Photo of Erica McCullough, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Phoenix, AZ
Erica McCullough
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapist. My passion has always been helping clients become the best version of themselves. I have been in the behavioral health field for over 10 years in therapy and case management roles, and I have found that you know what works for you; I am here to support you in expanding what else is needed to help build those relationships into postive supports and a peaceful, and rewarding life; not just manageable.
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapist. My passion has always been helping clients become the best version of themselves. I have been in the behavioral health field for over 10 years in therapy and case management roles, and I have found that you know what works for you; I am here to support you in expanding what else is needed to help build those relationships into postive supports and a peaceful, and rewarding life; not just manageable.
(623) 294-4817 View (623) 294-4817
Photo of Halina Brooke, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Halina Brooke
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
I believe in the transformative power of a safe, supportive therapy relationship informed by the synergy between a client's wisdom and clinician's expertise.
Maybe coming to therapy is an easy, intuitive next step for you. You know and trust yourself to find just the right counselor. You know what you need from therapy to support your relationships, career/life satisfaction, self-care needs, or trauma recovery. I trust your inner wisdom and can’t wait to collaborate with you. Or, maybe you’re more tentative about this whole “therapy” thing. Life may have taught you that trust is precious–that reaching out for support could be dangerous. You may have even gotten the message not to believe in or advocate for yourself. Well, this might be a surprise: I also trust *your* inner wisdom.
I believe in the transformative power of a safe, supportive therapy relationship informed by the synergy between a client's wisdom and clinician's expertise.
Maybe coming to therapy is an easy, intuitive next step for you. You know and trust yourself to find just the right counselor. You know what you need from therapy to support your relationships, career/life satisfaction, self-care needs, or trauma recovery. I trust your inner wisdom and can’t wait to collaborate with you. Or, maybe you’re more tentative about this whole “therapy” thing. Life may have taught you that trust is precious–that reaching out for support could be dangerous. You may have even gotten the message not to believe in or advocate for yourself. Well, this might be a surprise: I also trust *your* inner wisdom.
(602) 755-3068 View (602) 755-3068
Photo of Judith Ann Levin in Phoenix, AZ
Judith Ann Levin
MS, APRN, RNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Judith Levin specializes in working with depression, anxiety , life transitions (grief, divorce, career changes), relationship issues (partner/marital conflict, loneliness, social isolation), trauma and issues related to aging.
Judith Levin is dedicated to the experience of healing as reflected in her 32 years as a Constructionist Therapist and Nurse Practitioner. She works collaboratively with clients to create a safe and trusted space that will assist clients to address their concerns, challenges, and reasons for seeking therapy. Judith accentuates on restoring resilience, helping clients to create new meanings, generate new possibilities and achieve more fulfilling levels of satisfaction and wellness. Judith completed a 2 year post-graduate program at the Postgraduate Institute for Family Therapy. She is also certified in MBSR and EMDR therapies.
Judith Levin specializes in working with depression, anxiety , life transitions (grief, divorce, career changes), relationship issues (partner/marital conflict, loneliness, social isolation), trauma and issues related to aging.
Judith Levin is dedicated to the experience of healing as reflected in her 32 years as a Constructionist Therapist and Nurse Practitioner. She works collaboratively with clients to create a safe and trusted space that will assist clients to address their concerns, challenges, and reasons for seeking therapy. Judith accentuates on restoring resilience, helping clients to create new meanings, generate new possibilities and achieve more fulfilling levels of satisfaction and wellness. Judith completed a 2 year post-graduate program at the Postgraduate Institute for Family Therapy. She is also certified in MBSR and EMDR therapies.
(602) 932-8104 View (602) 932-8104
Photo of Jody Ortman, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Jody Ortman
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85042  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and addiction counselor. I specialize in supporting adults and couples working through life changes, health concerns, anxiety, depression, and navigating recovery from trauma. Seeking support when things aren’t going well can be incredibly difficult and finding the right fit with a therapist is essential. I am happy to schedule a free video consultation to discuss your needs and ensure that we would be a good fit. Please reach out to me via email with days and times that would work best for you.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and addiction counselor. I specialize in supporting adults and couples working through life changes, health concerns, anxiety, depression, and navigating recovery from trauma. Seeking support when things aren’t going well can be incredibly difficult and finding the right fit with a therapist is essential. I am happy to schedule a free video consultation to discuss your needs and ensure that we would be a good fit. Please reach out to me via email with days and times that would work best for you.
(480) 907-3685 View (480) 907-3685
Photo of Julia Malone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Julia Malone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I specialize in working with adults and couples, especially parents, and enjoy supporting the queer community.
You're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and anxious, I get it. Maybe you're looking for a place to unpack some painful memories from the past. As you've gotten older, navigated relationships, or have had children of your own, you have really been struggling to feel confident and find clarity in navigating life's challenges. I'm Julia and I help adults work through generational (complex) trauma alleviate their anxiety, change patterns of perfectionism, people pleasing, and codependency and connect deeply with those they love. Let's break cycles together! I'm here to help you make sense of your experience and embrace yourself fully.
I specialize in working with adults and couples, especially parents, and enjoy supporting the queer community.
You're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and anxious, I get it. Maybe you're looking for a place to unpack some painful memories from the past. As you've gotten older, navigated relationships, or have had children of your own, you have really been struggling to feel confident and find clarity in navigating life's challenges. I'm Julia and I help adults work through generational (complex) trauma alleviate their anxiety, change patterns of perfectionism, people pleasing, and codependency and connect deeply with those they love. Let's break cycles together! I'm here to help you make sense of your experience and embrace yourself fully.
(619) 503-3526 View (619) 503-3526
Photo of Evette Mei, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Evette Mei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LGBTQIA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with the LGBTQ+ community, both adults and couples. I use an eclectic and affirming approach to support your whole self. I am passionate about serving historically marginalized communities experiencing stressful relationship dynamics or trauma.
My specialties include working with the LGBTQ+ community, both adults and couples. I use an eclectic and affirming approach to support your whole self. I am passionate about serving historically marginalized communities experiencing stressful relationship dynamics or trauma.
(623) 303-7859 View (623) 303-7859
Photo of Dr. Taylor Larsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Taylor Larsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003  (Online Only)
I have helped individuals work through concerns such as trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, body image issues, personality disorders, performance anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and couples counseling.
One of my goals is to provide a safe environment, so you feel comfortable discussing difficult life challenges. I guide you throughout the therapeutic process to help ease any anxiety regarding therapy. I utilize a strength-based approach to help you find healing through adversity. My work is motivated by my humanistic philosophy that there is empowerment in striving to meet full personal potential. I am passionate about helping others find healing, improve their quality of life, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I have helped individuals work through concerns such as trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, body image issues, personality disorders, performance anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and couples counseling.
One of my goals is to provide a safe environment, so you feel comfortable discussing difficult life challenges. I guide you throughout the therapeutic process to help ease any anxiety regarding therapy. I utilize a strength-based approach to help you find healing through adversity. My work is motivated by my humanistic philosophy that there is empowerment in striving to meet full personal potential. I am passionate about helping others find healing, improve their quality of life, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
(480) 933-2566 View (480) 933-2566
Photo of Francesca Marie Mirizio, Pre-Licensed Professional in Phoenix, AZ
Francesca Marie Mirizio
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
I can work with you as an ally during the most difficult phases of your life. You set the goals for change, and I will help guide you to reach them. I also have a great understanding of the dynamics of a healthy relationship and can also offer great insight to clients who struggle with relationship issues. As an Emotional Intelligence Life Coach, I can help you to master your emotions, reduce your stress, and develop emotional intelligence.
I can work with you as an ally during the most difficult phases of your life. You set the goals for change, and I will help guide you to reach them. I also have a great understanding of the dynamics of a healthy relationship and can also offer great insight to clients who struggle with relationship issues. As an Emotional Intelligence Life Coach, I can help you to master your emotions, reduce your stress, and develop emotional intelligence.
(480) 526-9387 View (480) 526-9387
Photo of Shawn Foltz Emmons, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Shawn Foltz Emmons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I look at therapy as a collaborative, professional relationship where I assist and guide a person toward a more fulfilling life.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
I look at therapy as a collaborative, professional relationship where I assist and guide a person toward a more fulfilling life.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
(480) 207-3432 View (480) 207-3432
Photo of Candy Blomgren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Candy Blomgren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend availability! As we mature and enter new stages of life, unique challenges may arise, and we may need specific, relatable guidance from someone with lived experience. I have a passion for working with adults who may be struggling with various life transitions, shifts in mood, or relationship issues. If you feel that life has become overwhelming, or you’re having difficulty adjusting to life’s many changes, or you’re experiencing depression and anxiety with trying to manage it all, I can help!
Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend availability! As we mature and enter new stages of life, unique challenges may arise, and we may need specific, relatable guidance from someone with lived experience. I have a passion for working with adults who may be struggling with various life transitions, shifts in mood, or relationship issues. If you feel that life has become overwhelming, or you’re having difficulty adjusting to life’s many changes, or you’re experiencing depression and anxiety with trying to manage it all, I can help!
(602) 878-4597 View (602) 878-4597
Photo of Joshua G Kellison, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Joshua G Kellison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
I use evidence-based treatments (CBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Cognitive Processing Therapy) for individuals, couples, and families.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who seeks to support client's goals, while also helping them achieve a life worth living. Prior to private practice I have worked at the VA and the National Center for PTSD in Honolulu, HI, Seattle Children's Hospital, PCH, and community mental health clinics. As a result of working within a variety of settings, I have the experience and skills to work with children, adolescents, and adults who present with behavioral, mood, and life challenges. I also have specialized training for grief, impulse control and anger management, PTSD, and coping/emotion regulation skills acquisition.
I use evidence-based treatments (CBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Cognitive Processing Therapy) for individuals, couples, and families.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who seeks to support client's goals, while also helping them achieve a life worth living. Prior to private practice I have worked at the VA and the National Center for PTSD in Honolulu, HI, Seattle Children's Hospital, PCH, and community mental health clinics. As a result of working within a variety of settings, I have the experience and skills to work with children, adolescents, and adults who present with behavioral, mood, and life challenges. I also have specialized training for grief, impulse control and anger management, PTSD, and coping/emotion regulation skills acquisition.
(480) 418-0765 View (480) 418-0765
Photo of Angela Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Angela Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85015
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in sex/love/relationship issues, and dysfunctional ways we relate to partners.
As a meadows trained, sex therapist, and trauma specialist, I dive deeply into childhood issues helping you discover the root causes of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sex addiction, and dysfunctional relationship patterns (such as the love addicted/love avoidant pattern), and attachment styles. Learn about how to heal from toxic relationships, narcissistic partners, trauma and codependency. Learn about the root of dysfunctional thinking patterns and how trauma shapes how you attach to others, who you date and what you attract.
I specialize in sex/love/relationship issues, and dysfunctional ways we relate to partners.
As a meadows trained, sex therapist, and trauma specialist, I dive deeply into childhood issues helping you discover the root causes of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sex addiction, and dysfunctional relationship patterns (such as the love addicted/love avoidant pattern), and attachment styles. Learn about how to heal from toxic relationships, narcissistic partners, trauma and codependency. Learn about the root of dysfunctional thinking patterns and how trauma shapes how you attach to others, who you date and what you attract.
(602) 932-0976 View (602) 932-0976
Photo of Phoenix Foundations Recovery/ Patrick Varney PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix Foundations Recovery/ Patrick Varney PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MS, LISAC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Accepting New Clients! Serving Arizona Families, Couples & Individuals, Specializing in Addictions, Process Addictions & Mental Health Issues. Today can be the beginning of Change, “Let’s Get Started”. If you are feeling distressed and frustrated over having lost some or all control over gambling, shopping, obsessive & compulsive behaviors, sex, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances in your life or the lives of loved ones? Are you feeling despair, isolation, anxiety, loneliness or depression? " Let's start Healing Today".
Accepting New Clients! Serving Arizona Families, Couples & Individuals, Specializing in Addictions, Process Addictions & Mental Health Issues. Today can be the beginning of Change, “Let’s Get Started”. If you are feeling distressed and frustrated over having lost some or all control over gambling, shopping, obsessive & compulsive behaviors, sex, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances in your life or the lives of loved ones? Are you feeling despair, isolation, anxiety, loneliness or depression? " Let's start Healing Today".
(623) 323-3260 View (623) 323-3260
Photo of Symmetry Counseling in Phoenix, AZ
Symmetry Counseling
PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
Welcome to Symmetry Counseling. We are a group of mental health professionals located in Phoenix specializing in counseling, psychotherapy, and coaching for individuals, couples, and families. We chose the name Symmetry because the word evokes our goal to assist you in developing an ability to remain balanced and resilient under the forces of change. Our therapists provide a supportive, empathetic, and hopeful environment. Sessions revolve around pragmatic approaches to strategically address and resolve issues clients bring to therapy.
Welcome to Symmetry Counseling. We are a group of mental health professionals located in Phoenix specializing in counseling, psychotherapy, and coaching for individuals, couples, and families. We chose the name Symmetry because the word evokes our goal to assist you in developing an ability to remain balanced and resilient under the forces of change. Our therapists provide a supportive, empathetic, and hopeful environment. Sessions revolve around pragmatic approaches to strategically address and resolve issues clients bring to therapy.
(480) 660-5776 View (480) 660-5776
Photo of Jason Fierstein | Phoenix Men's Counseling, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Jason Fierstein | Phoenix Men's Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My practice works with men to help them enjoy better, more fulfilling relationships, and also help guys figure out how to find the right relationship for them.
Welcome! I'm Jason, and I specialize in working with men and couples. My practice, Phoenix Men's Counseling, helps work with men just like you (or your husband, partner, or relative) with the issues that guys struggle with most, such as stress, depression, cheating, marriage/relationship issues, "nice guy" syndrome (guys who have a hard time saying 'no'), anger, and emotional intimacy, among others. As a guy, I know what men deal with, and work to create a counseling environment that men can relate to, feel heard and find new solutions to their problems. I have 20 years experience working with men.
My practice works with men to help them enjoy better, more fulfilling relationships, and also help guys figure out how to find the right relationship for them.
Welcome! I'm Jason, and I specialize in working with men and couples. My practice, Phoenix Men's Counseling, helps work with men just like you (or your husband, partner, or relative) with the issues that guys struggle with most, such as stress, depression, cheating, marriage/relationship issues, "nice guy" syndrome (guys who have a hard time saying 'no'), anger, and emotional intimacy, among others. As a guy, I know what men deal with, and work to create a counseling environment that men can relate to, feel heard and find new solutions to their problems. I have 20 years experience working with men.
(602) 309-0568 View (602) 309-0568
Photo of Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I seek to provide a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment to work through life’s challenges. I offer support to individuals, couples, and families by promoting vulnerability, healing and connection. I utilize evidence based approaches that are clinically shown to improve relationships. Through a comprehensive assessment, I seek to understand how personal experiences, family history, culture, spirituality, sexual orientation, gender identity & expression, race, life stage, and relationship patterns influence well being and current challenges.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I seek to provide a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment to work through life’s challenges. I offer support to individuals, couples, and families by promoting vulnerability, healing and connection. I utilize evidence based approaches that are clinically shown to improve relationships. Through a comprehensive assessment, I seek to understand how personal experiences, family history, culture, spirituality, sexual orientation, gender identity & expression, race, life stage, and relationship patterns influence well being and current challenges.
(480) 470-1713 View (480) 470-1713
Photo of Moving Mountains Coaching in Phoenix, AZ
Moving Mountains Coaching
MS, MA, ACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Additionally, I work with individuals and couples on healthy sexuality.
My ideal client is looking for help and support in making themselves a priority and working towards creating a life filled with greater peace, self confidence and self love. My clients are looking to move past fear, overthinking, trauma, anxiety, and ptsd in order to achieve more of what they want most out of life. They are looking to move past prior crisis and trauma in different areas of their lives from health struggles, to family trauma and relationships. They want more out of life and are ready to get out of their own way. They want someone to help them understand their obstacles and develop a clear path toward their solutions
Additionally, I work with individuals and couples on healthy sexuality.
My ideal client is looking for help and support in making themselves a priority and working towards creating a life filled with greater peace, self confidence and self love. My clients are looking to move past fear, overthinking, trauma, anxiety, and ptsd in order to achieve more of what they want most out of life. They are looking to move past prior crisis and trauma in different areas of their lives from health struggles, to family trauma and relationships. They want more out of life and are ready to get out of their own way. They want someone to help them understand their obstacles and develop a clear path toward their solutions
(520) 231-7095 View (520) 231-7095
Photo of Brittany McCord, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Brittany McCord
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Some areas of treatment focus are anxiety, emotion dysregulation, relationship issues, grief, spiritual/religious trauma & recovering from narcissistic abuse.
I believe that every person has a natural drive towards growth and healing. It's what brought you to this page! I’m passionate about helping people to understand their emotions and reconnect with and trust their bodies again. I believe that emotions are this incredible built-in compass to help us navigate life in a way that is meaningful and in alignment with our truest selves. However, we have learned to disconnect from our emotions due to trauma, various cultural and familial messages around emotions, and because some emotions are too overwhelming to do alone so we disconnect to survive. Wherever you are at, there is hope.
Some areas of treatment focus are anxiety, emotion dysregulation, relationship issues, grief, spiritual/religious trauma & recovering from narcissistic abuse.
I believe that every person has a natural drive towards growth and healing. It's what brought you to this page! I’m passionate about helping people to understand their emotions and reconnect with and trust their bodies again. I believe that emotions are this incredible built-in compass to help us navigate life in a way that is meaningful and in alignment with our truest selves. However, we have learned to disconnect from our emotions due to trauma, various cultural and familial messages around emotions, and because some emotions are too overwhelming to do alone so we disconnect to survive. Wherever you are at, there is hope.
(480) 568-3890 View (480) 568-3890
Photo of Cynthia Hauser Carrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Cynthia Hauser Carrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Waitlist for new clients
Effective therapy can change everything. Through effective cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and EMDR we work together to change your mind to change your life. I also offer groups that provide education about weight gain, mental health, and solutions to finding your own unique fitness program. I believe in strong, effective therapy. No one should live with anxiety, depression, unhealthy coping skills, or prolonged difficulties in the aftermath of trauma. I have had success working with weight loss issues, severe trauma, PTSD, gender transition, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. We work together to find solutions.
Effective therapy can change everything. Through effective cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and EMDR we work together to change your mind to change your life. I also offer groups that provide education about weight gain, mental health, and solutions to finding your own unique fitness program. I believe in strong, effective therapy. No one should live with anxiety, depression, unhealthy coping skills, or prolonged difficulties in the aftermath of trauma. I have had success working with weight loss issues, severe trauma, PTSD, gender transition, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. We work together to find solutions.
(480) 568-3543 View (480) 568-3543
Photo of Dr. Melissa Estavillo, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Melissa Estavillo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Estavillo specializes in both individual and couples therapy and has worked in a variety of settings from Hospital Medical Centers to University Counseling Centers.
Dr. Melissa Estavillo is a Licensed Psychologist and founder of Biltmore Psychology and Counseling. At BPC we do not view people as broken and damaged, but on a journey to become the best versions of themselves. Though some nights may be dark, we believe in hope for the future and the tenacity of the human spirit. Our job is to journey with people through difficult times and provide the guidance needed to achieve something far greater than the average. We can’t promise that it will always be easy, but we believe that it is worth it and know you will too.
Estavillo specializes in both individual and couples therapy and has worked in a variety of settings from Hospital Medical Centers to University Counseling Centers.
Dr. Melissa Estavillo is a Licensed Psychologist and founder of Biltmore Psychology and Counseling. At BPC we do not view people as broken and damaged, but on a journey to become the best versions of themselves. Though some nights may be dark, we believe in hope for the future and the tenacity of the human spirit. Our job is to journey with people through difficult times and provide the guidance needed to achieve something far greater than the average. We can’t promise that it will always be easy, but we believe that it is worth it and know you will too.
(480) 525-8386 View (480) 525-8386
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.