Couples Counseling Therapists in Livingston, NJ

Photo of Wendy J Lazarus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Wendy J Lazarus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
trauma, loss, austism spectrum disorder, relationship, work, stage of life and health issues.
Life can be difficult. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, angry, hurt, worried or having intrusive negative thoughts, talk therapy helps. As your therapist, I can assist you in working through these challenges in order for you to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgmental space where teens and adults can speak freely and feel heard.
trauma, loss, austism spectrum disorder, relationship, work, stage of life and health issues.
Life can be difficult. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, angry, hurt, worried or having intrusive negative thoughts, talk therapy helps. As your therapist, I can assist you in working through these challenges in order for you to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. I provide a warm, safe and non-judgmental space where teens and adults can speak freely and feel heard.
(862) 305-8431 View (862) 305-8431
Photo of Murray Bartky, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Murray Bartky
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Thirty plus years of experience utilizing psychodynamic psychotherapy in adult, marital (couples), child, and family therapy. Further training and supervision was gleaned at the Institute for Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis of N.J. Although my orientation is eclectic, I lean towards an interpersonal interactive approach with my clients, unless contraindicated. Being devoted, helpful and constructive in working together with clients to achieve whatever goals one has such as the following: relief from stress or depression, improving emotional connections & intimacy, coping with conflict, adversity, and success, & confidence building to feel hopeful and passionate about loving, working, and living life.
Thirty plus years of experience utilizing psychodynamic psychotherapy in adult, marital (couples), child, and family therapy. Further training and supervision was gleaned at the Institute for Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis of N.J. Although my orientation is eclectic, I lean towards an interpersonal interactive approach with my clients, unless contraindicated. Being devoted, helpful and constructive in working together with clients to achieve whatever goals one has such as the following: relief from stress or depression, improving emotional connections & intimacy, coping with conflict, adversity, and success, & confidence building to feel hopeful and passionate about loving, working, and living life.
(973) 994-2191 View (973) 994-2191
Photo of Barbara Lauer-Listhaus, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Barbara Lauer-Listhaus
Psychologist, Psy, D
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Over the past thirty years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with diverse mental health issues including depression, anxiety, Post-concussive syndrome, ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD, addiction, grief, and trauma. Recognizing that individuals experience stress in many aspects of their life and struggle with life's transitions, I work with children and adolescents transitioning through the stages of development and with adults facing marital, parenting, custody and relationship issues. I conduct psychological and neuropsychological testing to evaluate for mental health, academic, and neurological issues.
Over the past thirty years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with diverse mental health issues including depression, anxiety, Post-concussive syndrome, ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD, addiction, grief, and trauma. Recognizing that individuals experience stress in many aspects of their life and struggle with life's transitions, I work with children and adolescents transitioning through the stages of development and with adults facing marital, parenting, custody and relationship issues. I conduct psychological and neuropsychological testing to evaluate for mental health, academic, and neurological issues.
(551) 226-5248 View (551) 226-5248
Photo of Ranjana Hari, Pre-Licensed Professional in Livingston, NJ
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
These approaches are highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
These approaches are highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
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Photo of Joshua Massler, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Joshua Massler
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Massler has worked closely with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with a myriad of disorders including but not limited to the following: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Adjustment Related Concerns, and Marital/Relationship Issues.
Dr. Joshua M. Massler is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in the state of New Jersey. He received his doctorate degree from NYU Steinhardt School of Education in Applied Psychology, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology and graduated with honors. Dr. Massler established his own private practice in 2003 and has since become one of the most sought after clinical psychologists in New Jersey and has been featured in numerous media publications. Dr. Massler is wholly committed to every child, adolescent and adult he treats and provides unparalleled attention to every patient he works with.
Massler has worked closely with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with a myriad of disorders including but not limited to the following: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Adjustment Related Concerns, and Marital/Relationship Issues.
Dr. Joshua M. Massler is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in the state of New Jersey. He received his doctorate degree from NYU Steinhardt School of Education in Applied Psychology, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology and graduated with honors. Dr. Massler established his own private practice in 2003 and has since become one of the most sought after clinical psychologists in New Jersey and has been featured in numerous media publications. Dr. Massler is wholly committed to every child, adolescent and adult he treats and provides unparalleled attention to every patient he works with.
(973) 552-2008 View (973) 552-2008
Photo of Online Virtual Counselors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Online Virtual Counselors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
The practice caters to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples.
Hello! We are Online Virtual Counselors, a group practice whose providers have over a combined 150 years of experience. We offer online therapy and psychological support in English and Spanish to clients living in New York, New Jersey, Virginia, DC, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts and Maryland. We specialize in working with all childhood disorders, individuals and couples for anxiety, trauma. relationship counseling, addictions, and infidelity. We are committed to providing supportive and highly individualized care for their clients, and helping them navigate times of transition and change within their relationships.
The practice caters to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples.
Hello! We are Online Virtual Counselors, a group practice whose providers have over a combined 150 years of experience. We offer online therapy and psychological support in English and Spanish to clients living in New York, New Jersey, Virginia, DC, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts and Maryland. We specialize in working with all childhood disorders, individuals and couples for anxiety, trauma. relationship counseling, addictions, and infidelity. We are committed to providing supportive and highly individualized care for their clients, and helping them navigate times of transition and change within their relationships.
(201) 809-3313 View (201) 809-3313
Photo of Ruxandra Ritter, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Ruxandra Ritter
Psychologist, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you feel burdened by sadness or stress, worried about your personal relationships, or puzzled by sexual difficulties, there is hope. Over the years, I have seen many people enter the therapeutic journey with doubt and hesitancy, and emerge with a renewed sense of meaning and joy in connecting with others. I am passionate about what I do and I deeply believe that good psychotherapy can transform lives. I hold a doctorate degree in clinical psychology and have post-graduate training, as well as special interest, in addressing sexual issues, relationship difficulties, and struggles with life transitions.
Whether you feel burdened by sadness or stress, worried about your personal relationships, or puzzled by sexual difficulties, there is hope. Over the years, I have seen many people enter the therapeutic journey with doubt and hesitancy, and emerge with a renewed sense of meaning and joy in connecting with others. I am passionate about what I do and I deeply believe that good psychotherapy can transform lives. I hold a doctorate degree in clinical psychology and have post-graduate training, as well as special interest, in addressing sexual issues, relationship difficulties, and struggles with life transitions.
(908) 842-0295 View (908) 842-0295
Photo of Jennifer Byron, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Livingston, NJ
Jennifer Byron
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
I have experience working with couples, families and individuals of various backgrounds and ages.
Welcome! I am happy that you are taking this big step towards change and healing. I work directly with clients to achieve their goals. Maybe you’re looking for coping skills to manage life’s ups and downs or a safe space to be heard. I believe that you have the ability and resources to heal yourself and I am here to offer you support. Whether you are looking to foster healthier communication patterns within your family and relationships, I will be here to guide you and offer a new perspective as we go through this process together.
I have experience working with couples, families and individuals of various backgrounds and ages.
Welcome! I am happy that you are taking this big step towards change and healing. I work directly with clients to achieve their goals. Maybe you’re looking for coping skills to manage life’s ups and downs or a safe space to be heard. I believe that you have the ability and resources to heal yourself and I am here to offer you support. Whether you are looking to foster healthier communication patterns within your family and relationships, I will be here to guide you and offer a new perspective as we go through this process together.
(732) 561-1784 View (732) 561-1784
Photo of Jordan Levy, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Jordan Levy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I strongly believe that successful therapy outcomes are derived by combining a trusting therapeutic relationship with mastering the cognitive and behavioral tools.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adolescents and adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, particularly the Purely Obsessional (Pure-O) subtype. I trained with a world renowned expert in OCD in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Additionally, I am also experienced in the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Phobias, tic disorders, Perfectionism and Posttraumatic stress disorder. My research background encompassed relationship and sexual variables related to sexual dysfunction.
I strongly believe that successful therapy outcomes are derived by combining a trusting therapeutic relationship with mastering the cognitive and behavioral tools.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adolescents and adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, particularly the Purely Obsessional (Pure-O) subtype. I trained with a world renowned expert in OCD in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Additionally, I am also experienced in the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Phobias, tic disorders, Perfectionism and Posttraumatic stress disorder. My research background encompassed relationship and sexual variables related to sexual dysfunction.
(973) 251-2228 View (973) 251-2228
Photo of Pei-Chen Hsu, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Pei-Chen Hsu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
When working with couples, I combine Emotionally-Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method.
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, unresolved issues, life-transition difficulties, family/relational problems, and grief and loss. While I have extensive experience working with individuals of Asian decent, they comprise only 30% of my clientele and I am well-rounded in treating individuals from various cultural and religious backgrounds. I am dedicated to bring genuine, compassionate, and evidence-based care to my clients. After a thorough assessment of my client's presenting concern and history, I collaborate with my client to formulate a treatment plan that is highly individualized.
When working with couples, I combine Emotionally-Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method.
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, unresolved issues, life-transition difficulties, family/relational problems, and grief and loss. While I have extensive experience working with individuals of Asian decent, they comprise only 30% of my clientele and I am well-rounded in treating individuals from various cultural and religious backgrounds. I am dedicated to bring genuine, compassionate, and evidence-based care to my clients. After a thorough assessment of my client's presenting concern and history, I collaborate with my client to formulate a treatment plan that is highly individualized.
(862) 292-9584 View (862) 292-9584
Photo of Priyanka Upadhyaya, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Priyanka Upadhyaya
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Are you juggling many balls wondering which one you might drop? Maybe you’re stressed about work, your boss, or about your relationships. You see it getting to you, your partner, or the well being of your children. Are you busy, socially visible and active, but feel “tired all of the time”, stuck or lacking a sense of purpose and meaning? 
You want to feel healthier, satisfied with your life and relationships, maximize your potential, wake up in the morning embracing your day with direction and purpose. Imagine what that life could look like.
Are you juggling many balls wondering which one you might drop? Maybe you’re stressed about work, your boss, or about your relationships. You see it getting to you, your partner, or the well being of your children. Are you busy, socially visible and active, but feel “tired all of the time”, stuck or lacking a sense of purpose and meaning? 
You want to feel healthier, satisfied with your life and relationships, maximize your potential, wake up in the morning embracing your day with direction and purpose. Imagine what that life could look like.
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Photo of Elizabeth Stilwell, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Elizabeth Stilwell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both New Jersey and New York. My clinical practice focuses on working with children, adolescent, adults, couples, and families with a variety of concerns ranging from adjustment reactions to severe mental illness. I also provide psychological testing for differential diagnosis, psychoeducational evaluations, and cognitive/executive functioning difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both New Jersey and New York. My clinical practice focuses on working with children, adolescent, adults, couples, and families with a variety of concerns ranging from adjustment reactions to severe mental illness. I also provide psychological testing for differential diagnosis, psychoeducational evaluations, and cognitive/executive functioning difficulties.
(973) 358-7017 View (973) 358-7017
Photo of Jessica Conrad, Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Jessica Conrad
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship is sacred and something I take incredibly seriously.
Life can get complicated and feel utterly overwhelming at times. Sometimes transitions can cause you to feel overly stressed or simply stuck. You don't have to go through this alone, and it is incredibly brave to have taken the first step in your healing journey. We can work together to help you feel like the best version of yourself again, or maybe even for the first time.
The therapeutic relationship is sacred and something I take incredibly seriously.
Life can get complicated and feel utterly overwhelming at times. Sometimes transitions can cause you to feel overly stressed or simply stuck. You don't have to go through this alone, and it is incredibly brave to have taken the first step in your healing journey. We can work together to help you feel like the best version of yourself again, or maybe even for the first time.
(732) 347-7781 View (732) 347-7781
Photo of Michaela D'Urso, Pre-Licensed Professional in Livingston, NJ
Michaela D'Urso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
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Photo of Dr. Jonathan Lebolt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Dr. Jonathan Lebolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
Certified in Psychoanalysis (Contemporary Relational approach) and Group Psychotherapy, I offer Individual, Couples, Family and Group Psychotherapy; Psychoanalysis and Professional Supervision/Consultation (for licensed clinicians).
Each crisis in our lives is an opportunity for healing and growth. My primary approach is relational psychoanalytic, meaning I help patients use the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to uncover and work on their deepest conflicts. An interactive and empathic therapist, I offer advice and support when needed, and I share my own experiences when I think they will be helpful. Though I have extensive, in-depth training, I rely greatly on intuition and humor in my work.
Certified in Psychoanalysis (Contemporary Relational approach) and Group Psychotherapy, I offer Individual, Couples, Family and Group Psychotherapy; Psychoanalysis and Professional Supervision/Consultation (for licensed clinicians).
Each crisis in our lives is an opportunity for healing and growth. My primary approach is relational psychoanalytic, meaning I help patients use the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to uncover and work on their deepest conflicts. An interactive and empathic therapist, I offer advice and support when needed, and I share my own experiences when I think they will be helpful. Though I have extensive, in-depth training, I rely greatly on intuition and humor in my work.
(973) 798-9169 View (973) 798-9169
Photo of Joyce Baldinucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Joyce Baldinucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
IFS can help you transform your relationship with yourself with increased self compassion.
If your life isn't what you'd like it to be, it may be time to seek help. You may be using alcohol or drugs to help you cope. Your marriage and life may be impacted by greater stress. Past traumas may be activated. Anxiety may be high. I am both an LCSW and LCADC with extensive training in IFS, EMDR, DBT, and EFT, and can help you develop effective coping skills as well as guide you to find more balance internally. Whether you are struggling with addiction, relationship difficulties, trauma or just "overwhelm," you will be better equipped to handle your life. You don't need to figure this out by yourself - reach out.
IFS can help you transform your relationship with yourself with increased self compassion.
If your life isn't what you'd like it to be, it may be time to seek help. You may be using alcohol or drugs to help you cope. Your marriage and life may be impacted by greater stress. Past traumas may be activated. Anxiety may be high. I am both an LCSW and LCADC with extensive training in IFS, EMDR, DBT, and EFT, and can help you develop effective coping skills as well as guide you to find more balance internally. Whether you are struggling with addiction, relationship difficulties, trauma or just "overwhelm," you will be better equipped to handle your life. You don't need to figure this out by yourself - reach out.
(862) 520-9333 View (862) 520-9333
Photo of Clorinda Bulfamante, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Clorinda Bulfamante
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Within therapy, I am committed to developing a strong therapeutic relationship by creating a space that feels warm and supportive.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
Within therapy, I am committed to developing a strong therapeutic relationship by creating a space that feels warm and supportive.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
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Photo of Sharon Shrensel, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Sharon Shrensel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I work with individuals and couples, interpersonal issues, stress related problems, anxiety, depression, personality issues, work issues etc.
I am a therapist for over 35 years, and have brought support, relief, guidance and insight to my patients. I customize my approach to support each person's needs and motivations to ensure that the therapy is guided by what each person may need, whether it is goal directed, insight oriented, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness based strategies, or unburdening their fears and concerns in a safe environment.
I work with individuals and couples, interpersonal issues, stress related problems, anxiety, depression, personality issues, work issues etc.
I am a therapist for over 35 years, and have brought support, relief, guidance and insight to my patients. I customize my approach to support each person's needs and motivations to ensure that the therapy is guided by what each person may need, whether it is goal directed, insight oriented, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness based strategies, or unburdening their fears and concerns in a safe environment.
(908) 923-0635 View (908) 923-0635
Photo of Karelyn M. Gonzalez-Cruz, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Karelyn M. Gonzalez-Cruz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a licensed psychologist in the state on New Jersey and New York. I provide individual, couples and family therapy with Spanish population. I have extensive clinical experience working with Hispanic population. I have expertise in trauma focused therapy and evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in disruptive disorders (i.e. ADHD, ODD), mutism, physical and sexual abuse, trauma, play therapy, personality and mood/anxiety disorders, and family disruption. Furthermore, I enjoy helping couples and families.
I am a licensed psychologist in the state on New Jersey and New York. I provide individual, couples and family therapy with Spanish population. I have extensive clinical experience working with Hispanic population. I have expertise in trauma focused therapy and evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in disruptive disorders (i.e. ADHD, ODD), mutism, physical and sexual abuse, trauma, play therapy, personality and mood/anxiety disorders, and family disruption. Furthermore, I enjoy helping couples and families.
(908) 332-5518 View (908) 332-5518
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Perler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Lauren Elizabeth Perler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
Hi There! I am a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, and I provide individual and couples therapy to individuals ages 17 and up who are struggling with Covid 19 related stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic medical conditions, life stressors, and relationship challenges. I will strive to help you feel more present each day and to embrace your inner strength with a goal of guiding and helping you to reach your goals.
Hi There! I am a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, and I provide individual and couples therapy to individuals ages 17 and up who are struggling with Covid 19 related stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic medical conditions, life stressors, and relationship challenges. I will strive to help you feel more present each day and to embrace your inner strength with a goal of guiding and helping you to reach your goals.
(973) 348-6664 View (973) 348-6664
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.