Photo of Tiffany Armstrong, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Tiffany Armstrong
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
I am a licensed psychologist who has worked with mental health disorders in settings such as residential substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health, intimate partner violence shelters, and private practice. My areas of interest include healthy relationships, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I am currently conducting therapy with adolescents, adults, and couples.
I am a licensed psychologist who has worked with mental health disorders in settings such as residential substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health, intimate partner violence shelters, and private practice. My areas of interest include healthy relationships, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I am currently conducting therapy with adolescents, adults, and couples.
(469) 789-2352 View (469) 789-2352
Photo of Catherine Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Catherine Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals both children and adults, couples and families.
I strive to create an environment that is warm and welcoming. It is not unusual to feel apprehensive about starting therapy, these fears can usually be alleviated within the first session or two.
I have extensive experience working with individuals both children and adults, couples and families.
I strive to create an environment that is warm and welcoming. It is not unusual to feel apprehensive about starting therapy, these fears can usually be alleviated within the first session or two.
(214) 771-8940 View (214) 771-8940
Photo of Metanoia Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Metanoia Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA/MBS, BSN, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
Our personal philosophy of counseling includes providing an environment of acceptance and empathy, working alongside others as an equal partner to guide the process of growth and change.
Delise Morris, MA, LPC, CSAT and Jamie Grant, MA, BSN, LPC are committed to helping individuals overcome cPTSD, PTSD/shock trauma, addictions, phobias, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief and loss. Delise has extensive experience in couples counseling makes her a trusted ally for those navigating the complexities of relationships. Jamie is a certified EMDR practitioner, successfully using this modality to treat cPTSD, attachment disorders, trauma, addiction, and compulsive behaviors.
Our personal philosophy of counseling includes providing an environment of acceptance and empathy, working alongside others as an equal partner to guide the process of growth and change.
Delise Morris, MA, LPC, CSAT and Jamie Grant, MA, BSN, LPC are committed to helping individuals overcome cPTSD, PTSD/shock trauma, addictions, phobias, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief and loss. Delise has extensive experience in couples counseling makes her a trusted ally for those navigating the complexities of relationships. Jamie is a certified EMDR practitioner, successfully using this modality to treat cPTSD, attachment disorders, trauma, addiction, and compulsive behaviors.
(469) 530-3247 View (469) 530-3247
Photo of April Murray-Bravo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
April Murray-Bravo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
I specialize in sex therapy, couples counseling, and individual therapy to improve situations and bring focus to present and future goals.
It can be overwhelming to find a counselor or sex therapist. Sharing your private life and struggles is difficult. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, sexual identity, uncertainty about your quality of life, or any number of emotions, it can be challenging to know where to go or who to turn to make things better. My role as a therapist is to work with you to face challenges, find solutions, and help improve your life. You will not have to do it alone.
I specialize in sex therapy, couples counseling, and individual therapy to improve situations and bring focus to present and future goals.
It can be overwhelming to find a counselor or sex therapist. Sharing your private life and struggles is difficult. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, sexual identity, uncertainty about your quality of life, or any number of emotions, it can be challenging to know where to go or who to turn to make things better. My role as a therapist is to work with you to face challenges, find solutions, and help improve your life. You will not have to do it alone.
(214) 225-8796 View (214) 225-8796
Photo of Ashley Klein at Verus Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Ashley Klein at Verus Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Hi there! I'm Ashley. I'm a therapist in Texas offering individual and couples counseling to adults and teens. I am passionate about providing trauma-focused, culturally competent mental health care to clients of all identities. I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD/complex PTSD, dissociative disorders, addiction and first responder trauma. Often my clients feel stuck in their symptoms, which hold them back from enjoying comfort in their daily lives. These symptoms could include panic attacks, dissociative episodes, feeling disconnected from others, or waves of sadness, all of which can lead to unhealthy self-medication.
Hi there! I'm Ashley. I'm a therapist in Texas offering individual and couples counseling to adults and teens. I am passionate about providing trauma-focused, culturally competent mental health care to clients of all identities. I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD/complex PTSD, dissociative disorders, addiction and first responder trauma. Often my clients feel stuck in their symptoms, which hold them back from enjoying comfort in their daily lives. These symptoms could include panic attacks, dissociative episodes, feeling disconnected from others, or waves of sadness, all of which can lead to unhealthy self-medication.
(214) 441-6283 View (214) 441-6283
Photo of Ginger Hagood Story, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Ginger Hagood Story
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PLLC, NCC, CHST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Empowering Women of all ages! My primary focus is working with women to unlock and finding their own inner strengths and self-awareness by learning to set boundaries and overcoming trauma, traumatic grief, grief, neo-natal/infant loss, self-doubt, stress, numbness, relationship issues, shame, guilt, emotional abuse recovery. This is your time to heal. This is your time to shed off the mask to rediscover or finally find yourself. For more info, see availability, and to schedule your first appointment today, go to www.gingerstorycounseling.com. In-Person and Online Sessions available.
Empowering Women of all ages! My primary focus is working with women to unlock and finding their own inner strengths and self-awareness by learning to set boundaries and overcoming trauma, traumatic grief, grief, neo-natal/infant loss, self-doubt, stress, numbness, relationship issues, shame, guilt, emotional abuse recovery. This is your time to heal. This is your time to shed off the mask to rediscover or finally find yourself. For more info, see availability, and to schedule your first appointment today, go to www.gingerstorycounseling.com. In-Person and Online Sessions available.
(214) 305-8407 View (214) 305-8407
Photo of Cary Okano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Cary Okano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218  (Online Only)
My process starts with exploring your strengths and resources while building a strong therapeutic relationship to be the foundation for exploring of what is happening in your life, relationships and what you want to evolve.
Only offering Telehealth (for clients living in TX & CA) - Are you having feelings about what is happening in your life or in the world? Are you a parent, a person of color, healthcare worker, LBGTQ+, businessperson, student? Have you been feeling different from others? As a Marriage & Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist, my caseload includes people of all ages and diversity. I offer traditional therapeutic orientations combined with Expressive Arts Therapy, sand tray and mindfulness. It is not necessary to be an artist to benefit from a creative focus towards your goals for wellness and the life you choose to be living.
My process starts with exploring your strengths and resources while building a strong therapeutic relationship to be the foundation for exploring of what is happening in your life, relationships and what you want to evolve.
Only offering Telehealth (for clients living in TX & CA) - Are you having feelings about what is happening in your life or in the world? Are you a parent, a person of color, healthcare worker, LBGTQ+, businessperson, student? Have you been feeling different from others? As a Marriage & Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist, my caseload includes people of all ages and diversity. I offer traditional therapeutic orientations combined with Expressive Arts Therapy, sand tray and mindfulness. It is not necessary to be an artist to benefit from a creative focus towards your goals for wellness and the life you choose to be living.
(214) 702-8627 View (214) 702-8627
Photo of Better CALL Darrell - HS Professional Practitioner, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Dallas, TX
Better CALL Darrell - HS Professional Practitioner
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ACPS, ICCJP, LCDC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75237
The goal of Addictions and Biblical Counseling is to assist you in enjoying better relationships, particularly the relationship with yourself.
Addictions and Biblical Counseling are a series of powerful tools that profoundly improve relationships. Biblical Counseling utilizes the Sacred Scriptures, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation as conduits in understanding and resolving chaotic, dysfunctional, mayhem filled and toxic relationships with others as well as yourself. Addiction Counseling approaches the addicted person therapeutically with empathetic, sympathetic care, and compassion. With decades of experience as an Addictions and Biblical Counselor, I offer a variety of approaches that will assist you in succinctly eradicating present emotional and social discomforts.
The goal of Addictions and Biblical Counseling is to assist you in enjoying better relationships, particularly the relationship with yourself.
Addictions and Biblical Counseling are a series of powerful tools that profoundly improve relationships. Biblical Counseling utilizes the Sacred Scriptures, Conflict Resolution, and Mediation as conduits in understanding and resolving chaotic, dysfunctional, mayhem filled and toxic relationships with others as well as yourself. Addiction Counseling approaches the addicted person therapeutically with empathetic, sympathetic care, and compassion. With decades of experience as an Addictions and Biblical Counselor, I offer a variety of approaches that will assist you in succinctly eradicating present emotional and social discomforts.
(469) 557-2127 View (469) 557-2127
Photo of Alyssa Strenger, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Alyssa Strenger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
Currently accepting new group clients for our Living With Loss support group as of 4/24/2024! I understand this may be a time of great uncertainty, fear, and challenge for you and your loved ones. Furthermore, relationship struggles may continue or worsen, concerns about overwhelming emotions may persist, or long-standing questions you have about yourself may be coming in to focus. You are not alone. We are all better when we have the support of a trusted other.
Currently accepting new group clients for our Living With Loss support group as of 4/24/2024! I understand this may be a time of great uncertainty, fear, and challenge for you and your loved ones. Furthermore, relationship struggles may continue or worsen, concerns about overwhelming emotions may persist, or long-standing questions you have about yourself may be coming in to focus. You are not alone. We are all better when we have the support of a trusted other.
(972) 597-1861 View (972) 597-1861
Photo of Rosana Rivera-Delgado, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dallas, TX
Rosana Rivera-Delgado
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Sometimes we need someone to join us on the difficult journey of life. I believe everyone deserves an opportunity to explore and improve upon themselves. I encourage clients to bring their genuine self to therapy. Together we will work from a holistic framework to help you achieve better emotional and mental balance. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is one founded on trust, safety, acceptance, understanding, and empathy; this alliance lays the groundwork for client growth. Every person is unique, and I approach therapy in a way that fosters that individuality. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults.
Sometimes we need someone to join us on the difficult journey of life. I believe everyone deserves an opportunity to explore and improve upon themselves. I encourage clients to bring their genuine self to therapy. Together we will work from a holistic framework to help you achieve better emotional and mental balance. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is one founded on trust, safety, acceptance, understanding, and empathy; this alliance lays the groundwork for client growth. Every person is unique, and I approach therapy in a way that fosters that individuality. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults.
(469) 649-8512 View (469) 649-8512
Photo of Taryn Mau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Taryn Mau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214  (Online Only)
I offer individual, couples, or family therapy using an integrative approach and family systems theory.
Many of my clients enter therapy for the first time not knowing what to expect. As your therapist, I will explain the therapy process and paint a clear picture of where we are going. I work to provide an empathetic, safe environment for all of my clients, but I am especially skilled at helping clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transition & existential issues. My training also equips me to work with couples and families struggling with a wide variety of challenges. Some of these may include infidelity, parenting issues, and pre-marital counseling. I love helping couples connect who are struggling to do so.
I offer individual, couples, or family therapy using an integrative approach and family systems theory.
Many of my clients enter therapy for the first time not knowing what to expect. As your therapist, I will explain the therapy process and paint a clear picture of where we are going. I work to provide an empathetic, safe environment for all of my clients, but I am especially skilled at helping clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transition & existential issues. My training also equips me to work with couples and families struggling with a wide variety of challenges. Some of these may include infidelity, parenting issues, and pre-marital counseling. I love helping couples connect who are struggling to do so.
(469) 813-7645 View (469) 813-7645
Photo of Julie Welwood Spencer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Julie Welwood Spencer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75252
I have over thirty years of experience helping individuals, couples and teens with relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, addictions, anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I enjoy helping people make positive changes in their lives by helping them uncover and work through the obstacles on their path to healing. My style of counseling is compassionate, direct and interactive. I use different approaches and tailor counseling to your specific situation and needs. My main goal, with my varied background, is to bring all my experience to serve you in a warm, comfortable environment where we can work together to improve your life and relationships.
I have over thirty years of experience helping individuals, couples and teens with relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, addictions, anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I enjoy helping people make positive changes in their lives by helping them uncover and work through the obstacles on their path to healing. My style of counseling is compassionate, direct and interactive. I use different approaches and tailor counseling to your specific situation and needs. My main goal, with my varied background, is to bring all my experience to serve you in a warm, comfortable environment where we can work together to improve your life and relationships.
(972) 449-1235 View (972) 449-1235
Photo of Jill Raburn Mearns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jill Raburn Mearns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
Additionally, I am EMDR and Gottman Method Couples Therapy trained.
Sometimes life transitions, stressors, trauma, or grief can feel overwhelming. No matter how hard you may be trying to work things out on your own, it may feel like you are not gaining ground. Change and healing don't happen in isolation, and we all need help at some point. Having a caring professional walk with you through challenging times can be incredibly helpful. I have 15+ years of experience working with clients through life transitions and challenges and helping them establish goals and create change.
Additionally, I am EMDR and Gottman Method Couples Therapy trained.
Sometimes life transitions, stressors, trauma, or grief can feel overwhelming. No matter how hard you may be trying to work things out on your own, it may feel like you are not gaining ground. Change and healing don't happen in isolation, and we all need help at some point. Having a caring professional walk with you through challenging times can be incredibly helpful. I have 15+ years of experience working with clients through life transitions and challenges and helping them establish goals and create change.
(972) 850-3774 View (972) 850-3774
Photo of Life Solutions Counseling & Family Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Life Solutions Counseling & Family Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
suicidal thoughts/ideation, crisis, partner/family violence, severe mental illness), therefore potential clients will be screened to ensure the appropriateness of therapeutic services offered.
Life Solutions Counseling and Family Therapy, PLLC customizes therapeutic services to meet the individual, couple, family, and/or groups goals. Clients can expect a welcoming environment in an effort to make real life changes. With an emphasis on systemic therapy, we take a nonpathological approach to looking at human relationships and challenges. This benefits the client (s) as they learn how to interact and change problems between themselves and others. Congratulations! Problems are not in you, they are between you and another person(s).
suicidal thoughts/ideation, crisis, partner/family violence, severe mental illness), therefore potential clients will be screened to ensure the appropriateness of therapeutic services offered.
Life Solutions Counseling and Family Therapy, PLLC customizes therapeutic services to meet the individual, couple, family, and/or groups goals. Clients can expect a welcoming environment in an effort to make real life changes. With an emphasis on systemic therapy, we take a nonpathological approach to looking at human relationships and challenges. This benefits the client (s) as they learn how to interact and change problems between themselves and others. Congratulations! Problems are not in you, they are between you and another person(s).
(214) 571-7846 View (214) 571-7846
Photo of Leslie Scott Griffis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Leslie Scott Griffis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
Leslie is an accomplished psychotherapist, licensed professional counselor and esteemed life coach. As an undergraduate, Leslie attended Depaul University in Chicago, where she earned a B.A. in Communication, then attended Southern Methodist University, where she earned her Master of Science in Counseling. Leslie achieved excellence as a college athlete. She was a Division I softball pitcher at University of Washington and Depaul University, and participated in the College World Series. She inspires her clients to set healthy personal, lifestyle and relationship goals, and to realize those goals through structured self-examination
Leslie is an accomplished psychotherapist, licensed professional counselor and esteemed life coach. As an undergraduate, Leslie attended Depaul University in Chicago, where she earned a B.A. in Communication, then attended Southern Methodist University, where she earned her Master of Science in Counseling. Leslie achieved excellence as a college athlete. She was a Division I softball pitcher at University of Washington and Depaul University, and participated in the College World Series. She inspires her clients to set healthy personal, lifestyle and relationship goals, and to realize those goals through structured self-examination
(214) 972-2252 View (214) 972-2252
Photo of LaShaun Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
LaShaun Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP-S, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75238
Marital, Pre-Marital, Couples, Relationships...my SPECIALTY! Infidelity/betrayal, affairs, lack of trust, intimacy issues, pornography, PE, ED, sexually unfulfilled, low or no sexual desire, sexual pain, or sexual challenges/difficulties are my PASSION. These are just SOME of the issues that can impact relationships but don't get stuck here Let Me Help! I know you may feel awkward, anxious, ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, fear of judgement, or experience trouble talking about your personal life, yet let me help as I offer a "NO JUDGE-SAFE ZONE' to express. Go Beyond your fears & Trust me to assist in Bettering Your Life. Call!
Marital, Pre-Marital, Couples, Relationships...my SPECIALTY! Infidelity/betrayal, affairs, lack of trust, intimacy issues, pornography, PE, ED, sexually unfulfilled, low or no sexual desire, sexual pain, or sexual challenges/difficulties are my PASSION. These are just SOME of the issues that can impact relationships but don't get stuck here Let Me Help! I know you may feel awkward, anxious, ashamed, embarrassed, uncomfortable, fear of judgement, or experience trouble talking about your personal life, yet let me help as I offer a "NO JUDGE-SAFE ZONE' to express. Go Beyond your fears & Trust me to assist in Bettering Your Life. Call!
(214) 306-7771 View (214) 306-7771
Photo of Lauren Jordan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Lauren Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
A Certified Sex Therapist, I offer sexual and relationship solutions that work for you, including those that aren't about sex. I help you learn who you are, what you want, and how to communicate. I work with all sexual difficulties and dysfunctions, including low libido; desire discrepancies; erection, ejaculation, and orgasm difficulties; sexual pain; vaginismus; out of control sexual behavior, and fetishes. I work with married and unmarried couples and singles, as well as with straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, BDSM, and poly people. I will make suggestions and give you homework assignments to help you reach your goal.
A Certified Sex Therapist, I offer sexual and relationship solutions that work for you, including those that aren't about sex. I help you learn who you are, what you want, and how to communicate. I work with all sexual difficulties and dysfunctions, including low libido; desire discrepancies; erection, ejaculation, and orgasm difficulties; sexual pain; vaginismus; out of control sexual behavior, and fetishes. I work with married and unmarried couples and singles, as well as with straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, BDSM, and poly people. I will make suggestions and give you homework assignments to help you reach your goal.
(469) 773-4213 View (469) 773-4213
Photo of Ryan Casey Waller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ryan Casey Waller
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
I work with couples and individuals. Many of my clients seek me out when experiencing significant life transitions like a divorce or an existential crisis related to vocation or spirituality. I also work with many people who are interested in reevaluating their relationship with alcohol or another substance.
I work with couples and individuals. Many of my clients seek me out when experiencing significant life transitions like a divorce or an existential crisis related to vocation or spirituality. I also work with many people who are interested in reevaluating their relationship with alcohol or another substance.
(682) 204-9330 View (682) 204-9330
Photo of Melissa Ann Roush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Melissa Ann Roush
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
You are aching to live a more authentic, fulfilling and empowered life, yet you are struggling to know how to proceed. I get it. I have been there. We build lives on foundations based in old programs, expectations, and beliefs and then when we feel the call for something more, we can feel stuck, anxious, or guilt. The life we built no longer suits us and we need help navigating change as we rebuild. Perhaps a relationship, a career, a midlife awakening (or pandemic) has triggered a longing for something more meaningful or fulfilling. Or maybe, something less- less drama, less stress, less anxiety, less soul sucking.
You are aching to live a more authentic, fulfilling and empowered life, yet you are struggling to know how to proceed. I get it. I have been there. We build lives on foundations based in old programs, expectations, and beliefs and then when we feel the call for something more, we can feel stuck, anxious, or guilt. The life we built no longer suits us and we need help navigating change as we rebuild. Perhaps a relationship, a career, a midlife awakening (or pandemic) has triggered a longing for something more meaningful or fulfilling. Or maybe, something less- less drama, less stress, less anxiety, less soul sucking.
(972) 362-9981 View (972) 362-9981
Photo of Sierra J., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Sierra J.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
I thrive on witnessing the transformative power of therapy in couples' lives. By creating a safe, non-judgmental space, I empower partners to communicate openly, resolve conflicts, and reignite their passion. My approach is tailored to each couple's unique needs, incorporating evidence-based techniques to facilitate growth and healing. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and relational fulfillment, building a foundation for lasting happiness and resilience. In addition to my passion for guiding couples, I find great fulfillment in supporting young adults during pivotal life transitions.
I thrive on witnessing the transformative power of therapy in couples' lives. By creating a safe, non-judgmental space, I empower partners to communicate openly, resolve conflicts, and reignite their passion. My approach is tailored to each couple's unique needs, incorporating evidence-based techniques to facilitate growth and healing. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and relational fulfillment, building a foundation for lasting happiness and resilience. In addition to my passion for guiding couples, I find great fulfillment in supporting young adults during pivotal life transitions.
(214) 699-4746 View (214) 699-4746
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.