Photo of Amanda Pitchko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Amanda Pitchko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in both individual and group settings, serving women with eating disorders and other co-morbid mental illnesses, such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It was important for me to continue to serve the needs of individuals struggling with Eating Disorders, disordered eating and body image issues. In addition, I wanted to expand my range of therapy to include therapies for couples and families as well as for individuals. I value supporting clients in developing a greater understanding of themselves to improve their view of self, how they interact with others and the world around them.
I have worked in both individual and group settings, serving women with eating disorders and other co-morbid mental illnesses, such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It was important for me to continue to serve the needs of individuals struggling with Eating Disorders, disordered eating and body image issues. In addition, I wanted to expand my range of therapy to include therapies for couples and families as well as for individuals. I value supporting clients in developing a greater understanding of themselves to improve their view of self, how they interact with others and the world around them.
(267) 291-0405 View (267) 291-0405
Photo of Jonathan Alpert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Jonathan Alpert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I specialize in: relationships/couples, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, career/work issues, wellness, and sexual disorders.
I'm a results-oriented psychotherapist, executive/performance coach, columnist, and author of BE FEARLESS: Change Your Life in 28 Days. I work with individuals/couples on a wide range of issues. My patients come from all walks of life including professionals, students, executives, actors/actresses, musicians, athletes, and much more. My office is conveniently located in Center City, Philadelphia just steps from Rittenhouse Square and I have flexible hours that includes daytime, evenings, nights, and weekends. I also have an office located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and Washington, D.C. and can provide remote sessions globally via Skype and telephone.
I specialize in: relationships/couples, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, career/work issues, wellness, and sexual disorders.
I'm a results-oriented psychotherapist, executive/performance coach, columnist, and author of BE FEARLESS: Change Your Life in 28 Days. I work with individuals/couples on a wide range of issues. My patients come from all walks of life including professionals, students, executives, actors/actresses, musicians, athletes, and much more. My office is conveniently located in Center City, Philadelphia just steps from Rittenhouse Square and I have flexible hours that includes daytime, evenings, nights, and weekends. I also have an office located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and Washington, D.C. and can provide remote sessions globally via Skype and telephone.
(202) 841-3458 View (202) 841-3458
Photo of River Wards Wellness Collective, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
River Wards Wellness Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
River Wards Wellness Collective focuses on holistic wellness practices. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, reiki, and individual trauma-informed yoga and meditation. Our providers have a variety of specialties to address the specific needs of our community including DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Sensorimotor Therapy, and Perinatal Therapy.
River Wards Wellness Collective focuses on holistic wellness practices. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, reiki, and individual trauma-informed yoga and meditation. Our providers have a variety of specialties to address the specific needs of our community including DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Sensorimotor Therapy, and Perinatal Therapy.
(215) 515-0581 View (215) 515-0581
Photo of Diane A Adler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Diane A Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Do you struggle with shame, depression, anxiety and self reproach about your compulsive eating? Are you also struggling with general anxiety and depression that is keeping you lonely and isolated even if you are in a relationship? In an empathic, collaborative manner I create a safe environment with a high level of skill, patience and creativity and sense of humor to help you make positive meaningful changes. My strong psychodynamic background is combined with other modalities in an integrated approach. Good therapy should offer knowledge and insight and provide practical tools to help you grow and strategies for coping.
Do you struggle with shame, depression, anxiety and self reproach about your compulsive eating? Are you also struggling with general anxiety and depression that is keeping you lonely and isolated even if you are in a relationship? In an empathic, collaborative manner I create a safe environment with a high level of skill, patience and creativity and sense of humor to help you make positive meaningful changes. My strong psychodynamic background is combined with other modalities in an integrated approach. Good therapy should offer knowledge and insight and provide practical tools to help you grow and strategies for coping.
(609) 916-1402 View (609) 916-1402
Photo of Sarah Hoskens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Sarah Hoskens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19149  (Online Only)
Another of my specialties is working with couples.
The two populations I work the most with are moms trying to find the balance in their lives, and the LGBTQ+ population. I am a single mom of a young child with disabilities, and love working with other moms and talking through the challenges that moms face. As a member of and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the unique struggles that members of the community face regarding coming out, family complications, self-acceptance, and other issues. I help my clients to navigate these issues, and to live their best life possible.
Another of my specialties is working with couples.
The two populations I work the most with are moms trying to find the balance in their lives, and the LGBTQ+ population. I am a single mom of a young child with disabilities, and love working with other moms and talking through the challenges that moms face. As a member of and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the unique struggles that members of the community face regarding coming out, family complications, self-acceptance, and other issues. I help my clients to navigate these issues, and to live their best life possible.
(267) 619-8964 View (267) 619-8964
Photo of Elizabeth Miner-Worland, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Elizabeth Miner-Worland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
I have experience working with couples/relationships, individuals, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, trauma, neurodivergence, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My approach to therapy is based on the belief that every person has the strength and resilience within them to overcome challenges and create change in their lives. By exploring the stories we tell ourselves and others about our experiences, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. Through this process we can create new narratives that empower us to live more fulfilling lives.
I have experience working with couples/relationships, individuals, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, trauma, neurodivergence, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My approach to therapy is based on the belief that every person has the strength and resilience within them to overcome challenges and create change in their lives. By exploring the stories we tell ourselves and others about our experiences, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. Through this process we can create new narratives that empower us to live more fulfilling lives.
(267) 641-9985 View (267) 641-9985
Photo of Christopher Patchet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Christopher Patchet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I provide a safe and non-judgmental area that allows individuals, couples, and families to have open communications.
Welcome to my room. I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been working in the field of Social Work since 2013. I have been helping people overcome Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Relationships, Grief, ADHD, OCD, Addiction, Self-Esteem, and Transitioning. Along with my practice for the public, I also work at the Veteran's Affairs specializing in trauma (PTSD) and Sexual Trauma. Together, I can help you achieve your goals of the happier, calmer, and more fulfilling life you always dreamed of having.
I provide a safe and non-judgmental area that allows individuals, couples, and families to have open communications.
Welcome to my room. I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been working in the field of Social Work since 2013. I have been helping people overcome Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Relationships, Grief, ADHD, OCD, Addiction, Self-Esteem, and Transitioning. Along with my practice for the public, I also work at the Veteran's Affairs specializing in trauma (PTSD) and Sexual Trauma. Together, I can help you achieve your goals of the happier, calmer, and more fulfilling life you always dreamed of having.
(267) 972-0365 View (267) 972-0365
Photo of Augie Hermann, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Augie Hermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Philadelphia who has been offering counseling to individuals and couples for over 30 years.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Struggling with your relationships? We humans are wired for connection. When life's experiences damage those connections, we end up depressed, anxious, angry & unhappy, often turning to unhealthy lifestyles including alcohol, food, drugs & overspending. We suffer & our relationships suffer. Therapy allows time for exploring these disconnections & learning new skills for connecting to ourselves, others & the world, so we can live the life we want. I can help you clarify & work productively with these issues, develop your strengths, & experience a greater overall sense of well-being.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Philadelphia who has been offering counseling to individuals and couples for over 30 years.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Struggling with your relationships? We humans are wired for connection. When life's experiences damage those connections, we end up depressed, anxious, angry & unhappy, often turning to unhealthy lifestyles including alcohol, food, drugs & overspending. We suffer & our relationships suffer. Therapy allows time for exploring these disconnections & learning new skills for connecting to ourselves, others & the world, so we can live the life we want. I can help you clarify & work productively with these issues, develop your strengths, & experience a greater overall sense of well-being.
(215) 352-4798 View (215) 352-4798
Photo of Hannah Beaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Hannah Beaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Working with individuals, couples, and families, I bring compassion, curiosity and understanding into the therapeutic relationship.
I strongly believe that engaging in the the therapeutic process can be one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. My primary aim as a therapist is to help each individual I work with lead their best life in whatever form that takes. I use an integrative approach drawing from a relational framework, incorporating components of cognitive-behavioral therapy, strength-based and solution-focused techniques.
Working with individuals, couples, and families, I bring compassion, curiosity and understanding into the therapeutic relationship.
I strongly believe that engaging in the the therapeutic process can be one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. My primary aim as a therapist is to help each individual I work with lead their best life in whatever form that takes. I use an integrative approach drawing from a relational framework, incorporating components of cognitive-behavioral therapy, strength-based and solution-focused techniques.
(267) 627-3008 View (267) 627-3008
Photo of Phil Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Phil Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148  (Online Only)
I believe in a strengths-based approach to treatment, which means I start by working to understand who my client is, what their concerns/goals are, and how they can best be approached. This allows me to collaborate with my clients to develop effective coping skills for substance use, anxiety, depression, adjustment to aging, grief, relationship stress and boundary setting, or reactions to trauma. I also have experience with queer populations (LGBTQ+). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional experience in nonprofit and an additional 4 years in therapy practice.
I believe in a strengths-based approach to treatment, which means I start by working to understand who my client is, what their concerns/goals are, and how they can best be approached. This allows me to collaborate with my clients to develop effective coping skills for substance use, anxiety, depression, adjustment to aging, grief, relationship stress and boundary setting, or reactions to trauma. I also have experience with queer populations (LGBTQ+). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional experience in nonprofit and an additional 4 years in therapy practice.
(267) 754-9212 View (267) 754-9212
Photo of Betty C Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Betty C Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, SAP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Psychotherapy is my dream job. I typically see individuals struggling with relational issues whether it be family or significant other and mood disorders (depression/anxiety). I listen and try to understand what a person needs in therapy; problem-solving, support, insight into life situations, difficult work situations, or personal growth and understanding. I work closely with the Gay/Lesbian population and do couples counseling.
Psychotherapy is my dream job. I typically see individuals struggling with relational issues whether it be family or significant other and mood disorders (depression/anxiety). I listen and try to understand what a person needs in therapy; problem-solving, support, insight into life situations, difficult work situations, or personal growth and understanding. I work closely with the Gay/Lesbian population and do couples counseling.
(215) 688-5751 View (215) 688-5751
Photo of Janeé Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Janeé Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with children and adults coping with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Therapy can create greater meaning in your life, illuminate and transform unhealthy patterns, and nourish a sense of connection to those around you. Whether you seek help with specific concerns---like childhood traumas, current traumas, anxiety, depression, or relationship crisis---maybe, you simply want to better understand yourself, I am here to help. I create a safe and supportive space to help your process your emotion, identify strengths and weaknesses, and barriers to reaching your ultimate goal of self healing.
I have extensive experience working with children and adults coping with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Therapy can create greater meaning in your life, illuminate and transform unhealthy patterns, and nourish a sense of connection to those around you. Whether you seek help with specific concerns---like childhood traumas, current traumas, anxiety, depression, or relationship crisis---maybe, you simply want to better understand yourself, I am here to help. I create a safe and supportive space to help your process your emotion, identify strengths and weaknesses, and barriers to reaching your ultimate goal of self healing.
(215) 650-8216 View (215) 650-8216
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(484) 249-0659 View (484) 249-0659
Photo of Sherri Edelman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Sherri Edelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I offer a compassionate, educational approach; a partnership with my clients, who want to be their very best self. Counseling, therapy, or coaching with Triune Wellness Founder Dr. Sherri Edelman: will lead to internal and external shifts, in relationship to yourself and others; resulting in greater satisfaction and abundance in all areas of your life. Obstacles are identified and removed, and strategies and tools are developed; that are easy to understand and apply. With a dynamic, collaborative, and results-driven orientation; our work together will facilitate the release of old patterns and habits, for a brand new focus on life!
I offer a compassionate, educational approach; a partnership with my clients, who want to be their very best self. Counseling, therapy, or coaching with Triune Wellness Founder Dr. Sherri Edelman: will lead to internal and external shifts, in relationship to yourself and others; resulting in greater satisfaction and abundance in all areas of your life. Obstacles are identified and removed, and strategies and tools are developed; that are easy to understand and apply. With a dynamic, collaborative, and results-driven orientation; our work together will facilitate the release of old patterns and habits, for a brand new focus on life!
(267) 592-6854 View (267) 592-6854
Photo of Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
com) to learn more about our group practice and the services that are offered including: individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological and psychoeducational testing, and forensic services.
We are a group practice of over 70 therapists. At Equilibria, our goal is to help individuals achieve their personal potential and long term growth by compassionately and respectfully helping them live in balance. We utilize an integrative, strength based treatment model to address each individual's set of unique issues. Our belief is that treatment must be flexible and tailored to achieve symptom relief and increased self understanding.
com) to learn more about our group practice and the services that are offered including: individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological and psychoeducational testing, and forensic services.
We are a group practice of over 70 therapists. At Equilibria, our goal is to help individuals achieve their personal potential and long term growth by compassionately and respectfully helping them live in balance. We utilize an integrative, strength based treatment model to address each individual's set of unique issues. Our belief is that treatment must be flexible and tailored to achieve symptom relief and increased self understanding.
(484) 613-2595 View (484) 613-2595
Photo of Peter Downes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Peter Downes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I offer short-term, goal-oriented therapy, working through difficult problems such as anxiety, depression, anger management, divorce, substance abuse, sexual, professional, or relationship problems.
Therapy is not a long-term, drawn-out process. Some individuals may need extensive therapy, but most need help at particular times of crisis or when they realize that they need another perspective on themselves or their relationships with their husband or wife, children, family, co-workers, or friends. My approach begins with the here and now, and I assist clients in developing concrete ways to overcome issues standing in their way. My belief echoes the old saying, "You are not the problem; the problem is the problem.
I offer short-term, goal-oriented therapy, working through difficult problems such as anxiety, depression, anger management, divorce, substance abuse, sexual, professional, or relationship problems.
Therapy is not a long-term, drawn-out process. Some individuals may need extensive therapy, but most need help at particular times of crisis or when they realize that they need another perspective on themselves or their relationships with their husband or wife, children, family, co-workers, or friends. My approach begins with the here and now, and I assist clients in developing concrete ways to overcome issues standing in their way. My belief echoes the old saying, "You are not the problem; the problem is the problem.
(215) 712-8446 View (215) 712-8446
Photo of Rachel Brookland, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Rachel Brookland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123  (Online Only)
Women experience very unique challenges, which influence overall well-being, contentedness, and connection. Together we will build awareness and understanding of your experiences. We will identify how thoughts, feeling, and behaviors influence each other and gain tools to foster growth and wellness. My therapeutic work includes working with individuals coping with women’s health issues, infertility, weight management, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, work-life balance, stress management, and relationship/communication issues.
Women experience very unique challenges, which influence overall well-being, contentedness, and connection. Together we will build awareness and understanding of your experiences. We will identify how thoughts, feeling, and behaviors influence each other and gain tools to foster growth and wellness. My therapeutic work includes working with individuals coping with women’s health issues, infertility, weight management, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, work-life balance, stress management, and relationship/communication issues.
(717) 429-6325 View (717) 429-6325
Photo of Spring Psychology, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Spring Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP, NRHSP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148  (Online Only)
Some of the many services I offer include effective treatments for depression, anxiety, relationship problems, concentration difficulties, grief and loss, and life transitions.
The choice to change your life's direction can be a challenging one, much like finding the right therapist. If you are looking for extra support through a difficult time or seeking to set out on a path of self-discovery, I can help you achieve your goals. So many of us struggle to experience the type of life we know we deserve; by working together in a relaxing and healing environment, you and I can come to a better understanding of what may be holding you back. Thank you for the opportunity to take part in your journey.
Some of the many services I offer include effective treatments for depression, anxiety, relationship problems, concentration difficulties, grief and loss, and life transitions.
The choice to change your life's direction can be a challenging one, much like finding the right therapist. If you are looking for extra support through a difficult time or seeking to set out on a path of self-discovery, I can help you achieve your goals. So many of us struggle to experience the type of life we know we deserve; by working together in a relaxing and healing environment, you and I can come to a better understanding of what may be holding you back. Thank you for the opportunity to take part in your journey.
(463) 232-7004 View (463) 232-7004
Photo of Ellen M. Adelman, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Ellen M. Adelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! I am Dr. Ellen Adelman, a licensed clinical psychologist. Effective treatment means looking at issues of the whole person: Mind, Body and Spirit. I often see people with their families or partners to help understand and resolve relationship issues and to improve communication skills. In individual sessions, a process of gentle exploration helps us address anxiety, depression, anger, and issues of self-esteem. We will determine the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of the problems you face. Together we can identify the areas where you need help and develop strategies to deal with them in a safe and healing environment.
Hello! I am Dr. Ellen Adelman, a licensed clinical psychologist. Effective treatment means looking at issues of the whole person: Mind, Body and Spirit. I often see people with their families or partners to help understand and resolve relationship issues and to improve communication skills. In individual sessions, a process of gentle exploration helps us address anxiety, depression, anger, and issues of self-esteem. We will determine the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of the problems you face. Together we can identify the areas where you need help and develop strategies to deal with them in a safe and healing environment.
(215) 885-9700 View (215) 885-9700
Photo of Judy Freed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Judy Freed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144
I have more than 25 years of clinical experience, helping people grow, heal, and transform their lives. I have worked extensively with adults who have grown up in addictive/abusive/dysfunctional families, as well as adults who are experiencing here - and - now life challenges. I welcome clients who are struggling with issues of self-esteem, relationship difficulties, compulsions/addictions, disordered eating, depression, illness/pain, and anxiety. When someone is ready to embark on the journey of healing, I am honored and privileged to join in that journey with my skill, expertise, and compassionate presence.
I have more than 25 years of clinical experience, helping people grow, heal, and transform their lives. I have worked extensively with adults who have grown up in addictive/abusive/dysfunctional families, as well as adults who are experiencing here - and - now life challenges. I welcome clients who are struggling with issues of self-esteem, relationship difficulties, compulsions/addictions, disordered eating, depression, illness/pain, and anxiety. When someone is ready to embark on the journey of healing, I am honored and privileged to join in that journey with my skill, expertise, and compassionate presence.
(215) 392-6306 View (215) 392-6306

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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.