Couples Counseling Therapists in Columbia, SC

Photo of Christopher L. Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Christopher L. Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAPC, NCC, AACC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
All of us deserve to savor what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many experience that journey as compromised by difficult transitions or painful circumstances in their lives, threatening to rob them of their joy. These blockages may come from events in the present such as loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship; or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds/scars unhealed. We provide individual, group, and family sessions to help create awareness and understanding of how to get back to 'Me'. We explore issues and allow clients to choose to heal mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
All of us deserve to savor what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many experience that journey as compromised by difficult transitions or painful circumstances in their lives, threatening to rob them of their joy. These blockages may come from events in the present such as loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship; or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds/scars unhealed. We provide individual, group, and family sessions to help create awareness and understanding of how to get back to 'Me'. We explore issues and allow clients to choose to heal mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
(803) 489-8143 x10 View (803) 489-8143 x10
Photo of Camille E. Peay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Camille E. Peay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I serve individuals, couples and families as they seek to open up and understand their clinical needs.
Come, let us work together through the troubling issues of life that you are facing. Issues that have left you with a sense of hopelessness, loneliness, confusion or anger. Issues that have left you brokenhearted and crushed. My position as a counselor is not that of a fixer, but as a helper. I will support you on your journey out of darkness and despair and into empowerment and hope. Come, let us take this journey together.
I serve individuals, couples and families as they seek to open up and understand their clinical needs.
Come, let us work together through the troubling issues of life that you are facing. Issues that have left you with a sense of hopelessness, loneliness, confusion or anger. Issues that have left you brokenhearted and crushed. My position as a counselor is not that of a fixer, but as a helper. I will support you on your journey out of darkness and despair and into empowerment and hope. Come, let us take this journey together.
(803) 560-5340 View (803) 560-5340
Photo of Talk Trust Heal LLC Melvinik Simmons , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, SC
Talk Trust Heal LLC Melvinik Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29210  (Online Only)
What would happen this time if you could tap into your personal essence and attain a peace of mind? What would happen this time if you allowed yourself to heal from your emotional wounds? Life stressors have a way of making you feel insignificant, broken, angry, depressed and anxious. Whether you are grieving from a loss, having relationship issues, or suffering from past trauma, healing and happiness is possible. Don't suffer in silence. Find your way back to being the unique person that you are, by practicing selfcare and mind care.
What would happen this time if you could tap into your personal essence and attain a peace of mind? What would happen this time if you allowed yourself to heal from your emotional wounds? Life stressors have a way of making you feel insignificant, broken, angry, depressed and anxious. Whether you are grieving from a loss, having relationship issues, or suffering from past trauma, healing and happiness is possible. Don't suffer in silence. Find your way back to being the unique person that you are, by practicing selfcare and mind care.
(843) 279-4393 View (843) 279-4393
Photo of Mollie Campbell, Counselor in Columbia, SC
Mollie Campbell
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Waitlist for new clients
I know life can be difficult! Are you feeling overwhelmed with life? Are you feeling too anxious to carry out daily functions? Are family relationships overwhelming to you right now? Are you struggling with past trauma that keeps you from functioning to your potential? I can provide a place for you to work through these difficulties and journey toward wholeness and healing. I would love to work with you if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, or relationship/marriage issues. I will partner with you to create a treatment plan to meet your specific needs and concerns.
I know life can be difficult! Are you feeling overwhelmed with life? Are you feeling too anxious to carry out daily functions? Are family relationships overwhelming to you right now? Are you struggling with past trauma that keeps you from functioning to your potential? I can provide a place for you to work through these difficulties and journey toward wholeness and healing. I would love to work with you if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, or relationship/marriage issues. I will partner with you to create a treatment plan to meet your specific needs and concerns.
(803) 219-4317 View (803) 219-4317
Photo of Dr. Aneta B Hopkins - Wellness Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Dr. Aneta B Hopkins - Wellness Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPCS, LPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205
In addition to my 17 years of experience as a child, adolescent, family, couple, and relationship therapist, I have presented at national conferences and to general audiences on various topics.
Life has a way of throwing us challenges that are difficult to handle without support. Whether you have experienced a loss, are having issues within your relationships, changes are occurring in your life, you are experiencing higher stress, feeling overwhelmed, or simply just want to talk to someone I am here for you, I will partner with you to help you move your life in the direction you want. I have 17 years of experience counseling children, adults, couples, and families and am here to offer you support as you push through the obstacles in the way of your path to good health and well-being.
In addition to my 17 years of experience as a child, adolescent, family, couple, and relationship therapist, I have presented at national conferences and to general audiences on various topics.
Life has a way of throwing us challenges that are difficult to handle without support. Whether you have experienced a loss, are having issues within your relationships, changes are occurring in your life, you are experiencing higher stress, feeling overwhelmed, or simply just want to talk to someone I am here for you, I will partner with you to help you move your life in the direction you want. I have 17 years of experience counseling children, adults, couples, and families and am here to offer you support as you push through the obstacles in the way of your path to good health and well-being.
(843) 751-4256 View (843) 751-4256
Photo of Lorin N Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Columbia, SC
Lorin N Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I am also experienced with providing therapeutic services to couples and adults on all spectrums.
All human individuals obtain a beautiful uniqueness about themselves and our brain functions in several different ways daily. Treating the brain is a delicate process and remembering that you are and can be in control can alter or adjust many of life's journeys... Greetings! I am Ms. Lorin Carter and I am grateful that you chose to learn about me. I am an experienced Clinical Mental Health Therapist who obtains a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a minor in Elementary Education from Claflin University and a Master of Arts degree from Webster University.
I am also experienced with providing therapeutic services to couples and adults on all spectrums.
All human individuals obtain a beautiful uniqueness about themselves and our brain functions in several different ways daily. Treating the brain is a delicate process and remembering that you are and can be in control can alter or adjust many of life's journeys... Greetings! I am Ms. Lorin Carter and I am grateful that you chose to learn about me. I am an experienced Clinical Mental Health Therapist who obtains a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a minor in Elementary Education from Claflin University and a Master of Arts degree from Webster University.
(803) 594-4666 View (803) 594-4666
Photo of Candace Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Candace Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29210
Candace Cox is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling with anxiety disorders, depression, and anger issues due to work, family, school issues, or relationship dysfunction with their significant other. Candace also likes to help her clients by educating and teaching techniques to help alleviate some of the symptoms they are encountering. Candace strives to help you to envision and reflect on your life. She can uniquely assist you with her person-centered approach that relies on the principles of cognitive behavior therapy.
Candace Cox is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling with anxiety disorders, depression, and anger issues due to work, family, school issues, or relationship dysfunction with their significant other. Candace also likes to help her clients by educating and teaching techniques to help alleviate some of the symptoms they are encountering. Candace strives to help you to envision and reflect on your life. She can uniquely assist you with her person-centered approach that relies on the principles of cognitive behavior therapy.
(803) 921-9318 View (803) 921-9318
Photo of Bonnie J Montgomery, Psychologist in Columbia, SC
Bonnie J Montgomery
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205  (Online Only)
Currently the primary areas of focus in my practice center around helping couples strengthen their relationships and helping people increase awareness, build strengths, and maximize their potential through personal and professional coaching.
Do you feel the demands and responsibilities of life take a toll on your relationships and the ability to get the most out of life? Finding satisfaction and fulfillment with your partner or in your career can be a journey, not an overnight trip. The better prepared you are with the right tools, the more likely you are to reach your preferred destination. I can help you identify the obstacles along the path to personal and professional happiness and help you identify a roadmap to success.
Currently the primary areas of focus in my practice center around helping couples strengthen their relationships and helping people increase awareness, build strengths, and maximize their potential through personal and professional coaching.
Do you feel the demands and responsibilities of life take a toll on your relationships and the ability to get the most out of life? Finding satisfaction and fulfillment with your partner or in your career can be a journey, not an overnight trip. The better prepared you are with the right tools, the more likely you are to reach your preferred destination. I can help you identify the obstacles along the path to personal and professional happiness and help you identify a roadmap to success.
(803) 610-2136 View (803) 610-2136
Photo of Neidy Hernandez Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Columbia, SC
Neidy Hernandez Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Help can come in many forms, but professional help can form the lasting results needed to thrive. I offer individual, family, and couples counseling and I’m committed to assisting each client move towards their goals by providing a safe space to explore, identify and challenge their needs, thoughts, behaviors, and goals. We all have different inner gifts, thought processes, and needs that motivate us to reach our goals, behave and think in certain ways. But there can be moments or seasons in life that are difficult and challenging in ways that we cannot understand or move past on our own. Allow me to help.
Help can come in many forms, but professional help can form the lasting results needed to thrive. I offer individual, family, and couples counseling and I’m committed to assisting each client move towards their goals by providing a safe space to explore, identify and challenge their needs, thoughts, behaviors, and goals. We all have different inner gifts, thought processes, and needs that motivate us to reach our goals, behave and think in certain ways. But there can be moments or seasons in life that are difficult and challenging in ways that we cannot understand or move past on our own. Allow me to help.
(803) 805-2680 View (803) 805-2680
Photo of Abreia Epps, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Abreia Epps
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I graduated from the University of South Carolina with my counseling education specialist degree with a concentration on couples and families.
If you decided to start therapy today, and you feel that you are being heard for the first time. There is someone helping you understand your experiences, your hardship, your thoughts and your feelings. How different would you feel, and be? I focus on emotions, attachment, and experience and how it has affected your mental health. I work through emotions with my clients and help them find their sense of self, vulnerability, and emotional balance. I help individuals understand their experiences and feelings that they have, and I sit in those moments and process and grow with them.
I graduated from the University of South Carolina with my counseling education specialist degree with a concentration on couples and families.
If you decided to start therapy today, and you feel that you are being heard for the first time. There is someone helping you understand your experiences, your hardship, your thoughts and your feelings. How different would you feel, and be? I focus on emotions, attachment, and experience and how it has affected your mental health. I work through emotions with my clients and help them find their sense of self, vulnerability, and emotional balance. I help individuals understand their experiences and feelings that they have, and I sit in those moments and process and grow with them.
(803) 618-3634 View (803) 618-3634
Photo of Mark Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Columbia, SC
Mark Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EdS, MS
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
My practice focus includea relationship/couples counseling, blended families, negotiation within relationships, lost connection, and sexual compatibility.
Relationship struggles are my focus, though these may be explored alone or together. We can work to help you navigate high-stakes situations to strengthen your most intimate, important attachments. We all need to feel understood, and deserve to feel loved. Through a relational, systemic approach, we can explore and strengthen your connecting bonds and your place within them. Life is as much about how we tell our stories as it is the content of these narratives. Attachment is a key part of my work with romantic / sexual partners and families. Being newly seen and heard in more complete ways can be transformative and hope-inducing.
My practice focus includea relationship/couples counseling, blended families, negotiation within relationships, lost connection, and sexual compatibility.
Relationship struggles are my focus, though these may be explored alone or together. We can work to help you navigate high-stakes situations to strengthen your most intimate, important attachments. We all need to feel understood, and deserve to feel loved. Through a relational, systemic approach, we can explore and strengthen your connecting bonds and your place within them. Life is as much about how we tell our stories as it is the content of these narratives. Attachment is a key part of my work with romantic / sexual partners and families. Being newly seen and heard in more complete ways can be transformative and hope-inducing.
(803) 991-4197 View (803) 991-4197
Photo of Samantha Wolfer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Samantha Wolfer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29204
Do you find yourself weighed down by the thoughts in your head? Do you keep saying yes when you really want to say no? Do you find it hard to speak up for yourself or ask for what you need? Feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Have you had a lifelong bad relationship with your body? Let me come alongside you and help you navigate the sometimes choppy waters of life. If you're looking for a new way of being in the world, with yourself and others, I'd love to help. I enjoy working with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, body image/food issues, and relationship conflict.
Do you find yourself weighed down by the thoughts in your head? Do you keep saying yes when you really want to say no? Do you find it hard to speak up for yourself or ask for what you need? Feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Have you had a lifelong bad relationship with your body? Let me come alongside you and help you navigate the sometimes choppy waters of life. If you're looking for a new way of being in the world, with yourself and others, I'd love to help. I enjoy working with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, body image/food issues, and relationship conflict.
(803) 310-2365 View (803) 310-2365
Photo of HIllcrest Comprehensive Psychological Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
HIllcrest Comprehensive Psychological Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LAC, CAC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205
RELATIONSHIPS Couples and Marriage Family Therapy Reunification Divorce Recovery Infidelity Codependency Therapy.
Our Vision: HILLCREST accomplishes its mission by offering services that facilitate an individual's personal development, assist in the alleviation, treatment, assessment, and prevention of distress, as well as services that educate our clients in ways that develop self-awareness, self-reliance, and self-confidence. Who Are We?: HILLCREST prides itself in being a practice truly designed around our clients’ needs. We work with insurances , as well as, self pay. Experience high-touch customer service, expert-level providers, premium benefits, and technologies that help you get the most out of your sessions.
RELATIONSHIPS Couples and Marriage Family Therapy Reunification Divorce Recovery Infidelity Codependency Therapy.
Our Vision: HILLCREST accomplishes its mission by offering services that facilitate an individual's personal development, assist in the alleviation, treatment, assessment, and prevention of distress, as well as services that educate our clients in ways that develop self-awareness, self-reliance, and self-confidence. Who Are We?: HILLCREST prides itself in being a practice truly designed around our clients’ needs. We work with insurances , as well as, self pay. Experience high-touch customer service, expert-level providers, premium benefits, and technologies that help you get the most out of your sessions.
(803) 258-6505 View (803) 258-6505
Photo of Amy McInnis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Amy McInnis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Life is so unpredictable. There is an inherent mystery and beauty in navigating life, but unexpected events and circumstances can make certain seasons especially challenging. Whether it is a story from our past we continue to tell ourselves or a current situation we never asked for or anticipated, effective counseling has the potential to help motivate us to explore and identify our unique strengths, assets and skills and to ultimately encourage momentum toward personal growth and individual transformation. Within a constructive and supportive therapeutic relationship, there is hope for healing and living more fully.
Life is so unpredictable. There is an inherent mystery and beauty in navigating life, but unexpected events and circumstances can make certain seasons especially challenging. Whether it is a story from our past we continue to tell ourselves or a current situation we never asked for or anticipated, effective counseling has the potential to help motivate us to explore and identify our unique strengths, assets and skills and to ultimately encourage momentum toward personal growth and individual transformation. Within a constructive and supportive therapeutic relationship, there is hope for healing and living more fully.
(919) 443-9233 View (919) 443-9233
Photo of Dalton Marlowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Dalton Marlowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I also work with a wide range of individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and other mood disorders, as well as working with couples and providing premarital counseling.
I know for many people, myself included, asking for help can be a scary and vulnerable thing to do. However, I believe seeking help demonstrates bravery. Vulnerability does not make us weak; in fact, it makes us strong and courageous. It is my desire to work with individuals and assist them in their personal growth. I use many forms of therapy, but Cognitive Behavioral therapy is my most commonly used approach. I want to increase my clients' self-awareness. It is my goal to help individuals develop healthier thinking and behavioral patterns in order to improve the ways they view themselves and interact with others.
I also work with a wide range of individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and other mood disorders, as well as working with couples and providing premarital counseling.
I know for many people, myself included, asking for help can be a scary and vulnerable thing to do. However, I believe seeking help demonstrates bravery. Vulnerability does not make us weak; in fact, it makes us strong and courageous. It is my desire to work with individuals and assist them in their personal growth. I use many forms of therapy, but Cognitive Behavioral therapy is my most commonly used approach. I want to increase my clients' self-awareness. It is my goal to help individuals develop healthier thinking and behavioral patterns in order to improve the ways they view themselves and interact with others.
(803) 258-6094 View (803) 258-6094
Photo of Lisa Renee Puryear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Lisa Renee Puryear
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCS, LAC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205
I have professional experience with chronic and persistent mental illness, college & high school students and individuals experiencing relationship problems.
My clients struggle with balancing family, friends, work, hobbies and inner peace. My clients all want the same thing: To live their lives doing what they love and being their best so they also have the strength to be there for others who need them. My clients struggle with negative emotions and how to deal with them. A lot of my clients have irrational, negative thoughts about themselves, others and the world in general. These thoughts are present but my clients may not realize their impact. They are dynamic, intelligent and human. Humans are vulnerable and sometimes need someone to listen and care. I am here.
I have professional experience with chronic and persistent mental illness, college & high school students and individuals experiencing relationship problems.
My clients struggle with balancing family, friends, work, hobbies and inner peace. My clients all want the same thing: To live their lives doing what they love and being their best so they also have the strength to be there for others who need them. My clients struggle with negative emotions and how to deal with them. A lot of my clients have irrational, negative thoughts about themselves, others and the world in general. These thoughts are present but my clients may not realize their impact. They are dynamic, intelligent and human. Humans are vulnerable and sometimes need someone to listen and care. I am here.
(803) 573-4463 View (803) 573-4463
Photo of Chaddrick L Middleton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Chaddrick L Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, CVE, LPCS, Candida
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29223
At Vision we take special care in listening, assessing your needs, and looking beyond your problems to see your potential! We provide an atmosphere conducive to understanding your needs so that you can be reconciled to a life of peace and harmony. We have years of experience working with civilians, military personnel, disabled clients, couples, state & federal government employees, people with addictions, and adolescents. We also use effective counseling theories and the latest technology and resources to evaluate your interests and work potential .
At Vision we take special care in listening, assessing your needs, and looking beyond your problems to see your potential! We provide an atmosphere conducive to understanding your needs so that you can be reconciled to a life of peace and harmony. We have years of experience working with civilians, military personnel, disabled clients, couples, state & federal government employees, people with addictions, and adolescents. We also use effective counseling theories and the latest technology and resources to evaluate your interests and work potential .
(803) 610-4116 View (803) 610-4116
Photo of Carrie Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Columbia, SC
Carrie Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205
I help disconnected and conflicted couples and those facing infidelity or sexual difficulties.
Challenges in life can leave us feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Learning to live together in love with others can be especially taxing. At times we may get “stuck” and need to find our way. I am passionate about helping you find new pathways to connection, healing and growth. I understand the challenges of being a couple, of parenting, and managing individual struggles. I also recognize the potential of each individual, couple and family, to grow, to change and find our way up and out of difficulties. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to provide you care within the context of your relationships.
I help disconnected and conflicted couples and those facing infidelity or sexual difficulties.
Challenges in life can leave us feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Learning to live together in love with others can be especially taxing. At times we may get “stuck” and need to find our way. I am passionate about helping you find new pathways to connection, healing and growth. I understand the challenges of being a couple, of parenting, and managing individual struggles. I also recognize the potential of each individual, couple and family, to grow, to change and find our way up and out of difficulties. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to provide you care within the context of your relationships.
(803) 258-5740 View (803) 258-5740
Photo of Norah Grimball, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbia, SC
Norah Grimball
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, NCACI, LAC, ADC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
I specialize in addictions, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, relationship issues, codependency, emotional manipulation & Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome, mood disorders, transitions, self-harm, self-esteem, & wellness.
Are you looking for a safe place to grow into your best self? As a Licensed & Certified Professional Therapist, I am here to help. I provide individualized treatment in a safe, non-judgmental & compassionate environment utilizing a holistic approach to wellness that allows for deeply personal healing of the mind, body, & spirit. In this way, you are able to explore & reconnect with yourself, overcome challenges, develop resiliency, & greatly improve your quality of life. Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy & counseling services to diverse populations in a variety of settings & I welcome diversities in life.
I specialize in addictions, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault, relationship issues, codependency, emotional manipulation & Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome, mood disorders, transitions, self-harm, self-esteem, & wellness.
Are you looking for a safe place to grow into your best self? As a Licensed & Certified Professional Therapist, I am here to help. I provide individualized treatment in a safe, non-judgmental & compassionate environment utilizing a holistic approach to wellness that allows for deeply personal healing of the mind, body, & spirit. In this way, you are able to explore & reconnect with yourself, overcome challenges, develop resiliency, & greatly improve your quality of life. Over the course of my career, I have provided psychotherapy & counseling services to diverse populations in a variety of settings & I welcome diversities in life.
(803) 274-5854 View (803) 274-5854
Photo of Laura J Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbia, SC
Laura J Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MAC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29210  (Online Only)
Life does not have to hurt. If you are suffering the pain of addiction, complex trauma, depression, or relationship problems- I can help. The goal is to enjoy life again and become the person you were destined to be. YOU remain in control during treatment.
Life does not have to hurt. If you are suffering the pain of addiction, complex trauma, depression, or relationship problems- I can help. The goal is to enjoy life again and become the person you were destined to be. YOU remain in control during treatment.
(803) 618-4220 View (803) 618-4220
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.