Couples Counseling Therapists in 85308

Photo of Bethany Rosenfeld, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Rosenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. I graduated from Argosy University Phoenix with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I have worked with individuals with an array of behavioral and mental health issues including: anxiety and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, trauma-related difficulties, suicidality and self harm, grief, adjustment disorders, couples and family conflicts, and other phase of life issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. I graduated from Argosy University Phoenix with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I have worked with individuals with an array of behavioral and mental health issues including: anxiety and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, trauma-related difficulties, suicidality and self harm, grief, adjustment disorders, couples and family conflicts, and other phase of life issues.
(623) 300-1521 View (623) 300-1521
Photo of Lisa Bolden, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Bolden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I desire to help you find hope and partner with you as you learn to manage what may feel like the "unmanageable.
Hello, my name is Lisa Bolden and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Within my work experience, I have had the privilege of working with children, adults, couples and families on a variety of issues. I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting and life stressors. I have facilitated intensive outpatient groups for mood disorders and addiction, domestic violence and anger management.
I desire to help you find hope and partner with you as you learn to manage what may feel like the "unmanageable.
Hello, my name is Lisa Bolden and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Within my work experience, I have had the privilege of working with children, adults, couples and families on a variety of issues. I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting and life stressors. I have facilitated intensive outpatient groups for mood disorders and addiction, domestic violence and anger management.
(602) 635-6104 View (602) 635-6104
Photo of Robyn Scott, MA, LPC, Counselor
Robyn Scott
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I also enjoy working with couples and families in an effort to improve communication and strengthen relationships.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in practice for many years, I specialize in working with adults and couples, utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral approach. I understand the challenges many people encounter with anxiety, depression,addictions, grief, family issues, parenting, and marital problems, often times becoming overwhelmed by the intensity of these problematic situations. I support you in taking an often difficult but most important step in seeking assistance in changing these difficult situations! Call to set up your initial visit and take that first step!
I also enjoy working with couples and families in an effort to improve communication and strengthen relationships.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in practice for many years, I specialize in working with adults and couples, utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral approach. I understand the challenges many people encounter with anxiety, depression,addictions, grief, family issues, parenting, and marital problems, often times becoming overwhelmed by the intensity of these problematic situations. I support you in taking an often difficult but most important step in seeking assistance in changing these difficult situations! Call to set up your initial visit and take that first step!
(623) 688-8984 View (623) 688-8984
Photo of John-Paul (Jp) Vu, MAS-MFT, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
John-Paul (Jp) Vu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy in my work with individuals and couples.
One of the toughest parts about going to therapy is actually starting it in the first place. Thank you for your bravery and trust in this process. I look forward to being a part of your journey towards healing and growth. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to work through life's challenges. I am excited to take the knowledge and experience I've acquired and empower my clients to live a full life. I believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives and therefore have all the skills to overcome their challenges and transform their lives.
I primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy in my work with individuals and couples.
One of the toughest parts about going to therapy is actually starting it in the first place. Thank you for your bravery and trust in this process. I look forward to being a part of your journey towards healing and growth. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to work through life's challenges. I am excited to take the knowledge and experience I've acquired and empower my clients to live a full life. I believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives and therefore have all the skills to overcome their challenges and transform their lives.
(623) 281-1683 View (623) 281-1683
Photo of Joy Giorgio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joy Giorgio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
As a guide and partner in your healing, I provide you with 1) a safe environemnt to share issues, concerns, and feelings 2) practical tools to help you "re-wire" the brain 3) honest feedback to aide in increased awareness, and 4) use mindfulness to balance both acceptance and change, putting you in the driver's seat so you feel more hopeful and in control.
I believe that people do not go to therapy to change who they are, but to let go of who they are not. I act as a guide for adult individuals and couples using mindfulness, relational, and cognitive therapies. Together, we identify and change unhealthy survival skills, irrational thoughts, and behavioral patterns that have lead you off course. It is through this process of becoming aware that new and fresh perspectives can be found. This will lead to increased confidence in decision making, communicating and creating healthy and fulfilling relationships with yourself & others.
As a guide and partner in your healing, I provide you with 1) a safe environemnt to share issues, concerns, and feelings 2) practical tools to help you "re-wire" the brain 3) honest feedback to aide in increased awareness, and 4) use mindfulness to balance both acceptance and change, putting you in the driver's seat so you feel more hopeful and in control.
I believe that people do not go to therapy to change who they are, but to let go of who they are not. I act as a guide for adult individuals and couples using mindfulness, relational, and cognitive therapies. Together, we identify and change unhealthy survival skills, irrational thoughts, and behavioral patterns that have lead you off course. It is through this process of becoming aware that new and fresh perspectives can be found. This will lead to increased confidence in decision making, communicating and creating healthy and fulfilling relationships with yourself & others.
(623) 300-1314 View (623) 300-1314
Photo of Dan Stephens, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dan Stephens
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
" Sex can be a deeply satisfying and freeing part of your life and relationship if you do the work.
I help men and couples overcome porn addiction, sex addiction, infidelity, or betrayal trauma. You are not alone. There is hope. You can conquer this, it just takes a lot of work. I will help you start new habits, change your thinking, and deepen your connection to others as ways of healing from your pain, whether it is self-inflicted or from your partner. Recovery is a long, hard road. We will get you unstuck from old patterns of behavior, emotional self-medicating, and insecure attachment. You can feel proud of who you are and what you offer to the world and the key people in your life.
" Sex can be a deeply satisfying and freeing part of your life and relationship if you do the work.
I help men and couples overcome porn addiction, sex addiction, infidelity, or betrayal trauma. You are not alone. There is hope. You can conquer this, it just takes a lot of work. I will help you start new habits, change your thinking, and deepen your connection to others as ways of healing from your pain, whether it is self-inflicted or from your partner. Recovery is a long, hard road. We will get you unstuck from old patterns of behavior, emotional self-medicating, and insecure attachment. You can feel proud of who you are and what you offer to the world and the key people in your life.
(480) 573-6237 View (480) 573-6237
Photo of Shannon Brown, MC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I believe successful therapy happens with a strong therapeutic relationship based on collaboration and communication.
Deciding to begin therapy and choosing a therapist can be difficult and anxiety provoking. I encourage you to move forward in this endeavor. I can help you make positive changes to reduce anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, increase and maintain motivation, make healthy lifestyle changes, and resolve personal and professional issues. I can also help you improve communication skills and become more assertive and empowered. If your problems are interfering with your relationships, social interactions, family dynamics, or work, help is available.
I believe successful therapy happens with a strong therapeutic relationship based on collaboration and communication.
Deciding to begin therapy and choosing a therapist can be difficult and anxiety provoking. I encourage you to move forward in this endeavor. I can help you make positive changes to reduce anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, increase and maintain motivation, make healthy lifestyle changes, and resolve personal and professional issues. I can also help you improve communication skills and become more assertive and empowered. If your problems are interfering with your relationships, social interactions, family dynamics, or work, help is available.
(623) 432-0028 View (623) 432-0028
Photo of Jason Klarer - Jason Klarer- Wounded Healer Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Klarer- Wounded Healer Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308  (Online Only)
On the other end of the spectrum I also have experience in working with adolescents and couples.
I work best with clients who have difficult past experiences. I utilize EMDR (trauma therapy that involves bilateral stimuli) to assist clients in processing through traumatic events in their lives. Trauma is any experience in the past that has changed the way you see yourself and the world around you producing negative beliefs such as: "I'm not good enough", "I'm worthless", "It's not okay to feel/show my emotions" etc. The desired outcome of EMDR therapy is that you no longer believe these things about yourself and the past no longer bothers you.
On the other end of the spectrum I also have experience in working with adolescents and couples.
I work best with clients who have difficult past experiences. I utilize EMDR (trauma therapy that involves bilateral stimuli) to assist clients in processing through traumatic events in their lives. Trauma is any experience in the past that has changed the way you see yourself and the world around you producing negative beliefs such as: "I'm not good enough", "I'm worthless", "It's not okay to feel/show my emotions" etc. The desired outcome of EMDR therapy is that you no longer believe these things about yourself and the past no longer bothers you.
(602) 833-2106 View (602) 833-2106
Photo of Anca Sabo, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anca Sabo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
I customize evidence-based methods to meet the unique needs of couples and families.
Are you and your partner facing marital conflict, or is your family enduring tensions that seem insurmountable? These issues can often undermine the foundation of your most important relationships and your ability to build trust. You seek a restoration of hope and understanding in your relationships. Specializing in couples and family therapy, I offer a warm and safe space for those seeking a richer sense of fulfillment in their most cherished relationships. Here, I honor your journey toward hope, healing, and authentic connection. Working together we can turn your aspirations for a harmonious family life into reality.
I customize evidence-based methods to meet the unique needs of couples and families.
Are you and your partner facing marital conflict, or is your family enduring tensions that seem insurmountable? These issues can often undermine the foundation of your most important relationships and your ability to build trust. You seek a restoration of hope and understanding in your relationships. Specializing in couples and family therapy, I offer a warm and safe space for those seeking a richer sense of fulfillment in their most cherished relationships. Here, I honor your journey toward hope, healing, and authentic connection. Working together we can turn your aspirations for a harmonious family life into reality.
(480) 630-3133 View (480) 630-3133
Photo of Kristan Farley, MA, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristan Farley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I specialize in trauma, relationship issues and spiritual/religious concerns.
I provide a safe environment, offering understanding, expertise and keys to healing and growth. I want to know your unique story, develop a plan that fits your goals and work together to make progress. I am experienced in helping individuals, couples and families deal with conflict, anxiety, depression, communication issues, self esteem, abuse, anger issues, guilt, shame, spiritual concerns, loss and the impact of life's painful circumstances. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, NVC and other helpful techniques and therapies to support you in your journey!
I specialize in trauma, relationship issues and spiritual/religious concerns.
I provide a safe environment, offering understanding, expertise and keys to healing and growth. I want to know your unique story, develop a plan that fits your goals and work together to make progress. I am experienced in helping individuals, couples and families deal with conflict, anxiety, depression, communication issues, self esteem, abuse, anger issues, guilt, shame, spiritual concerns, loss and the impact of life's painful circumstances. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, NVC and other helpful techniques and therapies to support you in your journey!
(623) 292-4408 View (623) 292-4408
Photo of Toni Sewell - AZ Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
AZ Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
My diverse experiences working with couples of all ages and stages of life, teens, active military and veterans, and adult women for over 7 years has allowed me to readily create realistic opportunities for change by utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities such as Solution-Focused, CBT, and Experiential.
My goal is to help you overcome the feeling of being stuck so you can start moving forward! Whether this is related to your relationships, feelings of anxiety, or a recent change in your life, I am dedicated to uncovering the root cause of these issues, eradicating the discomfort and transforming it into functional daily living. A safe, judgment free environment will be felt along with the introduction of tools and techniques to create progress during this journey! Through a client centered approach, we will team up to uncover your underlying needs and explore healthy solutions to create meaningful change.
My diverse experiences working with couples of all ages and stages of life, teens, active military and veterans, and adult women for over 7 years has allowed me to readily create realistic opportunities for change by utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities such as Solution-Focused, CBT, and Experiential.
My goal is to help you overcome the feeling of being stuck so you can start moving forward! Whether this is related to your relationships, feelings of anxiety, or a recent change in your life, I am dedicated to uncovering the root cause of these issues, eradicating the discomfort and transforming it into functional daily living. A safe, judgment free environment will be felt along with the introduction of tools and techniques to create progress during this journey! Through a client centered approach, we will team up to uncover your underlying needs and explore healthy solutions to create meaningful change.
(602) 975-2023 View (602) 975-2023
Jerry Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MCC, CDVC, CAMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
COUPLES SURVIVAL PROGRAM! Marriage & Relationship counseling and coaching. Chandler and SE Valley and Glendale/ NW Valley. My certifications include the Gottman Method for Couples, the Century Program for Anger Management, and the Abuse No More program for Domestic Violence. The Gottman Method focuses on emotion, skill building for managing conflict, developing new skills for enhancing friendship, and helping couples create a system of shared meaning together. This method is tailored to the couple and the strengths and challenges facing each couple. I welcome the opportunity to help you make your relationship a master relationship rather than a disaster relationship.
COUPLES SURVIVAL PROGRAM! Marriage & Relationship counseling and coaching. Chandler and SE Valley and Glendale/ NW Valley. My certifications include the Gottman Method for Couples, the Century Program for Anger Management, and the Abuse No More program for Domestic Violence. The Gottman Method focuses on emotion, skill building for managing conflict, developing new skills for enhancing friendship, and helping couples create a system of shared meaning together. This method is tailored to the couple and the strengths and challenges facing each couple. I welcome the opportunity to help you make your relationship a master relationship rather than a disaster relationship.
(480) 719-2829 View (480) 719-2829
Photo of Mary Willyerd, MFT , Intern, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Mary Willyerd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT , Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
I am available to work with individuals, couples, families, childrens, teens and parent/child relationships.
Are you... struggling with relational/familial conflicts? Wanting deeper connection in your relationships? Experiencing anxiety and depression? Feeling stuck? I can help! I am here to provide hope and help guide individuals’ and their relationships to healing. I am experienced in working with OCD and anxiety disorders. I also recognize the impact that familial relationships can have on individual well-being. I believe that all individuals, couples, and families have it within them to overcome the various challenges in life and to find joy in their circumstances and in their relationships. I am ready to support you in your journey!
I am available to work with individuals, couples, families, childrens, teens and parent/child relationships.
Are you... struggling with relational/familial conflicts? Wanting deeper connection in your relationships? Experiencing anxiety and depression? Feeling stuck? I can help! I am here to provide hope and help guide individuals’ and their relationships to healing. I am experienced in working with OCD and anxiety disorders. I also recognize the impact that familial relationships can have on individual well-being. I believe that all individuals, couples, and families have it within them to overcome the various challenges in life and to find joy in their circumstances and in their relationships. I am ready to support you in your journey!
(623) 887-7128 View (623) 887-7128
Photo of Shari R Short - Aloha Counseling LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aloha Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
We help a variety of clients, from kids, teens, adults couples, and families.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Do you suspect you have ADHD? Are you dealing with a recent loss? Relationship Struggles? Therapy is here to help you navigate all of this. There is hope and we can help. Make an appointment today with one of our therapists to learn tools for coping with life's challenges.
We help a variety of clients, from kids, teens, adults couples, and families.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Do you suspect you have ADHD? Are you dealing with a recent loss? Relationship Struggles? Therapy is here to help you navigate all of this. There is hope and we can help. Make an appointment today with one of our therapists to learn tools for coping with life's challenges.
(602) 610-1876 View (602) 610-1876
Photo of Katharina Wells, LMFT, RN, LPCC, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katharina Wells
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN, LPCC, MS
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
Waitlist for new clients
I work extensively with clients dealing with various addictions, dual diagnosis, eating and mood disorders, trauma, woman's issues, and family relationship conflicts.
Relationships take work! Whether its your relationship with yourself, your spouse, your family or your co-workers, it's all about communication. Using a holistic approach, I can help you find your way through the barriers that have created stress or caused other obstacles in your life. I know that one person or a supportive therapeutic experience can have the power to change one's perspective and make a huge positive difference in your life. There is always hope and I believe more than anything that everyone's story matters.
I work extensively with clients dealing with various addictions, dual diagnosis, eating and mood disorders, trauma, woman's issues, and family relationship conflicts.
Relationships take work! Whether its your relationship with yourself, your spouse, your family or your co-workers, it's all about communication. Using a holistic approach, I can help you find your way through the barriers that have created stress or caused other obstacles in your life. I know that one person or a supportive therapeutic experience can have the power to change one's perspective and make a huge positive difference in your life. There is always hope and I believe more than anything that everyone's story matters.
(714) 581-8635 View (714) 581-8635
Photo of Gema Rivera Honeycutt, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gema Rivera Honeycutt
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
I have the desire to understand human thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I am driven to answer not just why people act in certain ways but also how they can improve their situations and mental well-being. I like helping people overcome challenges and live happier lives. As a therapist, my greatest joy is to watch my clients complete treatment feeling empowered, resourced, confident, valued, free and whole. I have 3 years experience working with adults and children with Autism. I have experience working with individuals, children, and couples. I also speak Spanish.
I have the desire to understand human thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I am driven to answer not just why people act in certain ways but also how they can improve their situations and mental well-being. I like helping people overcome challenges and live happier lives. As a therapist, my greatest joy is to watch my clients complete treatment feeling empowered, resourced, confident, valued, free and whole. I have 3 years experience working with adults and children with Autism. I have experience working with individuals, children, and couples. I also speak Spanish.
(623) 281-3484 x710 View (623) 281-3484 x710
Photo of Francesco Pisano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Francesco Pisano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
Providing individual, family, and couples therapy in English and Spanish.
I work collaboratively with clients to make sure all their needs are met while considering their cultural diversity and intergenerational/systemic trauma using a trauma-informed and attachment approach.”
Providing individual, family, and couples therapy in English and Spanish.
I work collaboratively with clients to make sure all their needs are met while considering their cultural diversity and intergenerational/systemic trauma using a trauma-informed and attachment approach.”
(623) 303-0180 View (623) 303-0180
Photo of Rachael Plyler, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachael Plyler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families.
It's a privilege to bear witness to the beauty and pain of someone’s story. I approach such a privilege with care and sensitivity for each individual, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to talk about their issues in a safe space. I understand that each individual is part of a larger system involving family, community, culture, and more. Assisting clients in processing through the different parts of their life, I hope to help clients experience the change, growth, and freedom they desire.
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families.
It's a privilege to bear witness to the beauty and pain of someone’s story. I approach such a privilege with care and sensitivity for each individual, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to talk about their issues in a safe space. I understand that each individual is part of a larger system involving family, community, culture, and more. Assisting clients in processing through the different parts of their life, I hope to help clients experience the change, growth, and freedom they desire.
(623) 462-0986 x6 View (623) 462-0986 x6
Photo of Michael White, MSPC, NCC, LPC`, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, NCC, LPC`
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
We begin by creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship, work to create a safe, confidential dialogue to openly share your struggles.
It is in the experience of others and our own that at one time or another all of us have faced, is facing or will face some kind of adversity, distress, depression, anxiety, loss, abuse, neglect and trauma. During these seasons in life, fear, loneliness and/or being overwhelmed can feel as if we are stuck in quick sand. The more we fight to get out of the quicksand the more we sink, and hope can diminish. Clients say we meet them exactly where they are in their struggle. We learn the core challenges that are in front of them and together work towards a solution.
We begin by creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship, work to create a safe, confidential dialogue to openly share your struggles.
It is in the experience of others and our own that at one time or another all of us have faced, is facing or will face some kind of adversity, distress, depression, anxiety, loss, abuse, neglect and trauma. During these seasons in life, fear, loneliness and/or being overwhelmed can feel as if we are stuck in quick sand. The more we fight to get out of the quicksand the more we sink, and hope can diminish. Clients say we meet them exactly where they are in their struggle. We learn the core challenges that are in front of them and together work towards a solution.
(602) 560-8602 View (602) 560-8602
Photo of Mandy Schulzke, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Schulzke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
Are you ready to begin your journey of self-discover, growth, and healing? We are ready to help every step of the way as you overcome personal and relationship challenges. We specialize in helping clients work through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, and other challenges. If you are struggling to be happy and connect with others, we can help. Our passion as therapists is to facilitate growth through compassion, respect, and acceptance. We work with adults and adolescents through individual, couples, and family therapy.
Are you ready to begin your journey of self-discover, growth, and healing? We are ready to help every step of the way as you overcome personal and relationship challenges. We specialize in helping clients work through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, and other challenges. If you are struggling to be happy and connect with others, we can help. Our passion as therapists is to facilitate growth through compassion, respect, and acceptance. We work with adults and adolescents through individual, couples, and family therapy.
(623) 552-4174 View (623) 552-4174
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.