Photo of Chris E Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Chris E Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
(804) 651-3941 View (804) 651-3941
Photo of Angelica Audrey Hardianto, Resident in Counseling in Richmond, VA
Angelica Audrey Hardianto
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
I am currently accepting individuals, couples, and families.
As a professional, I believe that trust, collaboration, and rapport are important aspects of the therapeutic environment. I strive to be an ally and a collaborator for my clients. I approach counseling with the belief that each individual, couple, and family is different and that everyone needs their own individualized approach to therapy. As a clinician, I would like to assist in facilitating growth and overcoming challenges by providing support and the space to work through any struggles.
I am currently accepting individuals, couples, and families.
As a professional, I believe that trust, collaboration, and rapport are important aspects of the therapeutic environment. I strive to be an ally and a collaborator for my clients. I approach counseling with the belief that each individual, couple, and family is different and that everyone needs their own individualized approach to therapy. As a clinician, I would like to assist in facilitating growth and overcoming challenges by providing support and the space to work through any struggles.
(804) 635-3638 View (804) 635-3638
Photo of Jaeron-Rae "R Jay" Dukes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Jaeron-Rae "R Jay" Dukes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23222  (Online Only)
I will tailor our work together to meet your specific needs based on my training in Polyvagal Theory, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Ego States, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Based, Strength Based, Trauma and Abandonment, Eye Movement and Desensitization (EMDR), and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, incarceration, dissociation, trauma and abuse, PTSD, career challenges, and eating issues. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients with specialized training for supporting transgender clients as well as cult recovery/religious deconstruction. My therapy style is warm, interactive and person centered. I believe everyone has the ability to find healing and you are the expert on you! My role is to support you. It takes courage to reach out and ask for support. That courage will serve you well as you work towards feeling better.
I will tailor our work together to meet your specific needs based on my training in Polyvagal Theory, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Ego States, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Based, Strength Based, Trauma and Abandonment, Eye Movement and Desensitization (EMDR), and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, incarceration, dissociation, trauma and abuse, PTSD, career challenges, and eating issues. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients with specialized training for supporting transgender clients as well as cult recovery/religious deconstruction. My therapy style is warm, interactive and person centered. I believe everyone has the ability to find healing and you are the expert on you! My role is to support you. It takes courage to reach out and ask for support. That courage will serve you well as you work towards feeling better.
(804) 494-7922 View (804) 494-7922
Photo of Evan White in Richmond, VA
Evan White
MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
I am a white, fat, non-binary, transmasc, and neurodivergent person, and I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and storytelling in the therapeutic relationship, especially as a means of processing past experiences and cultivating community.
I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ teens and adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, minority stress, and burnout. I also enjoy working with people who are questioning, exploring, and/or unpacking their neurodivergency or their queerness. I take a neurodiversity-affirming and person-centered approach. Regardless of whether or not you fall under the categories mentioned above, I'm excited to work with you and get to know you!
I am a white, fat, non-binary, transmasc, and neurodivergent person, and I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and storytelling in the therapeutic relationship, especially as a means of processing past experiences and cultivating community.
I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ teens and adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, minority stress, and burnout. I also enjoy working with people who are questioning, exploring, and/or unpacking their neurodivergency or their queerness. I take a neurodiversity-affirming and person-centered approach. Regardless of whether or not you fall under the categories mentioned above, I'm excited to work with you and get to know you!
(804) 571-7762 View (804) 571-7762
Photo of Dr. Émilie Ellis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond, VA
Dr. Émilie Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
My approach to relationship therapy is emotion-focused, sex and kink-positive, and respectful of alternative relationship structures (ex.
Accepting new clients! I work primarily with LGBTQ+ people who have experienced trauma and are looking to improve their lives. This might be wanting to feel less anxious or depressed, have healthier relationships, have a deeper knowledge of yourself, or something else. I also have a particular interest in working with clients living with disabilities and chronic conditions, especially those who are "in transition" from non-disabled to disabled. I am a Qualifying WPATH Member and can provide mental health services for individuals looking for support specific to gender-related topics, like social & medical transitioning.
My approach to relationship therapy is emotion-focused, sex and kink-positive, and respectful of alternative relationship structures (ex.
Accepting new clients! I work primarily with LGBTQ+ people who have experienced trauma and are looking to improve their lives. This might be wanting to feel less anxious or depressed, have healthier relationships, have a deeper knowledge of yourself, or something else. I also have a particular interest in working with clients living with disabilities and chronic conditions, especially those who are "in transition" from non-disabled to disabled. I am a Qualifying WPATH Member and can provide mental health services for individuals looking for support specific to gender-related topics, like social & medical transitioning.
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Photo of Got Your Six Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Got Your Six Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CSAC, MAC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
Veteran-owned and operated, we seek to help Veterans, First Responders, their Families, and children impacted by traumatic events. We provide specialized individual and group therapy, and provide therapy for a wide range of children, adolescent, and adult clients. We welcome those who are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping, gender identity, mood disorders, relationship issues, sexuality, and addictions. We believe that the situations we experience impact us, but do not define us. Our clinicians are trained to help you reach your full potential and overcome difficult situations.
Veteran-owned and operated, we seek to help Veterans, First Responders, their Families, and children impacted by traumatic events. We provide specialized individual and group therapy, and provide therapy for a wide range of children, adolescent, and adult clients. We welcome those who are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping, gender identity, mood disorders, relationship issues, sexuality, and addictions. We believe that the situations we experience impact us, but do not define us. Our clinicians are trained to help you reach your full potential and overcome difficult situations.
(571) 636-1800 View (571) 636-1800
Photo of Zephyr Acosta-Lewis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Richmond, VA
Zephyr Acosta-Lewis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
I prioritize client agency and collaboration and the healing capacity of the therapeutic relationship.
I am passionate about supporting clients experiencing life transitions and serious mental health challenges in understanding their inner experience, navigating their trauma, and celebrating and reinforcing their strengths with a collaborative approach. I particularly enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and families, folks with expansive experiences of gender and sexuality, neurodiversity, and those with histories of housing instability, complex trauma, and dissociative symptoms.
I prioritize client agency and collaboration and the healing capacity of the therapeutic relationship.
I am passionate about supporting clients experiencing life transitions and serious mental health challenges in understanding their inner experience, navigating their trauma, and celebrating and reinforcing their strengths with a collaborative approach. I particularly enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and families, folks with expansive experiences of gender and sexuality, neurodiversity, and those with histories of housing instability, complex trauma, and dissociative symptoms.
(804) 429-1796 View (804) 429-1796
Photo of Transcending Adversity Counseling Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Transcending Adversity Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, M Ed
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23237
Emotions are an important part of life, and help us to connect with others. Sometimes our experiences with intense emotions can take away from our ability to clearly communicate with each other or appreciate ourselves. Do you find it difficult to enjoy life in the moment? too focused on the past or worried about the future? Do you wish you could connect with your family or partner in a way that doesn't lead to conflict or slammed doors? Whether you are experiencing relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, anger, feelings of low self esteem or sex related concerns, your feelings do not have to control your life.
Emotions are an important part of life, and help us to connect with others. Sometimes our experiences with intense emotions can take away from our ability to clearly communicate with each other or appreciate ourselves. Do you find it difficult to enjoy life in the moment? too focused on the past or worried about the future? Do you wish you could connect with your family or partner in a way that doesn't lead to conflict or slammed doors? Whether you are experiencing relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, anger, feelings of low self esteem or sex related concerns, your feelings do not have to control your life.
(804) 567-8198 View (804) 567-8198
Photo of Beth Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Beth Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23221
Hi, my name is Beth and thank you for visiting my page! My clinical practice focuses on individual, couples, and family therapy. Drawing from my rich life experiences. I employ a collaborative, strengths-based approach to helping clients uncover their strengths and assets that lead to healthy solutions.
Hi, my name is Beth and thank you for visiting my page! My clinical practice focuses on individual, couples, and family therapy. Drawing from my rich life experiences. I employ a collaborative, strengths-based approach to helping clients uncover their strengths and assets that lead to healthy solutions.
(804) 735-1265 View (804) 735-1265
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Bobby Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Bobby Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTS
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23231
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
(804) 376-9909 View (804) 376-9909
Photo of Meagan Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Meagan Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
I am passionate about all forms of mental health service, but I have a special interest in relationship difficulties, grief, and symptoms of trauma.
I believe that people are resilient and that we all have the capacity to change our lives for the better if we are given opportunities to succeed. Many of us will suffer moments of defeat, moments of heartache, cultural moments of significance, and situations of joy that beg to be shared. As a therapist, I facilitate the success of others by creating a space for hope, empowerment, passion, and sorrows. I desire to help others to become their best selves.
I am passionate about all forms of mental health service, but I have a special interest in relationship difficulties, grief, and symptoms of trauma.
I believe that people are resilient and that we all have the capacity to change our lives for the better if we are given opportunities to succeed. Many of us will suffer moments of defeat, moments of heartache, cultural moments of significance, and situations of joy that beg to be shared. As a therapist, I facilitate the success of others by creating a space for hope, empowerment, passion, and sorrows. I desire to help others to become their best selves.
(804) 258-4152 View (804) 258-4152
Photo of Bridget Dunnavant, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Bridget Dunnavant
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
I offer both individual and couples counseling to adults of all ages, also teaching mindfulness meditation when desired. In addition to ameliorating symptoms, decreasing emotional pain, and helping to solve difficult problems, therapy and meditation can facilitate significant personal growth and increased wellness. My approach is broadly humanistic, meaning we seek together in a safe and secure environment, mutual understanding of you as a whole person, honing your internal "voice" and tapping into your existing strengths. Once we identify who you really are and what is most important to you, the path to bringing your life into alignment becomes clearer.
I offer both individual and couples counseling to adults of all ages, also teaching mindfulness meditation when desired. In addition to ameliorating symptoms, decreasing emotional pain, and helping to solve difficult problems, therapy and meditation can facilitate significant personal growth and increased wellness. My approach is broadly humanistic, meaning we seek together in a safe and secure environment, mutual understanding of you as a whole person, honing your internal "voice" and tapping into your existing strengths. Once we identify who you really are and what is most important to you, the path to bringing your life into alignment becomes clearer.
(804) 793-8685 View (804) 793-8685
Photo of Krystie Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Krystie Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23231
I typically work with clients that experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma.
Hi there. I am Krystie Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). More specifically, I am someone who strives to create healthy changes in the lives of my clients. I find that we spend a lot of our lives in our own heads; focused on what has happened or what isn't happening. If you feel that you are struggling with silencing the negative thoughts, feeling alone, or being unable to move forward in your life, I can work with you to work get past the mental blocks, fears, rejections, and past traumas.
I typically work with clients that experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma.
Hi there. I am Krystie Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). More specifically, I am someone who strives to create healthy changes in the lives of my clients. I find that we spend a lot of our lives in our own heads; focused on what has happened or what isn't happening. If you feel that you are struggling with silencing the negative thoughts, feeling alone, or being unable to move forward in your life, I can work with you to work get past the mental blocks, fears, rejections, and past traumas.
(804) 676-6864 View (804) 676-6864
Photo of Jenna A Pagano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond, VA
Jenna A Pagano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT , LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
I am a classically trained couples therapist (Licensed Marriage and Family therapist) with an B level certification in Emotion Focused therapy (EFT).
You don't have to go through this alone. The strength that has brought you to this page today is proof that you posses the ability to make positive changes and restore your relationships. I am here to guide you through the process of restoring health and balance. Please don't hesitate to contact me. Whether you are struggling with communication, conflict, parenting, or intimacy I am here to help.
I am a classically trained couples therapist (Licensed Marriage and Family therapist) with an B level certification in Emotion Focused therapy (EFT).
You don't have to go through this alone. The strength that has brought you to this page today is proof that you posses the ability to make positive changes and restore your relationships. I am here to guide you through the process of restoring health and balance. Please don't hesitate to contact me. Whether you are struggling with communication, conflict, parenting, or intimacy I am here to help.
(804) 293-2363 View (804) 293-2363
Photo of Margaret Sheehan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond, VA
Margaret Sheehan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226
Within the context of a caring therapeutic relationship, I draw from a variety of therapies (Humanistic Psychology, CBT, Mindfulness, trauma-informed therapy, Transpersonal Psychology, Gottman Method Couple Therapy, EFT) to give you the insight, psycho-education & skill-building necessary to make the lasting and dynamic change you want.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities to others? Do you feel like you are on "automatic," frustrated with not living the life you once wanted for yourself? Such a lonely place! I can help you move towards healing & transformation. I am here to witness the development of your unique & authentic voice as you create the life you want. Within the framework of a strengths-based & hope-focused perspective, I equip individuals & couples, at any stage of commitment, with strategies to create & maintain healthy relationships now & in the future. Change is possible! Find the life you have dreamed of living! It's within you.
Within the context of a caring therapeutic relationship, I draw from a variety of therapies (Humanistic Psychology, CBT, Mindfulness, trauma-informed therapy, Transpersonal Psychology, Gottman Method Couple Therapy, EFT) to give you the insight, psycho-education & skill-building necessary to make the lasting and dynamic change you want.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities to others? Do you feel like you are on "automatic," frustrated with not living the life you once wanted for yourself? Such a lonely place! I can help you move towards healing & transformation. I am here to witness the development of your unique & authentic voice as you create the life you want. Within the framework of a strengths-based & hope-focused perspective, I equip individuals & couples, at any stage of commitment, with strategies to create & maintain healthy relationships now & in the future. Change is possible! Find the life you have dreamed of living! It's within you.
(804) 250-4458 x1 View (804) 250-4458 x1
Photo of Pamela Willard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Pamela Willard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
I specialize in treating women and their families - with anxiety & panic disorders, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, stress, life transitions and relationship issues.
You are not alone in your journey to feel better, mentally and physically. Are you experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, stress or feelings of fear that are holding you back? Symptoms of PTSD? Feeling depressed, overwhelmed or unmotivated? Do you have unresolved trauma? Have you experienced abuse? Difficult or unfulfilling relationships? I specialize in helping clients identify problem areas in their lives and formulate goals to improve them. We will work to eliminate any self limiting and sabotaging beliefs patterns and you will acquire coping skills, strategies and resources to succeed. Healing and thriving is possible!
I specialize in treating women and their families - with anxiety & panic disorders, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, stress, life transitions and relationship issues.
You are not alone in your journey to feel better, mentally and physically. Are you experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, stress or feelings of fear that are holding you back? Symptoms of PTSD? Feeling depressed, overwhelmed or unmotivated? Do you have unresolved trauma? Have you experienced abuse? Difficult or unfulfilling relationships? I specialize in helping clients identify problem areas in their lives and formulate goals to improve them. We will work to eliminate any self limiting and sabotaging beliefs patterns and you will acquire coping skills, strategies and resources to succeed. Healing and thriving is possible!
(804) 259-0967 View (804) 259-0967
Photo of Marilyn Finch Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Marilyn Finch Williams, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23221  (Online Only)
I believe trusting clients' innate ability to understand and heal themselves. This belief also guides my work with family, couples' and children's issues. I help clients access their own emotional intelligence - awareness that a lack of confidence and support often block. I can help clients discover and articulate their desired change. I use techniques from different traditions - primarily Family Systems, Self and Developmental Psychology, cognitive/behavioral approaches, but believe primarily in the healing power of relationship.
I believe trusting clients' innate ability to understand and heal themselves. This belief also guides my work with family, couples' and children's issues. I help clients access their own emotional intelligence - awareness that a lack of confidence and support often block. I can help clients discover and articulate their desired change. I use techniques from different traditions - primarily Family Systems, Self and Developmental Psychology, cognitive/behavioral approaches, but believe primarily in the healing power of relationship.
(571) 620-6517 View (571) 620-6517
Photo of Mikayla Baugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Mikayla Baugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People come to therapy with strengths and skills that have helped them to survive up until meeting me, and I find that it is often better to work with existing tools rather than tearing down entire foundations. As a clinician, I can help you to decide what stays, what goes, what skills should be emphasized, and what skills should be learned. I have supported others to solve relationship problems, establish effective coping systems, with adjusting to difficult life experiences and spaces. We are both experts in the room and I will use my understandings of integrative practices to help build the dream that you imagine for yourself.
People come to therapy with strengths and skills that have helped them to survive up until meeting me, and I find that it is often better to work with existing tools rather than tearing down entire foundations. As a clinician, I can help you to decide what stays, what goes, what skills should be emphasized, and what skills should be learned. I have supported others to solve relationship problems, establish effective coping systems, with adjusting to difficult life experiences and spaces. We are both experts in the room and I will use my understandings of integrative practices to help build the dream that you imagine for yourself.
(804) 369-9829 View (804) 369-9829
Photo of Alex Orton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Alex Orton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
Our therapeutic relationship is a collaborative partnership where your unique experiences and perspectives will be honored and validated.
In the hustle and bustle of today's world, achieving balance can often feel like an elusive goal. My philosophy revolves around the belief that a balanced life is not about perfection, but rather about finding harmony amidst the various dimensions of your life – be it work or school, relationships, self-care, or personal growth. Together, we'll explore the root causes of any imbalances and unearth your strengths to foster resilience. Whether you're navigating stress, seeking purpose, or aiming to improve your relationships, I'm here to provide unwavering support.
Our therapeutic relationship is a collaborative partnership where your unique experiences and perspectives will be honored and validated.
In the hustle and bustle of today's world, achieving balance can often feel like an elusive goal. My philosophy revolves around the belief that a balanced life is not about perfection, but rather about finding harmony amidst the various dimensions of your life – be it work or school, relationships, self-care, or personal growth. Together, we'll explore the root causes of any imbalances and unearth your strengths to foster resilience. Whether you're navigating stress, seeking purpose, or aiming to improve your relationships, I'm here to provide unwavering support.
(804) 902-2288 View (804) 902-2288
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.