Couples Counseling Therapists in Bonsall, CA

Photo of Gale M Denning-Mailloux, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gale M Denning-Mailloux
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Bonsall, CA 92003
The emphasis of my work is the power of the family: what we learned and how we learned it in our families of origin laid down a template for of our significant relationships: partners, parents, and children.
We live in very challenging times with increased levels of stress; our relationships - our closest relationships- take the biggest hit, bringing misunderstanding, hurt and fear.Too often, we try to ignore the problems presented, believing they will somehow just go away. They usually don't. Working with a therapist who "really gets you," therapy is a powerful tool to address: crisis - loss of relationships, divorce, problems with a child, stress, overload; on-going problems - marital conflict, family issues, ineffective co-parenting after divorce; personal growth - enrichment of relationsips, insight with action. People who come to work in therapy want to feel better.
The emphasis of my work is the power of the family: what we learned and how we learned it in our families of origin laid down a template for of our significant relationships: partners, parents, and children.
We live in very challenging times with increased levels of stress; our relationships - our closest relationships- take the biggest hit, bringing misunderstanding, hurt and fear.Too often, we try to ignore the problems presented, believing they will somehow just go away. They usually don't. Working with a therapist who "really gets you," therapy is a powerful tool to address: crisis - loss of relationships, divorce, problems with a child, stress, overload; on-going problems - marital conflict, family issues, ineffective co-parenting after divorce; personal growth - enrichment of relationsips, insight with action. People who come to work in therapy want to feel better.
(760) 230-8732 View (760) 230-8732
Photo of Kimberley DuBeau, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberley DuBeau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonsall, CA 92003  (Online Only)
With over 20 yrs experience, I offer compassionate support to adults, couples and Active Duty Military & Veterans.
If you feel you are not living your best life, therapy can help identify what is holding you back and how to overcome these barriers so you can live a more fulfilling, happier life. Often it is adverse childhood experiences that have a lasting impact creating anxiety, mood disorders and adult relationship difficulties. Other times, it is recent life stressors that bring up feelings of sadness, inadequacy or anxiety. Therapy can help untangle the "whys" and, most importantly, provide evidence-based tools to move you from coping to living.
With over 20 yrs experience, I offer compassionate support to adults, couples and Active Duty Military & Veterans.
If you feel you are not living your best life, therapy can help identify what is holding you back and how to overcome these barriers so you can live a more fulfilling, happier life. Often it is adverse childhood experiences that have a lasting impact creating anxiety, mood disorders and adult relationship difficulties. Other times, it is recent life stressors that bring up feelings of sadness, inadequacy or anxiety. Therapy can help untangle the "whys" and, most importantly, provide evidence-based tools to move you from coping to living.
(760) 624-3374 View (760) 624-3374
Photo of Cara Weinstock, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cara Weinstock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Bonsall, CA 92003
My name is Cara Weinstock and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults and couples. My ideal client is anyone who is looking for a safe, welcoming environment to explore new ways of thinking. I feel passionate about being a support for those going through difficult transitions, looking for new perspectives and hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients, where we set achievable goals, often check in and acknowledge our progress. I will always be your cheerleader and move whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.
My name is Cara Weinstock and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults and couples. My ideal client is anyone who is looking for a safe, welcoming environment to explore new ways of thinking. I feel passionate about being a support for those going through difficult transitions, looking for new perspectives and hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients, where we set achievable goals, often check in and acknowledge our progress. I will always be your cheerleader and move whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Dr. Mitzie Marie Gonzalez, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Mitzie Marie Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonsall, CA 92003  (Online Only)
As a client-centered therapist, your individual needs will determine which treatment modality will guide the therapy process. As a trauma-focused therapist, I utilize integrative approaches such as DBT, CBT, CCT, Emotional Focused Therapy, Parts work, Attachment Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care, with the goal of creating change and empowering growth in your life. Throughout treatment, I will assist you in reaching the best version of yourself, as you deserve.
As a client-centered therapist, your individual needs will determine which treatment modality will guide the therapy process. As a trauma-focused therapist, I utilize integrative approaches such as DBT, CBT, CCT, Emotional Focused Therapy, Parts work, Attachment Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care, with the goal of creating change and empowering growth in your life. Throughout treatment, I will assist you in reaching the best version of yourself, as you deserve.
(442) 313-2795 View (442) 313-2795
Photo of Courtney Kowalchuk, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Kowalchuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bonsall, CA 92003
Waitlist for new clients
You’ve experienced challenging things, perhaps traumatic things. You want to feel better and live a happier life with those you love. You want integrative care that combines therapy with personalized mental health care for whole well-being that finally makes a difference in your life.
You’ve experienced challenging things, perhaps traumatic things. You want to feel better and live a happier life with those you love. You want integrative care that combines therapy with personalized mental health care for whole well-being that finally makes a difference in your life.
(442) 272-3049 View (442) 272-3049
Photo of Regina McClure, PhD, Psychologist
Regina McClure
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bonsall, CA 92003
When we've lost touch with our truer self, life is just harder. If you're not as present and engaged in your life as you'd like, you may also find your body weighing in through symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and unhelpful patterns of behavior. Underlying such symptoms are often vital, "offline" parts of ourselves that a good therapeutic alliance can help you to identify, strengthen and expand. If you're experiencing a readiness to take your online search for a therapist to the next level, I offer a brief phone consultation to help determine goodness of fit.
When we've lost touch with our truer self, life is just harder. If you're not as present and engaged in your life as you'd like, you may also find your body weighing in through symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and unhelpful patterns of behavior. Underlying such symptoms are often vital, "offline" parts of ourselves that a good therapeutic alliance can help you to identify, strengthen and expand. If you're experiencing a readiness to take your online search for a therapist to the next level, I offer a brief phone consultation to help determine goodness of fit.
(760) 477-0325 View (760) 477-0325

More Therapists Nearby

David J Cain
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CGP
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
I WAS A COLLEAGUE OF CARL ROGERS WHO TAUGHT ME THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH MY CLIENTS.
I PREFER TO WORK WITH ADULTS AND COUPLES WHO ARE INVESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS AS A MEANS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS THEY CURRENTLY EXPERIENCE. I VIEW PROBLEMS AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND SEE MY ROLE AS HELPING YOU DRAW ON YOUR PERSONAL RESOURCES TO BECOME THE PERSON YOU WISH TO BE.I HAVE WORKED WITH ALL AGE GROUPS AND MOST ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN CLINICAL, UNIVERSITY AND PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTINGS. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDE TEACHING AND SUPERVISING PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS, WRITING, EDITING, PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS AND SERVICE TO MY PROFESSION.
I WAS A COLLEAGUE OF CARL ROGERS WHO TAUGHT ME THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH MY CLIENTS.
I PREFER TO WORK WITH ADULTS AND COUPLES WHO ARE INVESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS AS A MEANS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS THEY CURRENTLY EXPERIENCE. I VIEW PROBLEMS AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND SEE MY ROLE AS HELPING YOU DRAW ON YOUR PERSONAL RESOURCES TO BECOME THE PERSON YOU WISH TO BE.I HAVE WORKED WITH ALL AGE GROUPS AND MOST ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN CLINICAL, UNIVERSITY AND PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTINGS. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDE TEACHING AND SUPERVISING PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS, WRITING, EDITING, PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS AND SERVICE TO MY PROFESSION.
(760) 530-4786 View (760) 530-4786
Photo of Kacey Klein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kacey Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057  (Online Only)
I work with clients of all ages who seek help with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, grief/loss, and relationship conflicts, among others.
You are taking the first step in improving your emotional and mental health. Although difficult at first, it can feel easy in a safe, positive, therapeutic setting. In my office, therapy is a team effort and a journey we go through side by side. We work together, drawing on your unique needs, capacities and personal stories to build on your strengths, achieve peace of mind, and reach your goals. Peace of mind is different for each person. I work with you to help you find and sustain it. With my honest approach to therapy, I can help you discover your authentic self and answers to life's challenges.
I work with clients of all ages who seek help with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, grief/loss, and relationship conflicts, among others.
You are taking the first step in improving your emotional and mental health. Although difficult at first, it can feel easy in a safe, positive, therapeutic setting. In my office, therapy is a team effort and a journey we go through side by side. We work together, drawing on your unique needs, capacities and personal stories to build on your strengths, achieve peace of mind, and reach your goals. Peace of mind is different for each person. I work with you to help you find and sustain it. With my honest approach to therapy, I can help you discover your authentic self and answers to life's challenges.
(760) 990-7080 View (760) 990-7080
Photo of Kendra Claire Wilhelm, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendra Claire Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
(619) 367-8413 View (619) 367-8413
Photo of Mary Christie, LPCC
Mary Christie
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
Located in San Clemente, I have a supportive, direct and caring approach to counseling. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30years and truly enjoy assisting clients in their quality of life. I specialize in helping those who have depression, anxiety, problems with anger management, and those affected by domestic violence. I am certified in treating trauma, PTSD and grief with the use of EMDR. I have 5 years direct experience in working with persons diagnosed with Attachment Disorder. I work with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to be your ally in the healing process.
Located in San Clemente, I have a supportive, direct and caring approach to counseling. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30years and truly enjoy assisting clients in their quality of life. I specialize in helping those who have depression, anxiety, problems with anger management, and those affected by domestic violence. I am certified in treating trauma, PTSD and grief with the use of EMDR. I have 5 years direct experience in working with persons diagnosed with Attachment Disorder. I work with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to be your ally in the healing process.
(714) 947-1068 View (714) 947-1068
Photo of Jessica Hancock, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
It is important to me that you feel positive about your relationship with your therapist and confident in building trust.
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years and have focused my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are open to learning and utilizing new skills. Therapy is typically only an hour a week, so clients need to practice skills outside of therapy to see progress.
It is important to me that you feel positive about your relationship with your therapist and confident in building trust.
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years and have focused my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are open to learning and utilizing new skills. Therapy is typically only an hour a week, so clients need to practice skills outside of therapy to see progress.
(747) 298-7413 View (747) 298-7413
Photo of Linda Eileen Savage, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Eileen Savage
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I am passionate about helping couples experience their full sexual potential.
I am a licensed psychologist, MFT, and sex therapist in private practice for 28 years. As an AASECT Certified Sex Educator and a member of the Institute of Marital and Sexual Therapy, I have specialized in working with couples and individuals on a wide variety of relationship and sexual issues. In addition, I have developed and led seminars for women and couples based on the principles of my book, Reclaiming Goddess Sexuality: The Power of the Feminine Way, which is a blend of ancient wisdom with current clinical knowledge. Married for 27 years, I have raised three daughters.
I am passionate about helping couples experience their full sexual potential.
I am a licensed psychologist, MFT, and sex therapist in private practice for 28 years. As an AASECT Certified Sex Educator and a member of the Institute of Marital and Sexual Therapy, I have specialized in working with couples and individuals on a wide variety of relationship and sexual issues. In addition, I have developed and led seminars for women and couples based on the principles of my book, Reclaiming Goddess Sexuality: The Power of the Feminine Way, which is a blend of ancient wisdom with current clinical knowledge. Married for 27 years, I have raised three daughters.
(760) 758-3308 View (760) 758-3308
Donna Wylie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fallbrook, CA 92028
My specialties with families include helping couples and parents to communicate effectively and maintain healthy relationships.
I am a therapist who is best suited in working with individuals couples and families who are experiencing life/parenting and or grief and loss issues. I also work well with the child/adolescent/teen population of today's generation. One of my specialties includes domestic violence issues. Other specialties include women's issues as well as couples transitioning into retirement stages in life. I do enjoy running self-esteem groups as well as children's art therapy groups
My specialties with families include helping couples and parents to communicate effectively and maintain healthy relationships.
I am a therapist who is best suited in working with individuals couples and families who are experiencing life/parenting and or grief and loss issues. I also work well with the child/adolescent/teen population of today's generation. One of my specialties includes domestic violence issues. Other specialties include women's issues as well as couples transitioning into retirement stages in life. I do enjoy running self-esteem groups as well as children's art therapy groups
(951) 291-0697 View (951) 291-0697
Photo of Kirsten White - The Steven A Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD, MA, LPCC
The Steven A Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD provides confidential, high-quality therapy, and local referral support services to: post-9/11 veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserves, and their family members, including spouse or partner, children, parents, siblings, caregivers and others. Care is available regardless of discharge status, role while in uniform, or combat experience. Insurance or ability to pay will never be a barrier to care. TRICARE referral needed for active duty service members seeking individual therapy.
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD provides confidential, high-quality therapy, and local referral support services to: post-9/11 veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserves, and their family members, including spouse or partner, children, parents, siblings, caregivers and others. Care is available regardless of discharge status, role while in uniform, or combat experience. Insurance or ability to pay will never be a barrier to care. TRICARE referral needed for active duty service members seeking individual therapy.
(760) 253-1538 View (760) 253-1538
Photo of Terry P. Rittgers, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terry P. Rittgers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
Greetings...I have been a licensed therapist since 1987 and specialize in working with men, women and couples. I have been facilitating men's groups since the early 90's in my Redwood City office. My work is grounded in my deep understanding of the human experience and how we want to better understand ourselves and each other. Many of us lack some of the skills to accomplish this. I see myself as an experienced, wise and compassionate guide helping others navigate and master emotional challenges. Let me join you for a time on your life's journey.
Greetings...I have been a licensed therapist since 1987 and specialize in working with men, women and couples. I have been facilitating men's groups since the early 90's in my Redwood City office. My work is grounded in my deep understanding of the human experience and how we want to better understand ourselves and each other. Many of us lack some of the skills to accomplish this. I see myself as an experienced, wise and compassionate guide helping others navigate and master emotional challenges. Let me join you for a time on your life's journey.
(650) 924-9382 View (650) 924-9382
Photo of Amanda Vadney, MA, LMFT, CLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Vadney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fallbrook, CA 92028
Maybe you've lost yourself after having kids (because let's face it, we all do) or are dissatisfied with your career or relationship patterns.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel unsatisfied with where your life is right now? Are you unhappy because of a relationship, job or family situation? Perhaps things are going well on the surface, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you've become so stressed out that you don't even feel like yourself anymore. Stress, depression, and anxiety can change your personality, the dynamics of your relationship, and how you react to others. Whether you are dealing with these or other issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I can help.
Maybe you've lost yourself after having kids (because let's face it, we all do) or are dissatisfied with your career or relationship patterns.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you feel unsatisfied with where your life is right now? Are you unhappy because of a relationship, job or family situation? Perhaps things are going well on the surface, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you've become so stressed out that you don't even feel like yourself anymore. Stress, depression, and anxiety can change your personality, the dynamics of your relationship, and how you react to others. Whether you are dealing with these or other issues, or simply want to work on personal growth, I can help.
(951) 639-8263 View (951) 639-8263
Photo of Vanessa Holliman - B.E.ing LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
B.E.ing LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
You feel so disconnected from yourself, like a foreigner in your skin. It is as though you’re just a passive bystander without any sense of agency. It’s been this way ever since that toxic relationship. You thought that things would get easier, but for some reason, the pain is still so raw. You’re always lethargic and tired, no matter how much rest you get. You’re constantly on edge, preparing for some unseen threat. You never know what will set off the next wave of panic – a loud noise, a familiar smell, some intrusive thought. And once that dread takes hold, it drowns out everything else. You know that things can’t go on this way.
You feel so disconnected from yourself, like a foreigner in your skin. It is as though you’re just a passive bystander without any sense of agency. It’s been this way ever since that toxic relationship. You thought that things would get easier, but for some reason, the pain is still so raw. You’re always lethargic and tired, no matter how much rest you get. You’re constantly on edge, preparing for some unseen threat. You never know what will set off the next wave of panic – a loud noise, a familiar smell, some intrusive thought. And once that dread takes hold, it drowns out everything else. You know that things can’t go on this way.
(541) 325-8174 View (541) 325-8174
Photo of Daniel Westcott, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Westcott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
You may have experienced a disruption in your life causing unmanageable discomfort or perhaps you are seeking enjoyment and life satisfaction that has been missing for some time. While pain is an inevitable part of existence, suffering does not have to be. My role is to provide a nonjudgmental space to work through what challenges you. Anxiety and depression, relational or end of relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, substance use, teenage difficulties, social anxiety, lack of meaning or purpose, are my areas of most experience.
You may have experienced a disruption in your life causing unmanageable discomfort or perhaps you are seeking enjoyment and life satisfaction that has been missing for some time. While pain is an inevitable part of existence, suffering does not have to be. My role is to provide a nonjudgmental space to work through what challenges you. Anxiety and depression, relational or end of relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, substance use, teenage difficulties, social anxiety, lack of meaning or purpose, are my areas of most experience.
(760) 254-0891 View (760) 254-0891
Photo of Nasrin Farr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nasrin Farr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
(323) 443-7274 View (323) 443-7274
Photo of Lydia Lombardi Good, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Lombardi Good
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92056
I will teach you how the mind works and practical tools for healing grief, trauma and relationship breakdown.
I admire the natural resiliency humans demonstrate in the face of crisis and loss. I believe anyone can experience deep healing after any of life's disappointments and challenges by learning key strategies for wellness. These include, getting to know yourself better, building self- love, and connecting to a supportive community. As a social worker, I work with you to explore all aspects of your life to better understand the source of your concerns and feelings, while helping you to improve your overall well-being.
I will teach you how the mind works and practical tools for healing grief, trauma and relationship breakdown.
I admire the natural resiliency humans demonstrate in the face of crisis and loss. I believe anyone can experience deep healing after any of life's disappointments and challenges by learning key strategies for wellness. These include, getting to know yourself better, building self- love, and connecting to a supportive community. As a social worker, I work with you to explore all aspects of your life to better understand the source of your concerns and feelings, while helping you to improve your overall well-being.
(760) 957-0332 View (760) 957-0332

See more therapy options for Bonsall

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.