Photo of Emily Sherwood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Emily Sherwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Biloxi, MS 39532
Life is full of changes and changes can be a difficult part of life's journey. Some changes we welcome because they start a new adventure while others are challenging to accept. Changes can happen without warning and may be quite dramatic, as in the case of accidents, loss of a loved one, a broken relationship / marriage, job loss or serious illness. My desire is to help clients find the path to hope, understanding, encouragement and healing. I believe healing comes through our relationship with God.
Life is full of changes and changes can be a difficult part of life's journey. Some changes we welcome because they start a new adventure while others are challenging to accept. Changes can happen without warning and may be quite dramatic, as in the case of accidents, loss of a loved one, a broken relationship / marriage, job loss or serious illness. My desire is to help clients find the path to hope, understanding, encouragement and healing. I believe healing comes through our relationship with God.
(228) 285-4896 View (228) 285-4896
Photo of Stephanie Armstrong, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mississippi
Stephanie Armstrong
Pre-Licensed Professional, P-LPC
Verified Verified
Southaven, MS 38671
Immediate Openings for Cigna, Aetna, and Self-Pay! I work with individuals, couples, and families from a myriad of backgrounds. I have experience in treating issues relating to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, difficulties with interpersonal relationships, and self-identity. My eclectic, holistic approach to counseling helps me to meet my clients where they are by fostering acceptance and security in the counseling relationship.
Immediate Openings for Cigna, Aetna, and Self-Pay! I work with individuals, couples, and families from a myriad of backgrounds. I have experience in treating issues relating to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, difficulties with interpersonal relationships, and self-identity. My eclectic, holistic approach to counseling helps me to meet my clients where they are by fostering acceptance and security in the counseling relationship.
(662) 200-4607 View (662) 200-4607
Photo of Julie Benoit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Julie Benoit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Waitlist for new clients
I now have openings for telehealth appointments! Attention couples: Are you looking to enhance your relationship and learn how to manage conflict in new, effective ways? Do you want to learn the art of compromise in your relationship? I specialize in couples, betrayal trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, and major life transitions. Whether individually or as a couple, I would love to offer you a non judgmental space to begin healing and moving forward. Want to jump start your therapy experience? Ask me about therapy intensives and if they would be right for you.
I now have openings for telehealth appointments! Attention couples: Are you looking to enhance your relationship and learn how to manage conflict in new, effective ways? Do you want to learn the art of compromise in your relationship? I specialize in couples, betrayal trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, and major life transitions. Whether individually or as a couple, I would love to offer you a non judgmental space to begin healing and moving forward. Want to jump start your therapy experience? Ask me about therapy intensives and if they would be right for you.
(504) 608-1409 View (504) 608-1409
Photo of Balanced Living Counseling Services - Dr Liz Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Balanced Living Counseling Services - Dr Liz Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Balanced Living Counseling Services job is to help individuals stop anguish, hopelessness, and relationship distress.
Balanced Living Counseling Services has providers ready to schedule your appointment within 2-3 days, so you are not staying with your pain for weeks and months. We help you overcome anxiety, panic attacks, stress, depression, grief, relationship problems, or family problems fast.
Balanced Living Counseling Services job is to help individuals stop anguish, hopelessness, and relationship distress.
Balanced Living Counseling Services has providers ready to schedule your appointment within 2-3 days, so you are not staying with your pain for weeks and months. We help you overcome anxiety, panic attacks, stress, depression, grief, relationship problems, or family problems fast.
(601) 402-9985 View (601) 402-9985
Photo of Carolyn A. Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Carolyn A. Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, MS 39157
I provide couples, adolescent, family and individual counseling.
Are you depressed, anxious and overwhelmed? Or maybe you are just unsure how to handle your current life situations. Therapy offers a safe place to explore thoughts and feelings and find new coping skills to face life's problems.
I provide couples, adolescent, family and individual counseling.
Are you depressed, anxious and overwhelmed? Or maybe you are just unsure how to handle your current life situations. Therapy offers a safe place to explore thoughts and feelings and find new coping skills to face life's problems.
(601) 228-3241 View (601) 228-3241
Photo of Lisa Kay Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Lisa Kay Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS-MFC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Flowood, MS 39232
I work with individuals, couples, families, and mental health. I have considerable experience in helping people work through relationship issues. I am certified as a Prepare and Enrich facilitator for engaged and married couples, parents and blended families as well as SYMBIS certified for premarital. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor by the State of MS, a National Board Certified Counselor, a National Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, as well as a Board-certified Telemental Health provider. I have worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, marital and family concerns, age issues, and career decisions.
I work with individuals, couples, families, and mental health. I have considerable experience in helping people work through relationship issues. I am certified as a Prepare and Enrich facilitator for engaged and married couples, parents and blended families as well as SYMBIS certified for premarital. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor by the State of MS, a National Board Certified Counselor, a National Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, as well as a Board-certified Telemental Health provider. I have worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, marital and family concerns, age issues, and career decisions.
(601) 564-0429 View (601) 564-0429
Photo of P&P Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
P&P Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S, NCC, LSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Quitman, MS 39355
I can help with your anxieties, depression, work related issues, grief, PTSD, substance abuse, opioid addiction, alcoholism, and marital and relationship problems, anger issues, postpartum depression, bipolar and other mental health issues.
Do you feel like no one understands you? Are you feeling helpless? Do you need someone to listen to you? Someone who understands and can talk to you when you need it most! Hey I am here and I am listening! I provide in-home counseling, that means I come to you. You will not have to sit in an office waiting to be seen. No more worrying about who will see you at a counselor’s office. I am devoted to keep your treatment needs strictly confidential. I am here for all your mental health or private counseling needs. “Talk 2 Me!” Just call and make an appointment with me today.
I can help with your anxieties, depression, work related issues, grief, PTSD, substance abuse, opioid addiction, alcoholism, and marital and relationship problems, anger issues, postpartum depression, bipolar and other mental health issues.
Do you feel like no one understands you? Are you feeling helpless? Do you need someone to listen to you? Someone who understands and can talk to you when you need it most! Hey I am here and I am listening! I provide in-home counseling, that means I come to you. You will not have to sit in an office waiting to be seen. No more worrying about who will see you at a counselor’s office. I am devoted to keep your treatment needs strictly confidential. I am here for all your mental health or private counseling needs. “Talk 2 Me!” Just call and make an appointment with me today.
(769) 241-3524 View (769) 241-3524
Photo of Ronald Whittington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Ronald Whittington
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgeland, MS 39158  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Idaho with years of practical experience in couple, marriage, family relationship, and individual psychotherapy that is complimented by my academic and professional credentials. My focus is striving diligently to make a difference. I have worked with clients with a vast range of presenting concerns including relationship issues, anger management, anxiety, stress, parenting, family conflict, emotional disturbance, grief, self-esteem, infidelity, divorce, career challenges, trauma, and OCD.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Idaho with years of practical experience in couple, marriage, family relationship, and individual psychotherapy that is complimented by my academic and professional credentials. My focus is striving diligently to make a difference. I have worked with clients with a vast range of presenting concerns including relationship issues, anger management, anxiety, stress, parenting, family conflict, emotional disturbance, grief, self-esteem, infidelity, divorce, career challenges, trauma, and OCD.
(601) 463-8801 View (601) 463-8801
Photo of Mississippi Sound Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Mississippi Sound Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, BSN, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Gulfport, MS 39507
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, mood instability, relationship conflict, distress and/or abuse, attachment wounds/injury, codependency, anger management, work distress, family conflict & crisis management.
I believe counseling is a process of exploration, discovery, and personal growth. My job is to help clients learn more about themselves in a safe, caring, non-judgemental, and challenging environment. My goal is to empower clients to recognize and change their thoughts or behaviors leading to decrease anxiety/stress, decreased depression and increased self-esteem. I work with each client based on their specific needs and concerns and help them create a path toward healing, empowerment, and change.
I am experienced working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, mood instability, relationship conflict, distress and/or abuse, attachment wounds/injury, codependency, anger management, work distress, family conflict & crisis management.
I believe counseling is a process of exploration, discovery, and personal growth. My job is to help clients learn more about themselves in a safe, caring, non-judgemental, and challenging environment. My goal is to empower clients to recognize and change their thoughts or behaviors leading to decrease anxiety/stress, decreased depression and increased self-esteem. I work with each client based on their specific needs and concerns and help them create a path toward healing, empowerment, and change.
(228) 207-5751 View (228) 207-5751
Photo of Dianne C Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Dianne C Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Southaven, MS 38671
We will partner through this healing process incrementally to attain a sense of peace, inner contentment and self acceptance.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping children, adults and families find healing and to achieve goals in a safe environment. I respect diversity in multicultural norms, individual diferrences and social perspectives. Because I believe in the uniqueness of the person and the experiences that they bring, I will individualize your treatment plan according to your distinct needs. It is my commitment to help you express your full potential, and discover as well as develop your personhood.
We will partner through this healing process incrementally to attain a sense of peace, inner contentment and self acceptance.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping children, adults and families find healing and to achieve goals in a safe environment. I respect diversity in multicultural norms, individual diferrences and social perspectives. Because I believe in the uniqueness of the person and the experiences that they bring, I will individualize your treatment plan according to your distinct needs. It is my commitment to help you express your full potential, and discover as well as develop your personhood.
(662) 235-8872 View (662) 235-8872
Photo of Amanda Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Amanda Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TMHT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Starkville, MS 39759
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy via telehealth from several platforms including but not limited to Betterhelp.
I am licensed in Mississippi with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I am also an LGBTQ+ advocate and ally. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy via telehealth from several platforms including but not limited to Betterhelp.
I am licensed in Mississippi with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I am also an LGBTQ+ advocate and ally. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
(662) 667-1991 View (662) 667-1991
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Hogue, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Dr. Jennifer Hogue
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSMH
Verified Verified
Madison, MS 39110
I counsel and minister to adults, couples, married couples, late adolescents specializing in Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Grief, Major Life Change, CPTSD, Family of Origin Issues, Addiction, Marital/Relationship Issues, Feeling Lost, Alone, Eating Disorders, BDD, Frustrated…. just in need of someone to listen and be there. I care and can help! My mission is to help clients with their mental health and life's trials by encouraging hope, breaking cyclical patterns, helping to better understand emotionally and chemically what is exacerbating certain issues to achieve their/your purpose for a healthy perspective and a victorious life.
I counsel and minister to adults, couples, married couples, late adolescents specializing in Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Grief, Major Life Change, CPTSD, Family of Origin Issues, Addiction, Marital/Relationship Issues, Feeling Lost, Alone, Eating Disorders, BDD, Frustrated…. just in need of someone to listen and be there. I care and can help! My mission is to help clients with their mental health and life's trials by encouraging hope, breaking cyclical patterns, helping to better understand emotionally and chemically what is exacerbating certain issues to achieve their/your purpose for a healthy perspective and a victorious life.
(601) 499-4314 View (601) 499-4314
Photo of Mary Allen McBride, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Mary Allen McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, MS 39110
I work with women and couples in many areas including past trauma, abuse, romance addiction and trust issues.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to call and take the first bold step towards change. Each persons life story is different. I strive to work with clients to establish goals and objectives to help facilitate change, have a healthier lifestyle, and/or deal with issues from the past that continue to cause problems in the present. Each season of life brings new opportunities and challenges. I believe everyone is a lifetime learner and, at times, needs help in working through the different challenges of life.
I work with women and couples in many areas including past trauma, abuse, romance addiction and trust issues.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to call and take the first bold step towards change. Each persons life story is different. I strive to work with clients to establish goals and objectives to help facilitate change, have a healthier lifestyle, and/or deal with issues from the past that continue to cause problems in the present. Each season of life brings new opportunities and challenges. I believe everyone is a lifetime learner and, at times, needs help in working through the different challenges of life.
(601) 438-2478 View (601) 438-2478
Photo of Mindful Solutions, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Mindful Solutions, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenwood, MS 38930
Mindful Solutions is committed to providing professional and confidential mental health services. Our practice provides individual, groups, marriage and family, and couples psychotherapy for adults and children. We have a diverse licensed team of therapists that specializes in various mental health and life challenges. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Visit our website www.msolutions1.com or contact us at 601-292-6260 for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.
Mindful Solutions is committed to providing professional and confidential mental health services. Our practice provides individual, groups, marriage and family, and couples psychotherapy for adults and children. We have a diverse licensed team of therapists that specializes in various mental health and life challenges. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Visit our website www.msolutions1.com or contact us at 601-292-6260 for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.
(662) 247-8482 View (662) 247-8482
Photo of Anna Kuykendall Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Anna Kuykendall Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd , NCC
Verified Verified
Tupelo, MS 38804
I specialize in marriage/partner/family therapy, children’s therapy (play therapy)—I trained at the University of MS and Oxford Play Therapy Institute, career counseling, adoption/infertility, fostercare education, trauma intensive/grief therapy, spectrum/autism, general assessments, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, ADHD, mood/personality disorders.
If you find yourself here, I encourage you to reach out to me (email/text). You may be surprised to find that even if you’re not experiencing a “crisis” or a difficult time in life, therapy is a great way to learn more about yourself, improve your outlook, strengthen relationships, or gain career guidance. Everyone benefits from therapy. Having the pleasure of working in this field for over 15 years, I pride myself on taking an experiential approach to therapy, as each person is unique in his or her own way. Taking a “one size fits all” approach is not effective. I look forward to helping you on an effective therapeutic journey.
I specialize in marriage/partner/family therapy, children’s therapy (play therapy)—I trained at the University of MS and Oxford Play Therapy Institute, career counseling, adoption/infertility, fostercare education, trauma intensive/grief therapy, spectrum/autism, general assessments, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, ADHD, mood/personality disorders.
If you find yourself here, I encourage you to reach out to me (email/text). You may be surprised to find that even if you’re not experiencing a “crisis” or a difficult time in life, therapy is a great way to learn more about yourself, improve your outlook, strengthen relationships, or gain career guidance. Everyone benefits from therapy. Having the pleasure of working in this field for over 15 years, I pride myself on taking an experiential approach to therapy, as each person is unique in his or her own way. Taking a “one size fits all” approach is not effective. I look forward to helping you on an effective therapeutic journey.
(662) 291-7931 View (662) 291-7931
Photo of Kris Allen Riddle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Kris Allen Riddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Tupelo, MS 38804
Kris works with individuals experiencing challenges with depression, past trauma, grief, anxiety, relationship difficulty, and substance abuse.
After graduating from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1996, Kris began his career working with Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He earned his Masters Degree in Counselor Education in 2001, and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2008. Since then Kris has worked in Inpatient Psychiatric and Outpatient Settings. He has received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) for children, the Gottman Method Level 2 for Couples Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Kris works with individuals experiencing challenges with depression, past trauma, grief, anxiety, relationship difficulty, and substance abuse.
After graduating from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1996, Kris began his career working with Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He earned his Masters Degree in Counselor Education in 2001, and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2008. Since then Kris has worked in Inpatient Psychiatric and Outpatient Settings. He has received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) for children, the Gottman Method Level 2 for Couples Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
(662) 430-3746 View (662) 430-3746
Photo of Bridge-Point, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Bridge-Point, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, MS 39157
We strive diligently to improve the quality of life and strengthen relationships via the following services: Individual Therapy: Parents & Children, Couples Therapy: Pre-Marital & Marital, Group Therapy: Adults (Positive Parenting), Group Therapy: Youths (Positive Youth Development), Career Counseling: Adults & Youths, and Educational Guidance & Assistance.
We have been married for 39 years and we are both Licensed Professional Counselors and National Certified Counselors. We have years of practical experience in couple, marriage, and family relationship that is complimented by our academic and professional credentials. Our group, Bridge-Point, was formed with the underlying principle of "striving diligently to make a difference".
We strive diligently to improve the quality of life and strengthen relationships via the following services: Individual Therapy: Parents & Children, Couples Therapy: Pre-Marital & Marital, Group Therapy: Adults (Positive Parenting), Group Therapy: Youths (Positive Youth Development), Career Counseling: Adults & Youths, and Educational Guidance & Assistance.
We have been married for 39 years and we are both Licensed Professional Counselors and National Certified Counselors. We have years of practical experience in couple, marriage, and family relationship that is complimented by our academic and professional credentials. Our group, Bridge-Point, was formed with the underlying principle of "striving diligently to make a difference".
(601) 368-8707 View (601) 368-8707
Photo of We Are Relationships, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
We Are Relationships
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, MS 39110  (Online Only)
Our specialty is Couples Therapy.
Love Is War. Gear Up! We are a different kind of professional mental health clinic, allowing you to connect with a licensed therapist, trained to offer help from a Christian background. By combining Biblical wisdom with clinical expertise in mental health, we invite God into the conversation and formulate actionable plans that best address the unique challenges you face. Our goal is to holistically improve clients’ well-being, so that they may feel mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy. In order to provide the best experience possible, our unique approach offers both online services and traditional face-to-face therapy.
Our specialty is Couples Therapy.
Love Is War. Gear Up! We are a different kind of professional mental health clinic, allowing you to connect with a licensed therapist, trained to offer help from a Christian background. By combining Biblical wisdom with clinical expertise in mental health, we invite God into the conversation and formulate actionable plans that best address the unique challenges you face. Our goal is to holistically improve clients’ well-being, so that they may feel mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy. In order to provide the best experience possible, our unique approach offers both online services and traditional face-to-face therapy.
(630) 426-7511 View (630) 426-7511
Photo of Steve Street LPC LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Steve Street LPC LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgeland, MS 39157
Like an effective coach, our counseling relationship will develop your resources for accomplishing important goals.
Blue Cross Blue Shield provider // Christian // Individual, Marriage, Family // Depression & Anxiety // Grief // Life Transitions // 30 years experience in pastoral ministry // Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy Reformed Theological Seminary, Doctor of Ministry Fuller Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Bachelor of Arts in Religion MS College // Pastor Trace Ridge Baptist Ridgeland // Prepare-Enrich Certified // Level 3 Practicum Training Gottman Method Couples Therapy //CSAT Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist
Like an effective coach, our counseling relationship will develop your resources for accomplishing important goals.
Blue Cross Blue Shield provider // Christian // Individual, Marriage, Family // Depression & Anxiety // Grief // Life Transitions // 30 years experience in pastoral ministry // Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy Reformed Theological Seminary, Doctor of Ministry Fuller Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Bachelor of Arts in Religion MS College // Pastor Trace Ridge Baptist Ridgeland // Prepare-Enrich Certified // Level 3 Practicum Training Gottman Method Couples Therapy //CSAT Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist
(601) 429-8529 View (601) 429-8529
Photo of Nadia Siddiqui, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi
Nadia Siddiqui
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS,, LPC
Verified Verified
Hattiesburg, MS 39406  (Online Only)
I assist clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stressors in life and relationship issues.
WELCOME! I am Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I have a passion for connecting people with their true self. I believe that each of us is unique and has the potential to change and heal. I strive to assist individuals to reach their full potential and help them grow in a safe, secure and non judgmental environment. Life is not without challenges which can be overwhelming but through our work together you can find strength and peace.
I assist clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stressors in life and relationship issues.
WELCOME! I am Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I have a passion for connecting people with their true self. I believe that each of us is unique and has the potential to change and heal. I strive to assist individuals to reach their full potential and help them grow in a safe, secure and non judgmental environment. Life is not without challenges which can be overwhelming but through our work together you can find strength and peace.
(832) 532-9902 View (832) 532-9902


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.