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 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 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 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 Conscious Connection Practice (Couples, Sexuality), Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Conscious Connection Practice (Couples, Sexuality)
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
Is your marriage stuck in “replay mode”? Do you and your partner keep repeating the same argument, despite your best intentions? Have you ever been plagued with doubts about whether you and your partner are truly meant for each other? What if you didn't have to figure it all out alone? Over the past 20+ years we’ve had the honor of successfully helping countless couples gain clarity into the powerful forces driving their biggest long-standing conflicts. Our mission is to help you transform painful patterns in love, often inherited from previous generations - so you can bring more playfulness and aliveness into your relationship.
Is your marriage stuck in “replay mode”? Do you and your partner keep repeating the same argument, despite your best intentions? Have you ever been plagued with doubts about whether you and your partner are truly meant for each other? What if you didn't have to figure it all out alone? Over the past 20+ years we’ve had the honor of successfully helping countless couples gain clarity into the powerful forces driving their biggest long-standing conflicts. Our mission is to help you transform painful patterns in love, often inherited from previous generations - so you can bring more playfulness and aliveness into your relationship.
(862) 352-7665 View (862) 352-7665
Photo of Shana Spier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Shana Spier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I work with both couples and individuals and I specialize in trauma, sex therapy and attachment.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, anxious, frustrated, helpless? Are you struggling with emotional and physical intimacy in your relationships? Do you struggle to feel close to others and to yourself? Have you experienced sexual assault or trauma? Do you wish you could feel less afraid to express what you need and how you feel? Struggling with these feelings often leaves us feeling stuck, exhausted, unfulfilled. They can also accompany more serious emotional or behavioral symptoms. Therapy can help you cope with and resolve the disturbing experiences and pain that are causing you distress.
I work with both couples and individuals and I specialize in trauma, sex therapy and attachment.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, anxious, frustrated, helpless? Are you struggling with emotional and physical intimacy in your relationships? Do you struggle to feel close to others and to yourself? Have you experienced sexual assault or trauma? Do you wish you could feel less afraid to express what you need and how you feel? Struggling with these feelings often leaves us feeling stuck, exhausted, unfulfilled. They can also accompany more serious emotional or behavioral symptoms. Therapy can help you cope with and resolve the disturbing experiences and pain that are causing you distress.
(973) 629-8854 View (973) 629-8854
Photo of Salony Setya, Licensed Professional Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Salony Setya
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MA
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Hello, I’m an integrative therapist and life coach. I work with clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief, transitions and relationship issues. I also work with couples and families using IFS and Emotionally Focused therapy. I believe in meeting you where you are in life and creating a genuine, safe and non-judgemental space where you can connect and build a relationship with your inner Self and be guided by your inner wisdom in your journey of healing, growth and development.
Hello, I’m an integrative therapist and life coach. I work with clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief, transitions and relationship issues. I also work with couples and families using IFS and Emotionally Focused therapy. I believe in meeting you where you are in life and creating a genuine, safe and non-judgemental space where you can connect and build a relationship with your inner Self and be guided by your inner wisdom in your journey of healing, growth and development.
(973) 528-1811 View (973) 528-1811
Photo of Felicia Horne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Felicia Horne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Welcome! I focus on approaching therapy from a dynamically holistic and healing perspective that focuses on developing new strategies to integrate into daily living. I'm dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and assisting individuals and couples to enter a place of self-compassion and growth by activating their internal and external resources. I believe each person holds the answers to transformation within and my role serves as a helpful guide on your journey. The process is about surrender, relief, healing & restoration. I have also co-authored a self-compassion workbook that I incorporate in our work to support growth.
Welcome! I focus on approaching therapy from a dynamically holistic and healing perspective that focuses on developing new strategies to integrate into daily living. I'm dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and assisting individuals and couples to enter a place of self-compassion and growth by activating their internal and external resources. I believe each person holds the answers to transformation within and my role serves as a helpful guide on your journey. The process is about surrender, relief, healing & restoration. I have also co-authored a self-compassion workbook that I incorporate in our work to support growth.
(415) 727-8048 View (415) 727-8048
Photo of Kevin J Miller, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Kevin J Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a clinical psychologist with 25 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. I received my degree from Rutgers University and am certified in several approaches to therapy. While cognitive and behavioral therapies act as my foundation, I teach many interpersonal and self-help strategies (eg, conflict resolution, assertiveness & communication training, meditation, self-hypnosis, emotion & trauma resolution). I work successfully with individuals and couples who struggle with problems at home, school or work, and in relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist with 25 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. I received my degree from Rutgers University and am certified in several approaches to therapy. While cognitive and behavioral therapies act as my foundation, I teach many interpersonal and self-help strategies (eg, conflict resolution, assertiveness & communication training, meditation, self-hypnosis, emotion & trauma resolution). I work successfully with individuals and couples who struggle with problems at home, school or work, and in relationships.
(973) 512-2843 View (973) 512-2843
Photo of Priscilla Schmitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Priscilla Schmitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Are you ready to explore why you and/or your children / spouse / partner and family have been struggling to deal with life’s normal activities as well as new challenges and stressors? Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake-up each morning feeling anxious and overwhelmed? You have found a safe, friendly, and nonjudgmental environment where together we can start a journey together to identify the challenges and then develop goals that you want to achieve in order to decrease negative stressors in your life. A variety of therapeutic tools and resources will be used to help you achieve your goals and truly live the life of your dreams.
Are you ready to explore why you and/or your children / spouse / partner and family have been struggling to deal with life’s normal activities as well as new challenges and stressors? Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake-up each morning feeling anxious and overwhelmed? You have found a safe, friendly, and nonjudgmental environment where together we can start a journey together to identify the challenges and then develop goals that you want to achieve in order to decrease negative stressors in your life. A variety of therapeutic tools and resources will be used to help you achieve your goals and truly live the life of your dreams.
(201) 654-0670 View (201) 654-0670
Photo of Cognitive Change, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Cognitive Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
We all use CBT which is effective in depression, eating disorders, anger mgt, relationship issues, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, PTSD, panic, and phobias.
Cognitive Change has been providing excellent service to each individual, couple, and family for over 12 years through the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for all ages. Our clients include all cultural, racial, gender, and economic backgrounds. All our therapists are either certified in CBT, TEAM-CBT, or DBT and are supervised by a certified CBT therapist. We work with co-dependency, anger, OCD, phobias, panic disorders, PTSD & trauma. Our goal with all clients is to learn how to move toward the life the client wants to live while accepting themselves and the world around them.
We all use CBT which is effective in depression, eating disorders, anger mgt, relationship issues, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, PTSD, panic, and phobias.
Cognitive Change has been providing excellent service to each individual, couple, and family for over 12 years through the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for all ages. Our clients include all cultural, racial, gender, and economic backgrounds. All our therapists are either certified in CBT, TEAM-CBT, or DBT and are supervised by a certified CBT therapist. We work with co-dependency, anger, OCD, phobias, panic disorders, PTSD & trauma. Our goal with all clients is to learn how to move toward the life the client wants to live while accepting themselves and the world around them.
(862) 289-7894 View (862) 289-7894
Photo of Karen Herrera - Braverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Karen Herrera - Braverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DTR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I work with adults, individuals and couples.
Stress has become a daily part of life and unexpected life events happen. Rarely are we taught how to manage our stress. You may be struggling with a marital or relationship issue, a loss, anxiety or a life change. I am a very experienced therapist and a deeply compassionate person..... with a lot of life experience. Together we will figure out what you are going to need to heal. I will be with you ever step of the way. I take my work very seriously and am committed to helping you.
I work with adults, individuals and couples.
Stress has become a daily part of life and unexpected life events happen. Rarely are we taught how to manage our stress. You may be struggling with a marital or relationship issue, a loss, anxiety or a life change. I am a very experienced therapist and a deeply compassionate person..... with a lot of life experience. Together we will figure out what you are going to need to heal. I will be with you ever step of the way. I take my work very seriously and am committed to helping you.
(973) 671-8241 View (973) 671-8241
Photo of Shobha Ayyappan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Shobha Ayyappan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
If you are experiencing feelings/emotions which trouble you and you want to overcome them, reach out to me! I have over 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families lead healthier and more rewarding lives. I empower clients from a wide range of backgrounds, including many with special needs, by helping them build self-awareness, identify their challenges, and gain the tools to regain confidence and purpose in their lives. My skills and expertise can help you tackle your emotional, behavioral, or professional challenges, strengthen your innate abilities, and help you achieve your goals.
If you are experiencing feelings/emotions which trouble you and you want to overcome them, reach out to me! I have over 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families lead healthier and more rewarding lives. I empower clients from a wide range of backgrounds, including many with special needs, by helping them build self-awareness, identify their challenges, and gain the tools to regain confidence and purpose in their lives. My skills and expertise can help you tackle your emotional, behavioral, or professional challenges, strengthen your innate abilities, and help you achieve your goals.
(862) 245-4218 View (862) 245-4218
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(973) 604-0264 View (973) 604-0264
Photo of Alexa Baliski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Alexa Baliski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Are you feeling stuck? Is it starting to impact the relationship with yourself or others? My clients are caring, well-intentioned, and often overextended individuals dealing with various responsibilities (career, education, relationships, health, friendship, family, financial stress, etc.) I help my clients establish healthy coping strategies for their stress and anxieties to restore their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. My office is a safe space to be human. It's truly an honor to walk alongside my clients as they work through their challenges and embrace the aspects of life that are most important to them.
Are you feeling stuck? Is it starting to impact the relationship with yourself or others? My clients are caring, well-intentioned, and often overextended individuals dealing with various responsibilities (career, education, relationships, health, friendship, family, financial stress, etc.) I help my clients establish healthy coping strategies for their stress and anxieties to restore their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. My office is a safe space to be human. It's truly an honor to walk alongside my clients as they work through their challenges and embrace the aspects of life that are most important to them.
(862) 420-9049 View (862) 420-9049
Photo of Ron Wasser, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Ron Wasser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
It is not easy being a parent, partner, earner or individual in the fast paced, competitive world of northern NJ and NYC. We can feel anxious, depressed, uncertain or lost in how we think and feel about ourselves, our relationships, our families, and our professional lives. We can want to make healthy and effective changes, but sometimes that can be hard to do alone and we need a trusted other that has the expertise to help us untie the knots we are caught in. Many of my clients are successful, but struggle with certain issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, parenting, and professional life challenges.
It is not easy being a parent, partner, earner or individual in the fast paced, competitive world of northern NJ and NYC. We can feel anxious, depressed, uncertain or lost in how we think and feel about ourselves, our relationships, our families, and our professional lives. We can want to make healthy and effective changes, but sometimes that can be hard to do alone and we need a trusted other that has the expertise to help us untie the knots we are caught in. Many of my clients are successful, but struggle with certain issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, parenting, and professional life challenges.
(973) 792-8113 View (973) 792-8113
Photo of Michelle Barber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Michelle Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I have worked with the LGBTQ+, polyamory, consensual non-monogamous, kinks, children, ASD, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
I have worked with the LGBTQ+, polyamory, consensual non-monogamous, kinks, children, ASD, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
(973) 874-2913 View (973) 874-2913
Photo of Christopher Castro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Christopher Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
My name is Christopher Castro, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I opened Communicate to Wellness, LLC with the intention of creating a therapeutic telehealth environment for individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in couple therapy; concerns with managing depression and anxiety, and aiding individuals and couples with effective communication skills.
My name is Christopher Castro, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I opened Communicate to Wellness, LLC with the intention of creating a therapeutic telehealth environment for individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in couple therapy; concerns with managing depression and anxiety, and aiding individuals and couples with effective communication skills.
(862) 329-6739 View (862) 329-6739
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Livingston, NJ
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(862) 500-5153 View (862) 500-5153
Photo of Dennis Petrusovich, Licensed Social Worker in Livingston, NJ
Dennis Petrusovich
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
The journey to who we are is part of family, relationships, work, society, and what happens along the way that shapes us. Mine is no different, and with that, I bring the privilege of knowledge and experience of 17 years as a Psychotherapist to you. In those 17-plus years as a Psychotherapist, I’ve gained eclectic knowledge through teaching as an Adjunct Professor in the Graduate Program, working with multiple disciplines in settings such as In-Home Therapy, Hospitals, Private Practice, Schools, Addiction, and with my colleague who passed their experience and knowledge onto me.
The journey to who we are is part of family, relationships, work, society, and what happens along the way that shapes us. Mine is no different, and with that, I bring the privilege of knowledge and experience of 17 years as a Psychotherapist to you. In those 17-plus years as a Psychotherapist, I’ve gained eclectic knowledge through teaching as an Adjunct Professor in the Graduate Program, working with multiple disciplines in settings such as In-Home Therapy, Hospitals, Private Practice, Schools, Addiction, and with my colleague who passed their experience and knowledge onto me.
(862) 599-2528 x1 View (862) 599-2528 x1
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.