Photo of Julia E McGowen-Bienkowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Julia E McGowen-Bienkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples and family counseling to treat mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss and addiction evidence based treatments including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Somatic and Polyvagal Therapy.
Learning how the body and brain work together makes managing your mental health much more effective. Traditional "one size fits all" talk therapy and medication is often not enough for many people. My approach is person centered, collaborative, holistic and tailored to the individual's needs. Let me help you get back into the driver's seat of your own brain! Get started today!
I provide individual, couples and family counseling to treat mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss and addiction evidence based treatments including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Somatic and Polyvagal Therapy.
Learning how the body and brain work together makes managing your mental health much more effective. Traditional "one size fits all" talk therapy and medication is often not enough for many people. My approach is person centered, collaborative, holistic and tailored to the individual's needs. Let me help you get back into the driver's seat of your own brain! Get started today!
(248) 720-6073 View (248) 720-6073
Photo of The Center For Psychological Services, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
The Center For Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48346
i have over three decades of experience working with children, adults, couples and families on a wide variety of life problems.It is important to find a therapist that is a good fit, someone with whom you feel comfortable and who takes your concerns seriously. My approach is supportive, confidential and empathetic in helping individuals and families recognize their own needs and strengths. It's not uncommon to get stuck in unsatisfying and frustrating situations. Through our relationship you can start to become aware of the things that interfere with feeling better and use your strengths to make changes and move forward.
i have over three decades of experience working with children, adults, couples and families on a wide variety of life problems.It is important to find a therapist that is a good fit, someone with whom you feel comfortable and who takes your concerns seriously. My approach is supportive, confidential and empathetic in helping individuals and families recognize their own needs and strengths. It's not uncommon to get stuck in unsatisfying and frustrating situations. Through our relationship you can start to become aware of the things that interfere with feeling better and use your strengths to make changes and move forward.
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Photo of Bright Pine BH: Psychological Testing and Therapy, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Bright Pine BH: Psychological Testing and Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Bright Pine Behavioral Health: Psychological Testing and Therapy, with three convenient Oakland County locations in Clarkston, West Bloomfield, and Troy, offers expert psychological testing and counseling for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression. Led by clinic director and managing partner, Dr. Kat Lewitzke, a recognized Metro-Detroit Mom Approved Doc and OC 40 under 40 awardee, we cater to children, teens, and adults of all ages. Dr. Lewitzke also hosts the "Psych Confidential" podcast and has been featured on shows like "Adventures in Autism," "The Well Child," and "Autism Mom MD."
Bright Pine Behavioral Health: Psychological Testing and Therapy, with three convenient Oakland County locations in Clarkston, West Bloomfield, and Troy, offers expert psychological testing and counseling for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression. Led by clinic director and managing partner, Dr. Kat Lewitzke, a recognized Metro-Detroit Mom Approved Doc and OC 40 under 40 awardee, we cater to children, teens, and adults of all ages. Dr. Lewitzke also hosts the "Psych Confidential" podcast and has been featured on shows like "Adventures in Autism," "The Well Child," and "Autism Mom MD."
(248) 653-1501 View (248) 653-1501
Photo of Kim M Bindus, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Kim M Bindus
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS LLP
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health and I have learned over the years, that my clients are often my greatest teachers. I believe in meeting people where they are and working with my clients to create a treatment plan that is suited to their unique needs. In addition to individual therapy, I also provide psychological testing/evaluation services. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology. My ultimate goal is to offer compassionate, experienced treatment that provides my clients with practical strategies and tools they can easily use to promote healing in their own life.
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health and I have learned over the years, that my clients are often my greatest teachers. I believe in meeting people where they are and working with my clients to create a treatment plan that is suited to their unique needs. In addition to individual therapy, I also provide psychological testing/evaluation services. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology. My ultimate goal is to offer compassionate, experienced treatment that provides my clients with practical strategies and tools they can easily use to promote healing in their own life.
(947) 888-9523 View (947) 888-9523
Photo of Lynnette Otto, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Lynnette Otto
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
I provide active treatment that yields quick results, in a supportive and comfortable environment. I have extensive skills in working with children and families experiencing crises and/or behavioral difficulties. My experience includes a significant background of working with childhood diagnoses of: autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities/cognitive impairment, ADD/ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder, and suicidal behavior.
I provide active treatment that yields quick results, in a supportive and comfortable environment. I have extensive skills in working with children and families experiencing crises and/or behavioral difficulties. My experience includes a significant background of working with childhood diagnoses of: autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities/cognitive impairment, ADD/ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder, and suicidal behavior.
(947) 888-3051 View (947) 888-3051
Photo of Perspectives Counseling Centers, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Perspectives Counseling Centers
Limited Licensed Psychologist
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348
Perspectives Counseling Centers is an award winning Metro Detroit counseling center with over 50 Michigan therapists and psychiatrist ready to help you 6 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
Perspectives Counseling Centers is an award winning Metro Detroit counseling center with over 50 Michigan therapists and psychiatrist ready to help you 6 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
(248) 688-9021 View (248) 688-9021

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marshall Maldaver PhD, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Marshall Maldaver PhD
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterford, MI 48327
I have over 35 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families on a wide variety of life problems. It is important to find a therapist that is a good fit, someone with whom you feel comfortable and who takes your concerns seriously. My approach is supportive, confidential and empathetic in helping individuals and families recognize their own needs and strengths. It's not uncommon to get stuck in unsatisfying and frustrating situations. Through our relationship you can start to become aware of issues that interfere with feeling better and use your strengths to make changes and move forward.
I have over 35 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families on a wide variety of life problems. It is important to find a therapist that is a good fit, someone with whom you feel comfortable and who takes your concerns seriously. My approach is supportive, confidential and empathetic in helping individuals and families recognize their own needs and strengths. It's not uncommon to get stuck in unsatisfying and frustrating situations. Through our relationship you can start to become aware of issues that interfere with feeling better and use your strengths to make changes and move forward.
(248) 671-6625 View (248) 671-6625
Photo of Kristine Vazzano, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Kristine Vazzano
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, and relationship concerns.
It is possible to feel better and make changes in your life. As a clinical psychologist, I can help you explore emotions related to current problems and teach you new ways of communicating and managing your feelings. My role is to help you feel better and increase your awareness both about yourself and the things you do. By increasing your understanding of past and present experiences, you can also improve your mood, your relationships, and overall functioning.
I work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, and relationship concerns.
It is possible to feel better and make changes in your life. As a clinical psychologist, I can help you explore emotions related to current problems and teach you new ways of communicating and managing your feelings. My role is to help you feel better and increase your awareness both about yourself and the things you do. By increasing your understanding of past and present experiences, you can also improve your mood, your relationships, and overall functioning.
(248) 728-8811 View (248) 728-8811
Photo of Diana M Yurk, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Diana M Yurk
Psychologist, PhD, LP, MEd, MFT, QSW
Verified Verified
Waterford, MI 48328
I enjoy working with people of all ages. Although, most of the individuals I work with are 14 years old to 55 years old, I do work with people who are younger and older. The mix of ages is important to my practice for several reasons. My speciality is family psychotherapy and marriage counseling. Since I am addressing the family, I necessarily will deal with individuals of all ages. I work with relationship issues which may include parenting and discipline issues. In addition, I work with adults and children individually and/or within the family regarding abandonment/separation, depression, and anxiety.
I enjoy working with people of all ages. Although, most of the individuals I work with are 14 years old to 55 years old, I do work with people who are younger and older. The mix of ages is important to my practice for several reasons. My speciality is family psychotherapy and marriage counseling. Since I am addressing the family, I necessarily will deal with individuals of all ages. I work with relationship issues which may include parenting and discipline issues. In addition, I work with adults and children individually and/or within the family regarding abandonment/separation, depression, and anxiety.
(248) 615-2830 View (248) 615-2830
Photo of Sollars & Associates, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Sollars & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
I encourage a very open and honest relationship to help clients feel emotionally supported.
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. We provide short-term and in-depth counseling and psychotherapy. Psychological evaluation and testing also available including: educational (developmental, learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD), medical (bariatric surgery and pain) and work disability
I encourage a very open and honest relationship to help clients feel emotionally supported.
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. We provide short-term and in-depth counseling and psychotherapy. Psychological evaluation and testing also available including: educational (developmental, learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD), medical (bariatric surgery and pain) and work disability
(248) 787-0855 View (248) 787-0855
Photo of Diane M Cartwright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clarkston, MI
Diane M Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pontiac, MI 48341  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience providing specialized counseling services to individuals or families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, intimacy and women's health issues, relationship and parenting challenges, anger management, mild traumatic brain injury, and adolescents who have been diagnosed with ADHD, ODD, and Conduct Disorder.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS via Telehealth! I enjoy working with clients as they gain insight into their struggles so they can identify healthy tools to overcome those struggles. My clients will encounter a non-judgmental and caring environment that promotes growth, healing and empowerment. Because everyone comes to therapy with unique challenges and values, I use an individualized approach to meet clients' specific needs, incorporating research-based strategies that draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction approach.
I have extensive experience providing specialized counseling services to individuals or families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, intimacy and women's health issues, relationship and parenting challenges, anger management, mild traumatic brain injury, and adolescents who have been diagnosed with ADHD, ODD, and Conduct Disorder.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS via Telehealth! I enjoy working with clients as they gain insight into their struggles so they can identify healthy tools to overcome those struggles. My clients will encounter a non-judgmental and caring environment that promotes growth, healing and empowerment. Because everyone comes to therapy with unique challenges and values, I use an individualized approach to meet clients' specific needs, incorporating research-based strategies that draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction approach.
(313) 281-4396 View (313) 281-4396
Photo of Sebi R. Fishta, Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Sebi R. Fishta
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Orion, MI 48360
Dr. Fishta provides counseling, psychotherapy, and diagnostic assessment with people who have life adjustment problems, emotional disorders, or mental illness. He administer neuropsychological tests and test batteries to patients to measure clinical factors such as intellectual functioning, presence and extent of organic involvement, personality characteristics, and psychopathology. He experience includes treatment for depression, anxiety, psychosis, phobias, panic disorders, eating disorders, stress related problems, and severe mental disorders. He practices the science of measurement, or psychometrics by providing diagnostic.....
Dr. Fishta provides counseling, psychotherapy, and diagnostic assessment with people who have life adjustment problems, emotional disorders, or mental illness. He administer neuropsychological tests and test batteries to patients to measure clinical factors such as intellectual functioning, presence and extent of organic involvement, personality characteristics, and psychopathology. He experience includes treatment for depression, anxiety, psychosis, phobias, panic disorders, eating disorders, stress related problems, and severe mental disorders. He practices the science of measurement, or psychometrics by providing diagnostic.....
(586) 630-4330 View (586) 630-4330
Photo of Oakland Psychological Clinic, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Oakland Psychological Clinic
Limited Licensed Psychologist
Verified Verified
Lake Orion, MI 48360
Oakland Psychological has been helping those struggling for more than 3 decades. We have over 90 therapists and multiple psychiatrists ready to help you in 8 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
Oakland Psychological has been helping those struggling for more than 3 decades. We have over 90 therapists and multiple psychiatrists ready to help you in 8 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
(248) 215-0809 View (248) 215-0809
Photo of Karen Shackelford: Mountain Vista Counseling, Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Karen Shackelford: Mountain Vista Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Orion, MI 48360
Thinking about therapy? Clients tell me that they wish they had come to therapy years ago and that it is the best thing they ever did for themselves. Maybe you have had experiences that have negatively affected your emotional & mental health; Maybe you aren't sure what to do about a situation or maybe you feel stuck. I will help you find & get rid of those things that are in the way of you getting the life you want. Everyone at some point can use the help of therapy! Most people would say that I am compassionate, creative, respectful, honest, & proactive therapist. I will work hard to understand you & help you accomplish your goals.
Thinking about therapy? Clients tell me that they wish they had come to therapy years ago and that it is the best thing they ever did for themselves. Maybe you have had experiences that have negatively affected your emotional & mental health; Maybe you aren't sure what to do about a situation or maybe you feel stuck. I will help you find & get rid of those things that are in the way of you getting the life you want. Everyone at some point can use the help of therapy! Most people would say that I am compassionate, creative, respectful, honest, & proactive therapist. I will work hard to understand you & help you accomplish your goals.
(248) 391-2606 View (248) 391-2606
Photo of Douglas W Carpenter, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Douglas W Carpenter
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is an interactive journey of gaining insights into one's patterns of thinking and behavior. It is necessary to resolve issues from the past and understand how the past or past traumas have shaped your life. These insights can then help you develop new, healthy coping skills. The focus of therapy is to offer hope, clarity, healing and change through a strong therapeutic relationship. I am a psychologist who will be actively involved in helping you achieve your goals and life aspirations. I am excited about working with people who are ready for lifelong positive change!
Therapy is an interactive journey of gaining insights into one's patterns of thinking and behavior. It is necessary to resolve issues from the past and understand how the past or past traumas have shaped your life. These insights can then help you develop new, healthy coping skills. The focus of therapy is to offer hope, clarity, healing and change through a strong therapeutic relationship. I am a psychologist who will be actively involved in helping you achieve your goals and life aspirations. I am excited about working with people who are ready for lifelong positive change!
(248) 997-4160 View (248) 997-4160
Photo of Jessica Stavale, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Jessica Stavale
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Lake Orion, MI 48360
Not accepting new clients
I know you can heal and find peace by working with me. I have an integrative approach and view healing through a whole body perspective. I am almost complete with doctorates in Integrative Medicine and Natural Medicine. I am a fascia expert, author, trauma expert, and I believe in accountability by moving you forward with equipping you with coping mechanisms that work for you, and I free you from the past. Past trauma, emotion, and energy get stored in the fascia of the body, which effects your mental and emotional health, so my approach is unique. I will guide you to adapt a growth mindset of empowerment.
I know you can heal and find peace by working with me. I have an integrative approach and view healing through a whole body perspective. I am almost complete with doctorates in Integrative Medicine and Natural Medicine. I am a fascia expert, author, trauma expert, and I believe in accountability by moving you forward with equipping you with coping mechanisms that work for you, and I free you from the past. Past trauma, emotion, and energy get stored in the fascia of the body, which effects your mental and emotional health, so my approach is unique. I will guide you to adapt a growth mindset of empowerment.
(248) 781-3434 View (248) 781-3434

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Michael Washburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Dr. Michael Washburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSAT, CS, NCC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Help individuals and couples experience and embrace intimacy and a satisfying connection.
In life we all at times find ourselves, or our loved ones, feeling stuck, confused, or even more disheartened - without hope! Counseling is about unraveling the story and learning to write a new narrative and ending that is both healthy and fulfilling especially around the issues of intimacy and sexuality. With over 30 years of counseling experience, Michael is a Therapist and Clinical Sexologist holding dual Master's Degrees and a Ph.D.​ in Clinical Sexology, a Diplomate with the American Board of Sexology, and author, focusing on all aspects of intimacy and sexuality both for an individual and in relationship with other.
Help individuals and couples experience and embrace intimacy and a satisfying connection.
In life we all at times find ourselves, or our loved ones, feeling stuck, confused, or even more disheartened - without hope! Counseling is about unraveling the story and learning to write a new narrative and ending that is both healthy and fulfilling especially around the issues of intimacy and sexuality. With over 30 years of counseling experience, Michael is a Therapist and Clinical Sexologist holding dual Master's Degrees and a Ph.D.​ in Clinical Sexology, a Diplomate with the American Board of Sexology, and author, focusing on all aspects of intimacy and sexuality both for an individual and in relationship with other.
(248) 600-4352 View (248) 600-4352
Photo of Gennea Nickole Moore, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Gennea Nickole Moore
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD, LLP
Verified Verified
Roseville, MI 48066
Working with adolescents, adults, and couples is my passion and primary focus. Therapy will empower you to overcome life's challenges and replace old patterns and beliefs with a new openness to the possibilities of your potential. My therapeutic techniques provide supportive interactions that can replace one's undesirable outcomes with improvement in self-awareness, ability to cope with trauma and grief, as well as personal barriers. Life is a constant balancing act of ongoing work, school, sports or health demands that include building and maintaining relationships that at the same time may require social, personal, and/ or parenting responsibilities.
Working with adolescents, adults, and couples is my passion and primary focus. Therapy will empower you to overcome life's challenges and replace old patterns and beliefs with a new openness to the possibilities of your potential. My therapeutic techniques provide supportive interactions that can replace one's undesirable outcomes with improvement in self-awareness, ability to cope with trauma and grief, as well as personal barriers. Life is a constant balancing act of ongoing work, school, sports or health demands that include building and maintaining relationships that at the same time may require social, personal, and/ or parenting responsibilities.
(248) 292-3079 View (248) 292-3079
Photo of Sollars and Associates, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
I encourage a very open and honest relationship to help clients feel emotionally safe.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
I encourage a very open and honest relationship to help clients feel emotionally safe.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of McCaskill Family Services, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
McCaskill Family Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
We offer private, confidential psychological evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. We specialize in comprehensive evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, ADHD coaching, eating disorders, tics/tourettes, DBT, CBT, toilet training, school refusal, agressive behavior, cutting, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, exposure therapy, dietitian services, group services, equine-assited therapy and advocating for children in the educational setting. We also run various groups throughout the year for different age groups and issues.
We offer private, confidential psychological evaluations and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. We specialize in comprehensive evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, parent coaching, ADHD coaching, eating disorders, tics/tourettes, DBT, CBT, toilet training, school refusal, agressive behavior, cutting, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, exposure therapy, dietitian services, group services, equine-assited therapy and advocating for children in the educational setting. We also run various groups throughout the year for different age groups and issues.
(734) 385-2823 x1 View (734) 385-2823 x1
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.