Couples Counseling Therapists in Ohio

Photo of Christina Salameh, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Christina Salameh
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
I am licensed professional clinical counselor licensed in Ohio. I have a master’s in clinical counseling from John Carroll University. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. Areas of treatment include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and career challenges. I also have experience in working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
I am licensed professional clinical counselor licensed in Ohio. I have a master’s in clinical counseling from John Carroll University. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. Areas of treatment include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and career challenges. I also have experience in working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
(614) 820-8924 View (614) 820-8924
Photo of Dr. Nicole Walton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Dr. Nicole Walton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45419
I believe therapy can be a beneficial tool to assist those who are hurting, dissatisfied, or filled with uncertainty. Sometimes we find ourselves struggling in our relationships. We may have persistent sadness or worries that get in the way of life. We may have losses that are too difficult to process on our own. Or we may feel our life has just gotten off track. There are many reasons to seek therapy. Do you want to learn and try new coping skills? Do you want to improve a relationship? Do you want help working through a problem in your life? I can help. I offer therapy in-person or online and have evening availability.
I believe therapy can be a beneficial tool to assist those who are hurting, dissatisfied, or filled with uncertainty. Sometimes we find ourselves struggling in our relationships. We may have persistent sadness or worries that get in the way of life. We may have losses that are too difficult to process on our own. Or we may feel our life has just gotten off track. There are many reasons to seek therapy. Do you want to learn and try new coping skills? Do you want to improve a relationship? Do you want help working through a problem in your life? I can help. I offer therapy in-person or online and have evening availability.
(937) 358-8351 View (937) 358-8351
Photo of Compass Counseling Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Compass Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye Lake, OH 43008
I strongly believe in fostering a collaborative relationship with clients and always approach my work from a strengths-based perspective.
Navigating the journey of life can be challenging. Often the path is fraught with twists and turns as we encounter obstacles we did not anticipate and struggle to overcome. As a therapist, I see my role as someone who will walk beside you as you seek to overcome difficulties and discover the right direction for your life. I am an independently licensed Social Worker who received my MSW from The Ohio State University. I have experience working with diverse late adolescent and adult populations, providing outpatient counseling to individuals and couples, as well as facilitation of a wide range of therapeutic group work.
I strongly believe in fostering a collaborative relationship with clients and always approach my work from a strengths-based perspective.
Navigating the journey of life can be challenging. Often the path is fraught with twists and turns as we encounter obstacles we did not anticipate and struggle to overcome. As a therapist, I see my role as someone who will walk beside you as you seek to overcome difficulties and discover the right direction for your life. I am an independently licensed Social Worker who received my MSW from The Ohio State University. I have experience working with diverse late adolescent and adult populations, providing outpatient counseling to individuals and couples, as well as facilitation of a wide range of therapeutic group work.
(740) 281-1497 View (740) 281-1497
Photo of Barbara Turman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ohio
Barbara Turman
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LICDC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
DO You Feel Like You Haven't Been Heard! I utilize a solution-focused, and client-centered approach, which includes identifying relationships that may be directly or indirectly impacting your ability to function at your highest level. I believe your relationship with yourself; impacts how you view and interact with the world and those around you. First, we will identify the primary stressors causing you dis-ease, then create a treatment plan that allows you to be the person you desire, and address the barriers impacting you. I treat couples, blended families, relational conflicts, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, etc.
DO You Feel Like You Haven't Been Heard! I utilize a solution-focused, and client-centered approach, which includes identifying relationships that may be directly or indirectly impacting your ability to function at your highest level. I believe your relationship with yourself; impacts how you view and interact with the world and those around you. First, we will identify the primary stressors causing you dis-ease, then create a treatment plan that allows you to be the person you desire, and address the barriers impacting you. I treat couples, blended families, relational conflicts, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, etc.
(614) 721-9221 View (614) 721-9221
Photo of Corinne Milentijevic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Corinne Milentijevic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
We are all on our own healing journey and I want to congratulate you for taking this step toward peace and wellness! This is hard and we all need a support system to help us along the way. I want to be there for you to assist you when the feelings get too much, when that sneaky trauma response appears just when you thought you met the person of your dreams, but you are now sabotaging the heck out of this new relationship and have no idea why or when life just seems to keep serving you that left hook you were not anticipating at all.
We are all on our own healing journey and I want to congratulate you for taking this step toward peace and wellness! This is hard and we all need a support system to help us along the way. I want to be there for you to assist you when the feelings get too much, when that sneaky trauma response appears just when you thought you met the person of your dreams, but you are now sabotaging the heck out of this new relationship and have no idea why or when life just seems to keep serving you that left hook you were not anticipating at all.
(440) 797-3949 View (440) 797-3949
Photo of John E. Heaton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ohio
John E. Heaton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beavercreek, OH 45432
Note: I am only doing couples/marriage/premarital counseling at this time. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my perspective of the human condition and experience is derived from thinking about the context of relationships. Very few, if any, "problems" are a solitary experience; it is often experienced with others in our lives. We are relational beings, and who we are has been influenced by the relationships we have with others. Relationships can hurt, but relationships can also heal. Begin the process of healing and restoring you (and your relationships) today.
Note: I am only doing couples/marriage/premarital counseling at this time. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my perspective of the human condition and experience is derived from thinking about the context of relationships. Very few, if any, "problems" are a solitary experience; it is often experienced with others in our lives. We are relational beings, and who we are has been influenced by the relationships we have with others. Relationships can hurt, but relationships can also heal. Begin the process of healing and restoring you (and your relationships) today.
(937) 813-6856 View (937) 813-6856
Photo of Vanessa Dvorin-Fremont / IISEE, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Vanessa Dvorin-Fremont / IISEE, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Master’s level, LISW - Supervisor, a graduate of Case Western Reserve University’s Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences in addition to a Masters and Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Cleveland State University. Mrs. Fremont’s experience has led to clinical specialties which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Systems Approach which are known to be best practices in treating anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, adjustment disorders, personality disorders and relationship and marital problems. Mrs. Fremont is also a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist.
Master’s level, LISW - Supervisor, a graduate of Case Western Reserve University’s Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences in addition to a Masters and Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Cleveland State University. Mrs. Fremont’s experience has led to clinical specialties which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Systems Approach which are known to be best practices in treating anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, adjustment disorders, personality disorders and relationship and marital problems. Mrs. Fremont is also a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist.
(216) 279-5492 View (216) 279-5492
Photo of Bryan D Davis, Counselor in Ohio
Bryan D Davis
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Marengo, OH 43334
My professional history consists of 14 years in addiction counseling and an additional 3 years of mental health/relationship counseling. I believe the individual is comprised of four domains: Biological, Psychological, Social and Spiritual. In our search for purpose and meaning all of these domains must be addressed. I embrace a holistic approach to counseling which views the counselor as a trained professional- but not all knowing expert. While the client has problems; the client also has solutions. Through a therapeutic alliance, together we can develop a plan that will lead to a more fulfilling life.
My professional history consists of 14 years in addiction counseling and an additional 3 years of mental health/relationship counseling. I believe the individual is comprised of four domains: Biological, Psychological, Social and Spiritual. In our search for purpose and meaning all of these domains must be addressed. I embrace a holistic approach to counseling which views the counselor as a trained professional- but not all knowing expert. While the client has problems; the client also has solutions. Through a therapeutic alliance, together we can develop a plan that will lead to a more fulfilling life.
(614) 388-9379 View (614) 388-9379
Photo of Veronica A Bojerski, Counselor in Ohio
Veronica A Bojerski
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
One of my biggest aims is to build a solid foundation and trusting relationship so that we can go on your journey to wellness together.
In Person or Secure Video Sessions. Are you or a family member experiencing stress/overwhelm from the pressures of life's pace & uncertainty? Has your teen had behavior or mood changes? Are they heading off to college? Any intense fears or phobias? Unresolved trauma? Wondering about an ADHD diagnosis? Maybe you are struggling with health or relationships? There many different reasons that a person may reach out to a counselor and you may just not know where to begin. My aim is to help you sort through your concerns and to come up with a collaborative plan that puts you on a path of self discovery and finding solutions.
One of my biggest aims is to build a solid foundation and trusting relationship so that we can go on your journey to wellness together.
In Person or Secure Video Sessions. Are you or a family member experiencing stress/overwhelm from the pressures of life's pace & uncertainty? Has your teen had behavior or mood changes? Are they heading off to college? Any intense fears or phobias? Unresolved trauma? Wondering about an ADHD diagnosis? Maybe you are struggling with health or relationships? There many different reasons that a person may reach out to a counselor and you may just not know where to begin. My aim is to help you sort through your concerns and to come up with a collaborative plan that puts you on a path of self discovery and finding solutions.
(216) 930-3113 View (216) 930-3113
Photo of Taufika Hafiz Sakhawat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Taufika Hafiz Sakhawat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Macedonia, OH 44056  (Online Only)
By providing a safe environment, and a therapeutic relationship, you will achieve your goal.
You are the expert on your life; you are the one who knows what goal you want to set up for your happiness. Do not let your stress, anxiety, depression, and self-defeating thoughts hold you back from your goal. People are often diagnosed with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Risk factors for SUD usually include trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression. Acknowledging the symptoms are often difficult, with the therapy you will find your strength, triggers, and patterns and will be able to perceive a positive world to have a successful happy life.
By providing a safe environment, and a therapeutic relationship, you will achieve your goal.
You are the expert on your life; you are the one who knows what goal you want to set up for your happiness. Do not let your stress, anxiety, depression, and self-defeating thoughts hold you back from your goal. People are often diagnosed with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Risk factors for SUD usually include trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression. Acknowledging the symptoms are often difficult, with the therapy you will find your strength, triggers, and patterns and will be able to perceive a positive world to have a successful happy life.
(330) 331-6785 View (330) 331-6785
Photo of Denise A Ferree, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Denise A Ferree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45230
I have provided individual and group counseling to children, youth, and adults with severe mental illness, behavioral and relationship issues, loss and grief, substance use disorders and court ordered services, among others.
Life is beautiful and messy. Recovery is not linear. And healing takes more than just time. It is our experiences from birth to the present that have shaped us to be who we are. Therapy can help peel back those layers of experiences and allow us to better understand how our experiences affected us and learn how to move beyond the past and reshape our future. Perhaps past trauma prevents you from feeling safe and happy or relationship issues are crushing your spirit. Maybe recent loss has triggered pain that seems unbearable or life transitions are very overwhelming.
I have provided individual and group counseling to children, youth, and adults with severe mental illness, behavioral and relationship issues, loss and grief, substance use disorders and court ordered services, among others.
Life is beautiful and messy. Recovery is not linear. And healing takes more than just time. It is our experiences from birth to the present that have shaped us to be who we are. Therapy can help peel back those layers of experiences and allow us to better understand how our experiences affected us and learn how to move beyond the past and reshape our future. Perhaps past trauma prevents you from feeling safe and happy or relationship issues are crushing your spirit. Maybe recent loss has triggered pain that seems unbearable or life transitions are very overwhelming.
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Photo of Jessica Twehues, Psychologist in Ohio
Jessica Twehues
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255
As a clinical psychologist in Cincinnati, Ohio, I enjoy maintaining a small private practice specializing in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, relationship issues, men's issues, and weight loss counseling. I purposefully keep my practice small to maintain direct contact with clients and provide personal, specialized care. I believe strongly that people can change through therapy and will work with you to make changes within yourself and in your life. I focus on providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment to help people change.
As a clinical psychologist in Cincinnati, Ohio, I enjoy maintaining a small private practice specializing in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, relationship issues, men's issues, and weight loss counseling. I purposefully keep my practice small to maintain direct contact with clients and provide personal, specialized care. I believe strongly that people can change through therapy and will work with you to make changes within yourself and in your life. I focus on providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment to help people change.
(859) 905-3601 View (859) 905-3601
Photo of Dr. Stephen J. Boyd Ph.D And Associates, Counselor in Ohio
Dr. Stephen J. Boyd Ph.D And Associates
Counselor, LPCC-S, FAAMFT, FAAPC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45255
Focusing on Pre-Marital Counseling, Couples Counseling, Leadership/Executive/Wellness Coaching and Spiritual Direction.
Right now may be your time. The time when you're confronted with a crisis, a lack of direction, a sense of emptiness, a life being unfulfilled. I help individuals, couples, and families reach a new level of personal and spiritual growth. By developing your spiritual strength you'll be able to overcome what is now considered impossible to achieve. Let's talk about what God has in store for you. Through assessments, analysis, and spiritual guidance, me and my associates can help you achieve your professional goals and revitalize relationships.
Focusing on Pre-Marital Counseling, Couples Counseling, Leadership/Executive/Wellness Coaching and Spiritual Direction.
Right now may be your time. The time when you're confronted with a crisis, a lack of direction, a sense of emptiness, a life being unfulfilled. I help individuals, couples, and families reach a new level of personal and spiritual growth. By developing your spiritual strength you'll be able to overcome what is now considered impossible to achieve. Let's talk about what God has in store for you. Through assessments, analysis, and spiritual guidance, me and my associates can help you achieve your professional goals and revitalize relationships.
(513) 817-0419 View (513) 817-0419
Photo of Amanda Reagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Amanda Reagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples with specialized care for women's issues, grief/loss, relationships & relational trauma, anxiety and depression.
Hello! My name is Amanda. I am committed to helping women from conception to motherhood to address their mental health needs. Together we will explore what you need to restore yourself. With therapy, you can enjoy your time with your family and your partner to feel more present in your life. A significant part of my practice focuses on helping women and their partners with issues related to reproductive mental health including infertility, miscarriage and infant loss, and pregnancy and postpartum concerns. I am currently licensed in Texas, Florida and Ohio.
I work with individuals and couples with specialized care for women's issues, grief/loss, relationships & relational trauma, anxiety and depression.
Hello! My name is Amanda. I am committed to helping women from conception to motherhood to address their mental health needs. Together we will explore what you need to restore yourself. With therapy, you can enjoy your time with your family and your partner to feel more present in your life. A significant part of my practice focuses on helping women and their partners with issues related to reproductive mental health including infertility, miscarriage and infant loss, and pregnancy and postpartum concerns. I am currently licensed in Texas, Florida and Ohio.
(614) 943-4875 View (614) 943-4875
Photo of Dr. B Couples Marriage Anxiety Stress Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ohio
Dr. B Couples Marriage Anxiety Stress Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Medina, OH 44256  (Online Only)
Tried Everything? Anxious Adults & Couples ready to overcome debilitating fears, panic attacks, unmanageable anxiety, arguments with partner & build confidence, and heal past trauma & betrayal. I will teach you effective evidence based skills to achieve healthy relationships, & quickly resolve conflict! I believe in a world where everyone deserves a place to heal mind, body, spirit & soul! I choose to fully invest in my clients, with my wisdom as a trauma survivor, my experiences of healing pain & overcome any obstacle, Giving you Hope! Call TODAY!.
Tried Everything? Anxious Adults & Couples ready to overcome debilitating fears, panic attacks, unmanageable anxiety, arguments with partner & build confidence, and heal past trauma & betrayal. I will teach you effective evidence based skills to achieve healthy relationships, & quickly resolve conflict! I believe in a world where everyone deserves a place to heal mind, body, spirit & soul! I choose to fully invest in my clients, with my wisdom as a trauma survivor, my experiences of healing pain & overcome any obstacle, Giving you Hope! Call TODAY!.
(330) 574-7473 View (330) 574-7473
Photo of Sara Trembath, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Sara Trembath
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015
I have experience working with all types of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and complex trauma. My secondary specialties include severe chronic mental illness, relationship problems, recovery from previous domestic violence, LTGBQ+ concerns, self-harm, and developmental or attachment wounds from childhood. I continue to take continuing education classes to improve my knowledge and skills in these areas. I especially enjoy working with clients motivated to improve their lives and willing to take responsibility for their success rather than expecting others to do their work.
I have experience working with all types of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and complex trauma. My secondary specialties include severe chronic mental illness, relationship problems, recovery from previous domestic violence, LTGBQ+ concerns, self-harm, and developmental or attachment wounds from childhood. I continue to take continuing education classes to improve my knowledge and skills in these areas. I especially enjoy working with clients motivated to improve their lives and willing to take responsibility for their success rather than expecting others to do their work.
(740) 276-2965 View (740) 276-2965
Photo of Cleveland Couples Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ohio
Cleveland Couples Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Couples Therapy LLC specializes in providing couples counseling in the greater Cleveland area. Molly Simkins Sluk is a Couples and Family Therapist with advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy EFT who specializes in helping couples build greater intimacy and successfully navigate conflicts. She helps couples understand and resolve the underlying needs and emotions that drive the conflict in their relationships. Molly also provides parenting support and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy for parents seeking to strengthen relationships with children and collaboratively face various family and life stressors.
Cleveland Couples Therapy LLC specializes in providing couples counseling in the greater Cleveland area. Molly Simkins Sluk is a Couples and Family Therapist with advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy EFT who specializes in helping couples build greater intimacy and successfully navigate conflicts. She helps couples understand and resolve the underlying needs and emotions that drive the conflict in their relationships. Molly also provides parenting support and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy for parents seeking to strengthen relationships with children and collaboratively face various family and life stressors.
(216) 242-1262 View (216) 242-1262
Photo of All Heart Counseling, Counselor in Ohio
All Heart Counseling
Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC, SUPV
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I offer individual and couples counseling, mainly, though I am willing to meet with anyone I can help.
If you want help with deeply personal and confidential matters, either for yourself, or in your relationship(s), I am able to help both individuals and couples work through difficult emotions and concerns. If you are committed to exploring your history, reflecting, and gaining self-awareness, in the interest of your personal growth, I can help with my professional experience and training. If you want to work on your relationship, either to move out of crisis, or to fine-tune it and be have greater emotional intimacy, I am happy to work with you. I enjoy new challenges, and helping others find greater satisfaction in their lives.
I offer individual and couples counseling, mainly, though I am willing to meet with anyone I can help.
If you want help with deeply personal and confidential matters, either for yourself, or in your relationship(s), I am able to help both individuals and couples work through difficult emotions and concerns. If you are committed to exploring your history, reflecting, and gaining self-awareness, in the interest of your personal growth, I can help with my professional experience and training. If you want to work on your relationship, either to move out of crisis, or to fine-tune it and be have greater emotional intimacy, I am happy to work with you. I enjoy new challenges, and helping others find greater satisfaction in their lives.
(216) 465-0551 View (216) 465-0551
Photo of Jennifer Knetig, Psychologist in Ohio
Jennifer Knetig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Specific areas of specialization include trauma, intimate partner violence, self-esteem, relationships, identity, and personal growth.
Women often come to my office with a feeling that their cups are “running over.” As a woman and licensed clinical psychologist, I can relate to the feeling of running from appointment to appointment, from commitment to commitment, from day to day. Too much of modern living is about “getting by,” and “just getting through things” at the expense of joy. My work focuses upon supporting women in connecting more deeply with their experiences, with loved ones, and with themselves.
Specific areas of specialization include trauma, intimate partner violence, self-esteem, relationships, identity, and personal growth.
Women often come to my office with a feeling that their cups are “running over.” As a woman and licensed clinical psychologist, I can relate to the feeling of running from appointment to appointment, from commitment to commitment, from day to day. Too much of modern living is about “getting by,” and “just getting through things” at the expense of joy. My work focuses upon supporting women in connecting more deeply with their experiences, with loved ones, and with themselves.
(216) 925-4108 View (216) 925-4108
Photo of Weenee Low, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio
Weenee Low
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I provide therapy to children, adults and couples who are seeking counseling to work through trauma, make changes, or get through a difficult situation.
Through life’s ups and downs, it is crucial for people to be seen, heard, and understood. It is through this validation that my goal is to be a consistent, constant support system for my clients through the ebbs and flows-good and bad. My contribution as a therapist is to provide a safe space for individuals to learn about themselves, explore their minds and hearts, and to challenge themselves when necessary. As for my approach, I often utilize Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as incorporating mindfulness techniques into treatment plans. I also integrate an eclectic approach to tailor to my clients needs.
I provide therapy to children, adults and couples who are seeking counseling to work through trauma, make changes, or get through a difficult situation.
Through life’s ups and downs, it is crucial for people to be seen, heard, and understood. It is through this validation that my goal is to be a consistent, constant support system for my clients through the ebbs and flows-good and bad. My contribution as a therapist is to provide a safe space for individuals to learn about themselves, explore their minds and hearts, and to challenge themselves when necessary. As for my approach, I often utilize Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as incorporating mindfulness techniques into treatment plans. I also integrate an eclectic approach to tailor to my clients needs.
(513) 434-6178 View (513) 434-6178
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.