Photo of Michelle Shahbazyan in Scottsdale, AZ
Michelle Shahbazyan
MA MFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am here to help you redefine personal growth and well-being. My unique approach to Life Coaching, Couples and Marriage Coaching, and Executive Coaching offers you a refreshing departure from traditional therapy. I understand that every individual's journey is unique, and we honor that with personalized sessions tailored to your needs. In your very first session, I will give you all the time you need to delve into your challenges and aspirations.
I am here to help you redefine personal growth and well-being. My unique approach to Life Coaching, Couples and Marriage Coaching, and Executive Coaching offers you a refreshing departure from traditional therapy. I understand that every individual's journey is unique, and we honor that with personalized sessions tailored to your needs. In your very first session, I will give you all the time you need to delve into your challenges and aspirations.
(818) 641-6127 View (818) 641-6127
Photo of Changepoints Couples Therapy, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Changepoints Couples Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260  (Online Only)
All relationships change over time. If they're healthy, they are evolving to something deeper and more meaningful for each partner. Is your primary relationship as strong as it could be or are you struggling? Has communication become difficult? Do you and your partner feel at a loss about sharing differences or resolving conflicts? Have you just learned about a betrayal?Have you tried therapy before and found it disappointing? Do you feel alone instead of in a real partnership? If you answered yes to any of these, there is help. Couples therapy can get beyond the challenges and help you create the relationship you want and deserve.
All relationships change over time. If they're healthy, they are evolving to something deeper and more meaningful for each partner. Is your primary relationship as strong as it could be or are you struggling? Has communication become difficult? Do you and your partner feel at a loss about sharing differences or resolving conflicts? Have you just learned about a betrayal?Have you tried therapy before and found it disappointing? Do you feel alone instead of in a real partnership? If you answered yes to any of these, there is help. Couples therapy can get beyond the challenges and help you create the relationship you want and deserve.
(480) 608-9993 View (480) 608-9993
Photo of Christian Allen Lamb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Christian Allen Lamb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
You're committed to your partner, but you don't know how to get back the trust and intimacy that has been lost. Communication is either lacking or has broken down into frequent arguments. It would be great if your partner would just understand you and your feelings, but the disconnect you now have is real and it feels like you just continue to drift further apart each day. It seems like your partner is a stranger now and that compatibility and friendship feels like it might be gone for good. This is scary to think that the love of your life, who you once felt a sense of safety and security with, no longer has your back.
You're committed to your partner, but you don't know how to get back the trust and intimacy that has been lost. Communication is either lacking or has broken down into frequent arguments. It would be great if your partner would just understand you and your feelings, but the disconnect you now have is real and it feels like you just continue to drift further apart each day. It seems like your partner is a stranger now and that compatibility and friendship feels like it might be gone for good. This is scary to think that the love of your life, who you once felt a sense of safety and security with, no longer has your back.
(480) 718-7142 View (480) 718-7142
Photo of Allison O'Leary, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Allison O'Leary
Counselor, MA, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
I am so glad you are taking this first step. I know how hard it can be to get started. I am here to help you feel comfortable throughout this process. I help individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, hopeless, lonely or disconnected from others. I specialize in relational trauma, relationship distress, and family of origin challenges. Anything less than nurturing that has happened to you, can be stored in the body as trauma. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals, and couples, make sense of past experiences so they can live more freely and authentically in the present.
I am so glad you are taking this first step. I know how hard it can be to get started. I am here to help you feel comfortable throughout this process. I help individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, hopeless, lonely or disconnected from others. I specialize in relational trauma, relationship distress, and family of origin challenges. Anything less than nurturing that has happened to you, can be stored in the body as trauma. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals, and couples, make sense of past experiences so they can live more freely and authentically in the present.
(623) 462-2661 View (623) 462-2661
Photo of R. Sean Rollinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
R. Sean Rollinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Enso Counseling, LLC. Enso Counseling is a counseling practice that focuses on helping clients overcome the multitude of obstacles associated with relationships and interpersonal communication, while addressing issues of anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, and childhood relational trauma. I have built my practice working with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Enso Counseling, LLC. Enso Counseling is a counseling practice that focuses on helping clients overcome the multitude of obstacles associated with relationships and interpersonal communication, while addressing issues of anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, and childhood relational trauma. I have built my practice working with individuals, couples, and families.
(602) 714-8684 View (602) 714-8684
Photo of Stephanie Levitt, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Stephanie Levitt
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I specialize in working with clients experiencing but not limited to the following: OCD, Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Interpersonal/Relationship Problems, Impulsive Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem.
My primary goal is to offer a safe and caring environment where clients will be able to work through problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In doing so, the journey of healing and growth begins. I prefer to utilize a holistic approach to counseling, incorporating various treatment methods into my practice depending upon the needs of each client. As a result, individuals are able to heal from deep rooted issues and trauma. I offer a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation in order for clients to learn more about my approach to counseling and get a sense for my particular style. I also offer evening appointments.
I specialize in working with clients experiencing but not limited to the following: OCD, Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Interpersonal/Relationship Problems, Impulsive Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem.
My primary goal is to offer a safe and caring environment where clients will be able to work through problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In doing so, the journey of healing and growth begins. I prefer to utilize a holistic approach to counseling, incorporating various treatment methods into my practice depending upon the needs of each client. As a result, individuals are able to heal from deep rooted issues and trauma. I offer a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation in order for clients to learn more about my approach to counseling and get a sense for my particular style. I also offer evening appointments.
(602) 497-2396 View (602) 497-2396
Photo of Tommy Montanarella, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Tommy Montanarella
Counselor, MC, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I recognize that the very first step of reaching out to a therapist may be a difficult one, so my goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable throughout the process and that we start at the basics of building a trusted professional relationship.
I am seasoned Licensed Counselor with experience in individual and group therapy, working with clients within the Birth-5, Child & Family, Adolescent, Adult, & Senior populations. I understand and value that each client I meet with has their own story, culture, traditions and background, so our work together will be tailored to fit your or your family's needs. I have spent many years working hard to make a difference within our community's mental health, so I thank you for taking the time to explore what I have to offer and I hope to hear from you so that we may make your personalized experience a special and successful one.
I recognize that the very first step of reaching out to a therapist may be a difficult one, so my goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable throughout the process and that we start at the basics of building a trusted professional relationship.
I am seasoned Licensed Counselor with experience in individual and group therapy, working with clients within the Birth-5, Child & Family, Adolescent, Adult, & Senior populations. I understand and value that each client I meet with has their own story, culture, traditions and background, so our work together will be tailored to fit your or your family's needs. I have spent many years working hard to make a difference within our community's mental health, so I thank you for taking the time to explore what I have to offer and I hope to hear from you so that we may make your personalized experience a special and successful one.
(480) 378-3045 View (480) 378-3045
Photo of Laura Merrill Jochai, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Laura Merrill Jochai
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced loss, life changes, and challenges with grief, self-esteem, identity, relationship problems, illness, and chronic pain, dual diagnoses and mental illness.
Cycles of Life Counseling has added teletherapy services. Protect and care for your mental health and well-being while you protect and care for your physical health. My treatment philosophy is that people want to feel good and live with purpose. Sometimes though, life can feel too big to manage. Sometimes we feel stuck or unable to adjust when "life happens", We may have not learned a better way to cope or live well with or through challenges. Add to that, frustration and disappointment over feeling this way and we feel even worse. Let's consider another way for you ‘to be’ in the world, to live more fully, with emotional freedom.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced loss, life changes, and challenges with grief, self-esteem, identity, relationship problems, illness, and chronic pain, dual diagnoses and mental illness.
Cycles of Life Counseling has added teletherapy services. Protect and care for your mental health and well-being while you protect and care for your physical health. My treatment philosophy is that people want to feel good and live with purpose. Sometimes though, life can feel too big to manage. Sometimes we feel stuck or unable to adjust when "life happens", We may have not learned a better way to cope or live well with or through challenges. Add to that, frustration and disappointment over feeling this way and we feel even worse. Let's consider another way for you ‘to be’ in the world, to live more fully, with emotional freedom.
(480) 470-5712 View (480) 470-5712
Photo of Marjorie Schulte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Marjorie Schulte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC, BCD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Marjorie Schulte is a Psychotherapist with over 40 years experience. She is a licensed clinical social worker; a transactional analyst; board certified diplomate in clinical social work; board certified diplomate in the American Psychotherapy Association and a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Marjorie has a general clinical practice with a specialty in resolving relationship conflicts. She is a consultant on teaching and communicating about effective skills for successful and healthy living. Marjorie's style is forthright and interactive. Clients are expected to assume personal responsibility.
Marjorie Schulte is a Psychotherapist with over 40 years experience. She is a licensed clinical social worker; a transactional analyst; board certified diplomate in clinical social work; board certified diplomate in the American Psychotherapy Association and a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Marjorie has a general clinical practice with a specialty in resolving relationship conflicts. She is a consultant on teaching and communicating about effective skills for successful and healthy living. Marjorie's style is forthright and interactive. Clients are expected to assume personal responsibility.
(480) 941-9004 View (480) 941-9004
Photo of Kristine Marie Hendricks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Kristine Marie Hendricks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
You may be looking to improve your personal relationship with yourself.
Welcome - Take a slow deep breath and know the steps you are taking to seek help take incredible courage. I am continually humbled and honored to be invited into the private lives of brave men and women like you seeking help for personal and relationship needs. I work diligently to understand your unique situation while creating a safe place for healing to begin. Personal relationships can bring us to the highest of highs or the the lowest of lows. I whole heartedly believe it is possible to have more joy, peace and love in your life.
You may be looking to improve your personal relationship with yourself.
Welcome - Take a slow deep breath and know the steps you are taking to seek help take incredible courage. I am continually humbled and honored to be invited into the private lives of brave men and women like you seeking help for personal and relationship needs. I work diligently to understand your unique situation while creating a safe place for healing to begin. Personal relationships can bring us to the highest of highs or the the lowest of lows. I whole heartedly believe it is possible to have more joy, peace and love in your life.
(480) 418-6319 View (480) 418-6319
Photo of Katie Astemborski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Katie Astemborski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Do you feel stuck in life? Maybe you're experiencing depression and anxiety related to stressors such as relationship issues or dissatisfaction at work. Perhaps you're struggling to overcome a past trauma which has caused you to develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Are you ready to address these issues and develop a healthier life? Do you want to learn the skills to battle you're depression, anxiety, and trauma? You can have all that and more through commitment, dedication, and persistence. Under the supervision of Stefanny Balestracci, MA, LPC, LPC-18869. Phone: 602-698-5777, email: info(at)thehealingeffect.co
Do you feel stuck in life? Maybe you're experiencing depression and anxiety related to stressors such as relationship issues or dissatisfaction at work. Perhaps you're struggling to overcome a past trauma which has caused you to develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Are you ready to address these issues and develop a healthier life? Do you want to learn the skills to battle you're depression, anxiety, and trauma? You can have all that and more through commitment, dedication, and persistence. Under the supervision of Stefanny Balestracci, MA, LPC, LPC-18869. Phone: 602-698-5777, email: info(at)thehealingeffect.co
(623) 207-7623 View (623) 207-7623
Photo of Clare Graff, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Scottsdale, AZ
Clare Graff
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT, MS MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I believe that life is made to be lived to the fullest and am passionate to work with those who are facing obstacles that have made it feel impossible to do so! I specialize in working with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples towards increasing a strong sense of self and utilizing that to strengthen their relationships. My common areas of focus include life transitions, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss identity development and anxiety/depression. My clients are the experts of their lives and I am there to aid in the processing of their story to provide positive change and hope.
I believe that life is made to be lived to the fullest and am passionate to work with those who are facing obstacles that have made it feel impossible to do so! I specialize in working with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples towards increasing a strong sense of self and utilizing that to strengthen their relationships. My common areas of focus include life transitions, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss identity development and anxiety/depression. My clients are the experts of their lives and I am there to aid in the processing of their story to provide positive change and hope.
(480) 573-7088 x4 View (480) 573-7088 x4
Photo of Dr. Scott Reuter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Dr. Scott Reuter
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Waitlist for new clients
We've got this. Scientific Psychology has come a long way and it's peaceful to be here in this day and age, now. My practice at The Reuter Center for Neuropsychology and Integrative Counseling includes adult individuals, couples, & family who may wish to participate. I personally practice what I professionally offer to couples & individuals, integrating mind, body, & spirit, using evidence-based psychotherapies and other sciences from eastern and western cultures. Feel free to visit our website, contact me, & see how we may fit.
We've got this. Scientific Psychology has come a long way and it's peaceful to be here in this day and age, now. My practice at The Reuter Center for Neuropsychology and Integrative Counseling includes adult individuals, couples, & family who may wish to participate. I personally practice what I professionally offer to couples & individuals, integrating mind, body, & spirit, using evidence-based psychotherapies and other sciences from eastern and western cultures. Feel free to visit our website, contact me, & see how we may fit.
(480) 378-6280 View (480) 378-6280
Photo of Ella Pretzlaff, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Scottsdale, AZ
Ella Pretzlaff
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Do you want to live as the most empowered version of you? You might be feeling lost and disconnected, wanting to squeeze more out of life but not sure how to get there. You're probably really hard on yourself and that perfectionism has gotten you places, but now you're stuck. The podcasts, books, or accounts you follow aren't enough to stop the spinning. I can help! I work with individuals & couples who are seeking a closer relationship with themselves + others. I offer a safe space for self-discovery, processing emotions, gaining insight into relationships, building confidence, navigating decisions & softening the inner critic.
Do you want to live as the most empowered version of you? You might be feeling lost and disconnected, wanting to squeeze more out of life but not sure how to get there. You're probably really hard on yourself and that perfectionism has gotten you places, but now you're stuck. The podcasts, books, or accounts you follow aren't enough to stop the spinning. I can help! I work with individuals & couples who are seeking a closer relationship with themselves + others. I offer a safe space for self-discovery, processing emotions, gaining insight into relationships, building confidence, navigating decisions & softening the inner critic.
(480) 401-2640 View (480) 401-2640
Photo of Christina Liakopoulos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Christina Liakopoulos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and/or your relationship, which are often times hidden by the apparent symptoms.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have over 22 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Social Work Licenses in Arizona, Illinois, and Indiana. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale. In addition, I provide therapy in English and in Greek.
You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and/or your relationship, which are often times hidden by the apparent symptoms.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have over 22 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Social Work Licenses in Arizona, Illinois, and Indiana. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale. In addition, I provide therapy in English and in Greek.
(480) 848-4411 View (480) 848-4411
Photo of Lisa Lavella, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Lisa Lavella
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and/or your relationship, which are often times hidden by the apparent symptoms.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have over 22 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Psychologist Licenses in Arizona and Illinois. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale.
You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and/or your relationship, which are often times hidden by the apparent symptoms.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have over 22 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Psychologist Licenses in Arizona and Illinois. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale.
(480) 848-4411 View (480) 848-4411
Photo of Joyce Willis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Joyce Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I offer both individual and couples sessions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor trained in treating addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety and bereavement. I earned my Bachelor of Education Degree in my early adulthood. After teaching for several years, I earned a Master's Degree in counseling and have been in the counseling field since 1996; working extensively with addiction issues and trauma. My goal is to help promote wellness in clients, helping them connect their emotional, mindful and "soul" selves in a compassionate and challenging manner to promote growth. I have assisted Pia Mellody in her PIT Trainings. See my Facebook page: Wellness with Willis.
I offer both individual and couples sessions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor trained in treating addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety and bereavement. I earned my Bachelor of Education Degree in my early adulthood. After teaching for several years, I earned a Master's Degree in counseling and have been in the counseling field since 1996; working extensively with addiction issues and trauma. My goal is to help promote wellness in clients, helping them connect their emotional, mindful and "soul" selves in a compassionate and challenging manner to promote growth. I have assisted Pia Mellody in her PIT Trainings. See my Facebook page: Wellness with Willis.
(623) 745-8816 View (623) 745-8816
Photo of Emma Whitcomb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Emma Whitcomb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, and couples.
My approach to therapy is like a tool box. I believe we need all types of tools to create, build, and work on things in our life. I want to help you create your toolbox into a way that can be helpful for you. I believe in utilizing holistic approaches, and person-centered services with clients. We are all diverse as humans and I don’t believe there is “one size fits all.” I value building relationships with my clients that can foster curiosity to explore the challenges they have faced and how we can navigate this journey together to achieve their goals.
I work with individuals, and couples.
My approach to therapy is like a tool box. I believe we need all types of tools to create, build, and work on things in our life. I want to help you create your toolbox into a way that can be helpful for you. I believe in utilizing holistic approaches, and person-centered services with clients. We are all diverse as humans and I don’t believe there is “one size fits all.” I value building relationships with my clients that can foster curiosity to explore the challenges they have faced and how we can navigate this journey together to achieve their goals.
(480) 944-9160 View (480) 944-9160
Photo of Grant Edward Satterthwaite, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Grant Edward Satterthwaite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
More than anything else, I value the relationship that my client and I forge together through our work.
I specialize in adult psychotherapy practice, specifically with major life and identity transitions no matter what age, stage or role you currently occupy. Whether you're a young adult facing the terror of leaving the safety and comfort of home for the first time or if you're someone who is transitioning from working full time to retiring and relaxing full time, I believe that our work together can assist in getting you to where you want to be. I treat the entirety of the person, not just your psyche.
More than anything else, I value the relationship that my client and I forge together through our work.
I specialize in adult psychotherapy practice, specifically with major life and identity transitions no matter what age, stage or role you currently occupy. Whether you're a young adult facing the terror of leaving the safety and comfort of home for the first time or if you're someone who is transitioning from working full time to retiring and relaxing full time, I believe that our work together can assist in getting you to where you want to be. I treat the entirety of the person, not just your psyche.
(480) 741-2324 x515 View (480) 741-2324 x515
Photo of Lisa Galper, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Lisa Galper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I have been treating anxiety, depression, shame, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, impulsivity, emotional overeating, and relationship struggles for more than 25 years.
My passion is to collaborate with clients to improve their lives, gain insight and new perspectives, and assist them in removing unwanted barriers so they can confidently make desired life changes. I provide treatment and counseling for emotional eating and binge eating, anxiety, trauma resolution, borderline personality disorder, psychology of weight loss, improving self esteem, depression, healing shame, relationship issues, stress management, and health enhancement.
I have been treating anxiety, depression, shame, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, impulsivity, emotional overeating, and relationship struggles for more than 25 years.
My passion is to collaborate with clients to improve their lives, gain insight and new perspectives, and assist them in removing unwanted barriers so they can confidently make desired life changes. I provide treatment and counseling for emotional eating and binge eating, anxiety, trauma resolution, borderline personality disorder, psychology of weight loss, improving self esteem, depression, healing shame, relationship issues, stress management, and health enhancement.
(480) 264-6546 View (480) 264-6546
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.