisfied couples, Highly Sensitive People, men with difficulty expressing emotions, adult children of dysfunctional parents, sex issues, and high achievers.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
(301) 720-1497 View (301) 720-1497

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

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.