Photo of Gonzalo Cedeño, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dover, NH
Gonzalo Cedeño
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people with substance use disorders, HIV, LGBTQ+, men’s issues, couples, relationships, various mental health concerns, EMDR, amongst other things.
Do you feel confused with where you want to go next in your life? Something from your past that keeps coming up and creating obstacles? Do you want to create some goals and work towards them? Let me help you get to know yourself better, identify coping skills, and help you find your power. With my help, we will get through whatever situation you’re struggling with, and together work towards a solution
I have experience working with people with substance use disorders, HIV, LGBTQ+, men’s issues, couples, relationships, various mental health concerns, EMDR, amongst other things.
Do you feel confused with where you want to go next in your life? Something from your past that keeps coming up and creating obstacles? Do you want to create some goals and work towards them? Let me help you get to know yourself better, identify coping skills, and help you find your power. With my help, we will get through whatever situation you’re struggling with, and together work towards a solution
(603) 661-6450 View (603) 661-6450
Photo of Jennifer Schirmer, Counselor in Dover, NH
Jennifer Schirmer
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
Perhaps you’re down or anxious. Maybe you’re unsure about the future of a relationship or you feel as though you aren’t living the life you were meant to lead. Perhaps you’re thinking that something is getting in the way of your ability to function at work or other environments that are important to you. Life can be challenging – whether the challenges are sudden and unexpected or build up over the course of years. In sessions I promote behavioral transformation through collaborative efforts and solution-focused interventions to help you get back on track, identify and achieve your goals, and reach your greatest potential.
Perhaps you’re down or anxious. Maybe you’re unsure about the future of a relationship or you feel as though you aren’t living the life you were meant to lead. Perhaps you’re thinking that something is getting in the way of your ability to function at work or other environments that are important to you. Life can be challenging – whether the challenges are sudden and unexpected or build up over the course of years. In sessions I promote behavioral transformation through collaborative efforts and solution-focused interventions to help you get back on track, identify and achieve your goals, and reach your greatest potential.
(603) 605-8885 View (603) 605-8885
Photo of Individual and Family Healing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dover, NH
Individual and Family Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
I have experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, college students, & families struggling with a range of life issues that include trauma, relationship difficulties, & substance abuse.
Your initial visit will be a warm greeting where we discuss what is bringing you to therapy currently. There will be a brief history taking of current and past stressors as well as your strengths to assess if we are a good fit for one another. I treat children, adolescents, families, and individuals. I specialize in dealing with Trauma; Substance Abuse; Suicidality; Racism Issues; PTSD; Family Issues; Grief/Loss; Mood Disorders; College; Child-Parent Attachment Issues; Child Behavioral Problems; Child Abuse; Addiction; Anxiety Disorders; LGBTQ, Poly/Non-Monogamy.
I have experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, college students, & families struggling with a range of life issues that include trauma, relationship difficulties, & substance abuse.
Your initial visit will be a warm greeting where we discuss what is bringing you to therapy currently. There will be a brief history taking of current and past stressors as well as your strengths to assess if we are a good fit for one another. I treat children, adolescents, families, and individuals. I specialize in dealing with Trauma; Substance Abuse; Suicidality; Racism Issues; PTSD; Family Issues; Grief/Loss; Mood Disorders; College; Child-Parent Attachment Issues; Child Behavioral Problems; Child Abuse; Addiction; Anxiety Disorders; LGBTQ, Poly/Non-Monogamy.
(360) 207-3930 View (360) 207-3930
Photo of Vincent A Duffy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dover, NH
Vincent A Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for twenty years working with adolescents and adults. I am also a CSAT specializing in the treatment of individuals struggling with sexual addiction issues. I also work with individuals coping with trauma/loss, depression, anxiety,life transitions and sexuality. My goal is to provide a safe,non-judgemental environment, while I work with you to actively pursue insight and solutions to your issues and concerns. My approach is a mixture of developing a relationship with you while integrating cognitive behavioral techniques with empathy, humor, metaphors and mindfulness skill training.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for twenty years working with adolescents and adults. I am also a CSAT specializing in the treatment of individuals struggling with sexual addiction issues. I also work with individuals coping with trauma/loss, depression, anxiety,life transitions and sexuality. My goal is to provide a safe,non-judgemental environment, while I work with you to actively pursue insight and solutions to your issues and concerns. My approach is a mixture of developing a relationship with you while integrating cognitive behavioral techniques with empathy, humor, metaphors and mindfulness skill training.
(603) 769-4149 View (603) 769-4149
Photo of Erika J Bernier-hockenhull, Counselor in Dover, NH
Erika J Bernier-hockenhull
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I enjoy working with a variety of people, from children through adolescence and adults. I have a supportive nature and enjoy using cognitive behavioral techniques to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, and general life stressors. I believe in empowering others to find their own unique solutions. I also provide family and couples therapy. I believe I can offer strengths-focused guidance, and also a toolbox of skills.
I enjoy working with a variety of people, from children through adolescence and adults. I have a supportive nature and enjoy using cognitive behavioral techniques to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, and general life stressors. I believe in empowering others to find their own unique solutions. I also provide family and couples therapy. I believe I can offer strengths-focused guidance, and also a toolbox of skills.
(603) 239-2492 View (603) 239-2492
Photo of Chad O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dover, NH
Chad O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
Life can often be challenging. I am here to help those who are at a point in their life where something has to change and the willingness to make that change, whatever that might look like, is now present. Whether the problem is life status, relationship or family conflict, oppositional behaviors or substance abuse/addiction, change is possible. Please email me for fastest response.
Life can often be challenging. I am here to help those who are at a point in their life where something has to change and the willingness to make that change, whatever that might look like, is now present. Whether the problem is life status, relationship or family conflict, oppositional behaviors or substance abuse/addiction, change is possible. Please email me for fastest response.
(844) 548-7584 View (844) 548-7584
Photo of White Birch Recovery Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Dover, NH
White Birch Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I am honored to be able to provide clinical services to those suffering from Substance Use Disorders. My ideal in practice is to form a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship with my clients. My style is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I believe that by exploring thoughts, emotions, and maladaptive behavior patterns, we can become more insightful and understanding of ourselves. Through this vulnerable process we are able to create life-long change that will increase self esteem and the ability to form close interpersonal relationships with those we care about.
I am honored to be able to provide clinical services to those suffering from Substance Use Disorders. My ideal in practice is to form a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship with my clients. My style is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I believe that by exploring thoughts, emotions, and maladaptive behavior patterns, we can become more insightful and understanding of ourselves. Through this vulnerable process we are able to create life-long change that will increase self esteem and the ability to form close interpersonal relationships with those we care about.
(603) 369-4225 View (603) 369-4225
Photo of Susan E Norman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dover, NH
Susan E Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
(603) 361-2235 View (603) 361-2235
Photo of Susan Lynn Neal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dover, NH
Susan Lynn Neal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820
Do you see people changing and wish you could too? Sometimes all a person needs is a little encouragement to move forward. Other times self motivation or outside forces make change more complicated. I have helped people of all ages find creative ways to change either by altering the way their approach to a problem or by finding peace within themselves through acceptance. I meet with individuals, couples and families and see that often magical things happen once internal or external obstacles are set aside. Life is an strange and wonderful adventure!
Do you see people changing and wish you could too? Sometimes all a person needs is a little encouragement to move forward. Other times self motivation or outside forces make change more complicated. I have helped people of all ages find creative ways to change either by altering the way their approach to a problem or by finding peace within themselves through acceptance. I meet with individuals, couples and families and see that often magical things happen once internal or external obstacles are set aside. Life is an strange and wonderful adventure!
(603) 435-3069 View (603) 435-3069
Photo of Wendy Quinn, Psychologist in Dover, NH
Wendy Quinn
Psychologist, PsyD, LADC, ADTR
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
During this medical crisis, Dr. Quinn is providing TelePsychology through a secure web portal. With thirty-five years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Quinn specializes in the effective treatment of eating disorders, addictions & trauma through individual, couples & family therapy for adults, children and adolescents. In treating clients with eating disorders, Dr. Quinn works closely with families, primary care physicians, psychiatrists and inpatient facilities to coordinate treatment. Dr. Quinn also incorporates expressive therapies (art & movement) with verbal therapy to access inner pain and promote deep healing.
During this medical crisis, Dr. Quinn is providing TelePsychology through a secure web portal. With thirty-five years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Quinn specializes in the effective treatment of eating disorders, addictions & trauma through individual, couples & family therapy for adults, children and adolescents. In treating clients with eating disorders, Dr. Quinn works closely with families, primary care physicians, psychiatrists and inpatient facilities to coordinate treatment. Dr. Quinn also incorporates expressive therapies (art & movement) with verbal therapy to access inner pain and promote deep healing.
(603) 685-3145 View (603) 685-3145
Photo of Ellen Ronka, Counselor in Dover, NH
Ellen Ronka
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety (obsessive thoughts and behaviors, phobias, panic attacks, nightmares, post-traumatic stress), depression, chronic pain / illness, and relationship problems.
Compassion and safety, metaphors and stories, laughter and creativity, brainstorming and education are some of the tools I will combine to help you feel understood, heal, and then grow. I will adjust my style to what I sense you need as a whole person: body, mind, and spirit. I frame my work in psychodynamic theory, while using cognitive-behavioral and experiential techniques. I infuse all sessions with the principles of mindfulness. I can help you organize your thoughts on difficult decisions, coach you to be more assertive, and help you establish better boundaries. I will teach you a variety of coping skills for managing stress.
I specialize in anxiety (obsessive thoughts and behaviors, phobias, panic attacks, nightmares, post-traumatic stress), depression, chronic pain / illness, and relationship problems.
Compassion and safety, metaphors and stories, laughter and creativity, brainstorming and education are some of the tools I will combine to help you feel understood, heal, and then grow. I will adjust my style to what I sense you need as a whole person: body, mind, and spirit. I frame my work in psychodynamic theory, while using cognitive-behavioral and experiential techniques. I infuse all sessions with the principles of mindfulness. I can help you organize your thoughts on difficult decisions, coach you to be more assertive, and help you establish better boundaries. I will teach you a variety of coping skills for managing stress.
(603) 392-7340 View (603) 392-7340
Photo of Brian D Wener, Psychologist in Dover, NH
Brian D Wener
Psychologist, BA, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820
TESTING/PSYCHOTHERAPY, COUPLES/FAMILY therapy, ABUSE/NEGLECT issues, and SEXUAL OFFENDER/VICTIM assessment & treatment services (ATSA member), CHRONIC PAIN evaluation/management.
Practicing 40 years in Seacoast Tri-state area. Portsmouth Family Institute faculty member, former Guest Lecturer, UNH Grad. Studies in Marriage/Family Therapy. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING for ADHD- child/adult; Presurgical evaluations; Court-Legal-School evaluations. APA Board Certified in Assessment/Treatment of Substance Use Disorders ADDICTION services to families. Individuals/couples/families undergoing life transitions/divorce. I am a former GAL. I provide psychological assessment/treatment to clients of GALs. I gladly work with ages 14 +.
TESTING/PSYCHOTHERAPY, COUPLES/FAMILY therapy, ABUSE/NEGLECT issues, and SEXUAL OFFENDER/VICTIM assessment & treatment services (ATSA member), CHRONIC PAIN evaluation/management.
Practicing 40 years in Seacoast Tri-state area. Portsmouth Family Institute faculty member, former Guest Lecturer, UNH Grad. Studies in Marriage/Family Therapy. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING for ADHD- child/adult; Presurgical evaluations; Court-Legal-School evaluations. APA Board Certified in Assessment/Treatment of Substance Use Disorders ADDICTION services to families. Individuals/couples/families undergoing life transitions/divorce. I am a former GAL. I provide psychological assessment/treatment to clients of GALs. I gladly work with ages 14 +.
(603) 769-4162 View (603) 769-4162
Photo of Tradeport Counseling and Mediation Associates, Counselor in Dover, NH
Tradeport Counseling and Mediation Associates
Counselor, LCMHC, LICSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
TCMA clinicians work with individuals, children and their families, as well as couples and specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and relational struggles.
Currently accepting new clients. The professionals at TCMA are committed to supporting individuals and families through difficult and challenging life moments. Our treatment philosophy is that people should receive only the services most appropriate to their specific needs, personal orientation and presenting problems. We employ only those counseling approaches that adhere to the highest standards of our profession and believe the counseling process is successful only when the work is done between both the counselor and the client.
TCMA clinicians work with individuals, children and their families, as well as couples and specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and relational struggles.
Currently accepting new clients. The professionals at TCMA are committed to supporting individuals and families through difficult and challenging life moments. Our treatment philosophy is that people should receive only the services most appropriate to their specific needs, personal orientation and presenting problems. We employ only those counseling approaches that adhere to the highest standards of our profession and believe the counseling process is successful only when the work is done between both the counselor and the client.
(603) 634-9823 View (603) 634-9823
Photo of Rebecca Peake LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dover, NH
Rebecca Peake LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820
Areas of concentration include but are not limited to: Children & Adolescent Behavior Issues, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Parenting, Problems in School, Trauma, Pre-marital and Couple's Therapy, Communication and Relationship conflicts, Divorce issues, Step-family Challenges, Grief/Loss, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults to provide individual, couple, and family therapy. I work from a systems focused perspective where treatment draws from client strengths, is solution-focused, and family centered. I believe in being supportive and empowering clients in their journey to improve. I enjoy using cognitive behavioral techniques to address concerns such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and general life stressors.
Areas of concentration include but are not limited to: Children & Adolescent Behavior Issues, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Parenting, Problems in School, Trauma, Pre-marital and Couple's Therapy, Communication and Relationship conflicts, Divorce issues, Step-family Challenges, Grief/Loss, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Mood Disorders.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults to provide individual, couple, and family therapy. I work from a systems focused perspective where treatment draws from client strengths, is solution-focused, and family centered. I believe in being supportive and empowering clients in their journey to improve. I enjoy using cognitive behavioral techniques to address concerns such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and general life stressors.
(603) 931-3451 View (603) 931-3451
Photo of Michelle Houle, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Dover, NH
Michelle Houle
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I enjoy blending traditional counseling with holistic wellness; treating individuals through a relationship of mutual respect and trust.
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, substances, issues with your children, the overwhelming feelings can feel like too much. I'm here to help you in dealing with these struggles. You don't have to continue to carry these issues alone.
I enjoy blending traditional counseling with holistic wellness; treating individuals through a relationship of mutual respect and trust.
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, substances, issues with your children, the overwhelming feelings can feel like too much. I'm here to help you in dealing with these struggles. You don't have to continue to carry these issues alone.
(508) 928-4190 View (508) 928-4190
Photo of Kelly L Fournier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dover, NH
Kelly L Fournier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820
As an LICSW with a degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology, I provide both individual & couples therapy utilizing Positive Psychology, CBT, Narrative Therapy & Motivational Interviewing ; Additionally, I hold a certificate of specialization in the treatment and prevention of eating disorders - alongside an Associates degree in Chemical Dependency .
No one person is immune to the trials and tribulations of life ; sometimes a quiet space to explore the ups and downs presented throughout our lifespan can prove helpful in decreasing stress and any unsettled feelings as a result of being overwhelmed - by utilizing therapeutic intervention to address concerns associated with maladaptive coping & overall mental health - the goal is to guide you in living your best life possible!
As an LICSW with a degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology, I provide both individual & couples therapy utilizing Positive Psychology, CBT, Narrative Therapy & Motivational Interviewing ; Additionally, I hold a certificate of specialization in the treatment and prevention of eating disorders - alongside an Associates degree in Chemical Dependency .
No one person is immune to the trials and tribulations of life ; sometimes a quiet space to explore the ups and downs presented throughout our lifespan can prove helpful in decreasing stress and any unsettled feelings as a result of being overwhelmed - by utilizing therapeutic intervention to address concerns associated with maladaptive coping & overall mental health - the goal is to guide you in living your best life possible!
(603) 319-4545 View (603) 319-4545
Photo of Neil Poirier-Westman, Counselor in Dover, NH
Neil Poirier-Westman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
Hello! Please make sure to view my insurance/payment section before contacting. I enjoy helping people to challenge their problems, to navigate new environments/social or emotional spaces, and to create new understandings of themselves as they evolve. I enjoy working with college-age clients, single people, couples, parents, veterans (I am an Army veteran), people facing life-stage change, and anyone looking to resolve issues from their development. I often find that, regardless of a client’s complaint, there’s a little kid on the inside who needs some resolution or reassurance for them to feel safe and enough so to move on in life.
Hello! Please make sure to view my insurance/payment section before contacting. I enjoy helping people to challenge their problems, to navigate new environments/social or emotional spaces, and to create new understandings of themselves as they evolve. I enjoy working with college-age clients, single people, couples, parents, veterans (I am an Army veteran), people facing life-stage change, and anyone looking to resolve issues from their development. I often find that, regardless of a client’s complaint, there’s a little kid on the inside who needs some resolution or reassurance for them to feel safe and enough so to move on in life.
(866) 768-2077 View (866) 768-2077
Photo of Donna M. Fredette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Dover, NH
Donna M. Fredette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MLADC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
Are you tired of the day to day struggle of using? Is everyone around you using and you don't know how to make it all stop? Do you just want your life back? Are you afraid today could be your last day and still that won't keep you from using? I meet you where you are, in a judgment free zone, where we can identify your internal and external triggers, emotions, thoughts and addictive behaviors. Together we will create an individual roadmap to recovery that will work for you! Christian or secular counseling available.
Are you tired of the day to day struggle of using? Is everyone around you using and you don't know how to make it all stop? Do you just want your life back? Are you afraid today could be your last day and still that won't keep you from using? I meet you where you are, in a judgment free zone, where we can identify your internal and external triggers, emotions, thoughts and addictive behaviors. Together we will create an individual roadmap to recovery that will work for you! Christian or secular counseling available.
(603) 312-0814 View (603) 312-0814
Photo of Jennifer Golia, LMFT, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dover, NH
Jennifer Golia, LMFT, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820
Not accepting new clients
My practice is currently FULL. Are you feeling stuck or struggling with a difficult experience that you have had? Has it been hard to fully engage in present day relationships because of events from your past? Are you struggling with worry or feeling down? Do you want to improve your relationship with your partner or with your child/teenager? My goal as a therapist is to work in a collaborative manner to empower clients to reach their goals. It is a privilege to help people improve their lives and their relationships.
My practice is currently FULL. Are you feeling stuck or struggling with a difficult experience that you have had? Has it been hard to fully engage in present day relationships because of events from your past? Are you struggling with worry or feeling down? Do you want to improve your relationship with your partner or with your child/teenager? My goal as a therapist is to work in a collaborative manner to empower clients to reach their goals. It is a privilege to help people improve their lives and their relationships.
(603) 262-1703 View (603) 262-1703
Photo of Meredith Orchard-Blowen, Counselor in Dover, NH
Meredith Orchard-Blowen
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, MLADC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients at this time. Welcome to my 100 % telehealth practice. I provide psychotherapy and substance use services to individuals, couples and families. I am committed to working with diverse individuals (LGBTQ+), ages 14 and older, tailoring varied therapeutic methods as needed to best support them in creating meaningful change in their lives. I also work with couples; providing space and support to deepen their connection, further their communication skills and enable them to move more successfully through conflict. Additionally, I provide court ordered substance use treatment and evaluations.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Welcome to my 100 % telehealth practice. I provide psychotherapy and substance use services to individuals, couples and families. I am committed to working with diverse individuals (LGBTQ+), ages 14 and older, tailoring varied therapeutic methods as needed to best support them in creating meaningful change in their lives. I also work with couples; providing space and support to deepen their connection, further their communication skills and enable them to move more successfully through conflict. Additionally, I provide court ordered substance use treatment and evaluations.
(603) 678-4304 View (603) 678-4304

See more therapy options for Dover

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.