Photo of Kendra Stiers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Kendra Stiers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45226
I believe in utilizing therapy as an opportunity to assist individuals, couples, and families in acknowledging and overcoming barriers to healing and change. I create an authentic, collaborative and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients are able to address areas in life that aren't working (anxiety, anger, depression, low self-esteem, relationships, painful experiences); to explore and resolve the internal and relational barriers that limits healing and personal growth; and to create an action plan that empowers clients to live out their full potential.
I believe in utilizing therapy as an opportunity to assist individuals, couples, and families in acknowledging and overcoming barriers to healing and change. I create an authentic, collaborative and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients are able to address areas in life that aren't working (anxiety, anger, depression, low self-esteem, relationships, painful experiences); to explore and resolve the internal and relational barriers that limits healing and personal growth; and to create an action plan that empowers clients to live out their full potential.
(513) 450-3878 View (513) 450-3878
Photo of Tammy Pacheco, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Tammy Pacheco
Counselor, LPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45249
I specialize in helping women who are struggling with anxiety, codependency, and/or trauma to overcome past painful learning experiences, so they can flourish without fear or regret. If you have found yourself feeling hopeless. Experiencing years of repeated disappointment and relationship failures. Confused because no matter how good your intentions are or how hard you work, life just is not working out the way you thought it would. Then we need to talk. You don't need to let your past keep you trapped in fear and disappointment. There is hope. I can help you set a new path.
I specialize in helping women who are struggling with anxiety, codependency, and/or trauma to overcome past painful learning experiences, so they can flourish without fear or regret. If you have found yourself feeling hopeless. Experiencing years of repeated disappointment and relationship failures. Confused because no matter how good your intentions are or how hard you work, life just is not working out the way you thought it would. Then we need to talk. You don't need to let your past keep you trapped in fear and disappointment. There is hope. I can help you set a new path.
(513) 486-2129 View (513) 486-2129
Photo of Sharee N Allen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Sharee N Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45206
Book today at www.groundswellpsychotherapy.org and take back your well-being! I have seven years of experience in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy with children, adolescents, families, couples and adults. I also treat individuals who experience addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as those going through life transitions such as adjustment to illness, changes in schooling, divorce and grief.
Book today at www.groundswellpsychotherapy.org and take back your well-being! I have seven years of experience in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy with children, adolescents, families, couples and adults. I also treat individuals who experience addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as those going through life transitions such as adjustment to illness, changes in schooling, divorce and grief.
(323) 313-0747 View (323) 313-0747
Photo of Counseling That Works, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Counseling That Works
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45226
I provide counseling for individuals and couples wanting to improve their quality of life. I provide educational materials and discuss learning new skills to be practiced between sessions. My background as a counselor is in Lifespan development, which includes extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults. For the past 25 years, I have been assessing, diagnosing and helping people live better lives by providing tools to cultivate the lives they want to create. I provide a warm, comfortable space for my clients to express their challenges and explore options that they are willing to try to create change.
I provide counseling for individuals and couples wanting to improve their quality of life. I provide educational materials and discuss learning new skills to be practiced between sessions. My background as a counselor is in Lifespan development, which includes extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults. For the past 25 years, I have been assessing, diagnosing and helping people live better lives by providing tools to cultivate the lives they want to create. I provide a warm, comfortable space for my clients to express their challenges and explore options that they are willing to try to create change.
(513) 817-0176 View (513) 817-0176
Photo of Dwonna D. Thompson-Lenoir, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Dwonna D. Thompson-Lenoir
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside of them to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship helping drive individuals and families to reach their full potential and live a life void of unresolved issues.
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside of them to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship helping drive individuals and families to reach their full potential and live a life void of unresolved issues.
(513) 276-4008 View (513) 276-4008
Photo of Jessica Moore, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Jessica Moore
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
I enjoy working with people on all kinds of issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, trauma-related issues, and more. I have lots of experience working with children and youth who have a trauma history as well as children and youth who have problem sexual behaviors. I also really enjoy working with families and couples who are experience various forms of conflict. If your goal is to try to work through these and other types of conflicts, I would love to work with you!
I enjoy working with people on all kinds of issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, trauma-related issues, and more. I have lots of experience working with children and youth who have a trauma history as well as children and youth who have problem sexual behaviors. I also really enjoy working with families and couples who are experience various forms of conflict. If your goal is to try to work through these and other types of conflicts, I would love to work with you!
(513) 986-5332 View (513) 986-5332
Photo of Aman Randazzo, Psychologist in Cincinnati, OH
Aman Randazzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Therapy will empower individuals, couples, and families to embrace challenges as opportunities and build strong connections with self and the world around you.
Achieving health and wellness requires the alignment of mind and body. My practice focuses on building a healthy outlook through introspection, understanding how our thoughts drive feelings and actions, and learning how to harness thoughts to feel better and act with more purpose. Therapy will empower individuals, couples, and families to embrace challenges as opportunities and build strong connections with self and the world around you. Together, we will set goals for your personal & emotional development to achieve the balance that you seek My practice focuses on adult psychopathology, eating disorders, and geriatrics.
Therapy will empower individuals, couples, and families to embrace challenges as opportunities and build strong connections with self and the world around you.
Achieving health and wellness requires the alignment of mind and body. My practice focuses on building a healthy outlook through introspection, understanding how our thoughts drive feelings and actions, and learning how to harness thoughts to feel better and act with more purpose. Therapy will empower individuals, couples, and families to embrace challenges as opportunities and build strong connections with self and the world around you. Together, we will set goals for your personal & emotional development to achieve the balance that you seek My practice focuses on adult psychopathology, eating disorders, and geriatrics.
(513) 450-2657 View (513) 450-2657
Photo of Alyza Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Alyza Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45227
Are you struggling with grief and loss, whether that is the sudden or expected loss of a loved one, a divorce, a breakup, perinatal loss, or the end of a friendship? If so, you deserve to heal, grow, and thrive in your life, and I’m here to help you on that path. In therapy, we will explore the barriers that stand between you and your most authentic self, so that you are able to live more fully and enjoy who you truly are. In addition to working with individuals, I also work with couples who are facing challenges in their relationship, whether due to a loss or death of someone close, or as a result of faulty communication.
Are you struggling with grief and loss, whether that is the sudden or expected loss of a loved one, a divorce, a breakup, perinatal loss, or the end of a friendship? If so, you deserve to heal, grow, and thrive in your life, and I’m here to help you on that path. In therapy, we will explore the barriers that stand between you and your most authentic self, so that you are able to live more fully and enjoy who you truly are. In addition to working with individuals, I also work with couples who are facing challenges in their relationship, whether due to a loss or death of someone close, or as a result of faulty communication.
(513) 643-6663 View (513) 643-6663
Photo of Iten Elyassaki, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Iten Elyassaki
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor experienced in serving many clients with diverse needs. I believe each individual is unique and I want to welcome you to a world of new possibilities. I work with children, adolescents, and adults needing support with navigating life stage transitions, stress management, relationship challenges, self-esteem, behavioral issues, trauma, marital discord, infidelity, parenting difficulties, grief, and addictions. Likewise, I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression and a variety of mood, personality & mental health disorders.
I am a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor experienced in serving many clients with diverse needs. I believe each individual is unique and I want to welcome you to a world of new possibilities. I work with children, adolescents, and adults needing support with navigating life stage transitions, stress management, relationship challenges, self-esteem, behavioral issues, trauma, marital discord, infidelity, parenting difficulties, grief, and addictions. Likewise, I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression and a variety of mood, personality & mental health disorders.
(513) 952-8826 View (513) 952-8826
Photo of Psychotherapy by Stella, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Psychotherapy by Stella, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45243  (Online Only)
Do you or your partner have concerns about sexual issues including but not limited to;sexual desire/arousal, interests, compulsivity, erectile functioning, trouble reaching orgasm, painful intercourse, intimacy issues, or concerns regarding past unwanted sexual experiences?As an AASECT certified sex therapist, on track to obtain a PhD in sexology, I can help.
Making the first call is sometimes the hardest part of the therapeutic process. I commend you for your strength and courage in seeking help. One of the most important steps of pursuing counseling is finding a passionate, knowledgeable, and trusting therapist that you feel comfortable with. One that will sit with you through your difficult moments and help you to recognize or remind you of your strength. If a mood disorder is taking control of your life, I can help you to learn how to manage it. ​If you are experiencing challenges with your significant other(s) I can help you to improve the connection, understanding, and intimacy.
Do you or your partner have concerns about sexual issues including but not limited to;sexual desire/arousal, interests, compulsivity, erectile functioning, trouble reaching orgasm, painful intercourse, intimacy issues, or concerns regarding past unwanted sexual experiences?As an AASECT certified sex therapist, on track to obtain a PhD in sexology, I can help.
Making the first call is sometimes the hardest part of the therapeutic process. I commend you for your strength and courage in seeking help. One of the most important steps of pursuing counseling is finding a passionate, knowledgeable, and trusting therapist that you feel comfortable with. One that will sit with you through your difficult moments and help you to recognize or remind you of your strength. If a mood disorder is taking control of your life, I can help you to learn how to manage it. ​If you are experiencing challenges with your significant other(s) I can help you to improve the connection, understanding, and intimacy.
(513) 854-1443 View (513) 854-1443
Photo of Tina Pocock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Tina Pocock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CTP, CAIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45240
Are you struggling in silence? Have you experienced such pain in your life that you feel alone and isolated? Are you fearful to share because you believe no one will understand? Well, you are not alone. If this is how you feel or have felt, there is hope. You don't have to fight alone. There is support for you. There is someone who understands and will provide you with the tools to to walk through this journey. I am available to meet with individuals, couples and families in-person and through teletherapy appointments. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Anxiety Informed Professional.
Are you struggling in silence? Have you experienced such pain in your life that you feel alone and isolated? Are you fearful to share because you believe no one will understand? Well, you are not alone. If this is how you feel or have felt, there is hope. You don't have to fight alone. There is support for you. There is someone who understands and will provide you with the tools to to walk through this journey. I am available to meet with individuals, couples and families in-person and through teletherapy appointments. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Anxiety Informed Professional.
(513) 463-5329 View (513) 463-5329
Photo of Steven Andry, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Steven Andry
Counselor, LPCC-S, CSAT, DARTT
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Steve is a partner in INTACT Counseling Group with Jane Edelmann, LPCC, CSAT.
Through difficult times it is about engaging, equipping and supporting each individual throughout their journey of healing and growth. Steve's therapeutic work has focused primarily on establishing healthier roles, relationships and habits in men who struggle with sexually addictive and/or compulsive behaviors. In addition, Steve works with restoring individuals from the pain of past hurts often brought into their relationship(s). Steve's Attachment-Based, Psycho-dynamic approach to those desiring to work through personal struggles, trauma, and abuse, moves people toward healing through a foundation of respect, trust, and emotional safety without judgement.
Steve is a partner in INTACT Counseling Group with Jane Edelmann, LPCC, CSAT.
Through difficult times it is about engaging, equipping and supporting each individual throughout their journey of healing and growth. Steve's therapeutic work has focused primarily on establishing healthier roles, relationships and habits in men who struggle with sexually addictive and/or compulsive behaviors. In addition, Steve works with restoring individuals from the pain of past hurts often brought into their relationship(s). Steve's Attachment-Based, Psycho-dynamic approach to those desiring to work through personal struggles, trauma, and abuse, moves people toward healing through a foundation of respect, trust, and emotional safety without judgement.
(513) 854-1298 View (513) 854-1298
Photo of Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops in Cincinnati, OH
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202
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.
(513) 647-9906 View (513) 647-9906
Photo of Julie Labanz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Julie Labanz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45229  (Online Only)
Do you and your partner have different ideas of how often you should have sex or about the quality of it? Are you experiencing shame or pain when trying to engage with a partner sexually? Are you interested in pursuing a non-traditional relationship or in a consensual non-monogamous relationship but having trouble navigating those waters? Do you worry that you might be addicted to porn or sex? Are you and your partner struggling to communicate and feel like all you do anymore is argue? I'm here to help you address those issues and more in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Do you and your partner have different ideas of how often you should have sex or about the quality of it? Are you experiencing shame or pain when trying to engage with a partner sexually? Are you interested in pursuing a non-traditional relationship or in a consensual non-monogamous relationship but having trouble navigating those waters? Do you worry that you might be addicted to porn or sex? Are you and your partner struggling to communicate and feel like all you do anymore is argue? I'm here to help you address those issues and more in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
(513) 854-3491 View (513) 854-3491
Photo of Margaret Pennington, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Margaret Pennington
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236  (Online Only)
I can help with… professional help to treat anxiety or depression; empathetic support as you go through crisis or grief; a safe place to heal from trauma in body, mind, and spirit; compassionate marriage counseling to strengthen your relationship and address the deeper issues; confidential support when life struggles or transitions seem overwhelming.
Life is a journey. Where are you in your journey? Are wounds from the past holding you back? Are you in a stage of growth or transitions, or struggling to manage and cope with today’s stresses? Maybe you are looking ahead in your journey and facing life choices, looking for directions, or just want to move forward in a healthier way. Counseling can help empower you to navigate your journey.
I can help with… professional help to treat anxiety or depression; empathetic support as you go through crisis or grief; a safe place to heal from trauma in body, mind, and spirit; compassionate marriage counseling to strengthen your relationship and address the deeper issues; confidential support when life struggles or transitions seem overwhelming.
Life is a journey. Where are you in your journey? Are wounds from the past holding you back? Are you in a stage of growth or transitions, or struggling to manage and cope with today’s stresses? Maybe you are looking ahead in your journey and facing life choices, looking for directions, or just want to move forward in a healthier way. Counseling can help empower you to navigate your journey.
(513) 434-6629 View (513) 434-6629
Jumpstart To Healing (R)
Counselor, EMDR, Trauma, CSAT, Gottman, EFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45240
We offer programs to help couples and individuals in crisis, those who struggle with sex and porn addiction, partners of sex/porn addicts, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, alcohol/substance abuse, anger management, and developmental/relational trauma.
Counseling Alliance, (TM) now offers JUMPSTART TO HEALING (R) as a way to quickly begin your healing journey. These short programs (some as short as 4 hours and others up to 2 days) are designed to produce significant changes quickly. We strive to get our clients in quickly and can often see you the next day. Please call or email if you are interested in JUMPSTART TO HEALING (R). We also offer traditional, one or two hour sessions for individuals, couples, and groups.
We offer programs to help couples and individuals in crisis, those who struggle with sex and porn addiction, partners of sex/porn addicts, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, alcohol/substance abuse, anger management, and developmental/relational trauma.
Counseling Alliance, (TM) now offers JUMPSTART TO HEALING (R) as a way to quickly begin your healing journey. These short programs (some as short as 4 hours and others up to 2 days) are designed to produce significant changes quickly. We strive to get our clients in quickly and can often see you the next day. Please call or email if you are interested in JUMPSTART TO HEALING (R). We also offer traditional, one or two hour sessions for individuals, couples, and groups.
(513) 657-0975 View (513) 657-0975
Photo of Rachel Turner, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Rachel Turner
Counselor, MAEd, LPCC, LSW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45244  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, trauma, OCD, family-of-origin issues, relationship challenges, and communication.
Are you looking for a compassionate space to sort through life's challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or just not yourself? It would be an honor to be on your team as you grow in self-understanding and self-compassion, all while working towards realistic and concrete goals to improve your mood, wellbeing, and relationships. Schedule a free initial assessment to see if you think counseling can benefit you!
I specialize in anxiety, trauma, OCD, family-of-origin issues, relationship challenges, and communication.
Are you looking for a compassionate space to sort through life's challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or just not yourself? It would be an honor to be on your team as you grow in self-understanding and self-compassion, all while working towards realistic and concrete goals to improve your mood, wellbeing, and relationships. Schedule a free initial assessment to see if you think counseling can benefit you!
(513) 640-9782 View (513) 640-9782
Photo of Marilyn Jewell Bielinski, Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Marilyn Jewell Bielinski
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45227
Hello and I am looking forward to working together! I am currently accepting new clients for both in person and teletherapy appointments in Ohio and Florida. I specialize in working with adults and teens with a variety of concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, to relationship issues, addiction issues, LGBTQ+ spectrum and life transitions/challenges. I believe that a quality therapeutic relationship is built on trust and authenticity. Therapy is about change, gaining skills, knowledge and confidence in a safe and supportive environment. I work hard with my clients and support them to make the changes they want to make.
Hello and I am looking forward to working together! I am currently accepting new clients for both in person and teletherapy appointments in Ohio and Florida. I specialize in working with adults and teens with a variety of concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, to relationship issues, addiction issues, LGBTQ+ spectrum and life transitions/challenges. I believe that a quality therapeutic relationship is built on trust and authenticity. Therapy is about change, gaining skills, knowledge and confidence in a safe and supportive environment. I work hard with my clients and support them to make the changes they want to make.
(513) 796-7729 View (513) 796-7729
Photo of Linda M Cramer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Cincinnati, OH
Linda M Cramer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I love working with individuals and couples who are seeking ways to improve the way they experience life. Sometimes we can get stuck in an ineffective pattern in our relationships or just the way we manage stress and the obstacles life throws at all of us. Hearing peoples stories is essential in putting all the pieces together. I am a skilled and compassionate listener and would love to help you figure out how to achieve your goals. I've worked effectively with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma and marital conflicts.
I love working with individuals and couples who are seeking ways to improve the way they experience life. Sometimes we can get stuck in an ineffective pattern in our relationships or just the way we manage stress and the obstacles life throws at all of us. Hearing peoples stories is essential in putting all the pieces together. I am a skilled and compassionate listener and would love to help you figure out how to achieve your goals. I've worked effectively with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma and marital conflicts.
(513) 506-9727 View (513) 506-9727
Photo of Sarah Headley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cincinnati, OH
Sarah Headley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and codependency.
At Insight Therapeutic Services, I emphasize the integration of body, mind and spirit. I recognize that all three aspects of one's self must be balanced in order to maximize our human potential. You will feel calm, relaxed and safe in my comfortable, Blue Ash office environment. I have experience working with a wide variety of clients. I have worked with families, couples and individuals affected by severe mental illness, those who were struggling with transitional life stressors as well as grief, pain and mortality issues.
I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and codependency.
At Insight Therapeutic Services, I emphasize the integration of body, mind and spirit. I recognize that all three aspects of one's self must be balanced in order to maximize our human potential. You will feel calm, relaxed and safe in my comfortable, Blue Ash office environment. I have experience working with a wide variety of clients. I have worked with families, couples and individuals affected by severe mental illness, those who were struggling with transitional life stressors as well as grief, pain and mortality issues.
(513) 924-4280 View (513) 924-4280
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.