Photo of Kerry Donelli, Counselor in New York
Kerry Donelli
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
I specialize in many areas including depression, anxiety, anger management, personality/mood disorders, phobias, food disorders, addiction, abuse, couples/families and every day life issues.
I address problems with a focus on results, not intentions. Resolve that if what you're doing isn't working, you'll be willing to change it. Do you want to live purposefully, or will you continue complaining about what you don't have? While I work with past issues, I'll help you live in the now in a purposeful and rewarding present onto a satisfying future. Resolve that you'll no longer allow your choices to cause you pain and fear rather than peace and joy. If you can say "I'm sick of this. I am ready" then give me a call.
I specialize in many areas including depression, anxiety, anger management, personality/mood disorders, phobias, food disorders, addiction, abuse, couples/families and every day life issues.
I address problems with a focus on results, not intentions. Resolve that if what you're doing isn't working, you'll be willing to change it. Do you want to live purposefully, or will you continue complaining about what you don't have? While I work with past issues, I'll help you live in the now in a purposeful and rewarding present onto a satisfying future. Resolve that you'll no longer allow your choices to cause you pain and fear rather than peace and joy. If you can say "I'm sick of this. I am ready" then give me a call.
(646) 783-2136 View (646) 783-2136
Photo of Mandolin Moody, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Mandolin Moody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, DBT, REBT, CBT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
New York, NY 10006
I work with individuals who are looking to better themselves & maximize their potential. I believe that as social beings, we are made to connect - with ourselves, with our peers, and with the worlds around us. I specialize in bridging the disconnect many of us feel and hope to help you find that sense of connection & purpose that may seem out of reach right now. During our sessions, I strive to help you feel closer to yourself and those around you to help you be the best version of yourself. Whether it's personal struggles, relationship challenges, or the overwhelming noise of daily life, I’m here to support you.
I work with individuals who are looking to better themselves & maximize their potential. I believe that as social beings, we are made to connect - with ourselves, with our peers, and with the worlds around us. I specialize in bridging the disconnect many of us feel and hope to help you find that sense of connection & purpose that may seem out of reach right now. During our sessions, I strive to help you feel closer to yourself and those around you to help you be the best version of yourself. Whether it's personal struggles, relationship challenges, or the overwhelming noise of daily life, I’m here to support you.
(929) 410-5266 View (929) 410-5266
Photo of Caroline Grace Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Caroline Grace Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, DBT, REBT, CBT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
New York, NY 10006
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
(646) 906-9826 View (646) 906-9826
Photo of Marina M Chernyak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Marina M Chernyak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11223
I have been a mental health professional for over 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. My professional experience ranges from working with adults and the elderly, to young adults and teenagers. I see patients for individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. I specialize in a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, poor social skills, struggles with work life, struggles with personal life, vertigo, daytime sleepiness, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, people with immigration history or immigrant families, postpartum depression, phobias/panic attacks.
I have been a mental health professional for over 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. My professional experience ranges from working with adults and the elderly, to young adults and teenagers. I see patients for individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. I specialize in a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, poor social skills, struggles with work life, struggles with personal life, vertigo, daytime sleepiness, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, people with immigration history or immigrant families, postpartum depression, phobias/panic attacks.
(646) 762-6166 View (646) 762-6166
Trudie Goldmann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
I am a licensed Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with adults and older adolescents. I currently see people struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship and interpersonal issues. I see many people who experience stress and symptoms associated with life transitions, such as adolescence, marriage/divorce, new parenthood, chronic illness, unemployment/underemployment, retirement and aging.I believe therapy is a collaboration to which I bring warmth, curiosity, a non-judgmental nature and an appreciation of individual differences.
I am a licensed Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with adults and older adolescents. I currently see people struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship and interpersonal issues. I see many people who experience stress and symptoms associated with life transitions, such as adolescence, marriage/divorce, new parenthood, chronic illness, unemployment/underemployment, retirement and aging.I believe therapy is a collaboration to which I bring warmth, curiosity, a non-judgmental nature and an appreciation of individual differences.
(914) 380-3793 View (914) 380-3793
Photo of Kenneth Alcorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Kenneth Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victor, NY 14564  (Online Only)
Regardless of your “why,” whether trauma, marriage or relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or life transitions, I’m honored to be here for you.
Welcome! Come on in, I’m glad you’re here. The challenges of life can be overwhelming; the past making the present feel like less of a gift. You may feel stuck, like it’s impossible to move forward. Life transitions have a way of stirring up emotions and throwing you off balance. This mounting weight can impact your relationships, work, social life, and everything around you. I want you to know that you don’t have to face all of this alone. Together we can create a plan to help you feel better and achieve the changes you are seeking. Here, you will have a safe place to learn and to grow to overcome the challenges you face.
Regardless of your “why,” whether trauma, marriage or relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or life transitions, I’m honored to be here for you.
Welcome! Come on in, I’m glad you’re here. The challenges of life can be overwhelming; the past making the present feel like less of a gift. You may feel stuck, like it’s impossible to move forward. Life transitions have a way of stirring up emotions and throwing you off balance. This mounting weight can impact your relationships, work, social life, and everything around you. I want you to know that you don’t have to face all of this alone. Together we can create a plan to help you feel better and achieve the changes you are seeking. Here, you will have a safe place to learn and to grow to overcome the challenges you face.
(585) 366-8493 x1 View (585) 366-8493 x1
Photo of Amy Kelly, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Amy Kelly, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, NY 13021
My goal as a therapist is to create a comfortable and supportive environment in which clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I take an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to client wellness and help clients meet their individual goals. I have experience working with people of all ages as well as with a variety of issues and struggles. I provide relationship counseling, family therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, Bariatric Assessments and bariatric surgery counseling.
My goal as a therapist is to create a comfortable and supportive environment in which clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I take an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to client wellness and help clients meet their individual goals. I have experience working with people of all ages as well as with a variety of issues and struggles. I provide relationship counseling, family therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, Bariatric Assessments and bariatric surgery counseling.
(315) 406-1981 View (315) 406-1981
Photo of Valerie Paige Kowalski, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Valerie Paige Kowalski
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, REBT, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
New York, NY 10006
Let's create a rewarding relationship that will lean into trust, safety and motivation for a better relationship with yourself and those around you.
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, addiction, eating disorders, career concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, my clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
Let's create a rewarding relationship that will lean into trust, safety and motivation for a better relationship with yourself and those around you.
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, addiction, eating disorders, career concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, my clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
(929) 309-1342 View (929) 309-1342
Photo of Elizabeth Lepore, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Elizabeth Lepore
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10123
I work with individuals 18+ and couples.
Whether you’re struggling with life transitions, relationships, or work stress, I’m here to help. I will create a warm, supportive environment to process whatever is coming up for you at the moment. I treat clients of all backgrounds in addressing anxiety, depression, ADHD and OCD. I also work with clients in the process of body acceptance because I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to accept our bodies when we’re constantly exposed to curated images of perfection on social media and in traditional media.
I work with individuals 18+ and couples.
Whether you’re struggling with life transitions, relationships, or work stress, I’m here to help. I will create a warm, supportive environment to process whatever is coming up for you at the moment. I treat clients of all backgrounds in addressing anxiety, depression, ADHD and OCD. I also work with clients in the process of body acceptance because I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to accept our bodies when we’re constantly exposed to curated images of perfection on social media and in traditional media.
(646) 798-2706 View (646) 798-2706
Photo of Karen Singleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Karen Singleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10123
I have over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, individuals, and couples from diverse backgrounds and orientations.
An effective therapy experience is one that supports a person in recognizing their own capabilities and potential, while using strengths to mitigate challenges. My hope is to assist you in cultivating a deeper understanding of your own intrapsychic road map and emotional terrain. I am a firm believer that every session should give you a piece of your own puzzle and over time help you gain the skills to navigate your own thoughts, control your behavioral and emotional responses, and understand your relationship patterns and conflicts.
I have over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, individuals, and couples from diverse backgrounds and orientations.
An effective therapy experience is one that supports a person in recognizing their own capabilities and potential, while using strengths to mitigate challenges. My hope is to assist you in cultivating a deeper understanding of your own intrapsychic road map and emotional terrain. I am a firm believer that every session should give you a piece of your own puzzle and over time help you gain the skills to navigate your own thoughts, control your behavioral and emotional responses, and understand your relationship patterns and conflicts.
(347) 941-1398 View (347) 941-1398
Photo of Valerie Paige Kowalski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Valerie Paige Kowalski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, DBT, REBT, CBT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
New York, NY 10006
Let's create a rewarding relationship that will lean into trust, safety and motivation for a better relationship with yourself and those around you.
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, addiction, eating disorders, career concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, my clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
Let's create a rewarding relationship that will lean into trust, safety and motivation for a better relationship with yourself and those around you.
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, addiction, eating disorders, career concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, my clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
(929) 498-5487 View (929) 498-5487
Photo of The Art of Body Mind & Spirit - Psychotherapy, Art Therapist in New York
The Art of Body Mind & Spirit - Psychotherapy
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10312
I have a Graduate degree from NYU and was recognized for Excellence in Community Services. As a Psychotherapist and Licensed Board Certified Creative Arts Therapist, I am committed to assisting in your mental wellness. Together, we will enter into a therapeutic relationship and explore your issues and goals working towards healing and growth in the relaxed and safe environment of my office. Our collaborative efforts will facilitate improved communication, self esteem and help acquire the coping skills to recognize your full potential. Utilizing this dynamic approach, you will find the healing power within to facilitate positive change, restore and improve emotional, cognitive, and spiritual health.
I have a Graduate degree from NYU and was recognized for Excellence in Community Services. As a Psychotherapist and Licensed Board Certified Creative Arts Therapist, I am committed to assisting in your mental wellness. Together, we will enter into a therapeutic relationship and explore your issues and goals working towards healing and growth in the relaxed and safe environment of my office. Our collaborative efforts will facilitate improved communication, self esteem and help acquire the coping skills to recognize your full potential. Utilizing this dynamic approach, you will find the healing power within to facilitate positive change, restore and improve emotional, cognitive, and spiritual health.
(718) 395-6106 View (718) 395-6106
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10475
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Joyce Silver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Joyce Silver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I have held positions in several community-based programs where I engaged with a varied client base consisting of older adolescents, adults, couples and families.
My focus is on helping my clients gain the self-knowledge and self-awareness necessary to move forward to a more comfortable and productive place. No one approach fits every person or situation and the therapeutic process always begins with the person sitting in the room. My style is always respectful, interactive and dynamic and I am passionate about my work. The art and science of the therapeutic process encourages my creativity and spontaneity and complex issues are dealt with one step at a time, from both inner and outer perspectives.
I have held positions in several community-based programs where I engaged with a varied client base consisting of older adolescents, adults, couples and families.
My focus is on helping my clients gain the self-knowledge and self-awareness necessary to move forward to a more comfortable and productive place. No one approach fits every person or situation and the therapeutic process always begins with the person sitting in the room. My style is always respectful, interactive and dynamic and I am passionate about my work. The art and science of the therapeutic process encourages my creativity and spontaneity and complex issues are dealt with one step at a time, from both inner and outer perspectives.
(929) 205-7586 View (929) 205-7586
Photo of Christina Harrington-Stutzmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Christina Harrington-Stutzmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LMHC, GC-C, LCSW-R, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012
My approach towards helping you is create a supportive space to bring you comfort to your current experiences. I believe it's necessary to accept where you are and to understand where you want to go. I am a licensed as a Clinical Marriage and family Therapist (LMFT), a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and in Clinical Social Worker-R (LCSW-R). I also have Gottman and Imago training experience for couples.
My approach towards helping you is create a supportive space to bring you comfort to your current experiences. I believe it's necessary to accept where you are and to understand where you want to go. I am a licensed as a Clinical Marriage and family Therapist (LMFT), a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and in Clinical Social Worker-R (LCSW-R). I also have Gottman and Imago training experience for couples.
(518) 302-2837 x443 View (518) 302-2837 x443
Photo of Howard Cohn in New York
Howard Cohn
BA, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10005
Areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Addiction / Substance Use Issues Impaired Professionals, Anger and Stress Management, Relationship Problems, Divorce / Dissolution of Relationship, Grief, Codependency, and Trauma / PTSD.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life. email address:hcohn144@aol.com 917 414 7949 Mailing address United States P.O. Box 150294 Kew Gardens, New York 11415
Areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Addiction / Substance Use Issues Impaired Professionals, Anger and Stress Management, Relationship Problems, Divorce / Dissolution of Relationship, Grief, Codependency, and Trauma / PTSD.
Life gives us challenges. These challenges can include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, or just feeling stuck in life. However, we do not have to face these challenges alone. Through collaboration, we together can create an individualized and comprehensive plan to help you create an identity of your own, integrate positive practices into your daily interactions, and grow to live a happy and healthy life. email address:hcohn144@aol.com 917 414 7949 Mailing address United States P.O. Box 150294 Kew Gardens, New York 11415
(646) 969-7015 View (646) 969-7015
Photo of Matthew Iong in New York
Matthew Iong
MHC-LP, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-defeating behaviors, shame, depression, or holding onto painful feelings and memories? Do you feel you don't truly understand yourself, your friends, your spouse, or your partner? Together, you and I can explore and help you recognize your true, deep-rooted feelings and help you resolve them. By looking into our beliefs, emotions, early-life experiences, and thoughts, we can recognize recurring patterns and develop proper coping mechanisms to avoid our distress and move forward.
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-defeating behaviors, shame, depression, or holding onto painful feelings and memories? Do you feel you don't truly understand yourself, your friends, your spouse, or your partner? Together, you and I can explore and help you recognize your true, deep-rooted feelings and help you resolve them. By looking into our beliefs, emotions, early-life experiences, and thoughts, we can recognize recurring patterns and develop proper coping mechanisms to avoid our distress and move forward.
(646) 386-2219 View (646) 386-2219
Bressler Wakesberg Center for Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glenville, NY 12302
Waitlist for new clients
Work with individuals, couples and families.
Ellen Bressler LCSW and Martin Wakesberg LCSW, SAP Treating all age groups using a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused and trauma informed therapy. Most insurances accepted.
Work with individuals, couples and families.
Ellen Bressler LCSW and Martin Wakesberg LCSW, SAP Treating all age groups using a variety of modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused and trauma informed therapy. Most insurances accepted.
(518) 708-6519 View (518) 708-6519
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Sarton Weinraub, Psychologist in New York
Sarton Weinraub
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I practice individual, couples, family, and group psychotherapy.
I am a Humanistic Client-Centered Clinical Psychologist, originally trained within the Psychoanalytic orientation. I also believe in theoretical eclecticism, therefore in addition to my Humanistic orientation, I offer Cognitive/Behavioral as well as Psychodynamic approaches. Overall I strive to offer my clients the experience of "therapeutic presence" including: deep empathic listening, nonjudgmental acceptance, and therapeutic and genuineness. I look forward to meeting you for an initial consultation.
I practice individual, couples, family, and group psychotherapy.
I am a Humanistic Client-Centered Clinical Psychologist, originally trained within the Psychoanalytic orientation. I also believe in theoretical eclecticism, therefore in addition to my Humanistic orientation, I offer Cognitive/Behavioral as well as Psychodynamic approaches. Overall I strive to offer my clients the experience of "therapeutic presence" including: deep empathic listening, nonjudgmental acceptance, and therapeutic and genuineness. I look forward to meeting you for an initial consultation.
(212) 989-6086 View (212) 989-6086
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.