Couples Counseling Therapists in 93311

Photo of Luz Hernandez Jasso, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luz Hernandez Jasso
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I also address antisocial behavior in adolescents, parent-child relationship issues, and adjustment to family transitions such as divorce, remarriage, and single parenthood.
My name is Luz Hernandez Jasso, and I am a Bilingual and Bi-culture Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Napa California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adults, families, and couples. I specialize in severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and multi-systemic therapy to help my clients to make progress and start feeling better. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing a range of mental health challenges.
I also address antisocial behavior in adolescents, parent-child relationship issues, and adjustment to family transitions such as divorce, remarriage, and single parenthood.
My name is Luz Hernandez Jasso, and I am a Bilingual and Bi-culture Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Napa California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adults, families, and couples. I specialize in severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and multi-systemic therapy to help my clients to make progress and start feeling better. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing a range of mental health challenges.
(661) 727-0739 View (661) 727-0739
Photo of Luiza Pinaud, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luiza Pinaud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I provide client-centered, strength-based, and evidence-based treatment to people from all backgrounds. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction disorders. I like to integrate different approaches into my practice, such as CBT, DBT, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I work with individuals and couples and speak Portuguese and Spanish. I am most comfortable treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or substance use disorders.
I provide client-centered, strength-based, and evidence-based treatment to people from all backgrounds. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction disorders. I like to integrate different approaches into my practice, such as CBT, DBT, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I work with individuals and couples and speak Portuguese and Spanish. I am most comfortable treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or substance use disorders.
(510) 380-7422 View (510) 380-7422
Photo of Miguel Balderas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miguel Balderas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Hello, I am Miguel! My name is Miguel Balderas, and I am an LMFT providing telehealth services to clients throughout the state of California. I work with adults, specializing in couples with relationship issues and individuals with anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, and trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach that is non-judgmental, and empathic, and maintain an open mind to help people find solutions to the issues they bring to therapy. Each person’s perspective of their experiences is unique, and I work with clients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to work for them.
Hello, I am Miguel! My name is Miguel Balderas, and I am an LMFT providing telehealth services to clients throughout the state of California. I work with adults, specializing in couples with relationship issues and individuals with anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, and trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach that is non-judgmental, and empathic, and maintain an open mind to help people find solutions to the issues they bring to therapy. Each person’s perspective of their experiences is unique, and I work with clients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to work for them.
(657) 385-8298 View (657) 385-8298
Photo of Stacy Cordero, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy Cordero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I am excited to introduce myself to you. My name is Stacy Cordero, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, 142545. It can be uncomfortable to begin therapy. The foundation must include a safe space in which I consider it my responsibility to work hard in building a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. I have an extensive background working with individuals affected by relationship challenges. Our connections to others are complex and vital. These connections are vital throughout our lives - no matter how young or how old.
I am excited to introduce myself to you. My name is Stacy Cordero, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, 142545. It can be uncomfortable to begin therapy. The foundation must include a safe space in which I consider it my responsibility to work hard in building a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect. I have an extensive background working with individuals affected by relationship challenges. Our connections to others are complex and vital. These connections are vital throughout our lives - no matter how young or how old.
(916) 655-9780 View (916) 655-9780
Photo of Tracy Bevington - Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Find your best therapist match with us! We are highly skilled, diverse, well-trained and inclusive therapists. We empower you to live the life you want and do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to care. Additional benefits include a concierge billing service for PPO insurance and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekday and weekend mornings, afternoons, and evenings. We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages as individuals, couples, and families.
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Find your best therapist match with us! We are highly skilled, diverse, well-trained and inclusive therapists. We empower you to live the life you want and do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to care. Additional benefits include a concierge billing service for PPO insurance and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekday and weekend mornings, afternoons, and evenings. We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages as individuals, couples, and families.
(310) 612-2998 View (310) 612-2998
Photo of Michael H Bean, LMFTT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael H Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Individuals, couples, and families are all different from one another.
Is the arguing getting unbearable? Or just the silence? Distrust? Disconnection? Let's quickly focus on the most serious issues you face. Get ready for a compassionate, yet very "problem-solving" approach as you and I work together to untangle the knots that keep you stuck. If you are prepared for your life to get better, give me a call.
Individuals, couples, and families are all different from one another.
Is the arguing getting unbearable? Or just the silence? Distrust? Disconnection? Let's quickly focus on the most serious issues you face. Get ready for a compassionate, yet very "problem-solving" approach as you and I work together to untangle the knots that keep you stuck. If you are prepared for your life to get better, give me a call.
(661) 228-8127 View (661) 228-8127
Photo of Becca Ferguson, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Becca Ferguson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I enjoy working with teens, adults and couples to enrich their daily lives so they feel more fulfilled.
I enjoy helping individuals and couples from 18 y/o through late adulthood. If you need help improving your life & your relationships, I can give you the tools you need! My clients tell me I am genuine and easy to talk to, and they feel they leave each session with realistic tools to improve their day to day lives. I like to work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families, on trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues, and I specialize in working with individuals with all types of sexual problems such as porn and sex addiction. I also love working with people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I enjoy working with teens, adults and couples to enrich their daily lives so they feel more fulfilled.
I enjoy helping individuals and couples from 18 y/o through late adulthood. If you need help improving your life & your relationships, I can give you the tools you need! My clients tell me I am genuine and easy to talk to, and they feel they leave each session with realistic tools to improve their day to day lives. I like to work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families, on trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues, and I specialize in working with individuals with all types of sexual problems such as porn and sex addiction. I also love working with people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(661) 347-2041 View (661) 347-2041
Photo of Alexander A Lopez, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexander A Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTI
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals providing treatment for mood disorders, irrational core beliefs, and behavioral difficulties. I have also worked with couples on issues related to relational repair, attachment enhancement, and conflict resolution. My work in family systems focus on increasing attachment bonds within the family system, help with re-orienting established norms, and conflict resolution.
I have experience working with individuals providing treatment for mood disorders, irrational core beliefs, and behavioral difficulties. I have also worked with couples on issues related to relational repair, attachment enhancement, and conflict resolution. My work in family systems focus on increasing attachment bonds within the family system, help with re-orienting established norms, and conflict resolution.
(661) 437-3738 View (661) 437-3738
Photo of Dena Barnes, MA, ATR, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dena Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I work collaboratively with adults, couples, families, adolescents and children to help clients recognize strengths and begin finding solutions that will enhance their personal lives and relationships.
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
I work collaboratively with adults, couples, families, adolescents and children to help clients recognize strengths and begin finding solutions that will enhance their personal lives and relationships.
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
(661) 460-5123 View (661) 460-5123
Photo of Charree Kashwer, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charree Kashwer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
It takes courage to seek help during challenging times and the task of choosing the "right" therapist can be overwhelming! I have 30+ years of experience in the mental health field. Clients appreciate my humor and direct approach. From the initial phone call, my goal is to create a strong, healthy therapist/client relationship, which is a necessary foundation for change. I work with clients of ALL ages and backgrounds. I specialize in divorced families, couples, parenting issues, relationship concerns, mood disorders, addictions, adjustment issues, and life coaching. I can help...and if I can’t, I will find you someone who can!
It takes courage to seek help during challenging times and the task of choosing the "right" therapist can be overwhelming! I have 30+ years of experience in the mental health field. Clients appreciate my humor and direct approach. From the initial phone call, my goal is to create a strong, healthy therapist/client relationship, which is a necessary foundation for change. I work with clients of ALL ages and backgrounds. I specialize in divorced families, couples, parenting issues, relationship concerns, mood disorders, addictions, adjustment issues, and life coaching. I can help...and if I can’t, I will find you someone who can!
(661) 426-8354 View (661) 426-8354
Photo of Lee Anne Adler, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lee Anne Adler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I love working with couples on issues including communication and infidelity, I have a passion for teens and young adult struggles, and I am compassionate about how anger management issues can affect relationships.
Relationships, communication, work, school, marriage, child-rearing, illness, and all stages of life can be very challenging at times. I am dedicated to providing a highly supportive atmosphere where solutions to these challenges can be explored and found with compassion and respect. I enjoy working with adults, couples, teens, and families to build stronger relationships and deeper self-understanding to make life's journey more enjoyable. I have many years of experience working with families as a registered nurse, and as a therapist, I have a deep understanding of how health related issues can impact individuals and families.
I love working with couples on issues including communication and infidelity, I have a passion for teens and young adult struggles, and I am compassionate about how anger management issues can affect relationships.
Relationships, communication, work, school, marriage, child-rearing, illness, and all stages of life can be very challenging at times. I am dedicated to providing a highly supportive atmosphere where solutions to these challenges can be explored and found with compassion and respect. I enjoy working with adults, couples, teens, and families to build stronger relationships and deeper self-understanding to make life's journey more enjoyable. I have many years of experience working with families as a registered nurse, and as a therapist, I have a deep understanding of how health related issues can impact individuals and families.
(661) 344-4028 View (661) 344-4028
Photo of Monica de la Cruz Lopez Leal, MA, LMFT, TFCBT, Trauma, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica de la Cruz Lopez Leal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TFCBT, Trauma
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I graduated from Pacific Oaks College with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy with a Specialization in Latinx Family Studies , trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy para Parejas (for couples).
Are/were you the first gen- immigrant cultural broker of your family? Have you experienced success in many aspects of your life and still feel there is a void? imposter syndrome? And/or finding it difficult connecting with your family or friends? Are you embracing your Señorx era with no guidance? Are you parenting children and are looking to break generational cycle/curses but feel lost as to how to parent in a way that is gentle and empowering? Are you and your partner arguing over the small things?
I graduated from Pacific Oaks College with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy with a Specialization in Latinx Family Studies , trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy para Parejas (for couples).
Are/were you the first gen- immigrant cultural broker of your family? Have you experienced success in many aspects of your life and still feel there is a void? imposter syndrome? And/or finding it difficult connecting with your family or friends? Are you embracing your Señorx era with no guidance? Are you parenting children and are looking to break generational cycle/curses but feel lost as to how to parent in a way that is gentle and empowering? Are you and your partner arguing over the small things?
(562) 262-5677 View (562) 262-5677
Photo of Meagan Marino, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meagan Marino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families, and older adults to depend understanding of emotions and your experiences.
Now accepting new clients! If you are struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, and tired of patterns keeping you from moving forward, then I'm here to walk with you. I can help you understand how to shift your perspective, learn more about your past, how to cope with stressors, how to communicate more effectively, and more. You have it in you, and I can help introduce new skills and awareness in your life. I am also trained as an art therapist and can use artmaking as a tool in or out of session. I have experience in intensive outpatient therapy with teens and adults.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families, and older adults to depend understanding of emotions and your experiences.
Now accepting new clients! If you are struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, and tired of patterns keeping you from moving forward, then I'm here to walk with you. I can help you understand how to shift your perspective, learn more about your past, how to cope with stressors, how to communicate more effectively, and more. You have it in you, and I can help introduce new skills and awareness in your life. I am also trained as an art therapist and can use artmaking as a tool in or out of session. I have experience in intensive outpatient therapy with teens and adults.
(657) 215-7504 View (657) 215-7504
Photo of Melissa Kadel, MS, APCC, Counselor
Melissa Kadel
Counselor, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I will help guide you through those tough times while strengthening your relationship with your family.
I am an associate professional clinical counselor. I provide therapy to children, adults, couples and families experiencing emotional and relational challenges. While cognitive behavior therapy is most widely used, I focus on the individual needs of each client to meet their needs. I will work with you to strengthen inner health, resolve conflicts and promote positive growth in an open, safe, empathetic environment.
I will help guide you through those tough times while strengthening your relationship with your family.
I am an associate professional clinical counselor. I provide therapy to children, adults, couples and families experiencing emotional and relational challenges. While cognitive behavior therapy is most widely used, I focus on the individual needs of each client to meet their needs. I will work with you to strengthen inner health, resolve conflicts and promote positive growth in an open, safe, empathetic environment.
(661) 493-8551 View (661) 493-8551
Photo of Helaine Harris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Helaine Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Hello, I'm Helaine Harris, License LMFT15327. I am a spiritually inclined therapist with over 35 years of experience, trained in many modalities, to add another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. My main client focus is anxiety and depression, getting through past negative experiences, relationships, and life stress. I also work with couples, groups, and children. I am a certified business coach as well. I often work on hypnotherapy and somatic work with clients.
Hello, I'm Helaine Harris, License LMFT15327. I am a spiritually inclined therapist with over 35 years of experience, trained in many modalities, to add another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. My main client focus is anxiety and depression, getting through past negative experiences, relationships, and life stress. I also work with couples, groups, and children. I am a certified business coach as well. I often work on hypnotherapy and somatic work with clients.
(657) 837-0877 View (657) 837-0877
Photo of Cece Rubalcava - Dr. CeCe Rubalcava, ThD, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. CeCe Rubalcava
Pastoral Counselor, ThD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I work with individuals, couples, families, and also conduct group counseling.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, have problems in relationships, or just feel stuck, contact me. I take an integrated approach with my clients; I believe we are trichotomous beings -- mind, body, and spirit, so I work to integrate all three in my treatment plans. As a Christian counselor, I use the Bible as the basis for my therapy so you will get sound, Scripturally-rooted counseling together with scientifically proven psychological approaches that are in-line with what the Bible says.
I work with individuals, couples, families, and also conduct group counseling.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, have problems in relationships, or just feel stuck, contact me. I take an integrated approach with my clients; I believe we are trichotomous beings -- mind, body, and spirit, so I work to integrate all three in my treatment plans. As a Christian counselor, I use the Bible as the basis for my therapy so you will get sound, Scripturally-rooted counseling together with scientifically proven psychological approaches that are in-line with what the Bible says.
(661) 443-5367 View (661) 443-5367
Photo of Tiffany Bell, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
(661) 765-8731 View (661) 765-8731
Photo of Kathyann Pierre, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathyann Pierre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
It is my goal to partner alongside individuals and help empower them to reach their goal(s) of becoming their most authentic selves.
Hi, I am Kathyann Natalie Pierre, LMFT. It is my belief that our quality of life is directly related to the quality of relationships, ability to maintain relationships, life experiences, and knowledge we gain from our experiences. My use of different therapeutic approaches is based on the individual needs of my clients and on their unique circumstances.
It is my goal to partner alongside individuals and help empower them to reach their goal(s) of becoming their most authentic selves.
Hi, I am Kathyann Natalie Pierre, LMFT. It is my belief that our quality of life is directly related to the quality of relationships, ability to maintain relationships, life experiences, and knowledge we gain from our experiences. My use of different therapeutic approaches is based on the individual needs of my clients and on their unique circumstances.
(442) 264-0647 View (442) 264-0647
Photo of Dr. Karen Stark-Garrett, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karen Stark-Garrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I specialize in family therapy, but I also see individuals and couples.
Sometimes, the unexpected occurs and psyches become traumatized. Once fulfilling relationships grow distant, tense, and riddled with conflict - begging the question of "how it came to this" or whether "it has to be this way." In my systems-based work with clients, I look for root causes of emotional reactivity and maladaptive behaviors that interfere with healthy functioning in relationships. I will assist you in remembering how capable you are and help you discover new ways of communicating effectively so you may move toward the changes you seek.
I specialize in family therapy, but I also see individuals and couples.
Sometimes, the unexpected occurs and psyches become traumatized. Once fulfilling relationships grow distant, tense, and riddled with conflict - begging the question of "how it came to this" or whether "it has to be this way." In my systems-based work with clients, I look for root causes of emotional reactivity and maladaptive behaviors that interfere with healthy functioning in relationships. I will assist you in remembering how capable you are and help you discover new ways of communicating effectively so you may move toward the changes you seek.
(661) 424-2738 View (661) 424-2738
Photo of Kristi Price, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristi Price
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Helping individuals, couples and families was my passion before it was my profession so I am truly invested in providing you the best care possible.
Trying to keep up with everything that life demands can leave you feeling like you are drowning and can’t catch your breath. Relationships with friends, family and partners can start to feel disconnected. You want to feel better, you’ve tried to feel better, but nothing seems to work. Don't let another day go by where you are just a bystander in your own life. Together, let's work through your anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues or anything else holding you back from living your best life!
Helping individuals, couples and families was my passion before it was my profession so I am truly invested in providing you the best care possible.
Trying to keep up with everything that life demands can leave you feeling like you are drowning and can’t catch your breath. Relationships with friends, family and partners can start to feel disconnected. You want to feel better, you’ve tried to feel better, but nothing seems to work. Don't let another day go by where you are just a bystander in your own life. Together, let's work through your anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues or anything else holding you back from living your best life!
(661) 218-2537 View (661) 218-2537
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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.