Photo of Stephen Eldridge Atkinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Stephen Eldridge Atkinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ThM, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
My intention is to LISTEN, and to explore the possibility that together we can establish a relationship of trust and then a "therapeutic relationship" which will allow you to feel the safety necessary to be fully transparent.
I practice what I term Integral Personal Growth Work....integrating body, mind and spirit. I embrace the belief that each of carries within us the capacity for healing, growth and the recovery of our original birthright for wholeness. My work is intended to facilitate and cooperate with what is already "wanting to happen" with-in each of us. I seek to address early damage, emotional deficits and developmental traumas that can block our capacity for full aliveness leaving us consciously and unconsciously locked into coping patterns that often inhibit our becoming all we can be and celebrating the gifts that are our true essence.
My intention is to LISTEN, and to explore the possibility that together we can establish a relationship of trust and then a "therapeutic relationship" which will allow you to feel the safety necessary to be fully transparent.
I practice what I term Integral Personal Growth Work....integrating body, mind and spirit. I embrace the belief that each of carries within us the capacity for healing, growth and the recovery of our original birthright for wholeness. My work is intended to facilitate and cooperate with what is already "wanting to happen" with-in each of us. I seek to address early damage, emotional deficits and developmental traumas that can block our capacity for full aliveness leaving us consciously and unconsciously locked into coping patterns that often inhibit our becoming all we can be and celebrating the gifts that are our true essence.
(214) 763-7342 View (214) 763-7342
Photo of Audrey B. Malacara, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Audrey B. Malacara
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAT-A*, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
Currently accepting new clients. Evening and Saturday hours available. I believe that difficulties in life are best explored in relationship. I strive to help my clients understand and accept all unique aspects of themselves. Understanding one's values, relational needs, and experiences aids the client in breaking free from mundane, harmful, and disingenuine cycles of living.
Currently accepting new clients. Evening and Saturday hours available. I believe that difficulties in life are best explored in relationship. I strive to help my clients understand and accept all unique aspects of themselves. Understanding one's values, relational needs, and experiences aids the client in breaking free from mundane, harmful, and disingenuine cycles of living.
(214) 428-6158 View (214) 428-6158
Photo of Lexie Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Lexie Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I also work with many clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and postpartum issues.
My primary job as a therapist is to learn your unique story so that I can understand your views and lived experiences. I believe all behavior makes sense in context, and by working together, we can both gain awarenesses and insights as to why you may be struggling. After uncovering the "why", we will work together to find healing, growth, and more adaptive coping skills. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and believe that our lifestyle and environment have a huge impact on our mental health. These beliefs inform my work as a therapist.
I also work with many clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and postpartum issues.
My primary job as a therapist is to learn your unique story so that I can understand your views and lived experiences. I believe all behavior makes sense in context, and by working together, we can both gain awarenesses and insights as to why you may be struggling. After uncovering the "why", we will work together to find healing, growth, and more adaptive coping skills. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and believe that our lifestyle and environment have a huge impact on our mental health. These beliefs inform my work as a therapist.
(469) 203-4871 View (469) 203-4871
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 Marlene Williams, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Marlene Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230  (Online Only)
Healing is a journey that is unique to each person’s individual lived experiences. Maybe you've experienced discrimination, trauma, or unhealthy relationship patterns that cause you to feel disconnected, unsure about yourself or life trajectory, or develop unhealthy coping mechanisms. Maybe you're feeling stuck or wondering if healing is even possible. In therapy I provide a safe open space that allows for growth, exploration, and healing tailored to your individual needs.
Healing is a journey that is unique to each person’s individual lived experiences. Maybe you've experienced discrimination, trauma, or unhealthy relationship patterns that cause you to feel disconnected, unsure about yourself or life trajectory, or develop unhealthy coping mechanisms. Maybe you're feeling stuck or wondering if healing is even possible. In therapy I provide a safe open space that allows for growth, exploration, and healing tailored to your individual needs.
(713) 804-6209 View (713) 804-6209
Photo of Jan Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jan Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75229
Are you struggling with making a change but afraid to make that step? Are you in a relationship that's painful, or do you find yourself surrounded by friends but have no one to talk to? I've worked with hundreds of clients just like this and I can help you. Hi, I'm Dr. Jan Scott and I've had a successful psychotherapy practice in the Dallas-Forth area for over 40 years, and I would love to hear about your unique needs.
Are you struggling with making a change but afraid to make that step? Are you in a relationship that's painful, or do you find yourself surrounded by friends but have no one to talk to? I've worked with hundreds of clients just like this and I can help you. Hi, I'm Dr. Jan Scott and I've had a successful psychotherapy practice in the Dallas-Forth area for over 40 years, and I would love to hear about your unique needs.
(469) 272-6623 View (469) 272-6623
Photo of Deborah Holt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Deborah Holt
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75251
Research shows when you acquire secure attachment with your partner, the more feasibly you are able to overcome life’s stressors and acquire the most desired version of yourself & your relationship.
Deliberate care and maturation of the couple relationship is necessary for the well-being of the overall couple/family system and the quality of your life(s). Sustaining an intimate and healthy marriage or partnership demands intentional acts and ongoing effort. Inevitable conflicts may arise from diverse familial and cultural backgrounds, lived experiences, traumas, attachments, beliefs and core values, and varied methodologies of communication and conflict resolution. Daily challenges and life’s adversities may hinder the closeness and connection between partners, as it can activate the vicious cycle couples get caught in.
Research shows when you acquire secure attachment with your partner, the more feasibly you are able to overcome life’s stressors and acquire the most desired version of yourself & your relationship.
Deliberate care and maturation of the couple relationship is necessary for the well-being of the overall couple/family system and the quality of your life(s). Sustaining an intimate and healthy marriage or partnership demands intentional acts and ongoing effort. Inevitable conflicts may arise from diverse familial and cultural backgrounds, lived experiences, traumas, attachments, beliefs and core values, and varied methodologies of communication and conflict resolution. Daily challenges and life’s adversities may hinder the closeness and connection between partners, as it can activate the vicious cycle couples get caught in.
(817) 697-2947 View (817) 697-2947
Photo of Sonia Carrizales, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Sonia Carrizales
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I work with clients who experience difficulties with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment issues, substance use/abuse, relationship issues, family stress, trauma, and oppression.
Do you often find that you compare yourself to others? Do you want to stop unhealthy behaviors but have a hard time making change? Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of unhealthy relationships, but you're not sure what to do about it? Maybe you struggle with setting and keeping boundaries with yourself and others. We all have limits in relationships that help us feel safe and connected, although sometimes it's hard to assert them. Many of us have been "trained" to ignore our own needs. What would it be like to work on making decisions in your life that truly benefit you and allow you to have healthier connections?
I work with clients who experience difficulties with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment issues, substance use/abuse, relationship issues, family stress, trauma, and oppression.
Do you often find that you compare yourself to others? Do you want to stop unhealthy behaviors but have a hard time making change? Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of unhealthy relationships, but you're not sure what to do about it? Maybe you struggle with setting and keeping boundaries with yourself and others. We all have limits in relationships that help us feel safe and connected, although sometimes it's hard to assert them. Many of us have been "trained" to ignore our own needs. What would it be like to work on making decisions in your life that truly benefit you and allow you to have healthier connections?
(214) 892-2769 View (214) 892-2769
Photo of Kayla Bryant, LPC Associate in Dallas, TX
Kayla Bryant
LPC Associate, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75214  (Online Only)
If you endured a traumatic relationship or event, whether recently or in childhood, I can help. I specialize in counseling individuals who have experienced trauma, especially relational abuse or loss. Trauma (or PTSD) can affect your confidence, your current relationships, your mood, or your ability to make changes in your life. You might experience panic attacks, feel persistent fear, feel stuck, or have physical pain. Anxiety is a common symptom of PTSD, but might stand alone. Living with severe anxiety can feel like you have lost control of your life. I can help you regain confidence and manage symptoms associated with PTSD.
If you endured a traumatic relationship or event, whether recently or in childhood, I can help. I specialize in counseling individuals who have experienced trauma, especially relational abuse or loss. Trauma (or PTSD) can affect your confidence, your current relationships, your mood, or your ability to make changes in your life. You might experience panic attacks, feel persistent fear, feel stuck, or have physical pain. Anxiety is a common symptom of PTSD, but might stand alone. Living with severe anxiety can feel like you have lost control of your life. I can help you regain confidence and manage symptoms associated with PTSD.
(972) 299-3422 View (972) 299-3422
Photo of Ken Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ken Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I specialize in three types of clients - couples hanging on by a thread, men who are less than thrilled at the idea of attending therapy, and individuals that live under a constant state of performance pressure. As someone who has lived and survived all three of these scenarios personally, I've got a ton of empathy and a box of tools ready for people motivated to achieve change. Whether you're picking up the pieces from infidelity, exhausted from fighting about the same tired topics, or struggling to escape the voices in your head that beat you down, I'm honored to pull up a chair next you and begin sorting through the mess.
I specialize in three types of clients - couples hanging on by a thread, men who are less than thrilled at the idea of attending therapy, and individuals that live under a constant state of performance pressure. As someone who has lived and survived all three of these scenarios personally, I've got a ton of empathy and a box of tools ready for people motivated to achieve change. Whether you're picking up the pieces from infidelity, exhausted from fighting about the same tired topics, or struggling to escape the voices in your head that beat you down, I'm honored to pull up a chair next you and begin sorting through the mess.
(469) 202-4469 View (469) 202-4469
Photo of Mark Dane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Mark Dane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMFT, MA, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
Good therapy grows from trust and skilled care. I use research proven DBT skills addressing anxiety, depression and anger and also seek the underlying causes and trauma affect relationships. I work with people in transition, couples in stress or navigating divorce and co-parenting transitions, as well as, substance and alcohol abuse. I enjoy helping people who have seen a lot of life and feel stuck with questions and needs that can no longer be ignored. Prior to being a therapist, I also worked with people as a minister and then as a professor at state and private universities in the areas of history, religion and philosophy.
Good therapy grows from trust and skilled care. I use research proven DBT skills addressing anxiety, depression and anger and also seek the underlying causes and trauma affect relationships. I work with people in transition, couples in stress or navigating divorce and co-parenting transitions, as well as, substance and alcohol abuse. I enjoy helping people who have seen a lot of life and feel stuck with questions and needs that can no longer be ignored. Prior to being a therapist, I also worked with people as a minister and then as a professor at state and private universities in the areas of history, religion and philosophy.
(469) 813-8698 View (469) 813-8698
Photo of Chris T Lorenc, Counselor in Dallas, TX
Chris T Lorenc
Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75244
I provide sexual addiction help in an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting and meet the client and his or her family where they are. My specialty is sexual addiction, and I am a Dallas area Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained personally by Dr Patrick Carnes. I treat drug and alcohol dependence, and associated trauma, grief, and depression as well. I treat cybersex addiction, pornography addiction, multiple affairs, and other sexually compulsive behavior. Sexual addiction, like other addictions, affects the whole family system, especially the partner. I am a CPTT, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as well.
I provide sexual addiction help in an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting and meet the client and his or her family where they are. My specialty is sexual addiction, and I am a Dallas area Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained personally by Dr Patrick Carnes. I treat drug and alcohol dependence, and associated trauma, grief, and depression as well. I treat cybersex addiction, pornography addiction, multiple affairs, and other sexually compulsive behavior. Sexual addiction, like other addictions, affects the whole family system, especially the partner. I am a CPTT, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as well.
(972) 891-9820 View (972) 891-9820
Photo of Chelsea Billups, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Chelsea Billups
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
I specialize in couples/family therapy, sex therapy and trauma.
We turn to counseling when our problems with our partners/family have us feeling misunderstood and helpless, or when we’ve lost a sense of who we are and our desires, or feel out of control. These struggles, among many others, in combination with daily responsibilities and challenges can feel extremely overwhelming and hinder our ability to thrive. As a therapist, my intention is to provide an authentically safe and holistic therapeutic space that promotes healing, exploration, and growth.
I specialize in couples/family therapy, sex therapy and trauma.
We turn to counseling when our problems with our partners/family have us feeling misunderstood and helpless, or when we’ve lost a sense of who we are and our desires, or feel out of control. These struggles, among many others, in combination with daily responsibilities and challenges can feel extremely overwhelming and hinder our ability to thrive. As a therapist, my intention is to provide an authentically safe and holistic therapeutic space that promotes healing, exploration, and growth.
(469) 405-1545 View (469) 405-1545
Photo of Nestor Presas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Nestor Presas
Marriage & Family Therapist, ABD, LMFTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
A relationships expert focused on assisting individuals, couples and families to reconnect and experience relations that are sustainable, vibrant and engaged, while achieving their own definition of success. I work with individuals, families and couples who are stuck in patterns of interaction that don't seem to work by using a collaborative, evidence based, powerful and innovative style of therapy. I strive to be sensitive to your spiritual experience, your culture and your values. My expertise is in forging solid therapeutic alliances, through client validation, affirmative recognition of the client's rights and strengths and de-stigmatization of experiences
A relationships expert focused on assisting individuals, couples and families to reconnect and experience relations that are sustainable, vibrant and engaged, while achieving their own definition of success. I work with individuals, families and couples who are stuck in patterns of interaction that don't seem to work by using a collaborative, evidence based, powerful and innovative style of therapy. I strive to be sensitive to your spiritual experience, your culture and your values. My expertise is in forging solid therapeutic alliances, through client validation, affirmative recognition of the client's rights and strengths and de-stigmatization of experiences
(214) 296-0026 View (214) 296-0026
Photo of Claudia Carballal Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Claudia Carballal Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ERYT500
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231  (Online Only)
I’m primarily a cognitive behavioral therapist — I help you explore your thoughts and core beliefs to gain clarity and find solutions. I facilitate observation of narrative and finding meaning in your experiences and the complexity of life. People usually seek my services when they are at a crossroads, are dealing with relationship conflict, difficult family dynamics, emotional turmoil, or want to overcome past trauma. I currently see around 25 individuals per week in my work as a clinical counselor with a human rights organization since January 2022. From April through September 2024, I am doing Online/Video therapy only.
I’m primarily a cognitive behavioral therapist — I help you explore your thoughts and core beliefs to gain clarity and find solutions. I facilitate observation of narrative and finding meaning in your experiences and the complexity of life. People usually seek my services when they are at a crossroads, are dealing with relationship conflict, difficult family dynamics, emotional turmoil, or want to overcome past trauma. I currently see around 25 individuals per week in my work as a clinical counselor with a human rights organization since January 2022. From April through September 2024, I am doing Online/Video therapy only.
(469) 392-4490 View (469) 392-4490
Photo of Ashley Chirayil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ashley Chirayil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with individuals from diverse backgrounds suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family dynamics, and grief.
It can be difficult going out of your comfort zone and speaking to a stranger about your internal/external battles. I am here to support you through recent life changes, relationship issues, chronic mental health issues, identity issues, and anything else you may not have had the opportunity to process. I have a passion for working with the teenage population, adults, and geriatrics. I enjoy allowing clients the space to address things they feel may be hindering their personal growth so they can become an empowered version of themselves. I prioritize overcoming any obstacles and ensuring you succeed in your journey towards wellness.
I have a passion for working with individuals from diverse backgrounds suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family dynamics, and grief.
It can be difficult going out of your comfort zone and speaking to a stranger about your internal/external battles. I am here to support you through recent life changes, relationship issues, chronic mental health issues, identity issues, and anything else you may not have had the opportunity to process. I have a passion for working with the teenage population, adults, and geriatrics. I enjoy allowing clients the space to address things they feel may be hindering their personal growth so they can become an empowered version of themselves. I prioritize overcoming any obstacles and ensuring you succeed in your journey towards wellness.
(214) 225-8894 View (214) 225-8894
Photo of Dallas Therapy Associates PLLC, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Dallas Therapy Associates PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Dallas Therapy Associates (DTA) is a premiere, multi-specialty group mental health practice comprised of uniquely talented therapists who are passionate about their work and are committed to offering the highest-quality mental health treatment and support. DTA providers serve individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges and seeking balance in their life. Our philosophy is to help each individual and family maximize their strengths. We take pride in maintaining a non-judgmental, relaxed, compassionate, and safe environment.
Dallas Therapy Associates (DTA) is a premiere, multi-specialty group mental health practice comprised of uniquely talented therapists who are passionate about their work and are committed to offering the highest-quality mental health treatment and support. DTA providers serve individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges and seeking balance in their life. Our philosophy is to help each individual and family maximize their strengths. We take pride in maintaining a non-judgmental, relaxed, compassionate, and safe environment.
(469) 373-8642 View (469) 373-8642
Photo of Lindsay Hansborough in Dallas, TX
Lindsay Hansborough
MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208
In addition to cognitive-behavioral interventions, I provide couples counseling, play therapy and family-based interventions.
Life can get hard and may feel overwhelming at times. The patterns we've developed throughout our lives can become the things that get in the way of the life we want. Whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. My goal is to walk with you through these challenges and provide a safe place where you can feel understood and accepted. We may not be able to change the situations that happen to us but we can change how we perceive them and how we respond. I provide a non-judgmental environment where you are able to express your thoughts, feelings and emotions so you can overcome the things that are holding you back.
In addition to cognitive-behavioral interventions, I provide couples counseling, play therapy and family-based interventions.
Life can get hard and may feel overwhelming at times. The patterns we've developed throughout our lives can become the things that get in the way of the life we want. Whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. My goal is to walk with you through these challenges and provide a safe place where you can feel understood and accepted. We may not be able to change the situations that happen to us but we can change how we perceive them and how we respond. I provide a non-judgmental environment where you are able to express your thoughts, feelings and emotions so you can overcome the things that are holding you back.
(214) 972-2926 View (214) 972-2926
Photo of Jenni Jennings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jenni Jennings
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
I specialize in treating couples, families, children, and adolescents. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, emphasizing self-awareness and tailored to individual needs. I help couples untangle their miscommunications and conflicts to regain the underlying love, attraction, and respect in their relationships. I value each person’s self-knowledge and believe in an empathetic approach that recognizes our respective awarenesses to work towards specific goals. I foster warm, supportive and nonjudgmental environments, where I aim to identify strengths and enhance communication to create lasting change.
I specialize in treating couples, families, children, and adolescents. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, emphasizing self-awareness and tailored to individual needs. I help couples untangle their miscommunications and conflicts to regain the underlying love, attraction, and respect in their relationships. I value each person’s self-knowledge and believe in an empathetic approach that recognizes our respective awarenesses to work towards specific goals. I foster warm, supportive and nonjudgmental environments, where I aim to identify strengths and enhance communication to create lasting change.
(469) 840-1819 View (469) 840-1819
Photo of Angela Mitakidis in Dallas, TX
Angela Mitakidis
MS, LPC, LMFT, Mediate
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
I work with individual adults, couples, families, and children (ages 3 - 10) and together we curate helpful ways to cope with everyday life and relationships. I encourage clients to focus on their inner strengths and make choices that bring them closer to their goals. I believe our thoughts, behaviors, values, and beliefs begin in our early years within our families of origin. These years, along with the life experiences and challenges we encounter along the way serve to shape us. Uncovering how these thoughts and behaviors impact our daily life is an important step toward healing, change, and freedom.
I work with individual adults, couples, families, and children (ages 3 - 10) and together we curate helpful ways to cope with everyday life and relationships. I encourage clients to focus on their inner strengths and make choices that bring them closer to their goals. I believe our thoughts, behaviors, values, and beliefs begin in our early years within our families of origin. These years, along with the life experiences and challenges we encounter along the way serve to shape us. Uncovering how these thoughts and behaviors impact our daily life is an important step toward healing, change, and freedom.
(469) 434-3862 View (469) 434-3862
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.