Photo of Georgia Smith-Lyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Georgia Smith-Lyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Supervi
Verified Verified
Petty, TX 75470
Counseling is provided for adolescents, individuals, marriage, families and couples.
Life is intended to be lived and not just tolerated! Whether you are suffering from a recent or past traumatic experience, or have an ongoing issue or disorder, there is hope for you. I counsel from an eclectic framework utilizing the best psychotherapy that benefits my client. Each client is unique and their situation is unique to them, therefore my counseling approach will consider all aspects of the individual's and/or couples situation. I also provide Equine Assisted Psychotherapy at my ranch office. Counseling in North Dallas and surrounding areas.
Counseling is provided for adolescents, individuals, marriage, families and couples.
Life is intended to be lived and not just tolerated! Whether you are suffering from a recent or past traumatic experience, or have an ongoing issue or disorder, there is hope for you. I counsel from an eclectic framework utilizing the best psychotherapy that benefits my client. Each client is unique and their situation is unique to them, therefore my counseling approach will consider all aspects of the individual's and/or couples situation. I also provide Equine Assisted Psychotherapy at my ranch office. Counseling in North Dallas and surrounding areas.
(469) 855-0256 View (469) 855-0256

Online Therapists

Photo of Megan R. Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Petty, TX
Megan R. Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Heath, TX 75032
I am trauma-focused, strengths based, I believe in building a trusting therapeutic relationship through conversation and activities.
Whatever the reason you are looking for counseling services, please know I am glad you here! For some people, it is easy to ask for help & for others, it is extremely difficult. You might be struggling with managing difficult behaviors with your child & unsure of how to help them. You might question whether you should even come to counseling because you are not sure if what you are going through is "really bad enough" compared to others. I have worked with many different people in helping them to process through whatever the concerns. Also providing clinical supervision to LMSW's working toward clinical licensure.
I am trauma-focused, strengths based, I believe in building a trusting therapeutic relationship through conversation and activities.
Whatever the reason you are looking for counseling services, please know I am glad you here! For some people, it is easy to ask for help & for others, it is extremely difficult. You might be struggling with managing difficult behaviors with your child & unsure of how to help them. You might question whether you should even come to counseling because you are not sure if what you are going through is "really bad enough" compared to others. I have worked with many different people in helping them to process through whatever the concerns. Also providing clinical supervision to LMSW's working toward clinical licensure.
(214) 225-3881 View (214) 225-3881
Photo of Kelsey Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Petty, TX
Kelsey Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
I have experience working with teens, college students, adults, and families navigating relationship issues, marriage counseling, codependency, family conflict, heartbreak, and anxiety.
I am passionate about people, their life stories, and how they relate to one another. If you are experiencing stress in your friendships, relationships, marriage, family, or just in your daily life, I understand the turmoil that this may be causing. I take a directive and collaborative approach to identify patterns of behavior in your relationships, reframe negative beliefs, explore past negative experiences, and equip you with the tools to create growth and work towards your personal goals.
I have experience working with teens, college students, adults, and families navigating relationship issues, marriage counseling, codependency, family conflict, heartbreak, and anxiety.
I am passionate about people, their life stories, and how they relate to one another. If you are experiencing stress in your friendships, relationships, marriage, family, or just in your daily life, I understand the turmoil that this may be causing. I take a directive and collaborative approach to identify patterns of behavior in your relationships, reframe negative beliefs, explore past negative experiences, and equip you with the tools to create growth and work towards your personal goals.
(469) 253-8410 View (469) 253-8410
Photo of Adriana Quintero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Petty, TX
Adriana Quintero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75022
I see children; 9 years and older, adolescents, adults throughout the life span, couples and families.
Hi! My name is Adriana Quintero, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I own a small practice called Heirloom & Ember Counseling located in Flower Mound, Texas. I am down-to-earth, relatable, and it is my priority that you or your loved one feel cared for. I use a direct and compassionate approach by integrating as much psycho education in the room as possible. I do this because I believe, nothing helps us change more than intellectual, emotional, and relational awareness.
I see children; 9 years and older, adolescents, adults throughout the life span, couples and families.
Hi! My name is Adriana Quintero, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I own a small practice called Heirloom & Ember Counseling located in Flower Mound, Texas. I am down-to-earth, relatable, and it is my priority that you or your loved one feel cared for. I use a direct and compassionate approach by integrating as much psycho education in the room as possible. I do this because I believe, nothing helps us change more than intellectual, emotional, and relational awareness.
(682) 688-3326 View (682) 688-3326
Photo of Shaneé Hucks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Petty, TX
Shaneé Hucks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76205
Are you currently struggling with a relationship or family system? Are you looking to overcome past hurts, communicate more effectively, improve trust/intimacy, make a decision regarding a relationship, re-envision your future, or simply to improve relationships overall? You found the right person! Hello, I am Shaneé Hucks, LMFT-Associate. I primarily work with individuals, couples/partners, and families wanting to improve or make changes to their relationships. I use evidence-based practices, tailor my approach to meet your needs, work openly with you, and help you take steps toward your preferred future.
Are you currently struggling with a relationship or family system? Are you looking to overcome past hurts, communicate more effectively, improve trust/intimacy, make a decision regarding a relationship, re-envision your future, or simply to improve relationships overall? You found the right person! Hello, I am Shaneé Hucks, LMFT-Associate. I primarily work with individuals, couples/partners, and families wanting to improve or make changes to their relationships. I use evidence-based practices, tailor my approach to meet your needs, work openly with you, and help you take steps toward your preferred future.
(817) 790-9312 View (817) 790-9312
Photo of Elina Kharmats, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Elina Kharmats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I understand that your perception is your reality. My name is Elina Kharmats, and I have more than a decade of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals, couples, and families. I practice integrative therapy, which combines elements from different therapeutic modalities, and personalize the treatment according to the needs of each client. Some of these approaches include person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and gestalt therapy, among others.
I understand that your perception is your reality. My name is Elina Kharmats, and I have more than a decade of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals, couples, and families. I practice integrative therapy, which combines elements from different therapeutic modalities, and personalize the treatment according to the needs of each client. Some of these approaches include person centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and gestalt therapy, among others.
(214) 817-2167 View (214) 817-2167
Photo of Melanie Roudkovski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Melanie Roudkovski
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Longview, TX 75601
Counseling requires a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. My goal for counseling is that you and I will understand and trust one another, identifying your goals and working to overcome whatever obstacles are in your way. I believe that anyone who seeks counseling does so because of a desire to live your best life, and my desire is to help you do just that. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I will help you to move toward solutions that will bring about positive change. While my clinical training and biblical worldview inform my approach, your goals and needs are the priority of each session.
Counseling requires a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. My goal for counseling is that you and I will understand and trust one another, identifying your goals and working to overcome whatever obstacles are in your way. I believe that anyone who seeks counseling does so because of a desire to live your best life, and my desire is to help you do just that. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I will help you to move toward solutions that will bring about positive change. While my clinical training and biblical worldview inform my approach, your goals and needs are the priority of each session.
(430) 219-0774 View (430) 219-0774
Photo of Chassity Harper, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Petty, TX
Chassity Harper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT, LMFT-A, EMDR
Verified Verified
Texarkana, TX 75503
I am willing to work for you in finding the approach that fits you! Are you ready to work for yourself? Are you ready for change? With your strengths in mind, I offer calm trauma work, relationship and identity focus.
Thank you for stopping by. You're taking the courageous first step to say it ends here and now, and I need support. You're feeling discouraged. You've tried everything. You want to connect but struggle to find joy and be heard. Maybe you've told your story, but no one is listening. I can help. I offer compassion, empathy, and a nonjudgmental space to find hope and change. Together we navigate those emotions, triggers, panic and learn ways to heal, communicate and walk in the empowerment you need to step into a healthier headspace, relationships and life.
I am willing to work for you in finding the approach that fits you! Are you ready to work for yourself? Are you ready for change? With your strengths in mind, I offer calm trauma work, relationship and identity focus.
Thank you for stopping by. You're taking the courageous first step to say it ends here and now, and I need support. You're feeling discouraged. You've tried everything. You want to connect but struggle to find joy and be heard. Maybe you've told your story, but no one is listening. I can help. I offer compassion, empathy, and a nonjudgmental space to find hope and change. Together we navigate those emotions, triggers, panic and learn ways to heal, communicate and walk in the empowerment you need to step into a healthier headspace, relationships and life.
(903) 320-4952 View (903) 320-4952
Photo of Cassidy Keenan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Petty, TX
Cassidy Keenan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LCDC, LMFT-A, MFTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75229
Therapy can be used to find a new path through some of our greatest struggles, enhance use of the tools around & within us, and reflect when things are going well. I am passionate about supporting individuals, families, and couples through the unexpected challenges that accompany the human experience. I aim to provide a compassionate, and supportive environment to walk with clients through issues related to self-worth, attachment styles, anxiety, depression, grief, and conflict in relationships. I hope to empower you in your journey to feeling confident, secure and at peace within yourself & your significant relationships.
Therapy can be used to find a new path through some of our greatest struggles, enhance use of the tools around & within us, and reflect when things are going well. I am passionate about supporting individuals, families, and couples through the unexpected challenges that accompany the human experience. I aim to provide a compassionate, and supportive environment to walk with clients through issues related to self-worth, attachment styles, anxiety, depression, grief, and conflict in relationships. I hope to empower you in your journey to feeling confident, secure and at peace within yourself & your significant relationships.
(303) 625-6487 View (303) 625-6487
Photo of Anaiya Baukman, Psychological Associate in Petty, TX
Anaiya Baukman
Psychological Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063
I am EMDR-Trained and a Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapist with advanced training in trauma and affair recovery from The Gottman Institute.
My clients would describe me as genuine, relaxed, and caring. I strive to cultivate meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationships, by approaching each session with warmth, empathy, and authenticity. I aim to foster a safe and exploratory environment for my clients with each interaction. I have a culturally humble approach that privileges your multicultural/diverse experience and leads to the development of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. I embrace an integrative approach to therapy drawing from a variety of evidence-supported practices.
I am EMDR-Trained and a Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapist with advanced training in trauma and affair recovery from The Gottman Institute.
My clients would describe me as genuine, relaxed, and caring. I strive to cultivate meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationships, by approaching each session with warmth, empathy, and authenticity. I aim to foster a safe and exploratory environment for my clients with each interaction. I have a culturally humble approach that privileges your multicultural/diverse experience and leads to the development of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. I embrace an integrative approach to therapy drawing from a variety of evidence-supported practices.
(972) 544-4515 View (972) 544-4515
Photo of Sarah Gregory, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Sarah Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
marital and relationship conflict, parenting issues, depression, anger, anxiety, panic/fear, self-harm, low-self esteem, sexual abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment issues, eating disorders, behavior issues, addictions, divorce, and blended families.
I am a trauma informed, EMDR trained, & a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional therapist. I enjoy incorporating games and art therapy in sessions. I am passionate to help people move through emotional/spiritual obstacles so they can live rich lives interpersonally and contribute to their community. A warm, empathetic relationship between a counselor and client provides the context where growth and change can take place. I utilize Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy approaches.
marital and relationship conflict, parenting issues, depression, anger, anxiety, panic/fear, self-harm, low-self esteem, sexual abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment issues, eating disorders, behavior issues, addictions, divorce, and blended families.
I am a trauma informed, EMDR trained, & a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional therapist. I enjoy incorporating games and art therapy in sessions. I am passionate to help people move through emotional/spiritual obstacles so they can live rich lives interpersonally and contribute to their community. A warm, empathetic relationship between a counselor and client provides the context where growth and change can take place. I utilize Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy approaches.
(972) 608-3179 View (972) 608-3179
Photo of Dan Kirkland MS, LPC-S Telehealth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Dan Kirkland MS, LPC-S Telehealth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
I am a Gottman Level Three trained relationship therapist.
Let's work together to move your life to the place you want it to be. Everyone gets stuck. We can get the ball rolling toward a better life! You can schedule your telehealth session easily by clicking the Schedule Now button on my website. Just pick it and click it! Or, you can call my number and leave a message if that is better for you, and I will return your call. As Level Three trained Gottman Relationship Therapist I will teach you the skills the Gottman Institute says will transform your relationship!
I am a Gottman Level Three trained relationship therapist.
Let's work together to move your life to the place you want it to be. Everyone gets stuck. We can get the ball rolling toward a better life! You can schedule your telehealth session easily by clicking the Schedule Now button on my website. Just pick it and click it! Or, you can call my number and leave a message if that is better for you, and I will return your call. As Level Three trained Gottman Relationship Therapist I will teach you the skills the Gottman Institute says will transform your relationship!
(972) 349-0246 View (972) 349-0246
Photo of Kathy Gissler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Kathy Gissler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Argyle, TX 76226
In addition to working with couples, I also work individually with adults on a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, and women's concerns.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. There's hope! I believe that everyone can find joy and fulfillment in their life, no matter what situation you may currently find yourself in. I approach counseling with positivity and an optimistic outlook, grounded in my Christian faith. I specialize in helping couples work through difficulties in their relationships, and emerge healthier and stronger. I also enjoy helping people find their internal strength to face the obstacles in their life, to make healthy choices, and to grow in a positive direction.
In addition to working with couples, I also work individually with adults on a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, and women's concerns.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. There's hope! I believe that everyone can find joy and fulfillment in their life, no matter what situation you may currently find yourself in. I approach counseling with positivity and an optimistic outlook, grounded in my Christian faith. I specialize in helping couples work through difficulties in their relationships, and emerge healthier and stronger. I also enjoy helping people find their internal strength to face the obstacles in their life, to make healthy choices, and to grow in a positive direction.
(682) 356-4747 View (682) 356-4747
Photo of Polyamory, Swinger, Kink / BDSM, LGBT+ Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Petty, TX
Polyamory, Swinger, Kink / BDSM, LGBT+ Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208  (Online Only)
With your partner, a new partner, yourself, and how you live.
We specialize in open, nonmonogamous relationships such as polyamory and swinging, alternative lifestyles such as kink / BDSM, LGBT+, and secular or alternative faiths such as paganism. Trying to live more freely and authentically can be hard. Some struggle feeling something is wrong with them. Some people have just been polybombed, the love of their life seeming to say they’re not enough. Others, having taken the leap can’t seem to stop fighting. Feeling isolated, scared, tired, and like they're going to lose everything.
With your partner, a new partner, yourself, and how you live.
We specialize in open, nonmonogamous relationships such as polyamory and swinging, alternative lifestyles such as kink / BDSM, LGBT+, and secular or alternative faiths such as paganism. Trying to live more freely and authentically can be hard. Some struggle feeling something is wrong with them. Some people have just been polybombed, the love of their life seeming to say they’re not enough. Others, having taken the leap can’t seem to stop fighting. Feeling isolated, scared, tired, and like they're going to lose everything.
(281) 888-8721 View (281) 888-8721
Photo of Tonya Willis, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Petty, TX
Tonya Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
The preteen/teen stage is my favorite, but I work with all ages, 10-65+, couples and families.
It is not uncommon to feel like life is unraveling at the seams; it has a way of making you feel lonely, lost, uncertain and trapped at times. You deserve the best support possible.
The preteen/teen stage is my favorite, but I work with all ages, 10-65+, couples and families.
It is not uncommon to feel like life is unraveling at the seams; it has a way of making you feel lonely, lost, uncertain and trapped at times. You deserve the best support possible.
(214) 643-8406 View (214) 643-8406
Photo of Jonathan Olvera, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Petty, TX
Jonathan Olvera
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
I work with individuals and couples in the area of broken relationships. So much is determined by the quality of your relationship with self and others. When it isn't going well we tend to isolate and deny or numb it away with distractions, but the opposite is true. Where hurt often comes from relationships, healing happens all the more through relationship. I would even say it's impossible to heal without another along with you. Whether you are an individual struggling with your relationship with yourself or a couple trying to reconnect, I can help you reset, renew and bring healing to those broken places.
I work with individuals and couples in the area of broken relationships. So much is determined by the quality of your relationship with self and others. When it isn't going well we tend to isolate and deny or numb it away with distractions, but the opposite is true. Where hurt often comes from relationships, healing happens all the more through relationship. I would even say it's impossible to heal without another along with you. Whether you are an individual struggling with your relationship with yourself or a couple trying to reconnect, I can help you reset, renew and bring healing to those broken places.
(214) 441-7507 View (214) 441-7507
Photo of Jasmine Battles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Petty, TX
Jasmine Battles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
I invite you to partner with me on a road to healing.
Hi, I'm Jasmine. My motto is "I show up authentically myself so that you can show up authentically yourself." My passion is to create a safe place so that you can express yourself without judgment. Sometimes we have big feelings and we need someone to help us make sense of them. That's where I am come in! During our work together we will process your feelings so that we can get to the deeper meaning of WHY! Why am I feeling this way? Why do these things keep happening to me? And why does it feel like I'm going crazy? Processing through the "Why" can help us get to the HOW! How do I cope with these feelings?
I invite you to partner with me on a road to healing.
Hi, I'm Jasmine. My motto is "I show up authentically myself so that you can show up authentically yourself." My passion is to create a safe place so that you can express yourself without judgment. Sometimes we have big feelings and we need someone to help us make sense of them. That's where I am come in! During our work together we will process your feelings so that we can get to the deeper meaning of WHY! Why am I feeling this way? Why do these things keep happening to me? And why does it feel like I'm going crazy? Processing through the "Why" can help us get to the HOW! How do I cope with these feelings?
(469) 378-5810 View (469) 378-5810
Photo of Liam Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Petty, TX
Liam Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewisville, TX 75067
If you're reading this, you are more than likely experiencing some pain and suffering. You may feel lost and hopeless. This pain can become unbearable, especially when we walk through it alone. When we suffer, we often desire the presence of someone not affected by that pain to come alongside us and hear our cries. To sit with us in the emotions and understand us on a deeper level. With my clients, I work hard to be this presence. To form a safe space to feel your emotions, to be heard, and be accepted. Through our therapeutic relationship, we can begin to understand your process and how to best ride the wave of your emotion.
If you're reading this, you are more than likely experiencing some pain and suffering. You may feel lost and hopeless. This pain can become unbearable, especially when we walk through it alone. When we suffer, we often desire the presence of someone not affected by that pain to come alongside us and hear our cries. To sit with us in the emotions and understand us on a deeper level. With my clients, I work hard to be this presence. To form a safe space to feel your emotions, to be heard, and be accepted. Through our therapeutic relationship, we can begin to understand your process and how to best ride the wave of your emotion.
(972) 895-7825 View (972) 895-7825
Photo of Robin Binnig, Psychologist in Petty, TX
Robin Binnig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adult individuals and couples in psychotherapy. Many of the individual clients I see are working through relationship issues (past or present), whether originating from family of origin, romance, friendships or the workplace. I frequently train individual and corporate clients in stress management practices. I have a master's degree in rehabilitation psychology, which informs my work with clients struggling with acute or chronic health conditions. I like to help clients become their own advocates in management of their medical conditions. I believe knowledge is power and a great antidote to fear and depression.
I enjoy working with adult individuals and couples in psychotherapy. Many of the individual clients I see are working through relationship issues (past or present), whether originating from family of origin, romance, friendships or the workplace. I frequently train individual and corporate clients in stress management practices. I have a master's degree in rehabilitation psychology, which informs my work with clients struggling with acute or chronic health conditions. I like to help clients become their own advocates in management of their medical conditions. I believe knowledge is power and a great antidote to fear and depression.
(972) 200-1251 View (972) 200-1251
Photo of Tamara Jackson | Lpc -A Supervised By Trinity Ward Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Petty, TX
Tamara Jackson | Lpc -A Supervised By Trinity Ward Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, RYT
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75106  (Online Only)
Welcome! The therapeutic relationship is a sacred space for growth, insight, and change. I work collaboratively with clients helping them to connect to their best selves and maximize their strengths in a non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space. I practice a strength-based, trauma-informed approach that includes integrative modalities individualized to each client, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions. This work is a process; we explore and examine your desired goals and story together.
Welcome! The therapeutic relationship is a sacred space for growth, insight, and change. I work collaboratively with clients helping them to connect to their best selves and maximize their strengths in a non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space. I practice a strength-based, trauma-informed approach that includes integrative modalities individualized to each client, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions. This work is a process; we explore and examine your desired goals and story together.
(469) 414-5068 View (469) 414-5068
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.