Couples Counseling Therapists in 33486

Photo of Caterina Chimenti, LMHC, ACS, CEO, PA, PhD, Counselor
Caterina Chimenti
Counselor, LMHC, ACS, CEO, PA, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Dr. Chimenti teaches PhD students how to be ethical practitioners who advocate for patients in conjunction to her Private Practices. As a Yoga and Meditation Instructor since 1998; She individualizes the incorporation of in depth analysis of Western and Eastern models of the mind into her clinical practice. As a Veteran of the U.S. Army; She has extensive experience with Emotional and Psychological trauma; trained in EMDR. Working with families, couples dealing with attachment issues that result in trauma, addiction and maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns is definitely a wide population of her clientele.
Dr. Chimenti teaches PhD students how to be ethical practitioners who advocate for patients in conjunction to her Private Practices. As a Yoga and Meditation Instructor since 1998; She individualizes the incorporation of in depth analysis of Western and Eastern models of the mind into her clinical practice. As a Veteran of the U.S. Army; She has extensive experience with Emotional and Psychological trauma; trained in EMDR. Working with families, couples dealing with attachment issues that result in trauma, addiction and maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns is definitely a wide population of her clientele.
(561) 250-8113 View (561) 250-8113
Photo of Lindsay Turner, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lindsay Turner
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Looking to transform your life, enhance relationships, or redefine happiness? I’m Lindsay Turner, a licensed mental health counselor dedicated to helping you achieve these goals. Specializing in adolescents, individuals, and couples, our sessions go beyond challenges to craft the life you’ve imagined. Whether you’re finding your path, rediscovering strengths, or seeking deeper connections, we’ll work together to make your dreams a reality. Expect empathetic understanding, creative problem-solving, and a touch of humor as we map out your journey.
Looking to transform your life, enhance relationships, or redefine happiness? I’m Lindsay Turner, a licensed mental health counselor dedicated to helping you achieve these goals. Specializing in adolescents, individuals, and couples, our sessions go beyond challenges to craft the life you’ve imagined. Whether you’re finding your path, rediscovering strengths, or seeking deeper connections, we’ll work together to make your dreams a reality. Expect empathetic understanding, creative problem-solving, and a touch of humor as we map out your journey.
(561) 576-1913 View (561) 576-1913
Photo of Laurence Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Laurence Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I’ve been practicing psychology for 25 years, specializing in individual and family psychotherapy, neuropsychology, forensic psychology, and business psychology. I evaluate and treat patients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, chronic pain and illness, organic brain syndromes, posttraumatic stress syndromes, workplace problems, and legal issues. I have special expertise in working with law enforcement and emergency service personnel (police, firefighters, medics) and with crime victims and their families. In addition, my experience includes helping employees and managers negotiate the stresses and challenges of the modern workplace training in conflict resolution and life coaching.
I’ve been practicing psychology for 25 years, specializing in individual and family psychotherapy, neuropsychology, forensic psychology, and business psychology. I evaluate and treat patients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, chronic pain and illness, organic brain syndromes, posttraumatic stress syndromes, workplace problems, and legal issues. I have special expertise in working with law enforcement and emergency service personnel (police, firefighters, medics) and with crime victims and their families. In addition, my experience includes helping employees and managers negotiate the stresses and challenges of the modern workplace training in conflict resolution and life coaching.
(561) 275-5135 View (561) 275-5135
Photo of Wendy Fader, PhD, Psychologist
Wendy Fader
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Dr. Fader is a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Diplomate of the American Academy of Clinical Sexologists. Dr. Fader provides individual psychotherapy with adults and adolescents, and conducts marriage and family therapy. She also serves as an expert witness in matters of divorce and custody. She specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, and all aspects of sexual concerns and dysfunction. Dr. Fader is a frequent contributor to Men's Health magazine, Rodale Press books on relationships and sexuality, and has lectured on a wide variety of psychological issues.
Dr. Fader is a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Diplomate of the American Academy of Clinical Sexologists. Dr. Fader provides individual psychotherapy with adults and adolescents, and conducts marriage and family therapy. She also serves as an expert witness in matters of divorce and custody. She specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, and all aspects of sexual concerns and dysfunction. Dr. Fader is a frequent contributor to Men's Health magazine, Rodale Press books on relationships and sexuality, and has lectured on a wide variety of psychological issues.
(561) 739-2704 View (561) 739-2704
Photo of David Steinbok, PsyD, Psychologist
David Steinbok
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
The therapeutic relationship plays a special role in the course of therapy.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I believe that change occurs within the individual through understanding and awareness of the issue. By viewing the therapist as a warm, accepting participant, one can develop trust and allow the process of self-exploration to begin. Throughout the process of psychotherapy, the patient can learn about the parts of themselves that remain hidden and out of their awareness. More specifically, aspects of themselves that contribute to their difficulties and prevent personal growth.
The therapeutic relationship plays a special role in the course of therapy.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I believe that change occurs within the individual through understanding and awareness of the issue. By viewing the therapist as a warm, accepting participant, one can develop trust and allow the process of self-exploration to begin. Throughout the process of psychotherapy, the patient can learn about the parts of themselves that remain hidden and out of their awareness. More specifically, aspects of themselves that contribute to their difficulties and prevent personal growth.
(561) 409-0755 View (561) 409-0755
Photo of Evan Kotler, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evan Kotler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
My clients and colleagues describe me as a highly knowledgeable and skilled psychotherapist who provides an open therapeutic space for individuals, couples and families to grow, heal and recover. My expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, anger, stress, letting go, navigating complex relationship dynamics, sexuality and sexual concerns. I also specializes in treating sex & porn addiction. As a licensed psychotherapist and master's-level educator, you can rest assured that I offer high-quality care. My approach is conversational and semi-structured, and I always strive to use the best evidence-based treatment interventions.
My clients and colleagues describe me as a highly knowledgeable and skilled psychotherapist who provides an open therapeutic space for individuals, couples and families to grow, heal and recover. My expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, anger, stress, letting go, navigating complex relationship dynamics, sexuality and sexual concerns. I also specializes in treating sex & porn addiction. As a licensed psychotherapist and master's-level educator, you can rest assured that I offer high-quality care. My approach is conversational and semi-structured, and I always strive to use the best evidence-based treatment interventions.
(561) 677-8437 View (561) 677-8437
Photo of Daniel Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Daniel Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I am deeply committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's most painful journeys and realizations. I believe each person's story is unique, and I tailor my approach to create a safe, supportive space where you can uncover your strengths, explore your goals, desires, dreams, and fantasies, resolve conflicts, and foster growth. Together, we'll explore the intricate dynamics of your true self, whom you most want to be, complex relationships, and develop strategies to cultivate deeper connections, emotional resilience, and pride.
I am deeply committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's most painful journeys and realizations. I believe each person's story is unique, and I tailor my approach to create a safe, supportive space where you can uncover your strengths, explore your goals, desires, dreams, and fantasies, resolve conflicts, and foster growth. Together, we'll explore the intricate dynamics of your true self, whom you most want to be, complex relationships, and develop strategies to cultivate deeper connections, emotional resilience, and pride.
(646) 419-3752 View (646) 419-3752
Photo of Tracy B Taylor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy B Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling, combined with a psychodynamic orientation.
With all the curve balls that life can present, it’s no wonder that you might be stressed out, anxious, confused, or frustrated. How do you deal with the demands of family, work, and friendships, and balance your needs with the expectations of others? Life does not have to be such a constant struggle. I am experienced working with individuals, couples, and families, I can help you find deeper connections, clarity, and satisfaction.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling, combined with a psychodynamic orientation.
With all the curve balls that life can present, it’s no wonder that you might be stressed out, anxious, confused, or frustrated. How do you deal with the demands of family, work, and friendships, and balance your needs with the expectations of others? Life does not have to be such a constant struggle. I am experienced working with individuals, couples, and families, I can help you find deeper connections, clarity, and satisfaction.
(561) 559-7830 View (561) 559-7830
Photo of Garrett Cooper - Sensible Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Sensible Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
For couples, we will work on repairing the bond, improving communication, exploring expectations, and removing resentments.
Welcome. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or men's health, I’m here to support you. Whether you're a young professional facing stress, a middle-aged individual coping with depression, someone recovering from trauma, dealing with relationship conflicts, or navigating men's specific issues, together, we'll find effective ways to bring positive changes to your life.
For couples, we will work on repairing the bond, improving communication, exploring expectations, and removing resentments.
Welcome. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or men's health, I’m here to support you. Whether you're a young professional facing stress, a middle-aged individual coping with depression, someone recovering from trauma, dealing with relationship conflicts, or navigating men's specific issues, together, we'll find effective ways to bring positive changes to your life.
(561) 677-9725 View (561) 677-9725
Photo of Andrew Baker, PhD, LMHC, QS, NCC, Counselor
Andrew Baker
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, QS, NCC
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Connecting more authentically with ourselves and others are among the most significant markers of long term health, and the therapeutic relationship is an excellent place to practice relating with depth and sincerity.
Depression often feels crushing; as if we are stuck in the past. The pressure of anxiety can feel as if we are stuck in the "what if" of the future. I would like to help you become more present and mindful. We are often told what we are "supposed" to do, but don't know what we want from this life. I help individuals, families, and couples solve longstanding problems, clarify values, and build on strengths to navigate life's challenges more purposefully and effectively. Changing problematic patterns in our lives is critical to increasing contentment. We cannot change our stories, but we can change our relationship to them.
Connecting more authentically with ourselves and others are among the most significant markers of long term health, and the therapeutic relationship is an excellent place to practice relating with depth and sincerity.
Depression often feels crushing; as if we are stuck in the past. The pressure of anxiety can feel as if we are stuck in the "what if" of the future. I would like to help you become more present and mindful. We are often told what we are "supposed" to do, but don't know what we want from this life. I help individuals, families, and couples solve longstanding problems, clarify values, and build on strengths to navigate life's challenges more purposefully and effectively. Changing problematic patterns in our lives is critical to increasing contentment. We cannot change our stories, but we can change our relationship to them.
(772) 214-3515 View (772) 214-3515
Photo of Deborah P Hecker, PhD, Counselor
Deborah P Hecker
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
She is the author of "Who Am I Without My Partner? Post-Divorce Healing and Rediscovering Your SELF.
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
She is the author of "Who Am I Without My Partner? Post-Divorce Healing and Rediscovering Your SELF.
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
(202) 410-2671 View (202) 410-2671
Photo of Brad Jaffe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brad Jaffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I work with individual teens and adults, as well as couples and families in whatever setting is most helpful.
It’s a tough world — many of us suffer from anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship struggles and mood disorders. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Over the years, I’ve seen hundreds of patients struggling with many of these common issues. The good news is, there’s hope. I take an engaging approach to helping you understand the reality of your situation, and empower you to overcome the present to become the best version of yourself. I received my graduate degree from Columbia University, and trained/worked at the prestigious American Institute for Psychoanalysis.
I work with individual teens and adults, as well as couples and families in whatever setting is most helpful.
It’s a tough world — many of us suffer from anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship struggles and mood disorders. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Over the years, I’ve seen hundreds of patients struggling with many of these common issues. The good news is, there’s hope. I take an engaging approach to helping you understand the reality of your situation, and empower you to overcome the present to become the best version of yourself. I received my graduate degree from Columbia University, and trained/worked at the prestigious American Institute for Psychoanalysis.
(561) 771-5962 View (561) 771-5962
Photo of Dr. Kc Charette, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kc Charette
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Dr. Charette creates an environment where patients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has over a decade of experience in working with patients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief or loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual, couples and family therapy for teens, young adults, adults and older adults. Dr. Charette has specialized training and experience in helping patients transition to parenthood and cope with infertility, pregnancy-related concerns and postpartum depression, anxiety & OCD.
Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Dr. Charette creates an environment where patients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has over a decade of experience in working with patients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief or loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual, couples and family therapy for teens, young adults, adults and older adults. Dr. Charette has specialized training and experience in helping patients transition to parenthood and cope with infertility, pregnancy-related concerns and postpartum depression, anxiety & OCD.
(561) 617-3323 View (561) 617-3323
Photo of Debra Howard, PhD, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise is helping adults with chronic anxiety and/or depression, and/or grief feel better. My clients are adults who are competent and skilled in many ways, but not in healing their own spiraling fears and emotional pain. With investment in the therapy process, my clients learn to quiet self-criticism, and calm themselves when distressed. They feel more competent in relationship, and they navigate conflicts more skillfully. Daily life is more satisfying. They value themselves and honor what they bring to the world. They feel more hopeful about their future - even if it's not the future they once imagined for themselves.
My expertise is helping adults with chronic anxiety and/or depression, and/or grief feel better. My clients are adults who are competent and skilled in many ways, but not in healing their own spiraling fears and emotional pain. With investment in the therapy process, my clients learn to quiet self-criticism, and calm themselves when distressed. They feel more competent in relationship, and they navigate conflicts more skillfully. Daily life is more satisfying. They value themselves and honor what they bring to the world. They feel more hopeful about their future - even if it's not the future they once imagined for themselves.
(954) 579-6533 View (954) 579-6533
Photo of Carly Snyder, MHC
Carly Snyder
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I will always show up as my authentic self, and use our relationship as a model to help you meet your goals and experience growth.
I have five years of experience providing compassionate and effective counseling services to diverse individuals such as adolescents, adults, the elderly, couples, and families. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, mainly building off of an Emotion-Focused framework. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues and fertility, low self-esteem, trauma, parenting and family challenges, addiction, medical illness, and relationship struggles. Therapy with me will be a dialogue between us. I listen attentively and intervene actively, making the most of our time in session.
I will always show up as my authentic self, and use our relationship as a model to help you meet your goals and experience growth.
I have five years of experience providing compassionate and effective counseling services to diverse individuals such as adolescents, adults, the elderly, couples, and families. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, mainly building off of an Emotion-Focused framework. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues and fertility, low self-esteem, trauma, parenting and family challenges, addiction, medical illness, and relationship struggles. Therapy with me will be a dialogue between us. I listen attentively and intervene actively, making the most of our time in session.
(561) 782-1502 View (561) 782-1502
Photo of Sachi Ananda - Lotus Transformation Therapy, PhD, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Lotus Transformation Therapy
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
I off individual, couples, sex, trauma therapies.
Intensives (Virtual/In Person): Couples Therapy; EMDR; Sex Therapy. This is where healing, growth and transformation begin. I can help you navigate the complexities of deep-seated emotional challenges, particularly those rooted in childhood experiences. My approach focused on uncovering and addressing core issues that may be impacting your current relationships, self-worth, and overall well-being. At Lotus Transformation Therapy, Lasting change comes from within. Like the lotus flower rising from muddy waters to bloom, you too can emerge from pain, trauma, or unresolved emotions to find clarity, balance and peace.
I off individual, couples, sex, trauma therapies.
Intensives (Virtual/In Person): Couples Therapy; EMDR; Sex Therapy. This is where healing, growth and transformation begin. I can help you navigate the complexities of deep-seated emotional challenges, particularly those rooted in childhood experiences. My approach focused on uncovering and addressing core issues that may be impacting your current relationships, self-worth, and overall well-being. At Lotus Transformation Therapy, Lasting change comes from within. Like the lotus flower rising from muddy waters to bloom, you too can emerge from pain, trauma, or unresolved emotions to find clarity, balance and peace.
(561) 763-8891 View (561) 763-8891
Photo of Kimberley Rodriguez, LMFT, CAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberley Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486  (Online Only)
is a multidisciplinary group practice that offers specialized mental health counseling services for children, adults, couples, families, christian counseling services, and life coaching services.
I am a firm believer that YOU are the expert in your life. I'm just here to guide and support you through your recovery process! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Addictions Counselor with almost 24 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings, such as substance abuse facilities, mental health hospitals, manage care companies, and private practice.
is a multidisciplinary group practice that offers specialized mental health counseling services for children, adults, couples, families, christian counseling services, and life coaching services.
I am a firm believer that YOU are the expert in your life. I'm just here to guide and support you through your recovery process! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Addictions Counselor with almost 24 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings, such as substance abuse facilities, mental health hospitals, manage care companies, and private practice.
(904) 675-1788 View (904) 675-1788
Photo of Priscilla Souto, MEd, NCC, LMHC, Counselor
Priscilla Souto
Counselor, MEd, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Direct, honest and solution focused is my approach in helping couples, families and individuals (adolescents/adults) improve their communication and overall life. Anxiety, miscommunication, and concern is so common with all the relationships and responsibilities we have. I will help you find ways to handle your worries, reconnect with your partner, and overall better manage your stress. Picking a therapist can be a difficult and overwhelming task. I can assure you that your experience working with me will be beneficial and easy. My goal is provide you with techniques and coping skills to improve your life and reach your goals.
Direct, honest and solution focused is my approach in helping couples, families and individuals (adolescents/adults) improve their communication and overall life. Anxiety, miscommunication, and concern is so common with all the relationships and responsibilities we have. I will help you find ways to handle your worries, reconnect with your partner, and overall better manage your stress. Picking a therapist can be a difficult and overwhelming task. I can assure you that your experience working with me will be beneficial and easy. My goal is provide you with techniques and coping skills to improve your life and reach your goals.
(754) 240-8760 View (754) 240-8760
Photo of Richard S Shapiro, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Richard S Shapiro
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486  (Online Only)
Our therapy relationship will thrive on a spirit of collaboration that puts into motion the key factors of instilling hope, creating an expectation that change is possible, providing opportunity for corrective emotional experiences, facilitating insight and practicing new learning.
Rather than adopting a “one size fits all“ model, my approach is flexible and responsive to the changing needs of my clients. The therapy process is active both on your part and mine. Different approaches may be needed at different times in the process. Research on effective clinical practices and my 35+ years of clinical experience will help us decide together on what may be helpful to you. Therapy approaches such as Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness based approaches as well as other relational approaches that are supported by scientific research can be brought together in an integrated manner.
Our therapy relationship will thrive on a spirit of collaboration that puts into motion the key factors of instilling hope, creating an expectation that change is possible, providing opportunity for corrective emotional experiences, facilitating insight and practicing new learning.
Rather than adopting a “one size fits all“ model, my approach is flexible and responsive to the changing needs of my clients. The therapy process is active both on your part and mine. Different approaches may be needed at different times in the process. Research on effective clinical practices and my 35+ years of clinical experience will help us decide together on what may be helpful to you. Therapy approaches such as Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness based approaches as well as other relational approaches that are supported by scientific research can be brought together in an integrated manner.
(561) 944-2218 View (561) 944-2218
Photo of Hollis Silverman, LCSW, CST, MCAP, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hollis Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, MCAP, PA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33486  (Online Only)
I help individuals & couples improve their sexual & romantic relationships.
Happy new you! Let's get you on your way to a happier and healthier life. We do Phone and Video Sessions. Together, you and I can overcome any obstacle. You will be treated with compassion, understanding and empathy. We will create a set of tools that will lead to those life-changing breakthroughs you are seeking. Who you see in therapy matters. Choosing to get help from me and committing to the therapy will lead to results. Check out my specialties down below. If you look to the list on the right and see something that resonates, give me a call.
I help individuals & couples improve their sexual & romantic relationships.
Happy new you! Let's get you on your way to a happier and healthier life. We do Phone and Video Sessions. Together, you and I can overcome any obstacle. You will be treated with compassion, understanding and empathy. We will create a set of tools that will lead to those life-changing breakthroughs you are seeking. Who you see in therapy matters. Choosing to get help from me and committing to the therapy will lead to results. Check out my specialties down below. If you look to the list on the right and see something that resonates, give me a call.
(954) 880-3076 View (954) 880-3076
1
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.