Photo of Liza Linder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Liza Linder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110
I truly believe that therapy works best when there is a strong and trusting relationship between client and therapist. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in a strengths based perspective, and unconditional positive regard for my clients. The majority of my career has been exclusively serving the LGBTQ+ and the PLWHIV communities. I am fiercely passionate about both of these communities. I believe that we are all on our own journeys, and it often helps to have someone take that journey with you. It helps to have someone who sees you, hears you, and believes you. I will walk with you and hold that safe space for you.
I truly believe that therapy works best when there is a strong and trusting relationship between client and therapist. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in a strengths based perspective, and unconditional positive regard for my clients. The majority of my career has been exclusively serving the LGBTQ+ and the PLWHIV communities. I am fiercely passionate about both of these communities. I believe that we are all on our own journeys, and it often helps to have someone take that journey with you. It helps to have someone who sees you, hears you, and believes you. I will walk with you and hold that safe space for you.
(267) 762-2588 View (267) 762-2588
Photo of Viviana Rivera-Vargas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Viviana Rivera-Vargas
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I believe that a therapeutic relationship is the foundation of the therapy process that allows us to connect, trust, share, communication, and process emotions in a safe and respectful space.
I find that the ability to connect with a client, listen, and offer emotional support at challenging moments in their lives is what I value most about being a therapist. There is immense gratitude for being able to witness the transformation of someone who is progressing to live a life filled with purpose and meanings. I specialize in working with folks with traumas, depression, anxiety, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with relationships issues, OCD, ADHD, immigration issues, and addictions. I also practice psychotherapy in both English and Spanish, and I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I believe that a therapeutic relationship is the foundation of the therapy process that allows us to connect, trust, share, communication, and process emotions in a safe and respectful space.
I find that the ability to connect with a client, listen, and offer emotional support at challenging moments in their lives is what I value most about being a therapist. There is immense gratitude for being able to witness the transformation of someone who is progressing to live a life filled with purpose and meanings. I specialize in working with folks with traumas, depression, anxiety, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with relationships issues, OCD, ADHD, immigration issues, and addictions. I also practice psychotherapy in both English and Spanish, and I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(484) 989-9851 View (484) 989-9851
Photo of Sara Burth, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Sara Burth
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are trying to understand how to accept themselves and are looking to create a strong therapeutic relationship with a counselor. I believe that clients who have acknowledged that they need help in certain areas and are looking to put in the work needed to achieve their goals are going to get the most out of our time together.
I work with clients who are trying to understand how to accept themselves and are looking to create a strong therapeutic relationship with a counselor. I believe that clients who have acknowledged that they need help in certain areas and are looking to put in the work needed to achieve their goals are going to get the most out of our time together.
(267) 318-4572 View (267) 318-4572
Photo of Yeva Ventura, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Yeva Ventura
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and children, with a broad spectrum of mental health concerns.
I believe that in order to change anything, we first need to understand and accept it. This is done through talking. I bring an empathetic, worldly, and multidisciplinary approach to help you gain a deeper understanding of who you are and what you want. We all repeat the same patterns through our lives that sometimes prevent us from happiness.Through therapy, we can start to observe those patterns, and then decide how we want to change them.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and children, with a broad spectrum of mental health concerns.
I believe that in order to change anything, we first need to understand and accept it. This is done through talking. I bring an empathetic, worldly, and multidisciplinary approach to help you gain a deeper understanding of who you are and what you want. We all repeat the same patterns through our lives that sometimes prevent us from happiness.Through therapy, we can start to observe those patterns, and then decide how we want to change them.
(267) 915-2032 View (267) 915-2032
Photo of Lenore M. Jefford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Lenore M. Jefford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I address all mental health issues, life stress, relationship concerns, sexuality issues, and I specialize in serving the LGBTQIA community.
I believe entering therapy is a brave step. I tailor my counseling style to fit the needs of my clients. I am client focused and use an integrative process of cognitive behavioral, supportive, mindfulness, and holistic techniques to help you address your concerns. Together we will find new solutions to the issues that trouble you. I look forward to you joining my practice.
I address all mental health issues, life stress, relationship concerns, sexuality issues, and I specialize in serving the LGBTQIA community.
I believe entering therapy is a brave step. I tailor my counseling style to fit the needs of my clients. I am client focused and use an integrative process of cognitive behavioral, supportive, mindfulness, and holistic techniques to help you address your concerns. Together we will find new solutions to the issues that trouble you. I look forward to you joining my practice.
(610) 285-9745 View (610) 285-9745
Photo of Ronnie Landau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Ronnie Landau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I am a psychotherapist and Jungian psychoanalyst in private practice for over 40 years. I work with adults who are struggling with any of the following issues; difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma and or losses. As a Jungian psychoanalyst, my orientation is to view psychological problems as an opportunity to further one's self knowledge, to master obstacles, to grow and to heal wounds. My approach includes dream work as connection to unconscious material is central to Jung’s concept of “individuation”, becoming more authentically yourself. I value deeply the therapeutic relationship.
I am a psychotherapist and Jungian psychoanalyst in private practice for over 40 years. I work with adults who are struggling with any of the following issues; difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma and or losses. As a Jungian psychoanalyst, my orientation is to view psychological problems as an opportunity to further one's self knowledge, to master obstacles, to grow and to heal wounds. My approach includes dream work as connection to unconscious material is central to Jung’s concept of “individuation”, becoming more authentically yourself. I value deeply the therapeutic relationship.
(215) 642-0660 View (215) 642-0660
Photo of David N Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
David N Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I am an experienced and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges. Throughout my clinical career, I have specialized in working with children and adults involving traumatic related experiences, anxiety, and relationship issues. I employ a holistic approach, integrating evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual's unique needs. Each clients distinctive experience allows for the therapeutic relationship to fit their desired outcome.
I am an experienced and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges. Throughout my clinical career, I have specialized in working with children and adults involving traumatic related experiences, anxiety, and relationship issues. I employ a holistic approach, integrating evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual's unique needs. Each clients distinctive experience allows for the therapeutic relationship to fit their desired outcome.
(267) 651-9255 View (267) 651-9255
Photo of Ella Chrelashvili, Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Ella Chrelashvili
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, eating disorders, or life transitions, we will collaborate to develop strategies that promote meaningful change.
Navigating the complexities of the human experience can be hard and confusing. Despite our best efforts to construct a life aligned with our dreams and aspirations, we often find ourselves confronted by waves of pain, anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, stress, and guilt. In the midst of these struggles, it's natural to question ourselves and our behaviors, wondering, “What's wrong with me?” We feel exhausted as we desperately try to change ourselves, seeking any form of relief from the relentless tide of inner turmoil, yet it seems that nothing we do brings the desired results.
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, eating disorders, or life transitions, we will collaborate to develop strategies that promote meaningful change.
Navigating the complexities of the human experience can be hard and confusing. Despite our best efforts to construct a life aligned with our dreams and aspirations, we often find ourselves confronted by waves of pain, anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, stress, and guilt. In the midst of these struggles, it's natural to question ourselves and our behaviors, wondering, “What's wrong with me?” We feel exhausted as we desperately try to change ourselves, seeking any form of relief from the relentless tide of inner turmoil, yet it seems that nothing we do brings the desired results.
(267) 710-9141 View (267) 710-9141
Photo of James Wadley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
James Wadley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CSTS, IMHF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
(267) 888-4202 View (267) 888-4202
Photo of Pedro Molteni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Pedro Molteni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
A famous psychiatrist once compared the therapeutic relationship with the relationship between two fellow travelers.
I define myself as an IFS-informed EMDR therapist. I believe that therapy's main goal is to help us come to terms with our past and move on with our lives. What helped us adapt to our environment before, may be maladaptive now. We may experience stressful situations, and these situations may negatively impact the way we see ourselves, the way that we see others, the way that we see the world, and the way that we see our future. The good news is that with courage, curiosity, and introspection, we can change even the most deep-seated negative beliefs about ourselves and others; we can become aware of, and change the way we react.
A famous psychiatrist once compared the therapeutic relationship with the relationship between two fellow travelers.
I define myself as an IFS-informed EMDR therapist. I believe that therapy's main goal is to help us come to terms with our past and move on with our lives. What helped us adapt to our environment before, may be maladaptive now. We may experience stressful situations, and these situations may negatively impact the way we see ourselves, the way that we see others, the way that we see the world, and the way that we see our future. The good news is that with courage, curiosity, and introspection, we can change even the most deep-seated negative beliefs about ourselves and others; we can become aware of, and change the way we react.
(215) 486-0739 View (215) 486-0739
Photo of Shanda Weeden, Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Shanda Weeden
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting individuals, couples and families, depression, anxiety, anger/rage, substance abuse, trauma, career coaching, relationship difficulties including infidelity and divorce, and other life stressors.
Life presents challenges as we navigate through this journey we experience various phases on this unique path. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with 22 years of experience working with individuals just like you traveling on this unique path. Together we will work on strategies to aid in making connections, just right for you. Allow your truth to manifest! I welcome you on this beautiful journey of life despite the challenges as your teammate. I look forward to seeing your name on my schedule and joining you on this journey as a team member. Let's GO :) come ALIVE!
I specialize in supporting individuals, couples and families, depression, anxiety, anger/rage, substance abuse, trauma, career coaching, relationship difficulties including infidelity and divorce, and other life stressors.
Life presents challenges as we navigate through this journey we experience various phases on this unique path. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with 22 years of experience working with individuals just like you traveling on this unique path. Together we will work on strategies to aid in making connections, just right for you. Allow your truth to manifest! I welcome you on this beautiful journey of life despite the challenges as your teammate. I look forward to seeing your name on my schedule and joining you on this journey as a team member. Let's GO :) come ALIVE!
(484) 573-6643 View (484) 573-6643
Photo of Patricia Isakowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Patricia Isakowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
While I treat a wide range of problems and age groups, I specialize in depression, life transitions, trauma, relationship and parenting issues, adolescence and anxiety.
As a psychotherapist, my role is to create a safe environment where you can feel secure and supported to explore and be inquisitive about yourself. If you feel changes are needed in your life; if you are feeling depressed, fearful, ashamed, angry, stuck or confused, anxious or worried; or if you just can't stop self-defeating behaviors, you can benefit from therapy.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.Si siente que necesita cambios en su vida; si se siente deprimido, temeroso, avergonzado, enojado, o preocupado, o si no puede controlar los comportamientos autodestructivos, usted puede beneficiarse de la terapia.
While I treat a wide range of problems and age groups, I specialize in depression, life transitions, trauma, relationship and parenting issues, adolescence and anxiety.
As a psychotherapist, my role is to create a safe environment where you can feel secure and supported to explore and be inquisitive about yourself. If you feel changes are needed in your life; if you are feeling depressed, fearful, ashamed, angry, stuck or confused, anxious or worried; or if you just can't stop self-defeating behaviors, you can benefit from therapy.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.—.Si siente que necesita cambios en su vida; si se siente deprimido, temeroso, avergonzado, enojado, o preocupado, o si no puede controlar los comportamientos autodestructivos, usted puede beneficiarse de la terapia.
(215) 600-4830 View (215) 600-4830
Photo of Bryant Christie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Bryant Christie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
My experience includes: working with individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, providing culturally informed care to people of color, relationship challenges, persons seeking support with exploration of gender identity, familial conflict, and clients experiencing trauma.
Life comes with its challenges, and in a world where there can at times seem to be a collective sense of pain, I view therapy as a journey that provides us with the opportunity to become more in tune with ourselves. In doing so, we develop new ways to prevail and thrive. Being a queer person of color, I have dedicated my time in the field to supporting those who have lived similar experiences to my own. In sessions, I seek to create a trusting relationship that highlights your strengths.
My experience includes: working with individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, providing culturally informed care to people of color, relationship challenges, persons seeking support with exploration of gender identity, familial conflict, and clients experiencing trauma.
Life comes with its challenges, and in a world where there can at times seem to be a collective sense of pain, I view therapy as a journey that provides us with the opportunity to become more in tune with ourselves. In doing so, we develop new ways to prevail and thrive. Being a queer person of color, I have dedicated my time in the field to supporting those who have lived similar experiences to my own. In sessions, I seek to create a trusting relationship that highlights your strengths.
(610) 839-8796 View (610) 839-8796
Photo of Katherine M Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Katherine M Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
(215) 608-3494 View (215) 608-3494
Photo of Mary Theresa Fitzgerald, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Mary Theresa Fitzgerald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my approach is genuine and sincere. My focus is to help clients recognize and manage emotions, encourage ways to effectively express what they are feeling and introduce fun and effective coping strategies. Throughout my work with adults, teens, and children, it has been essential to communicate empathy as I build trust and teach the cognitive and relaxation skills necessary to help manage depression, grief, episodes of abuse, adjustment, and anger issues. To support the whole family, I attend to parents through couples counseling, and parenting skills to enhance/improve communication.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my approach is genuine and sincere. My focus is to help clients recognize and manage emotions, encourage ways to effectively express what they are feeling and introduce fun and effective coping strategies. Throughout my work with adults, teens, and children, it has been essential to communicate empathy as I build trust and teach the cognitive and relaxation skills necessary to help manage depression, grief, episodes of abuse, adjustment, and anger issues. To support the whole family, I attend to parents through couples counseling, and parenting skills to enhance/improve communication.
(267) 641-9571 View (267) 641-9571
Photo of Steven Adelman, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Steven Adelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I find it deeply rewarding to help people decrease the suffering in their lives and move toward greater fulfillment. Working together, we would identify and develop your strengths, remove obstacles, and build skills to reach your goals. Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and in-depth approaches such as IFS are especially useful in my work. I have an expertise in anxiety based problems, as well as with relationship concerns and depression. My style is interactive. Clients find that I create a warm environment of acceptance, insight and compassion in which people feel safe to take risks to explore themselves and to learn new skills.
I find it deeply rewarding to help people decrease the suffering in their lives and move toward greater fulfillment. Working together, we would identify and develop your strengths, remove obstacles, and build skills to reach your goals. Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and in-depth approaches such as IFS are especially useful in my work. I have an expertise in anxiety based problems, as well as with relationship concerns and depression. My style is interactive. Clients find that I create a warm environment of acceptance, insight and compassion in which people feel safe to take risks to explore themselves and to learn new skills.
(484) 371-3092 View (484) 371-3092
Photo of Rebecca (Rowan) Levy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Rebecca (Rowan) Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, PC01569
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110  (Online Only)
You want something different, but it’s hard to motivate and place what that really is. You are sensitive, creative, queer, thoughtful, and full of so many thoughts. You likely have a habit of overextending yourself in the hopes of finding where you feel you belong. You see patterns in your relationships that you want to examine and change, and some part of you knows that you deserve a more satisfying life. Therapy is a non-judgmental space in which you can overcome familiar patterns by being witnessed and heard, and acquire tools to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
You want something different, but it’s hard to motivate and place what that really is. You are sensitive, creative, queer, thoughtful, and full of so many thoughts. You likely have a habit of overextending yourself in the hopes of finding where you feel you belong. You see patterns in your relationships that you want to examine and change, and some part of you knows that you deserve a more satisfying life. Therapy is a non-judgmental space in which you can overcome familiar patterns by being witnessed and heard, and acquire tools to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
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Photo of Amelie Yang Custer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Amelie Yang Custer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I do my best work with folx dealing with anxiety, trauma/grief, identity/relationship concerns, and mood/behavior dysregulation.
However you show up, my bottom line is to provide a safe, respectful, and validating space where you are listened to without assumptions, judgement, or an agenda. I have diverse practice experiences that taught me to listen beyond words and look beyond appearances. My trainings in art and music allow me to do so with greater agility and accuracy, bringing us closer to your inner voice and shedding light on your inner world. This foundation of human-to-human understanding will help us work together as partners to reach your goals - whether it is healing, growth, self-exploration, or change - with a deep sense of clarity and peace.
I do my best work with folx dealing with anxiety, trauma/grief, identity/relationship concerns, and mood/behavior dysregulation.
However you show up, my bottom line is to provide a safe, respectful, and validating space where you are listened to without assumptions, judgement, or an agenda. I have diverse practice experiences that taught me to listen beyond words and look beyond appearances. My trainings in art and music allow me to do so with greater agility and accuracy, bringing us closer to your inner voice and shedding light on your inner world. This foundation of human-to-human understanding will help us work together as partners to reach your goals - whether it is healing, growth, self-exploration, or change - with a deep sense of clarity and peace.
(267) 592-3863 View (267) 592-3863
Photo of Green Oak Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Green Oak Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
As Licensed Professional Counselors, we have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. We have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics, school based counseling, correctional facilities, hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient programs. We have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. We have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, substance use, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as several other areas.
As Licensed Professional Counselors, we have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. We have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics, school based counseling, correctional facilities, hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient programs. We have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. We have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, substance use, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as several other areas.
(215) 967-2999 View (215) 967-2999
Photo of Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Penn in Philadelphia, PA
Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Penn
PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Services include talk therapy (for individuals, couples, families), medication management, case management.
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania is a private behavioral health clinic for Veterans and military family members. We provide confidential, personalized, and evidence-based care, at NO COST and with no long waits. We serve Veterans and the entire military family, including National Guard and Reserves, regardless of role or discharge status, with a focus the post-9/11 era. We take time to learn your unique situation and tailor our care to best serve your individual needs, using the best available practices supported by research. Due to COVID-19, we are offering all services via telehealth.
Services include talk therapy (for individuals, couples, families), medication management, case management.
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania is a private behavioral health clinic for Veterans and military family members. We provide confidential, personalized, and evidence-based care, at NO COST and with no long waits. We serve Veterans and the entire military family, including National Guard and Reserves, regardless of role or discharge status, with a focus the post-9/11 era. We take time to learn your unique situation and tailor our care to best serve your individual needs, using the best available practices supported by research. Due to COVID-19, we are offering all services via telehealth.
(866) 340-0172 View (866) 340-0172

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.