Couples Counseling Therapists in 90046

Photo of Matthew Cobb, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90046, CA
Matthew Cobb
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I work with individuals and couples to help them express themselves freely and authentically.
Are you having difficulty maintaining a strong connection with yourself? Do you often experience feelings of shame, guilt, judgement, or self-doubt that affect you physically? Therapy has been a crucial tool for me in improving my self-awareness, confidence, and trust in myself. It has helped me to identify my true self, embrace my authenticity, and move forward with courage. As my self-compassion has increased, my mind-body connection has begun to harmonize, and I have found it easier to self-regulate. I believe that everyone has the potential to improve their mind-body connection, leading to a more fulfilling life and happiness.
As a therapist, I work with individuals and couples to help them express themselves freely and authentically.
Are you having difficulty maintaining a strong connection with yourself? Do you often experience feelings of shame, guilt, judgement, or self-doubt that affect you physically? Therapy has been a crucial tool for me in improving my self-awareness, confidence, and trust in myself. It has helped me to identify my true self, embrace my authenticity, and move forward with courage. As my self-compassion has increased, my mind-body connection has begun to harmonize, and I have found it easier to self-regulate. I believe that everyone has the potential to improve their mind-body connection, leading to a more fulfilling life and happiness.
(323) 985-7836 View (323) 985-7836
Photo of True Self Therapy Group Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
True Self Therapy Group Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
We work work with teens, adults, families, and couples.
Hi there, and welcome! Are you looking for a personalized touch to therapy? A therapist with experience, expertise, but doesn't feel "stuffy" or unrelatable? Then we're the perfect fit! True Self Therapy was founded to help California residents easily access quality virtual therapy. We pride our team on being professional, relatable, warm, knowledgable, down to earth, educated, and applying research based change for our clients. Therapy doesn't have to be a chore - it can be an enjoyable part of your day. The True Self Therapy group practice was founded by Annie Kuni (Melman).
We work work with teens, adults, families, and couples.
Hi there, and welcome! Are you looking for a personalized touch to therapy? A therapist with experience, expertise, but doesn't feel "stuffy" or unrelatable? Then we're the perfect fit! True Self Therapy was founded to help California residents easily access quality virtual therapy. We pride our team on being professional, relatable, warm, knowledgable, down to earth, educated, and applying research based change for our clients. Therapy doesn't have to be a chore - it can be an enjoyable part of your day. The True Self Therapy group practice was founded by Annie Kuni (Melman).
(424) 359-1562 View (424) 359-1562
Photo of Nancy Downey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Nancy Downey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
With a specialization in relationship matters, I can help you resolve conflict, set boundaries, build self-esteem, and strengthen communication skills to promote healthier relationships and achieve deeper levels of intimacy.
Let's face it: Our world is incredibly chaotic right now. Our inability to control the circumstances can feel overwhelming at times. The good news is that when chaos arises, the opportunity for reflection and change becomes more urgent. My priority is to understand how your symptoms of anxiety and low self-esteem are affecting your relationships and overall sense of self. Once established, we can peel back the layers one by one and create some movement in your life and in your relationships.
With a specialization in relationship matters, I can help you resolve conflict, set boundaries, build self-esteem, and strengthen communication skills to promote healthier relationships and achieve deeper levels of intimacy.
Let's face it: Our world is incredibly chaotic right now. Our inability to control the circumstances can feel overwhelming at times. The good news is that when chaos arises, the opportunity for reflection and change becomes more urgent. My priority is to understand how your symptoms of anxiety and low self-esteem are affecting your relationships and overall sense of self. Once established, we can peel back the layers one by one and create some movement in your life and in your relationships.
(818) 435-4987 View (818) 435-4987
Photo of Tony Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Tony Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing a couples therapist is no easy task, but it is important to find someone who actually is trained in this work. Relationships are the core of society and our lives, and yet we are never taught about the basics of communication: talking and listening. My work with couples AND individuals centers on learning how to talk about and listen to feelings, in order to build empathy and connection. Learn what works and how to get closer to those you care about (including yourself!).
Choosing a couples therapist is no easy task, but it is important to find someone who actually is trained in this work. Relationships are the core of society and our lives, and yet we are never taught about the basics of communication: talking and listening. My work with couples AND individuals centers on learning how to talk about and listen to feelings, in order to build empathy and connection. Learn what works and how to get closer to those you care about (including yourself!).
(323) 405-3230 View (323) 405-3230
Photo of Felicia Horne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Felicia Horne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Welcome! I focus on approaching therapy from a dynamically holistic and healing perspective that focuses on developing new strategies to integrate into daily living. I'm dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and assisting individuals and couples to enter a place of self-compassion and growth by activating their internal and external resources. I believe each person holds the answers to transformation within and my role serves as a helpful guide on your journey. The process is about surrender, relief, healing & restoration. I have also co-authored a self-compassion workbook that I incorporate in our work to support growth.
Welcome! I focus on approaching therapy from a dynamically holistic and healing perspective that focuses on developing new strategies to integrate into daily living. I'm dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and assisting individuals and couples to enter a place of self-compassion and growth by activating their internal and external resources. I believe each person holds the answers to transformation within and my role serves as a helpful guide on your journey. The process is about surrender, relief, healing & restoration. I have also co-authored a self-compassion workbook that I incorporate in our work to support growth.
(415) 727-8048 View (415) 727-8048
Photo of David Haynik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
David Haynik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I work with individuals and couples who present with a diverse collection of strengths, challenges, and goals in life. I provide a space, whether in person or telehealth, that allows for people to feel accepted for who they are without judgement or shame. I work along side each individual or couple to define goals of treatment so we know when to celebrate or to redefine our objectives. I like to explore values, emotions and thoughts to identify opportunity for positive change. In addition to these qualities of my practice, my perspectives are grounded in feminist principles, Buddhist philosophy, and attachment theory.
I work with individuals and couples who present with a diverse collection of strengths, challenges, and goals in life. I provide a space, whether in person or telehealth, that allows for people to feel accepted for who they are without judgement or shame. I work along side each individual or couple to define goals of treatment so we know when to celebrate or to redefine our objectives. I like to explore values, emotions and thoughts to identify opportunity for positive change. In addition to these qualities of my practice, my perspectives are grounded in feminist principles, Buddhist philosophy, and attachment theory.
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Photo of Dani Coleman, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 90046, CA
Dani Coleman
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with couples using the Gottman Method, including CNM and polyamorous couples.
Hi, I'm Dani and I would love to work with you! My approach is strength-centered and collaborative. I can help you with understanding and managing anxiety, depression, and processing through past trauma. Together we can work on building emotional intelligence, distress tolerance, and communication skills. I'm a butch non-binary person who can empathize with those struggling to be trans in America right now. I've also got lived experience as a disabled and neurodivergent person.
I love working with couples using the Gottman Method, including CNM and polyamorous couples.
Hi, I'm Dani and I would love to work with you! My approach is strength-centered and collaborative. I can help you with understanding and managing anxiety, depression, and processing through past trauma. Together we can work on building emotional intelligence, distress tolerance, and communication skills. I'm a butch non-binary person who can empathize with those struggling to be trans in America right now. I've also got lived experience as a disabled and neurodivergent person.
(562) 512-7125 View (562) 512-7125
Photo of Bill Benson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Bill Benson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
It's stressful out there: Our day-to-day circumstances and the overall culture are dramatically shifting. The good news: You don't have to figure all this out alone. Solving emotional, relationship, social, or career challenges takes teamwork. I created The Mental Gym to help people like you increase their well-being. My 20+ year career has focused on strengthening my client's emotional resilience. Your reading this indicates you're ready to find solutions. Working together, we'll clarify goals, improve insight, and develop a solid action plan, so that you can confidently fulfill your potential - whatever the world throws at you.
It's stressful out there: Our day-to-day circumstances and the overall culture are dramatically shifting. The good news: You don't have to figure all this out alone. Solving emotional, relationship, social, or career challenges takes teamwork. I created The Mental Gym to help people like you increase their well-being. My 20+ year career has focused on strengthening my client's emotional resilience. Your reading this indicates you're ready to find solutions. Working together, we'll clarify goals, improve insight, and develop a solid action plan, so that you can confidently fulfill your potential - whatever the world throws at you.
(310) 683-4197 View (310) 683-4197
Photo of Jessica Heinfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Jessica Heinfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I've undergone specialized advanced training both in individual psychotherapy and couples therapy.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, uncertain, overwhelmed by emotional pain, or doubting your ability to move past old patterns. I provide a safe environment where individuals and couples feel understood and supported. As an experienced psychotherapist and couples counselor, I am here to hold your experience with curiosity and compassion. Together we will come to understand your life story and unravel outdated belief systems that no longer serve you. Through this deep understanding, we will begin to see a path forward that is rooted in forgiveness, self-compassion, and vitality.
I've undergone specialized advanced training both in individual psychotherapy and couples therapy.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, uncertain, overwhelmed by emotional pain, or doubting your ability to move past old patterns. I provide a safe environment where individuals and couples feel understood and supported. As an experienced psychotherapist and couples counselor, I am here to hold your experience with curiosity and compassion. Together we will come to understand your life story and unravel outdated belief systems that no longer serve you. Through this deep understanding, we will begin to see a path forward that is rooted in forgiveness, self-compassion, and vitality.
(323) 208-0515 View (323) 208-0515
Photo of Sharon R Schwartz, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Sharon R Schwartz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I specialize in the field of reproductive psychology, working with individuals and couples who are in pursuit of family building.
I know that choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. Selecting someone who has experience working with your concerns and to whom you can connect is essential. I have been practicing for over 20 years and work effectively with individuals, couples and families who find themselves struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, life transitions and interpersonal conflicts. Through guided exploration, clients have been able to understand their difficulties more fully, develop more productive coping strategies and live more satisfying, complete lives.
I specialize in the field of reproductive psychology, working with individuals and couples who are in pursuit of family building.
I know that choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. Selecting someone who has experience working with your concerns and to whom you can connect is essential. I have been practicing for over 20 years and work effectively with individuals, couples and families who find themselves struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, life transitions and interpersonal conflicts. Through guided exploration, clients have been able to understand their difficulties more fully, develop more productive coping strategies and live more satisfying, complete lives.
(310) 692-9250 View (310) 692-9250
Photo of Terri James, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Terri James
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Ultimately, the key to a successful therapeutic experience lies within the relationship between client and therapist.
Is something holding you back from living at your full potential? Are you overwhelmed with intense feelings of sadness, anger, fear or frustration? If you are feeling stuck in patterns that are limiting you, or are navigating through a difficult life challenge, therapy can help you realize your true potential and reach your life goals. With assistance and support there can be healing and an increased level of awareness to self and the environment. You can feel better about yourself, and thrive in your relationships.
Ultimately, the key to a successful therapeutic experience lies within the relationship between client and therapist.
Is something holding you back from living at your full potential? Are you overwhelmed with intense feelings of sadness, anger, fear or frustration? If you are feeling stuck in patterns that are limiting you, or are navigating through a difficult life challenge, therapy can help you realize your true potential and reach your life goals. With assistance and support there can be healing and an increased level of awareness to self and the environment. You can feel better about yourself, and thrive in your relationships.
(323) 282-7393 View (323) 282-7393
Photo of Edna Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Edna Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA,, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
It is this marvel and respect that I strive to bring into my therapeutic relationship with you.
Are you stuck, unable to move forward in your life? I believe that we as human beings are resilient, and that, when we find ourselves stuck unable to move forward in our lives, it's important to seek guidance outside ourselves to unravel and breakfree from whatever is blocking our inner light. I am here to assist you to unravel and break free from whatever is blocking your inner light from shining.
It is this marvel and respect that I strive to bring into my therapeutic relationship with you.
Are you stuck, unable to move forward in your life? I believe that we as human beings are resilient, and that, when we find ourselves stuck unable to move forward in our lives, it's important to seek guidance outside ourselves to unravel and breakfree from whatever is blocking our inner light. I am here to assist you to unravel and break free from whatever is blocking your inner light from shining.
(323) 471-0446 View (323) 471-0446
Photo of John D Berndt, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
John D Berndt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helping couples who are repeatedly caught in conflict find better ways of communicating. I enjoy helping couples work together toward changing their interactions to more positive, more productive and less stressful patterns of communication. I strive to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental space where both members of a couple will feel heard and understood. I also help individuals connect with others, strengthen their core identity and live more authentic lives. I love helping people create stronger, more meaningful relationships with themselves and with others.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helping couples who are repeatedly caught in conflict find better ways of communicating. I enjoy helping couples work together toward changing their interactions to more positive, more productive and less stressful patterns of communication. I strive to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental space where both members of a couple will feel heard and understood. I also help individuals connect with others, strengthen their core identity and live more authentic lives. I love helping people create stronger, more meaningful relationships with themselves and with others.
(323) 312-5199 View (323) 312-5199
Photo of Liam Sacks, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Liam Sacks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I work well with individuals, couples, and families to find resolve from issues of depression and anxiety, identity and expression, sexuality, mono/poly relationship difficulties, isolation, loneliness, and low self-esteem.
The fact is that everyone at some point in their lives, will face challenges, traumas, circumstances or relationships that overwhelm their ability to cope. While navigating these experiences can be painful, difficult, and complex- no one should have to go at it alone. I view the therapeutic experience as collaborative. My intention is to create a safe, supportive, and judgement free space where together we'll explore what brings meaning into your life, and dismantle the obstacles that get in your way. My role is to bolster skills that encourage meaningful reflection, communication, and connection to self and others.
I work well with individuals, couples, and families to find resolve from issues of depression and anxiety, identity and expression, sexuality, mono/poly relationship difficulties, isolation, loneliness, and low self-esteem.
The fact is that everyone at some point in their lives, will face challenges, traumas, circumstances or relationships that overwhelm their ability to cope. While navigating these experiences can be painful, difficult, and complex- no one should have to go at it alone. I view the therapeutic experience as collaborative. My intention is to create a safe, supportive, and judgement free space where together we'll explore what brings meaning into your life, and dismantle the obstacles that get in your way. My role is to bolster skills that encourage meaningful reflection, communication, and connection to self and others.
(323) 886-4577 View (323) 886-4577
Photo of Damon Holzum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Damon Holzum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My focus: You, Couples therapy, Your relationship(s), Solo/Poly/Bi/Homosexual and heterosexual identities, Polyamory, Sex & Sexuality Support, Gender Identity, Alternative Sexual Practices, Sex worker support and strategies, Kink culture, Emotionally Safe Sexual interaction.
Damon Holzum, LCSW. I bring a fresh, passionate and compassionate approach to your concerns and engage with you as someone desiring a powerful, nurturing, and solutions focused experience. My focus is an integrative approach blending CBT, experiential, Gestalt, and narrative therapies to assist you and your significant other or family to thrive within your environment and understand your thoughts and feelings to be the best you. I engage with all genres of individuals and focus on sex-positive therapy, polyamory, alternative sexual practices and the destigmatization of all things sexual and intimate within your relationships.
My focus: You, Couples therapy, Your relationship(s), Solo/Poly/Bi/Homosexual and heterosexual identities, Polyamory, Sex & Sexuality Support, Gender Identity, Alternative Sexual Practices, Sex worker support and strategies, Kink culture, Emotionally Safe Sexual interaction.
Damon Holzum, LCSW. I bring a fresh, passionate and compassionate approach to your concerns and engage with you as someone desiring a powerful, nurturing, and solutions focused experience. My focus is an integrative approach blending CBT, experiential, Gestalt, and narrative therapies to assist you and your significant other or family to thrive within your environment and understand your thoughts and feelings to be the best you. I engage with all genres of individuals and focus on sex-positive therapy, polyamory, alternative sexual practices and the destigmatization of all things sexual and intimate within your relationships.
(424) 293-3960 View (424) 293-3960
Photo of Sophia Majeed, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Sophia Majeed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My focus includes helping individuals work through phases of grief/loss of a parent or partner, as well as the effects on providers whose patients have died. I also treat survivors who have gone through narcissistic abuse - I am here to help heal, rebuild a healthy sense of self & how to have healthy relationships. Other areas of focus include imposter syndrome, acculturation issues, relationship struggles, anxiety, phase of life transitions, as well as entertainment industry challenges. My clients end up feeling empowered in life & secure in knowing that I'm actively guiding them toward becoming the best versions of themselves.
My focus includes helping individuals work through phases of grief/loss of a parent or partner, as well as the effects on providers whose patients have died. I also treat survivors who have gone through narcissistic abuse - I am here to help heal, rebuild a healthy sense of self & how to have healthy relationships. Other areas of focus include imposter syndrome, acculturation issues, relationship struggles, anxiety, phase of life transitions, as well as entertainment industry challenges. My clients end up feeling empowered in life & secure in knowing that I'm actively guiding them toward becoming the best versions of themselves.
(424) 287-4978 View (424) 287-4978
Photo of Renaldo Strayhorn, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Renaldo Strayhorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
ATTENTION FAMILIES AND COUPLES: Are you and your partner struggling with communication? Do you find that you argue about things that are seemingly insignificant? Has your relationship evolved into a power struggle? There may be triggers in your relationships that create conflict that you simply are not aware. I can help to lower the reactivity and to help bring back the love and understanding you once had. Learn to disagree safely. Communication skills are my specialty. My Passion are those couples that are from different backgrounds or from different countries, biracial or where there is a significant age difference.
ATTENTION FAMILIES AND COUPLES: Are you and your partner struggling with communication? Do you find that you argue about things that are seemingly insignificant? Has your relationship evolved into a power struggle? There may be triggers in your relationships that create conflict that you simply are not aware. I can help to lower the reactivity and to help bring back the love and understanding you once had. Learn to disagree safely. Communication skills are my specialty. My Passion are those couples that are from different backgrounds or from different countries, biracial or where there is a significant age difference.
(818) 253-9827 View (818) 253-9827
Photo of Jonathan H Kruger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Jonathan H Kruger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I work with individuals, couples, families, teens and children, working closely to customize treatment for a broad range of life challenges.
Change starts with the first step. Insight paired with action drives lasting change. However taking the step to foster change in one's emotional life can be frightening and overwhelming. With me you will find a safe, caring environment, where together we travel a path of emotional discovery that will lead you to a better life. Based in West Hollywood, my practice is designed to help you understand yourself at a fundamental level, to give you tools and craft an approach that is healing and meets your specific needs. Building trust in the therapeutic journey, in an atmosphere that supports emotional growth and lasting change.
I work with individuals, couples, families, teens and children, working closely to customize treatment for a broad range of life challenges.
Change starts with the first step. Insight paired with action drives lasting change. However taking the step to foster change in one's emotional life can be frightening and overwhelming. With me you will find a safe, caring environment, where together we travel a path of emotional discovery that will lead you to a better life. Based in West Hollywood, my practice is designed to help you understand yourself at a fundamental level, to give you tools and craft an approach that is healing and meets your specific needs. Building trust in the therapeutic journey, in an atmosphere that supports emotional growth and lasting change.
(310) 729-9062 View (310) 729-9062
Photo of Modern Mind Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Modern Mind Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
We specialize in working with clients who are experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, relationship issues, and parenting challenges.
Services Offered: Telehealth, Individual Psychotherapy, Couple's and Family Counseling, Parent Training. At Modern Mind Therapy, we help empower our clients to overcome life's toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Through a client centered approach, our highly skilled therapists collaborate with clients to help structure treatment plans tailored to each clients' individual needs.
We specialize in working with clients who are experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues, relationship issues, and parenting challenges.
Services Offered: Telehealth, Individual Psychotherapy, Couple's and Family Counseling, Parent Training. At Modern Mind Therapy, we help empower our clients to overcome life's toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Through a client centered approach, our highly skilled therapists collaborate with clients to help structure treatment plans tailored to each clients' individual needs.
(747) 207-3739 View (747) 207-3739
Photo of Bryn Hickey, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 90046, CA
Bryn Hickey
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I work with clients individually or as couples, and am licensed in both California and Louisiana.
Trauma cuts deep. It has the ability to knock the wind out of you and throw you off course. It can creep up gradually, or sometimes feel as though it strikes all at once. The process of finding someone that you trust to work with you in some of your most tender moments can be incredibly intimidating. I would be honored to talk with you and see if we would be a good match in your process of healing.
I work with clients individually or as couples, and am licensed in both California and Louisiana.
Trauma cuts deep. It has the ability to knock the wind out of you and throw you off course. It can creep up gradually, or sometimes feel as though it strikes all at once. The process of finding someone that you trust to work with you in some of your most tender moments can be incredibly intimidating. I would be honored to talk with you and see if we would be a good match in your process of healing.
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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.