Photo of Bibi Ladipo-Ajayi, LPC Intern in The Woodlands, TX
Bibi Ladipo-Ajayi
LPC Intern, MMFT, LCDC, Pharm D
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77384
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance use disorders and other challenges due to past or present trauma? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of dysfunction and defeat? I want you to know there is hope and YOU can Break out of the Cycle. I want to partner with you on your healing journey. You can heal from trauma and become a healing catalyst for yourself, your family and community. Empowered Wellness can be your legacy.
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance use disorders and other challenges due to past or present trauma? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of dysfunction and defeat? I want you to know there is hope and YOU can Break out of the Cycle. I want to partner with you on your healing journey. You can heal from trauma and become a healing catalyst for yourself, your family and community. Empowered Wellness can be your legacy.
(281) 214-6519 View (281) 214-6519
Photo of New Beginning Mind Spa & Therapy, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
New Beginning Mind Spa & Therapy, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
I welcome families and individuals from all walks of life who may be experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, anger management, addiction, social skills, coping skills, and relationships (couples and interpersonal relationships).
My name is Iesha Anderson. I was born and raised in Houston, TX and graduated from Prairie View A&M University. I also attended Texas Southern University with a Bachelors in Psychology. Academics were a very important part of my life. I realized at an early age that education was vital to my future success in life and the life of others. I have always had a passion for counseling and helping since the first day I sat in my psychology course during my journey in undergraduate school. My experience in Real Estate, taxes, customer service, and mental health has equipped me with the ability to relate and understand where others are coming from. I have always had a passion for special populations and was blessed to find a career that combined my love for both, families and individuals.
I welcome families and individuals from all walks of life who may be experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, anger management, addiction, social skills, coping skills, and relationships (couples and interpersonal relationships).
My name is Iesha Anderson. I was born and raised in Houston, TX and graduated from Prairie View A&M University. I also attended Texas Southern University with a Bachelors in Psychology. Academics were a very important part of my life. I realized at an early age that education was vital to my future success in life and the life of others. I have always had a passion for counseling and helping since the first day I sat in my psychology course during my journey in undergraduate school. My experience in Real Estate, taxes, customer service, and mental health has equipped me with the ability to relate and understand where others are coming from. I have always had a passion for special populations and was blessed to find a career that combined my love for both, families and individuals.
(832) 905-1366 View (832) 905-1366
Photo of Felix Vara, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Felix Vara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I strive to be a partner on your journey towards better mental health and greater resilience.
If life's challenges are taking a toll on your mental well-being, know that help is available. If you get the feeling things aren't quite right or notice a shift from your usual, more positive self, there is support. When the little things pile up and become overwhelming, rest assured that I understand, and you're not alone. My knowledge covers areas like anxiety, infidelity, trauma, PTSD, and cumulative PTSD. Specifically, if you're a first responder or someone making decisions that impacts others, I have expertise in these realms and can offer personalized support.
I strive to be a partner on your journey towards better mental health and greater resilience.
If life's challenges are taking a toll on your mental well-being, know that help is available. If you get the feeling things aren't quite right or notice a shift from your usual, more positive self, there is support. When the little things pile up and become overwhelming, rest assured that I understand, and you're not alone. My knowledge covers areas like anxiety, infidelity, trauma, PTSD, and cumulative PTSD. Specifically, if you're a first responder or someone making decisions that impacts others, I have expertise in these realms and can offer personalized support.
(936) 262-6816 View (936) 262-6816
Photo of Haley Pettigrew, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Haley Pettigrew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Did you go to bed last night feeling angry or hopeless from the same continued fight with your partner or child? Has the anxiety, depression, conflict, or trauma become unbearable? Do you want to improve your personal relationships but don’t know how? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years of experience and understand those thoughts all too well. We all have the capacity for growth and healing, and I would be honored to partner with you and your family towards finding your happier and more fulfilling life.
Did you go to bed last night feeling angry or hopeless from the same continued fight with your partner or child? Has the anxiety, depression, conflict, or trauma become unbearable? Do you want to improve your personal relationships but don’t know how? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years of experience and understand those thoughts all too well. We all have the capacity for growth and healing, and I would be honored to partner with you and your family towards finding your happier and more fulfilling life.
(832) 905-8285 View (832) 905-8285
Photo of Mphatso Khoza, LPC Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Mphatso Khoza
LPC Associate, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Therapy is - learning to be a better communicator, getting ready for major surgery, working through a spiritual crisis, working through a divorce, grieving the loss of a loved one, deciding on the best of good options, making a difficult decision, discovering your purpose, getting ready for marriage, becoming a new parent, releasing a child into the world, navigating a new job, fixing a broken relationship, working on a struggling domestic partnership, becoming a loving spouse, overcoming an addiction, navigating your identity, learning how to forgive...among other things. Whatever you need, we can work on it together.
Therapy is - learning to be a better communicator, getting ready for major surgery, working through a spiritual crisis, working through a divorce, grieving the loss of a loved one, deciding on the best of good options, making a difficult decision, discovering your purpose, getting ready for marriage, becoming a new parent, releasing a child into the world, navigating a new job, fixing a broken relationship, working on a struggling domestic partnership, becoming a loving spouse, overcoming an addiction, navigating your identity, learning how to forgive...among other things. Whatever you need, we can work on it together.
(281) 377-9848 View (281) 377-9848
Photo of Ashley Stakes, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Ashley Stakes
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I don't only work with first responders, I also have a passion for veterans, recovering addicts, and anyone who wants to improve their relationship with themselves.
Many first responders struggle to put on the uniform day in and day out; feeling helpless that the 911 system will never change plus the frustration of disconnection between dispatch, field, and administration only feeds the discontent. There are so many things we can't control: calls, call volume, and sometimes whether the patient lives or dies. Its no wonder first responders have some of the highest burnout rates. I know this first-hand because I burned out of EMS. All the way out. I am here now as a counselor to help first responders manage and treat the feelings of burnout to increase longevity in the profession.
I don't only work with first responders, I also have a passion for veterans, recovering addicts, and anyone who wants to improve their relationship with themselves.
Many first responders struggle to put on the uniform day in and day out; feeling helpless that the 911 system will never change plus the frustration of disconnection between dispatch, field, and administration only feeds the discontent. There are so many things we can't control: calls, call volume, and sometimes whether the patient lives or dies. Its no wonder first responders have some of the highest burnout rates. I know this first-hand because I burned out of EMS. All the way out. I am here now as a counselor to help first responders manage and treat the feelings of burnout to increase longevity in the profession.
(936) 758-7408 View (936) 758-7408
Photo of Kacie LeGaye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Kacie LeGaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Kacie LeGaye is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. Kacie has expertise working with individuals, couples, and families and focuses on the power of communication in relationships. She earned her Masters of Science in Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin. Since graduation, Kacie has worked in various roles working with crisis, case management, and an Integrated Care Program to provide behavioral health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
Kacie LeGaye is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. Kacie has expertise working with individuals, couples, and families and focuses on the power of communication in relationships. She earned her Masters of Science in Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin. Since graduation, Kacie has worked in various roles working with crisis, case management, and an Integrated Care Program to provide behavioral health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Melissa Engel, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Melissa Engel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I am interested in working with individuals of all backgrounds with a primary focus in clinical issues that include: depression, anxiety, stress management, self esteem, life transitions, relationship issues, anger management, communication problems, domestic violence, abuse, social skills, and managing everyday life stressors.
Do you need help to regain control of your life? Life can be overwhelming and sometimes we need a little guidance to help get back on track. My goal is to develop within my clients a greater self-awareness that will build confidence, self-esteem, and provide them a greater capacity to effectively navigate the complex challenges of life.
I am interested in working with individuals of all backgrounds with a primary focus in clinical issues that include: depression, anxiety, stress management, self esteem, life transitions, relationship issues, anger management, communication problems, domestic violence, abuse, social skills, and managing everyday life stressors.
Do you need help to regain control of your life? Life can be overwhelming and sometimes we need a little guidance to help get back on track. My goal is to develop within my clients a greater self-awareness that will build confidence, self-esteem, and provide them a greater capacity to effectively navigate the complex challenges of life.
(281) 845-2514 x128 View (281) 845-2514 x128
Photo of Daniel R. Bernard, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Daniel R. Bernard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I specialize in helping couples and individuals work through their struggles to live their best lives.
Many of us struggle with issues to which we believe there are no solutions. It may seem that our problems are there at every turn, despite what we do, adding more and more weight for us to carry. We may feel so weighted down that we begin to give up on ourselves. You’re not destined to suffer, however, and have the ability, within yourself, to cope with your problems and lessen this burden. We all have the potential to learn, and counseling can help you to understand and optimize your potential.
I specialize in helping couples and individuals work through their struggles to live their best lives.
Many of us struggle with issues to which we believe there are no solutions. It may seem that our problems are there at every turn, despite what we do, adding more and more weight for us to carry. We may feel so weighted down that we begin to give up on ourselves. You’re not destined to suffer, however, and have the ability, within yourself, to cope with your problems and lessen this burden. We all have the potential to learn, and counseling can help you to understand and optimize your potential.
(936) 218-2964 View (936) 218-2964
Photo of Danielle Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Danielle Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
Dani provides individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are 13 years old and over.
Danielle "Dani" Ellis is a counselor, coach, and psychotherapist who helps people having difficulty coping with emotional or behavioral problems that are affecting their happiness and peace of mind. She assists her clients by focusing on resilience, empowerment, assertiveness, and positive actionable change. Treatment is based on a wellness perspective where clients are understood, accepted, and encouraged to focus on their individual uniqueness and strengths rather than identifying with an illness or diagnosis. She helps clients heal from trauma, confront unhealthy habits, develop insight and awareness, and learn new ways to cope.
Dani provides individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are 13 years old and over.
Danielle "Dani" Ellis is a counselor, coach, and psychotherapist who helps people having difficulty coping with emotional or behavioral problems that are affecting their happiness and peace of mind. She assists her clients by focusing on resilience, empowerment, assertiveness, and positive actionable change. Treatment is based on a wellness perspective where clients are understood, accepted, and encouraged to focus on their individual uniqueness and strengths rather than identifying with an illness or diagnosis. She helps clients heal from trauma, confront unhealthy habits, develop insight and awareness, and learn new ways to cope.
(713) 893-3989 View (713) 893-3989
Photo of Carla Litzsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Carla Litzsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC CI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I work with individuals, couples, groups and families.
Life can feel challenging, overwhelming and perplexing! Do you just want the fog in your mind to clear? Was the previous year more than you can handle? If you find yourself lost in transition, existing but not living, seeking clarity, direction, or purpose, and just feel like breaking while trying to hold it all together? You’re in the right place. Change can be difficult, painful and messy but there is a beautiful story that you get to write if you go through the process. Allow me to journey with you as we work to un-complicate things. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to un-pack what's been weighing you down.
I work with individuals, couples, groups and families.
Life can feel challenging, overwhelming and perplexing! Do you just want the fog in your mind to clear? Was the previous year more than you can handle? If you find yourself lost in transition, existing but not living, seeking clarity, direction, or purpose, and just feel like breaking while trying to hold it all together? You’re in the right place. Change can be difficult, painful and messy but there is a beautiful story that you get to write if you go through the process. Allow me to journey with you as we work to un-complicate things. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to un-pack what's been weighing you down.
(281) 336-9651 View (281) 336-9651
Photo of Cindy Thornby, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Cindy Thornby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Life can be challenging! I assist individuals, couples, and families in moving through difficulties and making positive changes for a more satisfying, fulfillling life. Clients learn to utilize holistic and therapeutic approaches to regain personal balance, vitality, meaning, and a sense of purpose. I've worked in a variety of clinical and hospital settings, including pain management, substance abuse, and mental health, as well as providing services in the community, schools, and homes. My clients include adults, families, adolescents, and children, who learn to view their challenges as opportunities for growth!
Life can be challenging! I assist individuals, couples, and families in moving through difficulties and making positive changes for a more satisfying, fulfillling life. Clients learn to utilize holistic and therapeutic approaches to regain personal balance, vitality, meaning, and a sense of purpose. I've worked in a variety of clinical and hospital settings, including pain management, substance abuse, and mental health, as well as providing services in the community, schools, and homes. My clients include adults, families, adolescents, and children, who learn to view their challenges as opportunities for growth!
(281) 761-2690 View (281) 761-2690
Photo of Alexia Camfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Alexia Camfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
At some point we each hit up against an impasse in an important relationship or a disruption that requires more of us than we are able to navigate on our own. Working with a therapist to support what is most meaningful for your life creates new possibility. I work together with my clients to fully understand their unique life circumstances and support them in healthy development.
At some point we each hit up against an impasse in an important relationship or a disruption that requires more of us than we are able to navigate on our own. Working with a therapist to support what is most meaningful for your life creates new possibility. I work together with my clients to fully understand their unique life circumstances and support them in healthy development.
(713) 999-3727 View (713) 999-3727
Photo of Ron Gravis, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Ron Gravis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77382
I have deep training in numerous trauma/addiction/couples therapies (psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, addictions, Gestalt) and have learned that amazing progress can be accomplished in/through these areas.
I offer In-Office and Online therapy. Both are equally effective, easy to access and greatly appreciated by my clients. I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
I have deep training in numerous trauma/addiction/couples therapies (psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, addictions, Gestalt) and have learned that amazing progress can be accomplished in/through these areas.
I offer In-Office and Online therapy. Both are equally effective, easy to access and greatly appreciated by my clients. I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
(832) 864-7512 View (832) 864-7512
Photo of Christopher M Crawford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Christopher M Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My client population includes, individuals seeking life balance, establishing a recovery network for long-term sobriety from addiction, including alcohol and mood altering substances. I offer services to teens and young adults transitioning to college, and career development. I will address anxiety and depression through the session as it relates to these transitions. I encourage working with families/couples to address boundaries, communication skills, and family history of addiction and mental health. I like to focus on the solutions, and less on the problems with individuals and families.
My client population includes, individuals seeking life balance, establishing a recovery network for long-term sobriety from addiction, including alcohol and mood altering substances. I offer services to teens and young adults transitioning to college, and career development. I will address anxiety and depression through the session as it relates to these transitions. I encourage working with families/couples to address boundaries, communication skills, and family history of addiction and mental health. I like to focus on the solutions, and less on the problems with individuals and families.
(346) 220-1937 View (346) 220-1937
Photo of Finding Peace Counseling Center in The Woodlands, TX
Finding Peace Counseling Center
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? Are you having family or relationship issues and feel like you need someone to help you and your loved ones understand one another? Are you concerned about recent changes you've seen in your child or teenager? No matter what challenges you may currently be facing, we strive to make sure our clients feel comfortable and supported on their journey to bettering themselves and their families and look forward to helping you Find Peace.
Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? Are you having family or relationship issues and feel like you need someone to help you and your loved ones understand one another? Are you concerned about recent changes you've seen in your child or teenager? No matter what challenges you may currently be facing, we strive to make sure our clients feel comfortable and supported on their journey to bettering themselves and their families and look forward to helping you Find Peace.
(936) 220-2143 View (936) 220-2143
Photo of Woodlands Family Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Woodlands Family Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, AAC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
You may be considering therapy because you are hurting,stressed, depressed, anxious, confused,experiencing difficulty sustaining a meaningful relationship, in a spiritual crisis... It takes courage to admit problems and try to change but change is possible in a safe caring environment. I have 20 years experience helping individuals/couples/families explore their hurts and discover hope, new beliefs, new behaviors, and at last a new life for themselves and their relationships. Meeting people where they are, I am a confidential, caring.accepting, compassionalte listener/therapist/coach.
You may be considering therapy because you are hurting,stressed, depressed, anxious, confused,experiencing difficulty sustaining a meaningful relationship, in a spiritual crisis... It takes courage to admit problems and try to change but change is possible in a safe caring environment. I have 20 years experience helping individuals/couples/families explore their hurts and discover hope, new beliefs, new behaviors, and at last a new life for themselves and their relationships. Meeting people where they are, I am a confidential, caring.accepting, compassionalte listener/therapist/coach.
(281) 363-4220 View (281) 363-4220
Photo of Brittany N. Allison, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Brittany N. Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
In addition to specializing in the treatment of anxiety, I have a special interest in Couples Counseling, Foster Care & Adoption, Self-Esteem, Health & Wellness, Codependence, Substance Abuse, Oppositional Defiance, Divorce & Blended Families, and Trauma & Abuse.
We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things from our past. But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here now with the power to shape your day and your future. I believe that everyone is capable of change. In working with people, I feel that it is important to honor an individual's past, listen to their personal experiences, and respect their beliefs to better understand how they make meaning of their world. I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment that fosters self-exploration and personal growth.
In addition to specializing in the treatment of anxiety, I have a special interest in Couples Counseling, Foster Care & Adoption, Self-Esteem, Health & Wellness, Codependence, Substance Abuse, Oppositional Defiance, Divorce & Blended Families, and Trauma & Abuse.
We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things from our past. But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here now with the power to shape your day and your future. I believe that everyone is capable of change. In working with people, I feel that it is important to honor an individual's past, listen to their personal experiences, and respect their beliefs to better understand how they make meaning of their world. I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment that fosters self-exploration and personal growth.
(346) 220-3259 View (346) 220-3259
Photo of Tessa Stuckey, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Tessa Stuckey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I strive to create a comfortable and inviting environment so I can hear one's life story, goals, heartaches and tough life decisions. I have a deep understanding and love for all things LOVE. Love within a family system, love within a marriage, and love within one's self. Unfortunately love isn't always enough. I enjoy working with adolescents, college students, adults, couples/marriage counseling, parenting and family therapy. My interests include adolescents, marital and relationship problems, communication skills, anxiety and depressive disorders, life transitions, coping skills, emotional disturbance, peer relationships, self-harming, self-esteem building, and family conflicts.
I strive to create a comfortable and inviting environment so I can hear one's life story, goals, heartaches and tough life decisions. I have a deep understanding and love for all things LOVE. Love within a family system, love within a marriage, and love within one's self. Unfortunately love isn't always enough. I enjoy working with adolescents, college students, adults, couples/marriage counseling, parenting and family therapy. My interests include adolescents, marital and relationship problems, communication skills, anxiety and depressive disorders, life transitions, coping skills, emotional disturbance, peer relationships, self-harming, self-esteem building, and family conflicts.
(832) 769-4480 View (832) 769-4480
Photo of Alicia Gregg, LPC Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Alicia Gregg
LPC Associate, MA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Discouragement comes in many forms. My goal is to provide a compassionate environment addressing the discouragement of anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem issues, and other situational stressors. In therapy we collaborate to explore life problems and implement change. With children, my goal is to develop a safe and secure child-centered relationship emphasizing acceptance and empathy. The parent-child relationship is the most important factor for a child’s well-being, so I enjoy helping parents learn to use child-centered techniques to effectively respond to their children’s emotional and behavioral needs.
Discouragement comes in many forms. My goal is to provide a compassionate environment addressing the discouragement of anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem issues, and other situational stressors. In therapy we collaborate to explore life problems and implement change. With children, my goal is to develop a safe and secure child-centered relationship emphasizing acceptance and empathy. The parent-child relationship is the most important factor for a child’s well-being, so I enjoy helping parents learn to use child-centered techniques to effectively respond to their children’s emotional and behavioral needs.
(936) 237-3320 View (936) 237-3320

See more therapy options for The Woodlands

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.