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Photo of Ace Oh in Riverdale, NY
Ace Oh
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for your story, feelings, and thoughts, and prioritize building a relationship of trust where everything can be discussed and examined.
Few things are harder than struggling alone. You might be holding onto pain from your family, friends, or past relationships. Or it could feel like you're stuck inside a traumatic event that chains your life. It might feel like no one understands how deeply sad, intensely angry, or desperately helpless you feel. But you're not alone. Healing from trauma is not just a concept; it is an attainable reality. It would be an honor to be invited on your journey towards healing, reparation and building a life worth living. I believe the goal of therapy is not just to stop the suffering, but to create a sustained life of thriving and joy.
I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for your story, feelings, and thoughts, and prioritize building a relationship of trust where everything can be discussed and examined.
Few things are harder than struggling alone. You might be holding onto pain from your family, friends, or past relationships. Or it could feel like you're stuck inside a traumatic event that chains your life. It might feel like no one understands how deeply sad, intensely angry, or desperately helpless you feel. But you're not alone. Healing from trauma is not just a concept; it is an attainable reality. It would be an honor to be invited on your journey towards healing, reparation and building a life worth living. I believe the goal of therapy is not just to stop the suffering, but to create a sustained life of thriving and joy.
(347) 497-3013 View (347) 497-3013
Photo of Yoon Im Kane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverdale, NY
Yoon Im Kane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP, CIFSP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Mindful psychotherapy areas of specialty: Depression and Anxiety Substance Abuse Eating Disorders Addiction and Compulsive Behaviors LGBTQ Acculturation and Cross Cultural Issues Life and Career Transitions Low Self Esteem Personal Growth Panic Attacks Trauma Loss and Grief Relationship Issues Social Anxiety Stress Management, 12-step recovery.
Yoon Im Kane is a psychotherapist, author, keynote speaker and the founder and CEO of Mindful Psychotherapy Services, a Manhattan-based Psychotherapy Company with offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Trained at Yale University, Yoon has been providing treatment as a psychotherapist for more than two decades. She is also the founder of a Maui-based tech company, mndlink, inc., a remote therapy platform that securely connects therapist with patients. Yoon is the author of Mindfulness Workbook for Depression: Effective Mindfulness Strategies to Cultivate Positivity from the Inside Out.
Mindful psychotherapy areas of specialty: Depression and Anxiety Substance Abuse Eating Disorders Addiction and Compulsive Behaviors LGBTQ Acculturation and Cross Cultural Issues Life and Career Transitions Low Self Esteem Personal Growth Panic Attacks Trauma Loss and Grief Relationship Issues Social Anxiety Stress Management, 12-step recovery.
Yoon Im Kane is a psychotherapist, author, keynote speaker and the founder and CEO of Mindful Psychotherapy Services, a Manhattan-based Psychotherapy Company with offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Trained at Yale University, Yoon has been providing treatment as a psychotherapist for more than two decades. She is also the founder of a Maui-based tech company, mndlink, inc., a remote therapy platform that securely connects therapist with patients. Yoon is the author of Mindfulness Workbook for Depression: Effective Mindfulness Strategies to Cultivate Positivity from the Inside Out.
(646) 583-3126 View (646) 583-3126
Photo of Jenny Lee, Art Therapist in Riverdale, NY
Jenny Lee
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
She provides psychotherapy services for individuals and couples with specialization in depression, anxiety, bereavement, LGBTQIA+, self-esteem, multiculturalism, adjustment, identity, interpersonal issues, sexual issues, anger, and career counseling.
As a therapist, Jenny Jinhee Lee aids individuals in achieving life goals and overcoming life difficulties by allowing them to creatively express themselves through art. Like her form of therapy, Jenny’s work is about the processing energy and how it can creatively be reflected onto the world in a positive way. She believes in a client-focused practice and guides clients towards a goal-oriented treatment.
She provides psychotherapy services for individuals and couples with specialization in depression, anxiety, bereavement, LGBTQIA+, self-esteem, multiculturalism, adjustment, identity, interpersonal issues, sexual issues, anger, and career counseling.
As a therapist, Jenny Jinhee Lee aids individuals in achieving life goals and overcoming life difficulties by allowing them to creatively express themselves through art. Like her form of therapy, Jenny’s work is about the processing energy and how it can creatively be reflected onto the world in a positive way. She believes in a client-focused practice and guides clients towards a goal-oriented treatment.
(929) 335-9685 View (929) 335-9685
Photo of Minsun Lee, Psychologist in Riverdale, NY
Minsun Lee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship and explore the patterns and emotions related to the pain you have experienced in life so that you can feel empowered to make the changes that can lead to a more meaningful life.
Many of life's challenges stem from difficulties in navigating our relational, social, and cultural worlds. You may be struggling with distress related to relationships, emotion regulation, racial trauma, cultural identity, or self-worth. These problems can present as depression, anxiety, PTSD, somatic symptoms, or couple distress. You may have already tried many different ways of solving your problems before seeking professional help. Sometimes, the symptoms you present with are a result of trying to adapt to impossible situations.
My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship and explore the patterns and emotions related to the pain you have experienced in life so that you can feel empowered to make the changes that can lead to a more meaningful life.
Many of life's challenges stem from difficulties in navigating our relational, social, and cultural worlds. You may be struggling with distress related to relationships, emotion regulation, racial trauma, cultural identity, or self-worth. These problems can present as depression, anxiety, PTSD, somatic symptoms, or couple distress. You may have already tried many different ways of solving your problems before seeking professional help. Sometimes, the symptoms you present with are a result of trying to adapt to impossible situations.
(201) 423-6986 View (201) 423-6986
Photo of Kay N. Shin, Art Therapist in Riverdale, NY
Kay N. Shin
Art Therapist, LCAT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
Using my cross-cultural awareness, I also help intercultural couples/families learn varied dimensions of communication and build empathy, mutual respect and connections.
I am a psychotherapist with over 18 years of clinical experience. I see individuals from diverse backgrounds, including, but not limited to, Asian Americans who deal with various internal and external conflicts. Facing difficult life transitions may result in depression, anxiety, and feeling stuck. I provide a secure space where individuals can search for self-understanding, gain a capacity to bear loneliness and uncertainty of life, and deepen a sense of relatedness. Through dyadic processes, I help them work through early attachment patterns and intergenerational traumas that may reoccur and complicate current life situations.
Using my cross-cultural awareness, I also help intercultural couples/families learn varied dimensions of communication and build empathy, mutual respect and connections.
I am a psychotherapist with over 18 years of clinical experience. I see individuals from diverse backgrounds, including, but not limited to, Asian Americans who deal with various internal and external conflicts. Facing difficult life transitions may result in depression, anxiety, and feeling stuck. I provide a secure space where individuals can search for self-understanding, gain a capacity to bear loneliness and uncertainty of life, and deepen a sense of relatedness. Through dyadic processes, I help them work through early attachment patterns and intergenerational traumas that may reoccur and complicate current life situations.
(917) 512-7724 View (917) 512-7724
Photo of Benedict Sungho Kim, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Riverdale, NY
Benedict Sungho Kim
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, DMin, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Kim has deep understanding about symptoms causing life view, career, decision making, attachment, relationship, addiction, PTSD, marriage and family life, mourning, bereavement, and aging.
Dr. Kim is a licensed psychoanalyst, a certified therapist, and a certified spiritual counselor. Besides his psychoanalytic background, Dr. Kim also was trained intensively in living Jesuit life over thirty six years. From his psychoanalytic teachings at training Institutes and from his active Jesuit life, Dr. Kim learned the fundamental queries of clinical and existential pangs in life. Depression is the most unendurable medical and emotional pain one can experience. Depression is the core symptom seating behind all the mental, emotional, physical, and existential diseases.
Kim has deep understanding about symptoms causing life view, career, decision making, attachment, relationship, addiction, PTSD, marriage and family life, mourning, bereavement, and aging.
Dr. Kim is a licensed psychoanalyst, a certified therapist, and a certified spiritual counselor. Besides his psychoanalytic background, Dr. Kim also was trained intensively in living Jesuit life over thirty six years. From his psychoanalytic teachings at training Institutes and from his active Jesuit life, Dr. Kim learned the fundamental queries of clinical and existential pangs in life. Depression is the most unendurable medical and emotional pain one can experience. Depression is the core symptom seating behind all the mental, emotional, physical, and existential diseases.
(646) 762-7673 View (646) 762-7673
Photo of Grace Kim, Counselor in Riverdale, NY
Grace Kim
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bayside, NY 11360  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a background from Nyack College in New York. I chose counseling to pay forward the benefits I've received and foster a supportive environment for others. Navigating life's challenges can be daunting, but you're not alone. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or other stressors, I'm here to help you navigate through them. My approach is compassionate and non-judgmental, guiding you through your emotions and thoughts towards healing and growth.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a background from Nyack College in New York. I chose counseling to pay forward the benefits I've received and foster a supportive environment for others. Navigating life's challenges can be daunting, but you're not alone. Whether it's anxiety, depression, or other stressors, I'm here to help you navigate through them. My approach is compassionate and non-judgmental, guiding you through your emotions and thoughts towards healing and growth.
(929) 348-2583 x11360 View (929) 348-2583 x11360
Photo of Namhee Stokivs, Psychologist in Riverdale, NY
Namhee Stokivs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Joy of life is always accompanied by pain, and there are times that you feel beaten and defeated. Psychological symptoms can surface and compromise your happiness and functioning during these struggles. Therapy can help you to stay on the right track or find the right directions to minimize unnecessary sufferings.
Joy of life is always accompanied by pain, and there are times that you feel beaten and defeated. Psychological symptoms can surface and compromise your happiness and functioning during these struggles. Therapy can help you to stay on the right track or find the right directions to minimize unnecessary sufferings.
(914) 758-1756 View (914) 758-1756
Photo of Jin Ha Seo in Riverdale, NY
Jin Ha Seo
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11354
Specialties: Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, ODD, BPD, Relationships Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Parenting, Self-Esteem Issues, Anger Management, Disordered Eating, BIPOC Mental Health Issues, Identity Issues, Substance Use Concerns, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Panic Disorder, Grief & Bereavement, Sleep Problems, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Family Issues, Christian Counseling, Religious and Cultural Issues, Domestic Violence
Specialties: Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, ODD, BPD, Relationships Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Parenting, Self-Esteem Issues, Anger Management, Disordered Eating, BIPOC Mental Health Issues, Identity Issues, Substance Use Concerns, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Panic Disorder, Grief & Bereavement, Sleep Problems, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Family Issues, Christian Counseling, Religious and Cultural Issues, Domestic Violence
(929) 466-9110 View (929) 466-9110
Photo of Minds Together, LCSWPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverdale, NY
Minds Together, LCSWPC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CDBT
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11102
Hola Hola. My name is Jean Carlos Osorio and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of professional experience and I am also the Founder/Clinical Director of Minds Together, LCSW.P.C. A private group outpatient mental health clinic that provides individual/couple and group therapeutic services in three different locations in Queens, Ny. We have our offices in Astoria, Forest Hills and Jackson Heights. We accept most Medicaid/Commercial insurance plans and provide out of network services. We provide face to face and Telehealth services.
Hola Hola. My name is Jean Carlos Osorio and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of professional experience and I am also the Founder/Clinical Director of Minds Together, LCSW.P.C. A private group outpatient mental health clinic that provides individual/couple and group therapeutic services in three different locations in Queens, Ny. We have our offices in Astoria, Forest Hills and Jackson Heights. We accept most Medicaid/Commercial insurance plans and provide out of network services. We provide face to face and Telehealth services.
(646) 846-4818 View (646) 846-4818
Photo of Ash Choi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverdale, NY
Ash Choi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a queer and trans nonbinary therapist mainly providing support for trans and nonbinary clients coping with transphobia as well as navigating gender identity and a/sexuality exploration and development. Race, class, and gender are at the forefront in my work with survivors of complex trauma. I help queer and trans immigrant communities with mental health challenges related to their lived experiences of abuse and neglect, long-term grief, and intergenerational trauma. My clinical modalities are psychodynamic and experiential.
I am a queer and trans nonbinary therapist mainly providing support for trans and nonbinary clients coping with transphobia as well as navigating gender identity and a/sexuality exploration and development. Race, class, and gender are at the forefront in my work with survivors of complex trauma. I help queer and trans immigrant communities with mental health challenges related to their lived experiences of abuse and neglect, long-term grief, and intergenerational trauma. My clinical modalities are psychodynamic and experiential.
(914) 350-4270 View (914) 350-4270
Photo of Lynn Min, Counselor in Riverdale, NY
Lynn Min
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11354
I believe every dysfunction, every disorder, and every pain was somehow born to cope with life and protect the best parts of us. In the journey towards healing, we all need a power greater than ourselves (call it God, love, or family...) to provide acceptance, support, and a safe place to unravel. Counseling is an invitation to come and be; to take an honest look at yourself for who and what you really are; to realize your issues make sense; and to have compassion for all parts of you so you can holistically heal and function at your full potential.
I believe every dysfunction, every disorder, and every pain was somehow born to cope with life and protect the best parts of us. In the journey towards healing, we all need a power greater than ourselves (call it God, love, or family...) to provide acceptance, support, and a safe place to unravel. Counseling is an invitation to come and be; to take an honest look at yourself for who and what you really are; to realize your issues make sense; and to have compassion for all parts of you so you can holistically heal and function at your full potential.
(646) 679-6212 View (646) 679-6212
Photo of Dr. Kahlen Kim, Psychologist in Riverdale, NY
Dr. Kahlen Kim
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11354
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in New York and New Jersey who provides individual psychotherapy to older adolescents and adults in English and Korean. I specialize in treating relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma (emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and neglect), as well as stress and trauma related to immigration, racial and ethnic identity, as well as other identity issues. My approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing elements from various modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in New York and New Jersey who provides individual psychotherapy to older adolescents and adults in English and Korean. I specialize in treating relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma (emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and neglect), as well as stress and trauma related to immigration, racial and ethnic identity, as well as other identity issues. My approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing elements from various modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(646) 859-1337 View (646) 859-1337
Photo of Stella Inyoung Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverdale, NY
Stella Inyoung Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling a little lost and frustrated trying to find “the right therapist" for you? Have you ever wished to completely be yourself in front of someone without worrying about being judged? Do you want to feel seen, heard, and understood by someone? I am here to help. I am ready to listen to your deep stories that you couldn't share with anyone and to better understand you with compassion, curiosity, and an open mind. As an immigrant with diverse educational, religious, and family backgrounds growing up in multiple countries, I understand how difficult it can be to navigate various cultures, institutions, and systems.
Are you feeling a little lost and frustrated trying to find “the right therapist" for you? Have you ever wished to completely be yourself in front of someone without worrying about being judged? Do you want to feel seen, heard, and understood by someone? I am here to help. I am ready to listen to your deep stories that you couldn't share with anyone and to better understand you with compassion, curiosity, and an open mind. As an immigrant with diverse educational, religious, and family backgrounds growing up in multiple countries, I understand how difficult it can be to navigate various cultures, institutions, and systems.
(718) 957-8612 View (718) 957-8612
Photo of Sharon Jung, Pre-Licensed Professional in Riverdale, NY
Sharon Jung
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10069
Feeling spread thin? Are your boundaries not set and respected? Intrusive, overwhelming thoughts won’t leave you alone? Stuck in a mental space vacuum where it’s hard to get yourself grounded and in control? Insecure in the way you present yourself in certain spaces? Find yourself reacting and regretting rather than mindfully responding? My curiosity drives my sessions to hear and understand your unique story in which you are the narrator, main character, and expert. I work with various clients, including children, teens, college students, those in midst of transitions, adults, and immigrants. Sessions in Korean are also available!
Feeling spread thin? Are your boundaries not set and respected? Intrusive, overwhelming thoughts won’t leave you alone? Stuck in a mental space vacuum where it’s hard to get yourself grounded and in control? Insecure in the way you present yourself in certain spaces? Find yourself reacting and regretting rather than mindfully responding? My curiosity drives my sessions to hear and understand your unique story in which you are the narrator, main character, and expert. I work with various clients, including children, teens, college students, those in midst of transitions, adults, and immigrants. Sessions in Korean are also available!
(646) 974-9392 View (646) 974-9392
Photo of Joan Choi, Counselor in Riverdale, NY
Joan Choi
Counselor, LMHC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
You are looking to better understand how your intersecting identities (racial, gender, sexuality, etc) & oppressive systems (racism, patriarchy, capitalism, etc) impact your daily lived experiences. You want to, in a safe space, heal and address traumas that stayed with you. You are interested in learning what narratives are limiting your growth, and in replacing them with liberating, nurturing beliefs about yourself. I work closely with members from the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other oppressed communities. I have extensive experience supporting folks working through cultural, generational, and other differences/gaps with loved ones.
You are looking to better understand how your intersecting identities (racial, gender, sexuality, etc) & oppressive systems (racism, patriarchy, capitalism, etc) impact your daily lived experiences. You want to, in a safe space, heal and address traumas that stayed with you. You are interested in learning what narratives are limiting your growth, and in replacing them with liberating, nurturing beliefs about yourself. I work closely with members from the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other oppressed communities. I have extensive experience supporting folks working through cultural, generational, and other differences/gaps with loved ones.
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Photo of Emmy Kang Shrivastava in Riverdale, NY
Emmy Kang Shrivastava
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression and struggling to understand their roots, or finding it challenging to navigate your relationships and communicate your needs effectively, you've taken an important step by seeking support here. I'm dedicated to helping you find relief, feel truly seen, ground yourself, and embark on a journey toward understanding your innermost self and intentions. In my therapeutic approach, I offer genuine warmth and openness, grounded in a sincere quest for truth.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression and struggling to understand their roots, or finding it challenging to navigate your relationships and communicate your needs effectively, you've taken an important step by seeking support here. I'm dedicated to helping you find relief, feel truly seen, ground yourself, and embark on a journey toward understanding your innermost self and intentions. In my therapeutic approach, I offer genuine warmth and openness, grounded in a sincere quest for truth.
(929) 560-6728 View (929) 560-6728
Photo of Stephen Kochenash in Riverdale, NY
Stephen Kochenash
LMHC-LP, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10020
Do you struggle navigating life? Do you wish you could increase your understanding and skills to make life less challenging? The good news is therapy can help you gain control over your life and pursue your dreams. Life is beautiful, but there are many tools that we as humans need to reach our full potential. Low confidence, readiness to change, trouble communicating, and lack of social support are just some barriers that can prevent you from getting “unstuck.” As a member of the Queer community, I empathize with these experiences and I have done intensive work personally and professionally that has changed my life for the better.
Do you struggle navigating life? Do you wish you could increase your understanding and skills to make life less challenging? The good news is therapy can help you gain control over your life and pursue your dreams. Life is beautiful, but there are many tools that we as humans need to reach our full potential. Low confidence, readiness to change, trouble communicating, and lack of social support are just some barriers that can prevent you from getting “unstuck.” As a member of the Queer community, I empathize with these experiences and I have done intensive work personally and professionally that has changed my life for the better.
(646) 961-4615 x414 View (646) 961-4615 x414
Photo of The Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverdale, NY
The Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
At The Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project, we provide identity-affirming care for all communities. Our patients are people, not problems, and we work with each person differently. We treat a range of issues related to sexuality and gender. These include out-of-control sexual behavior, sometimes labeled sex addiction (although we’re not fans of labels). Patients also come to us for intimacy anxiety, sexual compulsivity, gender and orientation confusion, LGBTQ+ issues, and family trauma.
At The Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project, we provide identity-affirming care for all communities. Our patients are people, not problems, and we work with each person differently. We treat a range of issues related to sexuality and gender. These include out-of-control sexual behavior, sometimes labeled sex addiction (although we’re not fans of labels). Patients also come to us for intimacy anxiety, sexual compulsivity, gender and orientation confusion, LGBTQ+ issues, and family trauma.
(917) 593-3902 View (917) 593-3902
Photo of Jessica Yoon, Licensed Master Social Worker in Riverdale, NY
Jessica Yoon
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
I know it wasn’t easy to come here, but you did. You took a courageous first step in the right direction of your road to change. Allow me the privilege to be part of your transformation. I want to work with you, and help you be the best version of you. The version that has been there all along, but has been obstructed by the pain and adversities you’ve faced. We will work together to understand the story of who you are. And we will develop goals that will make the path to the person you want to be clearer. Allow me the privilege of earning your trust, and show you I will be there every step of the way!
I know it wasn’t easy to come here, but you did. You took a courageous first step in the right direction of your road to change. Allow me the privilege to be part of your transformation. I want to work with you, and help you be the best version of you. The version that has been there all along, but has been obstructed by the pain and adversities you’ve faced. We will work together to understand the story of who you are. And we will develop goals that will make the path to the person you want to be clearer. Allow me the privilege of earning your trust, and show you I will be there every step of the way!
(718) 550-4012 View (718) 550-4012
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.