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 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 Justina Floyd, Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Justina Floyd
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Waitlist for new clients
I am a North Carolina Qualified Supervisor. I am accepting new supervisees at this time. We will collaboratively work to restore the true, authentic you; to unlock your fullest potential. ​I seek to walk alongside gender-diverse and women clients, as well as non-traditional couples, as they rediscover who they are without the pressure or stigmas of who they "should" be. I believe that your treatment should be tailored to you; offering an integrative approach which includes different therapeutic modalities based upon your needs and not simply to check the "correct" boxes.
I am a North Carolina Qualified Supervisor. I am accepting new supervisees at this time. We will collaboratively work to restore the true, authentic you; to unlock your fullest potential. ​I seek to walk alongside gender-diverse and women clients, as well as non-traditional couples, as they rediscover who they are without the pressure or stigmas of who they "should" be. I believe that your treatment should be tailored to you; offering an integrative approach which includes different therapeutic modalities based upon your needs and not simply to check the "correct" boxes.
(704) 286-8668 View (704) 286-8668
Photo of Christine Wisdom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Christine Wisdom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
(704) 276-6109 View (704) 276-6109
Photo of Stefanie Jester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Stefanie Jester
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
There is nothing more rewarding than assisting an individual, couple, or family reach their self determined goals - to begin to heal and move forward. I enjoy working with adult individuals, teenagers, couples and families. I am a strengths based and solution focused therapist with emphasis on hope and authentic living. Helping people heal from trauma whether it's a small "t" or large "T" is a passion for me. I have been privileged to work with many individuals and couples recover from addiction, betrayal and disconnection from self and other; to begin living vibrantly, authentically and with intention.
There is nothing more rewarding than assisting an individual, couple, or family reach their self determined goals - to begin to heal and move forward. I enjoy working with adult individuals, teenagers, couples and families. I am a strengths based and solution focused therapist with emphasis on hope and authentic living. Helping people heal from trauma whether it's a small "t" or large "T" is a passion for me. I have been privileged to work with many individuals and couples recover from addiction, betrayal and disconnection from self and other; to begin living vibrantly, authentically and with intention.
(704) 259-7998 View (704) 259-7998
Photo of Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Elizabeth C Hutcheson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Elizabeth C Hutcheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
(704) 216-4064 View (704) 216-4064
Photo of Shannon Brewer, Psychological Associate in Cornelius, NC
Shannon Brewer
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I have worked in a variety of settings: prison, inpatient, day treatment, outpatient and private practice. These experiences have made me a well rounded clinician. I offer my clients a safe place to explore often painful issues in a non-judgemental atmosphere. My ideal client is one who has specific goals in therapy and is willing to address them through work in session and exercises they can work on outside of session.
I have worked in a variety of settings: prison, inpatient, day treatment, outpatient and private practice. These experiences have made me a well rounded clinician. I offer my clients a safe place to explore often painful issues in a non-judgemental atmosphere. My ideal client is one who has specific goals in therapy and is willing to address them through work in session and exercises they can work on outside of session.
(704) 209-7014 View (704) 209-7014
Photo of Jeannine Bodner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Jeannine Bodner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
(704) 851-8218 View (704) 851-8218
Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amber K Lynn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Amber K Lynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
(704) 237-6560 x3 View (704) 237-6560 x3
Photo of Betsy Karas, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Betsy Karas
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MHDL, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28035
(ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS) - Reaching out for help can be difficult, whether related to adjusting to life events, stressful situations, dealing with intense emotions, relationship problems. I hope to help you feel comfortable in develop a trusting relationship in an atmosphere where you feel acknowledged and understood, and to work with you in gaining skills to cope with difficulties you are experiencing. My goal is to help you realize your strengths and positive attributes, to gain the power to make changes you need or to cope with the things you cannot change, and to find ways to bring hope and contentment to your life.
(ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS) - Reaching out for help can be difficult, whether related to adjusting to life events, stressful situations, dealing with intense emotions, relationship problems. I hope to help you feel comfortable in develop a trusting relationship in an atmosphere where you feel acknowledged and understood, and to work with you in gaining skills to cope with difficulties you are experiencing. My goal is to help you realize your strengths and positive attributes, to gain the power to make changes you need or to cope with the things you cannot change, and to find ways to bring hope and contentment to your life.
(980) 352-6337 View (980) 352-6337
Photo of Gene Haas, Psychological Associate in Cornelius, NC
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families my "specialty" is adapting the counseling process to the unique needs of my client.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
With over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families my "specialty" is adapting the counseling process to the unique needs of my client.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of Rebecca G Weisenthal, Psychologist in Cornelius, NC
Rebecca G Weisenthal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with clients to comprehensively address and treat mood and anxiety disorders as well as relationship concerns across the lifespan.
I have more than 20+ years experience as a psychologist treating adults of all ages. My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, depression and anxiety management; bipolar disorder; grief and loss issues; issues related to life transitions; and diversity issues. I provide clinical services based upon empirically validated approaches to therapy that have a proven track record of effectiveness. I will work to assist clients in developing coping skills and increased knowledge regarding self-care for psychological and psychiatric difficulties. I bring a passion to clinical work based on my experience in a variety of community settings.
I work with clients to comprehensively address and treat mood and anxiety disorders as well as relationship concerns across the lifespan.
I have more than 20+ years experience as a psychologist treating adults of all ages. My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, depression and anxiety management; bipolar disorder; grief and loss issues; issues related to life transitions; and diversity issues. I provide clinical services based upon empirically validated approaches to therapy that have a proven track record of effectiveness. I will work to assist clients in developing coping skills and increased knowledge regarding self-care for psychological and psychiatric difficulties. I bring a passion to clinical work based on my experience in a variety of community settings.
(704) 710-8273 View (704) 710-8273
Photo of Danielle Houston Coleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cornelius, NC
Danielle Houston Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I have 28 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families.
The mission of social work is rooted in the following core values: service, social justice, dignity & worth of person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. I whole heartedly believe in these values and make an intentional effort to sincerely help every client I have the privilege to work with. I respect and understand that therapy may be a difficult experience, however I believe that addressing sensitive and uncomfortable topics is necessary for healing, growth and healthy change.
I have 28 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families.
The mission of social work is rooted in the following core values: service, social justice, dignity & worth of person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. I whole heartedly believe in these values and make an intentional effort to sincerely help every client I have the privilege to work with. I respect and understand that therapy may be a difficult experience, however I believe that addressing sensitive and uncomfortable topics is necessary for healing, growth and healthy change.
(704) 327-3671 x705 View (704) 327-3671 x705
Photo of Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
(910) 672-6766 View (910) 672-6766
Photo of Réa M. Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Réa M. Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Want to live a Joyful, Vibrant, & Conscious life? Understanding that you are important, relevant & that you matter, is step one. Your relationship with your SELF affects every aspect of your life & often small changes can lead to big shifts! If you want to feel differently, want satisfying relationships, & to cope with life's stressors in an empowered & positive way, then please do reach out to me. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space in which you can explore feelings, thoughts & beliefs, both conscious & unconscious, that may be keeping you stuck. You don't have to keep struggling alone. I'm just an email away!
Want to live a Joyful, Vibrant, & Conscious life? Understanding that you are important, relevant & that you matter, is step one. Your relationship with your SELF affects every aspect of your life & often small changes can lead to big shifts! If you want to feel differently, want satisfying relationships, & to cope with life's stressors in an empowered & positive way, then please do reach out to me. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space in which you can explore feelings, thoughts & beliefs, both conscious & unconscious, that may be keeping you stuck. You don't have to keep struggling alone. I'm just an email away!
(704) 216-4296 View (704) 216-4296
Photo of Nancy E Arnold, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Nancy E Arnold
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
(704) 750-0484 View (704) 750-0484
Photo of Tyler Kramer, Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Tyler Kramer
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all walks of life who are dealing with things such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, as well as marital issues.
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all walks of life who are dealing with things such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, as well as marital issues.
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
(980) 220-4639 View (980) 220-4639
Photo of Monica L Mouer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cornelius, NC
Monica L Mouer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
(704) 869-2018 View (704) 869-2018
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.