Couples Counseling Therapists in Leicester, NC

Photo of Laurie Giannola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Laurie Giannola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Leicester, NC 28748  (Online Only)
In these times of change and uncertainty, many individuals are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, sad, stressed, unmotivated and sometimes, hopeless and helpless. Reaching out for therapy is a brave, first step. I believe that successful therapy is rooted in the positive, working relationships I form with my clients. I offer a skills based approach, centered around exploration and empowerment to create change for positive life outcomes. We focus on specific problems, solutions, skills and reachable goals. I provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help clients achieve better results in life.
In these times of change and uncertainty, many individuals are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, sad, stressed, unmotivated and sometimes, hopeless and helpless. Reaching out for therapy is a brave, first step. I believe that successful therapy is rooted in the positive, working relationships I form with my clients. I offer a skills based approach, centered around exploration and empowerment to create change for positive life outcomes. We focus on specific problems, solutions, skills and reachable goals. I provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help clients achieve better results in life.
(631) 759-8112 View (631) 759-8112

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Blair Hamel, Psychologist in Leicester, NC
Blair Hamel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, behavior issues, and relationship problems.
Therapy can be useful to people from all walks of life. Attending therapy can be helpful for everyone. No matter how big or small your struggle, never hesitate to ask for help. I'm here to support you! I'm Dr. Blair Hamel and I have over nine years of experience helping children, teens, and adults in various clinical settings.
I have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, behavior issues, and relationship problems.
Therapy can be useful to people from all walks of life. Attending therapy can be helpful for everyone. No matter how big or small your struggle, never hesitate to ask for help. I'm here to support you! I'm Dr. Blair Hamel and I have over nine years of experience helping children, teens, and adults in various clinical settings.
(704) 769-2542 View (704) 769-2542
Photo of William Marshall, Counselor in Leicester, NC
William Marshall
Counselor, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
Each person comes to individual therapy for numerous and very honest reasons, despite how overwhelmed and powerless they are feeling. It is okay to not know what to do or know what is next. Deep down, I believe that each one of us has the innate wisdom to know themselves and to know what to do next, under optimal conditions. Couples caught in a criticize-withdraw cycle are often doing what their survival instincts tell them to do. I am also highly trained in couples counseling and marriage counseling through emotionally focused therapy (EFT). Marital therapy and individual counseling need guidance from an empathic but neutral party.
Each person comes to individual therapy for numerous and very honest reasons, despite how overwhelmed and powerless they are feeling. It is okay to not know what to do or know what is next. Deep down, I believe that each one of us has the innate wisdom to know themselves and to know what to do next, under optimal conditions. Couples caught in a criticize-withdraw cycle are often doing what their survival instincts tell them to do. I am also highly trained in couples counseling and marriage counseling through emotionally focused therapy (EFT). Marital therapy and individual counseling need guidance from an empathic but neutral party.
(919) 338-5022 View (919) 338-5022
Photo of Michelle Kater, Counselor in Leicester, NC
Michelle Kater
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I work hard to establish a safe, trusting, and empathetic relationship with you.
Life is really rough right now in so many ways! We have never experienced anything like what we are experiencing right now. Life has been flipped upside down, anxiety is sky high, depression is increasing, relationships are suffering, and those with children are being forced to become homeschool teachers. The sense of balance in our lives has been thrown out. We feel stuck, depressed, anxious, and maybe even hopeless. It is really important to take care of yourself in this space and reach out for help, to talk things through, and figure out how to move forward in a positive direction. You don’t need to stay stuck in this space.
I work hard to establish a safe, trusting, and empathetic relationship with you.
Life is really rough right now in so many ways! We have never experienced anything like what we are experiencing right now. Life has been flipped upside down, anxiety is sky high, depression is increasing, relationships are suffering, and those with children are being forced to become homeschool teachers. The sense of balance in our lives has been thrown out. We feel stuck, depressed, anxious, and maybe even hopeless. It is really important to take care of yourself in this space and reach out for help, to talk things through, and figure out how to move forward in a positive direction. You don’t need to stay stuck in this space.
(828) 248-0567 View (828) 248-0567
Photo of Lucas Taylor Ferry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Leicester, NC
Lucas Taylor Ferry
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
We all have struggles and things that we want to be different. Families, couples, or individuals who are looking for a change can find meaningful progress in therapy. I work with people who may struggle with school, relationships, neurodivergence, and life's anxieties. Often we explore what steps you want to take in your therapeutic journey. This has been a passion of mine for the last decade!
We all have struggles and things that we want to be different. Families, couples, or individuals who are looking for a change can find meaningful progress in therapy. I work with people who may struggle with school, relationships, neurodivergence, and life's anxieties. Often we explore what steps you want to take in your therapeutic journey. This has been a passion of mine for the last decade!
(828) 415-5435 View (828) 415-5435
Photo of Basil Guyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Basil Guyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I enjoy working longterm with couples, individuals (18+) and families.
Hello! My name is Basil. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. My practice is currently mostly telehealth, with some in person availability in Durham, NC. I also rent office space in Philly occasionally for in person sessions. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I am a trauma therapist. I am a sex therapist. I am a relationships therapist.
I enjoy working longterm with couples, individuals (18+) and families.
Hello! My name is Basil. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. My practice is currently mostly telehealth, with some in person availability in Durham, NC. I also rent office space in Philly occasionally for in person sessions. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I am a trauma therapist. I am a sex therapist. I am a relationships therapist.
(919) 289-8164 View (919) 289-8164
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010
Photo of Katy Ibur, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Katy Ibur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I support long-term couples struggling with conflict and disconnection who may feel unsure how to solve their challenges or rekindle their loving dynamic. I help couples improve communication skills, identify and express underlying vulnerable emotions, and ultimately deepen their intimacy and romantic connection. I also support folks with dysfunctional family and/or religious histories, who are interested in alternative healing approaches. This may entail witnessing the pain and patterns of the past, and then potentially reclaiming and reimagining their relationship with spirituality.
I support long-term couples struggling with conflict and disconnection who may feel unsure how to solve their challenges or rekindle their loving dynamic. I help couples improve communication skills, identify and express underlying vulnerable emotions, and ultimately deepen their intimacy and romantic connection. I also support folks with dysfunctional family and/or religious histories, who are interested in alternative healing approaches. This may entail witnessing the pain and patterns of the past, and then potentially reclaiming and reimagining their relationship with spirituality.
(708) 801-6613 View (708) 801-6613
Photo of C. Stephen Morris LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
C. Stephen Morris LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
Life is really complicated. Good therapy is not. Now it it's your turn to feel better. I would be honored to help you and your loved ones. I have worked as a therapist for 30+ years with many clients in marital, individual and family therapy. Please check out my You Tube video under OLD FASHIONED THERAPY. I specialize in Couples and Families in all stages of Addiction, "Discovery" (the slow process of becoming aware that drugs or alcohol are destructive) and Recovery. I also work w/ newly retired men and aging family members.
Life is really complicated. Good therapy is not. Now it it's your turn to feel better. I would be honored to help you and your loved ones. I have worked as a therapist for 30+ years with many clients in marital, individual and family therapy. Please check out my You Tube video under OLD FASHIONED THERAPY. I specialize in Couples and Families in all stages of Addiction, "Discovery" (the slow process of becoming aware that drugs or alcohol are destructive) and Recovery. I also work w/ newly retired men and aging family members.
(919) 813-6912 View (919) 813-6912
Photo of Kevin George II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leicester, NC
Kevin George II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
Waitlist for new clients
I work with men who are ready to heal and live more authentic and empowered lives. Men carry so much pain that is unspoken. We often do not have an outlet to share this hurt for fear of looking weak by being vulnerable. It takes immense courage to embrace your pain and begin to heal. If you need a space to work on past trauma, current relationship struggles, depression/anxieties, and/or finding you purpose, I would love to work with you. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect. I believe that every man deserves a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges.
I work with men who are ready to heal and live more authentic and empowered lives. Men carry so much pain that is unspoken. We often do not have an outlet to share this hurt for fear of looking weak by being vulnerable. It takes immense courage to embrace your pain and begin to heal. If you need a space to work on past trauma, current relationship struggles, depression/anxieties, and/or finding you purpose, I would love to work with you. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect. I believe that every man deserves a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges.
(828) 532-3310 View (828) 532-3310
Photo of Sam Pranger Silvaine, Counselor in Leicester, NC
Sam Pranger Silvaine
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with non-traditional couples and relationships (queer, poly/CNM, etc.
I’m Sam, and I’m a relationship therapist. I believe healthy relationships are an essential pathway to individual and collective healing. In our work together, we will identify some of your core relationship patterns and find their origins, often stemming from your childhood. I’ll help you become more aware of your individual thoughts, feelings, and underlying motives in your relationship so that you can learn to understand and take responsibility for the impacts of your behaviors on each other. Ultimately, I hope to help you find ways to care for each other that feel nourishing, consensual, and interdependent.
I specialize in working with non-traditional couples and relationships (queer, poly/CNM, etc.
I’m Sam, and I’m a relationship therapist. I believe healthy relationships are an essential pathway to individual and collective healing. In our work together, we will identify some of your core relationship patterns and find their origins, often stemming from your childhood. I’ll help you become more aware of your individual thoughts, feelings, and underlying motives in your relationship so that you can learn to understand and take responsibility for the impacts of your behaviors on each other. Ultimately, I hope to help you find ways to care for each other that feel nourishing, consensual, and interdependent.
View
Photo of Abby Hearne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Abby Hearne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
Tell me if this sounds like you: You are beginning to recognize patterns that are harmful to you, maybe unhealthy relationship dynamics, ways you abandon yourself and your needs in order to meet the needs of others, a pattern of constantly being let down by yourself and a lack of ability to advocate for your own needs, negative self-talk? You can see these patterns, but you don't know how to stop them from repeating over again. If you are in a space of being ready to start choosing yourself and prioritizing your own care, we may be a great fit to do this work together, as a team. I love supporting this process.
Tell me if this sounds like you: You are beginning to recognize patterns that are harmful to you, maybe unhealthy relationship dynamics, ways you abandon yourself and your needs in order to meet the needs of others, a pattern of constantly being let down by yourself and a lack of ability to advocate for your own needs, negative self-talk? You can see these patterns, but you don't know how to stop them from repeating over again. If you are in a space of being ready to start choosing yourself and prioritizing your own care, we may be a great fit to do this work together, as a team. I love supporting this process.
(828) 471-4575 View (828) 471-4575
Photo of Aimee Elise Mercier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Aimee Elise Mercier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma disorders, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD, codependency and relationship issues.
All talked out? Many of my clients have decades of experience in therapy, yet have found little relief from their anxiety or depression. I work with adults and couples who are ready to go deeper into the unconscious mind to heal old wounds, change outdated patterns and cultivate a compassionate relationship with themselves. My clients have great insight, and are ready to finally embody and feel what they cognitively know to be true: “I am safe. I am loveable. I am enough.” Deeply knowing yourself is the greatest gift you can give your heart. Learning to regulate your nervous system is a close second.
I specialize in trauma disorders, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD, codependency and relationship issues.
All talked out? Many of my clients have decades of experience in therapy, yet have found little relief from their anxiety or depression. I work with adults and couples who are ready to go deeper into the unconscious mind to heal old wounds, change outdated patterns and cultivate a compassionate relationship with themselves. My clients have great insight, and are ready to finally embody and feel what they cognitively know to be true: “I am safe. I am loveable. I am enough.” Deeply knowing yourself is the greatest gift you can give your heart. Learning to regulate your nervous system is a close second.
(828) 672-2366 View (828) 672-2366
Photo of Caleb Lantz Pusey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Leicester, NC
Caleb Lantz Pusey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, CSIP, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that you bring wisdom to the places of disorientation in your life. As a spiritually-integrated psychotherapist, my role is to help you nurture the conditions where you can reconnect with this wisdom. The primary condition for this reconnection is an authentic relationship with another person. At its best, therapy can help deepen self-awareness, awaken self-compassion, and broaden your capacity for meaningful relationships. My practice resonates for contemplative persons seeking an active partner in the work of reconnection and re-creation.
I believe that you bring wisdom to the places of disorientation in your life. As a spiritually-integrated psychotherapist, my role is to help you nurture the conditions where you can reconnect with this wisdom. The primary condition for this reconnection is an authentic relationship with another person. At its best, therapy can help deepen self-awareness, awaken self-compassion, and broaden your capacity for meaningful relationships. My practice resonates for contemplative persons seeking an active partner in the work of reconnection and re-creation.
(828) 332-5198 View (828) 332-5198
Photo of Justina Prenatt, Counselor in Leicester, NC
Justina Prenatt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
In our therapeutic work I will support you to develop a strong positive relationship with yourself, which is your foundation for thriving in every other area of your life: partnership, friendship, family, work, creativity, spirituality.
I believe that we live in challenging times. Many people find it difficult to feel confident and self assured, have peaceful, fulfilling relationships, navigate the demands of finances, family, work and home, and also focus on nourishing self care. These challenges are interconnected. They are related to how we have developed our sense of self in the context of family expectations and experiences, societal demands, cultural assumptions, and media influence. It is necessary for all of us to learn how to live our best lives in these particular circumstances. You are not alone.
In our therapeutic work I will support you to develop a strong positive relationship with yourself, which is your foundation for thriving in every other area of your life: partnership, friendship, family, work, creativity, spirituality.
I believe that we live in challenging times. Many people find it difficult to feel confident and self assured, have peaceful, fulfilling relationships, navigate the demands of finances, family, work and home, and also focus on nourishing self care. These challenges are interconnected. They are related to how we have developed our sense of self in the context of family expectations and experiences, societal demands, cultural assumptions, and media influence. It is necessary for all of us to learn how to live our best lives in these particular circumstances. You are not alone.
(828) 970-8533 View (828) 970-8533
Photo of Paula Zerfoss, LCSW, Couple Therapy That Works, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Paula Zerfoss, LCSW, Couple Therapy That Works
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
The method works for any couples, any sexual orientation, any age, married or not.
If you are having the same arguments over and over again, you are not alone. I will be with you every step of the way. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples to interrupt repetitive Cycles where one person reaches out in frustration, causing their partner to withdraw and hide out. Couple Therapy doesn't have to be torture, and there doesn't have to be a "bad guy". I have helped couples with a range of issues from Domestic Abuse to infidelity to communication issues. I even use humor sometimes, but we don't waste a moment! I welcome couples who have been in couple therapy before and have almost given up.
The method works for any couples, any sexual orientation, any age, married or not.
If you are having the same arguments over and over again, you are not alone. I will be with you every step of the way. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples to interrupt repetitive Cycles where one person reaches out in frustration, causing their partner to withdraw and hide out. Couple Therapy doesn't have to be torture, and there doesn't have to be a "bad guy". I have helped couples with a range of issues from Domestic Abuse to infidelity to communication issues. I even use humor sometimes, but we don't waste a moment! I welcome couples who have been in couple therapy before and have almost given up.
(857) 342-3184 View (857) 342-3184
Photo of Regina McNamee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leicester, NC
Regina McNamee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I am a contemporary, psychodynamic/analytic oriented psychotherapist, who will work with you to move through emotional obstacles to create pathways for deeply fulfilling change in your personal and/or professional life. My approach is based on understanding the combination of your past experiences, current situation and future hopes. I am both supportive and analytic in helping you move into underlying causes of distress. I work with couples, adults and pre-teens/teens who suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, career considerations and major life transitions including fertility, parenting, sexuality, divorce, affairs, empty nest. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your situation and needs.
I am a contemporary, psychodynamic/analytic oriented psychotherapist, who will work with you to move through emotional obstacles to create pathways for deeply fulfilling change in your personal and/or professional life. My approach is based on understanding the combination of your past experiences, current situation and future hopes. I am both supportive and analytic in helping you move into underlying causes of distress. I work with couples, adults and pre-teens/teens who suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, career considerations and major life transitions including fertility, parenting, sexuality, divorce, affairs, empty nest. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your situation and needs.
(828) 372-0397 View (828) 372-0397
Photo of Kim Granelle, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Leicester, NC
Kim Granelle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Perhaps like you, when I’ve felt trapped in my darkest moments, I never would have believed that pain could lead to my greatest inspirations. But through my own process in therapy, I have discovered that this is the truest paradox. So often, the way out is through and the key to our freedom is within what binds us. Shining a safe and supportive light into our deepest processes can provide the perspective and clarity needed to heed our own internal compass for healing. This process of reflection can sometimes feel daunting, so our therapeutic relationship is an important place to find safety on this journey that you're already on.
Perhaps like you, when I’ve felt trapped in my darkest moments, I never would have believed that pain could lead to my greatest inspirations. But through my own process in therapy, I have discovered that this is the truest paradox. So often, the way out is through and the key to our freedom is within what binds us. Shining a safe and supportive light into our deepest processes can provide the perspective and clarity needed to heed our own internal compass for healing. This process of reflection can sometimes feel daunting, so our therapeutic relationship is an important place to find safety on this journey that you're already on.
(828) 268-3542 View (828) 268-3542
Photo of Kerrie Fuenfhausen, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Leicester, NC
Kerrie Fuenfhausen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
These include, but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting concerns, adjustment difficulties, sexuality issues, stress and coping, career decision-making, identity, self-esteem, grief/loss, and personal growth.
Sometimes the daily pressures and struggles of life can seem overwhelming, and it may be hard to imagine how things can change. I encourage you to consider investing some time in yourself... to heal, to change, to grow. We can work together to change unhealthy patterns in your life. I can help you develop more effective communication and conflict resolution skills to improve relationships. Together, we can explore the barriers that are keeping you from living the life you want. Most importantly, I will support you on your journey toward wellness - whatever that may look like for you.
These include, but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting concerns, adjustment difficulties, sexuality issues, stress and coping, career decision-making, identity, self-esteem, grief/loss, and personal growth.
Sometimes the daily pressures and struggles of life can seem overwhelming, and it may be hard to imagine how things can change. I encourage you to consider investing some time in yourself... to heal, to change, to grow. We can work together to change unhealthy patterns in your life. I can help you develop more effective communication and conflict resolution skills to improve relationships. Together, we can explore the barriers that are keeping you from living the life you want. Most importantly, I will support you on your journey toward wellness - whatever that may look like for you.
(828) 903-8688 View (828) 903-8688
Photo of George Hardie, Counselor in Leicester, NC
George Hardie
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHCA, CHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
*****NOW ACCEPTING BCBS***** Welcome! Let's start with some good news: 80% of people in therapy get better! Many feel better right away. Change is possible within the crucible of a healing relationship. Working together we will create a safe space where you can begin to let go of the struggle and give voice to your deepest concerns, thoughts, feelings, and desires without fear of judgment or shame. Where you can experiment with new ways of being and behaving, and create a more meaningful narrative for your life. Healing begins with the first step. And, the best time to start is always now.
*****NOW ACCEPTING BCBS***** Welcome! Let's start with some good news: 80% of people in therapy get better! Many feel better right away. Change is possible within the crucible of a healing relationship. Working together we will create a safe space where you can begin to let go of the struggle and give voice to your deepest concerns, thoughts, feelings, and desires without fear of judgment or shame. Where you can experiment with new ways of being and behaving, and create a more meaningful narrative for your life. Healing begins with the first step. And, the best time to start is always now.
(828) 408-0673 View (828) 408-0673

See more therapy options for Leicester

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.