Photo of Ann B Bowen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Ann B Bowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I have also received additional training in grief counseling, marriage counseling, combined families, conflict and communication skills, relationship reconciliation, ADHD, stress management, identity development, anxiety and depression.
If life seems confusing, heavy or difficult, I believe that together we can empower you to successfully face areas of concern; we can look at patterns that have developed and how to lessen their grip on you; we can learn new coping skills to help you maneuver in a supportive and connecting manner; we can find joy and hope in your life. Together we can develop strategies to help you reach your unique goals and develop a strong sense of self to embrace life.
I have also received additional training in grief counseling, marriage counseling, combined families, conflict and communication skills, relationship reconciliation, ADHD, stress management, identity development, anxiety and depression.
If life seems confusing, heavy or difficult, I believe that together we can empower you to successfully face areas of concern; we can look at patterns that have developed and how to lessen their grip on you; we can learn new coping skills to help you maneuver in a supportive and connecting manner; we can find joy and hope in your life. Together we can develop strategies to help you reach your unique goals and develop a strong sense of self to embrace life.
(704) 710-8269 View (704) 710-8269
Photo of Maria Leo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Maria Leo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
When working with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship/marital issues or any life challenges we may be working on together, I prioritize holding a judgment-free space where clients feel both comfortable and safe.
It is an immense privilege every day to work side by side and collaboratively with my clients assisting them in handling the challenges they are facing in their lives and relationships. I look forward to supporting you as together we will navigate your new path toward much greater satisfaction and peace in your own life or your relationship. Whether you are looking to begin counseling individually, alongside a partner, or with other members of your family, I am here to help you in defining your goals and in identifying the patterns or obstacles that are hindering you from living the life or relationship you want and so deserve.
When working with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship/marital issues or any life challenges we may be working on together, I prioritize holding a judgment-free space where clients feel both comfortable and safe.
It is an immense privilege every day to work side by side and collaboratively with my clients assisting them in handling the challenges they are facing in their lives and relationships. I look forward to supporting you as together we will navigate your new path toward much greater satisfaction and peace in your own life or your relationship. Whether you are looking to begin counseling individually, alongside a partner, or with other members of your family, I am here to help you in defining your goals and in identifying the patterns or obstacles that are hindering you from living the life or relationship you want and so deserve.
(980) 324-3730 View (980) 324-3730
Photo of Amy R. Young, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Amy R. Young, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I enjoy working with couples and individuals to find their strengths, to help them communicate more effectively with their loved ones and partners, and to resolve issues that may be limiting each client's potential. I'm a direct, empathic counselor; I use humor, reality, and kindness to reflect back to clients. I'm invested in working toward your goals at your pace. I have a special love for couples and parenting issues and have worked with those issues for more than 25 years. I also have a special place in my heart for the families, patients, and caregivers of people living with chronic or terminal illnesses.
I enjoy working with couples and individuals to find their strengths, to help them communicate more effectively with their loved ones and partners, and to resolve issues that may be limiting each client's potential. I'm a direct, empathic counselor; I use humor, reality, and kindness to reflect back to clients. I'm invested in working toward your goals at your pace. I have a special love for couples and parenting issues and have worked with those issues for more than 25 years. I also have a special place in my heart for the families, patients, and caregivers of people living with chronic or terminal illnesses.
(980) 391-6200 View (980) 391-6200
Photo of Rebecca Wolf, Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Rebecca Wolf
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I am experienced in helping treat early childhood trauma in adults, relationship concerns, attachment issues, PTSD, stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, grief and substance use disorders.
If you feel anxious and alone with your issues I can help. My clients describe me as warm, insightful and able to help them get to the root cause of their issues. You may notice disconnection and troubling patterns in relationships and not understand why. You may feel yourself moving farther away from the person you wanted to become. If you need the freedom to express yourself in a caring and nonjudgmental space with someone who is professionally trained I encourage you to reach out. I am affirming of all backgrounds, experiences, sexual orientations and gender identities.
I am experienced in helping treat early childhood trauma in adults, relationship concerns, attachment issues, PTSD, stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, grief and substance use disorders.
If you feel anxious and alone with your issues I can help. My clients describe me as warm, insightful and able to help them get to the root cause of their issues. You may notice disconnection and troubling patterns in relationships and not understand why. You may feel yourself moving farther away from the person you wanted to become. If you need the freedom to express yourself in a caring and nonjudgmental space with someone who is professionally trained I encourage you to reach out. I am affirming of all backgrounds, experiences, sexual orientations and gender identities.
(980) 391-6759 View (980) 391-6759
Photo of Molly Hurst, Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Molly Hurst
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
It is an immense privilege to walk side by side with my clients as they take their courageous journey to their best lives. I provide treatment to couples, teens & adults providing both individual and couples/marital therapy. I have a passion for relationship work with couples and relationship systems from a variety of backgrounds, as well as my work with teens. I provide treatment from a multi-cultural perspective for issues/concerns including but not limited to relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, general stressors, life transitions, identity stress, sex and sexuality, self-esteem, behavioral issues & grief/bereavement.
It is an immense privilege to walk side by side with my clients as they take their courageous journey to their best lives. I provide treatment to couples, teens & adults providing both individual and couples/marital therapy. I have a passion for relationship work with couples and relationship systems from a variety of backgrounds, as well as my work with teens. I provide treatment from a multi-cultural perspective for issues/concerns including but not limited to relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, general stressors, life transitions, identity stress, sex and sexuality, self-esteem, behavioral issues & grief/bereavement.
(980) 324-2992 View (980) 324-2992
Photo of Alison Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Alison Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
However, within these primary problem areas, I also treat underlying depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, family dysfunction and relationship problems.
My philosophy of therapy is that people sometimes get to a point in life where they can no longer tolerate old ways of dealing with problems (i.e. substance abuse, avoidance, blaming, hiding, etc). No matter how big or how small those problems are, you may need to establish new ways of coping. I strongly believe that people can begin to recover from many mental health issues by setting their sights on the life they want, rather than continuing to run from the life they don't want. If you feel like you've been living in darkness, and want to feel the light on your face (or in your heart) again; I suggest you consider therapy.
However, within these primary problem areas, I also treat underlying depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, family dysfunction and relationship problems.
My philosophy of therapy is that people sometimes get to a point in life where they can no longer tolerate old ways of dealing with problems (i.e. substance abuse, avoidance, blaming, hiding, etc). No matter how big or how small those problems are, you may need to establish new ways of coping. I strongly believe that people can begin to recover from many mental health issues by setting their sights on the life they want, rather than continuing to run from the life they don't want. If you feel like you've been living in darkness, and want to feel the light on your face (or in your heart) again; I suggest you consider therapy.
(704) 686-8676 View (704) 686-8676
Photo of Jennifer Rojas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Jennifer Rojas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I work with children, adolescents, and adults (individuaIs and couples).
"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step"-Mariska Hargitay. That first call (or email) will be the hardest but also the bravest step in your healing journey. With the twists and turns that life can throw at us, it can feel very overwhelming and we may not know where to go for help. If you are reading this, it is a great first step. The goal I have for my clients is to help guide them through the storm and help them to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are preventing them from reaching their full potential.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults (individuaIs and couples).
"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step"-Mariska Hargitay. That first call (or email) will be the hardest but also the bravest step in your healing journey. With the twists and turns that life can throw at us, it can feel very overwhelming and we may not know where to go for help. If you are reading this, it is a great first step. The goal I have for my clients is to help guide them through the storm and help them to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are preventing them from reaching their full potential.
(980) 998-9664 View (980) 998-9664
Photo of Chanel C. Bowen, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Chanel C. Bowen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
If you've been experiencing anxiety, depression or issues with substance use lately, I'd like to help. Today's stressors have been affecting home life, professional life, emotional stability and many other areas. It can help to have a positive therapeutic relationship to work on feeling more balanced and improving your quality of life. You can consider yourself starting a personal Inner Renovations project where you'll receive Faith-Forward Counseling & access Mindfulness-Based tools that support your treatment plan and help you restore balance in Mind/Body/Spirit. Add structure to your self-care and make your wellbeing priority.
If you've been experiencing anxiety, depression or issues with substance use lately, I'd like to help. Today's stressors have been affecting home life, professional life, emotional stability and many other areas. It can help to have a positive therapeutic relationship to work on feeling more balanced and improving your quality of life. You can consider yourself starting a personal Inner Renovations project where you'll receive Faith-Forward Counseling & access Mindfulness-Based tools that support your treatment plan and help you restore balance in Mind/Body/Spirit. Add structure to your self-care and make your wellbeing priority.
(980) 888-8284 View (980) 888-8284
Photo of Debbie Logan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Debbie Logan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Waitlist for new clients
I feel isolated and alone in this relationship. We're having trouble connecting. All we do is argue over every little thing. These are just a few of the reasons couples reach out to me for help. Are you committed to your relationship yet feel emotionally or physically disconnected from your partner? Having the same argument repeatedly and feel misunderstood? Have you found yourself thinking that you and your spouse seem more like roommates than lovers? Couples therapy can help you prioritize your relationship, learn how to talk to each other in a way that is free of criticism and defensiveness and rebuild that important bond.
I feel isolated and alone in this relationship. We're having trouble connecting. All we do is argue over every little thing. These are just a few of the reasons couples reach out to me for help. Are you committed to your relationship yet feel emotionally or physically disconnected from your partner? Having the same argument repeatedly and feel misunderstood? Have you found yourself thinking that you and your spouse seem more like roommates than lovers? Couples therapy can help you prioritize your relationship, learn how to talk to each other in a way that is free of criticism and defensiveness and rebuild that important bond.
(980) 276-2991 View (980) 276-2991
Photo of Anna Taylor Boulware, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Anna Taylor Boulware
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I have Gottman Level 1 Couples Therapy certification, a highly evidence-based modality to improving relationships, that is my foundation in couples work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist, and a Nationally Certified Counselor. I am also trained as a child-centered play therapist. I work with children who struggle with anxiety, difficulty in family or school situations, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, or grief and loss. With adults, I have extensive background in betrayal, anxiety, trauma, and depression. My priority is to help you find a sense of safety within yourself & relationships. I also specialize in couples therapy working on communication skills, trust, infidelity, and conflict.
I have Gottman Level 1 Couples Therapy certification, a highly evidence-based modality to improving relationships, that is my foundation in couples work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist, and a Nationally Certified Counselor. I am also trained as a child-centered play therapist. I work with children who struggle with anxiety, difficulty in family or school situations, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, or grief and loss. With adults, I have extensive background in betrayal, anxiety, trauma, and depression. My priority is to help you find a sense of safety within yourself & relationships. I also specialize in couples therapy working on communication skills, trust, infidelity, and conflict.
(704) 285-2341 View (704) 285-2341
Photo of Carrie Schroeder, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Carrie Schroeder
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Finding the right therapist, taking that first step, is one of the most difficult parts of therapy. Finding a good fit when it comes to a therapeutic relationship is key to gaining symptom relief and creating lasting change in your life. My purpose is to provide a relaxed, comfortable, and trusting environment to help you gain insight into behaviors that are keeping you stuck and elicit the change you are seeking.
Finding the right therapist, taking that first step, is one of the most difficult parts of therapy. Finding a good fit when it comes to a therapeutic relationship is key to gaining symptom relief and creating lasting change in your life. My purpose is to provide a relaxed, comfortable, and trusting environment to help you gain insight into behaviors that are keeping you stuck and elicit the change you are seeking.
(704) 327-0141 View (704) 327-0141
Photo of Alexis Walters, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Cornelius, NC
Alexis Walters
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I work with individuals, couples, and families and utilize models of treatment that focus on healthy relationships, emotional awareness and expression, increasing positive self-talk and improving quality of life. I have experience working in the community mental health field, as well as in Inpatient and Outpatient Dual Diagnosis Substance Use and Mental Health Treatment centers. I utilize modalities of treatment including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
I work with individuals, couples, and families and utilize models of treatment that focus on healthy relationships, emotional awareness and expression, increasing positive self-talk and improving quality of life. I have experience working in the community mental health field, as well as in Inpatient and Outpatient Dual Diagnosis Substance Use and Mental Health Treatment centers. I utilize modalities of treatment including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
(704) 742-2282 View (704) 742-2282
Photo of Dr. Sarah Stuchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Dr. Sarah Stuchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
(949) 337-1360 View (949) 337-1360
Photo of Perfecting Peace Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Perfecting Peace Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I work with couples in crisis to help bring respect and a balance in their relationship.
Do you feel like your mind has been in a fog? Are you stressed and feel uncertain about what the future holds? My specialty is to assist clients in gaining inner peace, to help settle their minds and spirits, no matter how chaotic things are around them.
I work with couples in crisis to help bring respect and a balance in their relationship.
Do you feel like your mind has been in a fog? Are you stressed and feel uncertain about what the future holds? My specialty is to assist clients in gaining inner peace, to help settle their minds and spirits, no matter how chaotic things are around them.
(980) 246-2292 View (980) 246-2292
Photo of Jessica Russell, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Jessica Russell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
Jessica seeks to develop a safe, therapeutic relationship with a foundation of non-judgment.
Jessica Russell is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCHMC) with more than 8 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children and adolescents ranging from five to 18 years old who are seeking assistance with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family therapy. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia-Charlottesville and earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Lynchburg.
Jessica seeks to develop a safe, therapeutic relationship with a foundation of non-judgment.
Jessica Russell is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCHMC) with more than 8 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children and adolescents ranging from five to 18 years old who are seeking assistance with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family therapy. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia-Charlottesville and earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Lynchburg.
(980) 385-8496 View (980) 385-8496
Photo of Tina Wehner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Tina Wehner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MTSC, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CHFP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
(980) 372-3255 View (980) 372-3255
Photo of Megan Orr-Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Megan Orr-Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I began my career as a school counselor, and have been in private practice since 2009. I enjoy working with people on an individual basis to guide them toward processing and change. My philosophy of counseling is to meet clients in the space in which they are ready, and help them find where they want to be. My history as a counselor includes working with parent/child relationships, couples and individuals to create more effective communication patterns. I enjoy working with clients as young as 8 through the lifespan.
I began my career as a school counselor, and have been in private practice since 2009. I enjoy working with people on an individual basis to guide them toward processing and change. My philosophy of counseling is to meet clients in the space in which they are ready, and help them find where they want to be. My history as a counselor includes working with parent/child relationships, couples and individuals to create more effective communication patterns. I enjoy working with clients as young as 8 through the lifespan.
(704) 710-8270 View (704) 710-8270
Photo of Sage Healing and Wellness.com, Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Sage Healing and Wellness.com
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I specialize in helping couples to recover from infidelity, restore connection and intimacy, and increase communication.
I am in the business of healing, not learning the latest coping skills that "pop psychology" uses as bandages. I am a customer service driven clinician who puts my clients first. Your experience in therapy will be a safe place for your uniqueness without feeling odd or misunderstood. Spiritual formation has been apart of my individual growth therefore I weave it into my therapy in addition to researched based mod
I specialize in helping couples to recover from infidelity, restore connection and intimacy, and increase communication.
I am in the business of healing, not learning the latest coping skills that "pop psychology" uses as bandages. I am a customer service driven clinician who puts my clients first. Your experience in therapy will be a safe place for your uniqueness without feeling odd or misunderstood. Spiritual formation has been apart of my individual growth therefore I weave it into my therapy in addition to researched based mod
(704) 710-8523 View (704) 710-8523
Photo of Loreen Adamo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Loreen Adamo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
My passion is guiding clients toward healthier lifestyle choices and increase their effectiveness. Our goal is to help gain insight into the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are preventing them from achieving their full potential. The majority of my treatment experience is working with adults, adolescents, families and couples in a private practice setting. I've developed expertise following my passion to support clients and family members working through substance abuse issues, mood disorders, and trauma. I treat each client as an individual in a comfortable, supportive environment where clients will feel respected.
My passion is guiding clients toward healthier lifestyle choices and increase their effectiveness. Our goal is to help gain insight into the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are preventing them from achieving their full potential. The majority of my treatment experience is working with adults, adolescents, families and couples in a private practice setting. I've developed expertise following my passion to support clients and family members working through substance abuse issues, mood disorders, and trauma. I treat each client as an individual in a comfortable, supportive environment where clients will feel respected.
(704) 327-3382 View (704) 327-3382
Photo of Sharika McFadden, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Sharika McFadden
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
She will partner with her clients and support them in any way that she can.
Dr. Sharika Mcfadden is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, and families. She is passionate about supporting adults, couples, and individuals in making change. Dr. McFadden specializes in many areas, including (but not limited to) work-life balance issues, couples therapy, career counseling, relationship issues, transgender and LGBTQIQ+ issues, anxiety, major life transitions, military family life, and child custody concerns.
She will partner with her clients and support them in any way that she can.
Dr. Sharika Mcfadden is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, and families. She is passionate about supporting adults, couples, and individuals in making change. Dr. McFadden specializes in many areas, including (but not limited to) work-life balance issues, couples therapy, career counseling, relationship issues, transgender and LGBTQIQ+ issues, anxiety, major life transitions, military family life, and child custody concerns.
(980) 983-3145 View (980) 983-3145
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.