Couples Counseling Therapists in 48105

Photo of Julia M. Barrie, MSW, LMSW, ACSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia M. Barrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, ACSW, CST
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
In addition to offering individual, couples, family therapy, I have completed training from The University of Michigan School of Social Work's Sexual Health Certification Program and I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
The decision to start therapy is an important step. Seeking help is a sign of courage. I would like to help you to figure out what is wrong and to help you to start making changes and find ways to start living a more fulfilling life.
In addition to offering individual, couples, family therapy, I have completed training from The University of Michigan School of Social Work's Sexual Health Certification Program and I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
The decision to start therapy is an important step. Seeking help is a sign of courage. I would like to help you to figure out what is wrong and to help you to start making changes and find ways to start living a more fulfilling life.
(734) 508-4308 View (734) 508-4308
Photo of Lisa Lavan, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Lavan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy can be a deeply transformative experience. I work with adolescents, teenagers adult individuals, and couples. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach to therapeutic care and incorporate trauma-focused dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness into therapy sessions.
I believe that therapy can be a deeply transformative experience. I work with adolescents, teenagers adult individuals, and couples. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach to therapeutic care and incorporate trauma-focused dialectical behavioral therapy and mindfulness into therapy sessions.
(734) 396-8406 View (734) 396-8406
Photo of Maria Mulhauser, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Mulhauser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
A certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I will guide you and your partner into developing new patterns of communication that transform conflicts into deeper connection and mutual understanding.
Life is HARD, and I am here to help you navigate its challenges so that you can thrive and live to your full potential. I guide individuals and couples through emotional, behavioral, or relationship problems to reach transformative breakthroughs. My in-person and virtual therapy spaces provide an accepting, warm environment to help you grow at your own pace, fostering positive changes through insight and practical solutions. Specializing in treating anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship problems, I work from your strengths to help you let go of patterns that no longer serve you.
A certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I will guide you and your partner into developing new patterns of communication that transform conflicts into deeper connection and mutual understanding.
Life is HARD, and I am here to help you navigate its challenges so that you can thrive and live to your full potential. I guide individuals and couples through emotional, behavioral, or relationship problems to reach transformative breakthroughs. My in-person and virtual therapy spaces provide an accepting, warm environment to help you grow at your own pace, fostering positive changes through insight and practical solutions. Specializing in treating anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship problems, I work from your strengths to help you let go of patterns that no longer serve you.
(734) 526-6964 View (734) 526-6964
Photo of Kathy Wade, PhD, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Wade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
Everyone experiences stress, yet how one copes is very individual. When life challenges us beyond our limits, we may need professional help. I am a PhD social worker with 30 years of experience in health and mental health. I work with individuals and couples utilizing a strengths-based, psychodynamic counseling approach. Different therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and stress reduction methods are provided in a safe, empathic, and nonjudgmental space to maximize treatment effectiveness. My work focuses on grief and non-death related losses, as well as mood disorders, i.e. depression and anxiety, and chronic health and mental health conditions.
Everyone experiences stress, yet how one copes is very individual. When life challenges us beyond our limits, we may need professional help. I am a PhD social worker with 30 years of experience in health and mental health. I work with individuals and couples utilizing a strengths-based, psychodynamic counseling approach. Different therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and stress reduction methods are provided in a safe, empathic, and nonjudgmental space to maximize treatment effectiveness. My work focuses on grief and non-death related losses, as well as mood disorders, i.e. depression and anxiety, and chronic health and mental health conditions.
(734) 786-9762 View (734) 786-9762
Photo of Dee Church, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dee Church
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I have experience providing therapeutic services for LGBTQIA+ youth and adults, PLWHA, survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, kink/BDSM practitioners, people in polyamorous and non-monogamous partnerships, and sex workers.
Reaching out and seeking support for yourself can be extremely vulnerable and taxing, especially when you've already been trying to manage overwhelming emotions and the issues of every day life. Even if we do not end up working together, I am glad that you are out here exploring what kind of help is available to you. Shopping for therapists can be tricky. Wherever you are in your journey, my goal is to meet you there and help you discover safe and inviting possibilities towards your goals.
I have experience providing therapeutic services for LGBTQIA+ youth and adults, PLWHA, survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, kink/BDSM practitioners, people in polyamorous and non-monogamous partnerships, and sex workers.
Reaching out and seeking support for yourself can be extremely vulnerable and taxing, especially when you've already been trying to manage overwhelming emotions and the issues of every day life. Even if we do not end up working together, I am glad that you are out here exploring what kind of help is available to you. Shopping for therapists can be tricky. Wherever you are in your journey, my goal is to meet you there and help you discover safe and inviting possibilities towards your goals.
(734) 822-4829 View (734) 822-4829
Photo of Carla Michelle Hines - Carla Hines Inc, LMSW, ACSW, CTS-C, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Hines Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CTS-C, CIRT
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I have a particular interest in providing couples' counseling to parents that are struggling with parenting issues.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where every person that enters my office feels it is a safe place to learn and grow. I honor the unique strengths that each individual already possesses while challenging them to grow and develop in other areas. While I encourage people to stretch beyond their comfort zones, I respect and accept each person where they are at in their growth process. I have 19 years experience as a Psychotherapist. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. When working with children, I feel it is important to become a team with their parents.
I have a particular interest in providing couples' counseling to parents that are struggling with parenting issues.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where every person that enters my office feels it is a safe place to learn and grow. I honor the unique strengths that each individual already possesses while challenging them to grow and develop in other areas. While I encourage people to stretch beyond their comfort zones, I respect and accept each person where they are at in their growth process. I have 19 years experience as a Psychotherapist. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. When working with children, I feel it is important to become a team with their parents.
(734) 348-3873 View (734) 348-3873
Photo of Tatianah Thunberg, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tatianah Thunberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I offer trauma informed, somatic and attachment focused therapy for adults and couples.
We are all called to evolve beyond our survival level strategies designed to cope with wounding family systems, lineages and social systems. It is possible to integrate the legacy of trauma we have inherited and thrive in this lifetime. We are collectively facing monumental global challenges, socially, politically and environmentally, that amplifies this legacy, and hastens the call for us to cultivate greater capacity to stay present, grounded and lovingly engaged. Returning to wholeness requires reorienting towards mobilizing our rich inner and outer resources, shifting from generating suffering to unlocking liberation.
I offer trauma informed, somatic and attachment focused therapy for adults and couples.
We are all called to evolve beyond our survival level strategies designed to cope with wounding family systems, lineages and social systems. It is possible to integrate the legacy of trauma we have inherited and thrive in this lifetime. We are collectively facing monumental global challenges, socially, politically and environmentally, that amplifies this legacy, and hastens the call for us to cultivate greater capacity to stay present, grounded and lovingly engaged. Returning to wholeness requires reorienting towards mobilizing our rich inner and outer resources, shifting from generating suffering to unlocking liberation.
(734) 206-2867 View (734) 206-2867
Photo of Carisa Wilder, LCSW, MSW, PACT II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carisa Wilder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PACT II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
I consider it an honor to support my clients on their journeys toward: inner peace/calm, personal growth, wellness, deeper intimacy, more effective communication, fulfilling marriages, partnerships, relationships at work, home or with friends/extended family.
Do you need help improving communication, intimacy, navigating any of the following: arguments, challenges with parenting and/or extended family, work/mental health issues that imipact your relationship? I help struggling couples reset and get back on track. I have years of experience and a proven track record to support you both with a non-judgemental, neutral approach that will build trust and confindence as you find your way back to a peaceful, connected relationship.
I consider it an honor to support my clients on their journeys toward: inner peace/calm, personal growth, wellness, deeper intimacy, more effective communication, fulfilling marriages, partnerships, relationships at work, home or with friends/extended family.
Do you need help improving communication, intimacy, navigating any of the following: arguments, challenges with parenting and/or extended family, work/mental health issues that imipact your relationship? I help struggling couples reset and get back on track. I have years of experience and a proven track record to support you both with a non-judgemental, neutral approach that will build trust and confindence as you find your way back to a peaceful, connected relationship.
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Photo of Dr. Jennifer Towns, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jennifer Towns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who need support related to experiences of trauma and the LGBTQQIA+ community.
Hello and welcome! You are so courageous for considering the next step in your healing journey. My name is Jennifer (Jen) Towns (she/her). I invite you to a safe space where you can learn to trust, speak your truth, and work towards emotional growth and change. ​I practice trauma-informed integrative therapy - blending somatic body work, EMDR, IFS / ego-state parts work, and a general recognition of the impact of traumas and attachment wounds on ourselves and our relationships. I believe that everyone has the potential for healing and accessing their most authentic selves.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who need support related to experiences of trauma and the LGBTQQIA+ community.
Hello and welcome! You are so courageous for considering the next step in your healing journey. My name is Jennifer (Jen) Towns (she/her). I invite you to a safe space where you can learn to trust, speak your truth, and work towards emotional growth and change. ​I practice trauma-informed integrative therapy - blending somatic body work, EMDR, IFS / ego-state parts work, and a general recognition of the impact of traumas and attachment wounds on ourselves and our relationships. I believe that everyone has the potential for healing and accessing their most authentic selves.
(734) 264-7968 View (734) 264-7968
Photo of Rob Hejna - Apple Blossom Holistic Therapy, PLLC, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Apple Blossom Holistic Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Holistic, refers to the inter- relationship between emotions, thoughts, physical reality, and spiritual awareness (our ethics, imagination, love of life).
When you struggle with worry/anxiety, lack of hope and meaning/depression, difficult life transitions, relationship trouble/attachment issues, or have unresolved grief or trauma, I use a variety of methods based on principles from many sources to help you gain inner balance, and discover or reclaim your sovereign integrity of self. I see people as people, rather than diagnoses, and adapt my approach to each client's specific needs. I strive to honor your orientation to ethnicity, race, spirituality, and gender in establishing the validity of your own truth and self respect.
Holistic, refers to the inter- relationship between emotions, thoughts, physical reality, and spiritual awareness (our ethics, imagination, love of life).
When you struggle with worry/anxiety, lack of hope and meaning/depression, difficult life transitions, relationship trouble/attachment issues, or have unresolved grief or trauma, I use a variety of methods based on principles from many sources to help you gain inner balance, and discover or reclaim your sovereign integrity of self. I see people as people, rather than diagnoses, and adapt my approach to each client's specific needs. I strive to honor your orientation to ethnicity, race, spirituality, and gender in establishing the validity of your own truth and self respect.
(734) 256-4613 View (734) 256-4613
Photo of B Snogles, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
B Snogles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I get it, this relationship stuff is hard! I am a therapist that can hold the complexity of relationships, with the understanding that change takes time.
Are you feeling stuck, worried your relationship cant handle more conflict? Feeling like you are having the same fights, and need a change? We are taught relationships are easy, and should be just like romantic comedies. Relationships take effort to maintain connection and get through the rough patches. Whether you are looking to open your relationship, increase intimacy, or want to improve communication, therapy can help! Learning how to fight fair and improving intimacy is possible. I am LGBTQ+, polyamory cnm, kink affirming. Affirming couples therapy for all relationships. Couples intensives in MI and FL. AASECT certified.
I get it, this relationship stuff is hard! I am a therapist that can hold the complexity of relationships, with the understanding that change takes time.
Are you feeling stuck, worried your relationship cant handle more conflict? Feeling like you are having the same fights, and need a change? We are taught relationships are easy, and should be just like romantic comedies. Relationships take effort to maintain connection and get through the rough patches. Whether you are looking to open your relationship, increase intimacy, or want to improve communication, therapy can help! Learning how to fight fair and improving intimacy is possible. I am LGBTQ+, polyamory cnm, kink affirming. Affirming couples therapy for all relationships. Couples intensives in MI and FL. AASECT certified.
(734) 530-4656 View (734) 530-4656
Photo of George J Didier, PsyD, Psychologist
George J Didier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Welcome! I believe that one of the essential ingredients of change and transformative psychotherapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Feeling understood and comfortable not only helps reduce one's symptoms, encouraging self-acceptance, but also leads toward deeper work which promotes lasting change and a deeper experience of one's unique self.
Welcome! I believe that one of the essential ingredients of change and transformative psychotherapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Feeling understood and comfortable not only helps reduce one's symptoms, encouraging self-acceptance, but also leads toward deeper work which promotes lasting change and a deeper experience of one's unique self.
(248) 900-3507 View (248) 900-3507
Photo of Marianna Olson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marianna Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Whether you are struggling with a life transition, family or romantic relationship issue or overwhelmed with stress from work or school, I want you to know that I will do my best to hold a safe and judgment-free space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I will help you look deeper into yourself on your journey of positive change, personal growth, and self-improvement. Let’s work together to figure out why you are not as happy as you would like to be and work towards living up to your full potential, for yourself, and the people in your life.
Whether you are struggling with a life transition, family or romantic relationship issue or overwhelmed with stress from work or school, I want you to know that I will do my best to hold a safe and judgment-free space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I will help you look deeper into yourself on your journey of positive change, personal growth, and self-improvement. Let’s work together to figure out why you are not as happy as you would like to be and work towards living up to your full potential, for yourself, and the people in your life.
(734) 396-4840 View (734) 396-4840
Photo of Roni A Moncur, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roni A Moncur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I work with individuals and couples, and my approach is designed to meet your individual needs.
During my 30+ years as a licensed clinical social worker in full time practice, I have learned that vulnerability is universal, and also, that people of all ages have internal resilience and enduring growth potential. Unresolved internal issues often get expressed through such symptoms as anxiety, sadness, feelings of low self-esteem and shame, feeling stuck in repeated patterns of behavior, and in unfulfilling relationships. Therapy offers an opportunity to work through and understand, thereby resolving, these difficulties.
I work with individuals and couples, and my approach is designed to meet your individual needs.
During my 30+ years as a licensed clinical social worker in full time practice, I have learned that vulnerability is universal, and also, that people of all ages have internal resilience and enduring growth potential. Unresolved internal issues often get expressed through such symptoms as anxiety, sadness, feelings of low self-esteem and shame, feeling stuck in repeated patterns of behavior, and in unfulfilling relationships. Therapy offers an opportunity to work through and understand, thereby resolving, these difficulties.
(734) 389-7284 View (734) 389-7284
Photo of Anna Richards (Arciero), MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Anna Richards (Arciero)
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
I also enjoy working with parents and couples as well as blended families.
My main focus is on the importance of emotional wellbeing. I believe that everyone experiences difficulties in their lives and see the counseling office as a space for clients to express and normalize difficult feelings in a safe environment. I believe that people have all of the components for a happy and healthy life but sometimes need help processing and navigating through their feelings and experiences to learn new and more effective ways to cope. I operate through the Polyvagal Theory lens to assess emotional regulation and work to stabilize and co-regulate clients as this is essential to healing.
I also enjoy working with parents and couples as well as blended families.
My main focus is on the importance of emotional wellbeing. I believe that everyone experiences difficulties in their lives and see the counseling office as a space for clients to express and normalize difficult feelings in a safe environment. I believe that people have all of the components for a happy and healthy life but sometimes need help processing and navigating through their feelings and experiences to learn new and more effective ways to cope. I operate through the Polyvagal Theory lens to assess emotional regulation and work to stabilize and co-regulate clients as this is essential to healing.
(734) 720-9569 View (734) 720-9569
Photo of Rebecca Arends, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Arends
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
By integrating the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I help couples enhance communication, deepen emotional connection, and resolve conflict more effectively.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. Even if your current situation feels challenging, I am here to support you as we uncover clarity, strength, and hope beneath discomfort. My therapeutic approach is directive and engaged, working together to co-create clear and defined goals. I believe in empowering clients with practical tools and relevant resources to foster their growth between sessions. Whether you're looking to make more informed decisions or heal from past experiences, I am committed to working with you every step of the way toward clarity and peace.
By integrating the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I help couples enhance communication, deepen emotional connection, and resolve conflict more effectively.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. Even if your current situation feels challenging, I am here to support you as we uncover clarity, strength, and hope beneath discomfort. My therapeutic approach is directive and engaged, working together to co-create clear and defined goals. I believe in empowering clients with practical tools and relevant resources to foster their growth between sessions. Whether you're looking to make more informed decisions or heal from past experiences, I am committed to working with you every step of the way toward clarity and peace.
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Photo of Trish A Mairet - Michigan, MA, LLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Trish A Mairet - Michigan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
Do you crave true love and a satisfying intimate relationship? We'll explore the emotions and your communication styles to help you connect and remove any barriers. If you have distance and conflict with your partner, family, or coworkers we will explore ways to help you to reduce the symptoms that cause discomfort, distress and emotional pain to help you open the communication channels and allow for more balance and connection. I have experience working at Community Counseling and hospitals. I chose to return to private practice therapy in order to work in-depth with adults, families, couples, seniors and groups. Contact me today!
Do you crave true love and a satisfying intimate relationship? We'll explore the emotions and your communication styles to help you connect and remove any barriers. If you have distance and conflict with your partner, family, or coworkers we will explore ways to help you to reduce the symptoms that cause discomfort, distress and emotional pain to help you open the communication channels and allow for more balance and connection. I have experience working at Community Counseling and hospitals. I chose to return to private practice therapy in order to work in-depth with adults, families, couples, seniors and groups. Contact me today!
(248) 949-2318 View (248) 949-2318
Photo of Kristen M. Landau, JD, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen M. Landau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I have expertise in applying evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and family dynamics.
I believe in the power of evidence-based treatments to help individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges and achieve positive change. I take a collaborative and strengths-based approach, valuing each client's unique strengths and experiences. I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without judgment. I am committed to providing high-quality and culturally sensitive care, and empowering clients to enhance their coping skills and strategies to promote healthy functioning and overall well-being.
I have expertise in applying evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and family dynamics.
I believe in the power of evidence-based treatments to help individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges and achieve positive change. I take a collaborative and strengths-based approach, valuing each client's unique strengths and experiences. I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without judgment. I am committed to providing high-quality and culturally sensitive care, and empowering clients to enhance their coping skills and strategies to promote healthy functioning and overall well-being.
(734) 274-9246 View (734) 274-9246
Photo of David A. Schroat, PhD, LP, Psychologist
David A. Schroat
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
As your psychologist, I will listen to you with respect, in a safe and confidential relationship. I will offer fresh insights of past patterns and concerns and we will explore new ways to overcome obstacles and the challenges that you face. Developing resilience, grit, and utilizing strengths are an important part of my therapy.
As your psychologist, I will listen to you with respect, in a safe and confidential relationship. I will offer fresh insights of past patterns and concerns and we will explore new ways to overcome obstacles and the challenges that you face. Developing resilience, grit, and utilizing strengths are an important part of my therapy.
(734) 530-3756 View (734) 530-3756
Photo of Julie Boster, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Boster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
You are not alone. Change is possible. I am honored and excited to walk beside you during your process of change. It is a difficult decision to choose therapy. I welcome you without judgement and with a great deal of hope. I empower my clients to find their strength and voice through compassionate listening and empathy. I am a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health field. I have a deep passion for helping people with drug/alcohol addiction, no matter their stage of change. I enjoy working with older aged adolescents, adults, families and couples.
You are not alone. Change is possible. I am honored and excited to walk beside you during your process of change. It is a difficult decision to choose therapy. I welcome you without judgement and with a great deal of hope. I empower my clients to find their strength and voice through compassionate listening and empathy. I am a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health field. I have a deep passion for helping people with drug/alcohol addiction, no matter their stage of change. I enjoy working with older aged adolescents, adults, families and couples.
(734) 725-2185 View (734) 725-2185
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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.