Photo of Jill Babbitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jill Babbitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
You are worthy of deep intimate connections, of being seen, loved and adored. You can transform your suffering, feel less anxious and depressed and have more meaningful relationships. I have tools to help you learn effective communication skills, heal from past traumas, and transform negative thinking and stress that no longer serves you. I see individuals and couples in monogamous, polyamorous, open, LGBTQ+, kink, and BDSM communities. I support clients in moving through sexual dysfunctions and disorders. Claim your right to sexual fulfillment, erotic and emotional intimacy, and joyful embodiment in every aspect of your life.
You are worthy of deep intimate connections, of being seen, loved and adored. You can transform your suffering, feel less anxious and depressed and have more meaningful relationships. I have tools to help you learn effective communication skills, heal from past traumas, and transform negative thinking and stress that no longer serves you. I see individuals and couples in monogamous, polyamorous, open, LGBTQ+, kink, and BDSM communities. I support clients in moving through sexual dysfunctions and disorders. Claim your right to sexual fulfillment, erotic and emotional intimacy, and joyful embodiment in every aspect of your life.
(831) 800-2016 View (831) 800-2016
Photo of Eric Goren, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Eric Goren, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
Yes, it's possible to have the relationship, family, and life you desire. I am committed and dedicated to a partnership that can help you achieve these results. I respect your intelligence and innate abilities to contribute to this outcome. This is not about changing anybody, but instead helping you and/or your loved one be the best you can be.
Yes, it's possible to have the relationship, family, and life you desire. I am committed and dedicated to a partnership that can help you achieve these results. I respect your intelligence and innate abilities to contribute to this outcome. This is not about changing anybody, but instead helping you and/or your loved one be the best you can be.
(831) 536-4078 View (831) 536-4078
Photo of Stacey K. Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Stacey K. Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923
Sometimes we feel stuck; we may struggle with feelings or behaviors that make us feel isolated, upset, confused, or lost. From trying to figure out who we are, to perfectionism, anxiety, self-criticism, loneliness, shame, depression/despair, healing from trauma, or improving our relationship with ourselves or others, there really are genuine ways to heal. We all need to feel safe, be seen and heard: to be validated, understood and reassured for change to happen. So together, you and I will create a safe space for you to explore and understand what’s been keeping you where you are, so you can finally get to where you want to be.
Sometimes we feel stuck; we may struggle with feelings or behaviors that make us feel isolated, upset, confused, or lost. From trying to figure out who we are, to perfectionism, anxiety, self-criticism, loneliness, shame, depression/despair, healing from trauma, or improving our relationship with ourselves or others, there really are genuine ways to heal. We all need to feel safe, be seen and heard: to be validated, understood and reassured for change to happen. So together, you and I will create a safe space for you to explore and understand what’s been keeping you where you are, so you can finally get to where you want to be.
(831) 250-1310 View (831) 250-1310
Photo of Cat McDowell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Cat McDowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
In my practice there I worked with adolescents, individuals, couples and families.
Hi, and welcome. Making the decision to look for a therapist can feel hopeful and vulnerable. Whether you're my new client or someone else's, I encourage you to follow the part of you that says now's the time. There are many reasons people decide to try therapy. Perhaps you're aware of a pattern of stops and starts; a feeling of being stuck. Maybe you have patterns of reactivity that get easily triggered. You may be experiencing deep grief, or trauma. There may be big changes and decisions to make. You could be overwhelmed, anxious, and/or depressed. Often there's an overarching feeling that your life is not working.
In my practice there I worked with adolescents, individuals, couples and families.
Hi, and welcome. Making the decision to look for a therapist can feel hopeful and vulnerable. Whether you're my new client or someone else's, I encourage you to follow the part of you that says now's the time. There are many reasons people decide to try therapy. Perhaps you're aware of a pattern of stops and starts; a feeling of being stuck. Maybe you have patterns of reactivity that get easily triggered. You may be experiencing deep grief, or trauma. There may be big changes and decisions to make. You could be overwhelmed, anxious, and/or depressed. Often there's an overarching feeling that your life is not working.
(831) 278-4203 View (831) 278-4203
Photo of Leane Genstler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Leane Genstler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
There are times in life when our paths lead us off course and we find ourselves struggling with serious issues like negativity, depression, worry, anxiety, interpersonal relational issues, difficulty with co-workers or unfulfilling marriages. Some of us struggle with unresolved trauma from our past, leaving us feeling distant, disconnected and alone. No matter how difficult your current situation seems, I believe that it is always possible to get back on track and feel better. In my years specializing in domestic violence, eating disorders and trauma related therapy, I have helped individuals, couples and families overcome multiple obstacles.
There are times in life when our paths lead us off course and we find ourselves struggling with serious issues like negativity, depression, worry, anxiety, interpersonal relational issues, difficulty with co-workers or unfulfilling marriages. Some of us struggle with unresolved trauma from our past, leaving us feeling distant, disconnected and alone. No matter how difficult your current situation seems, I believe that it is always possible to get back on track and feel better. In my years specializing in domestic violence, eating disorders and trauma related therapy, I have helped individuals, couples and families overcome multiple obstacles.
(831) 679-3819 View (831) 679-3819
Photo of Alison Hunter Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Alison Hunter Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93921
If you are looking to improve your relationship with your partner or spouse, develop new tools for communication, or build intimacy and improve your connection I am here to help! Relationships are a vital part of our mental health and overall wellbeing.
I believe that therapy is a partnership between the therapist and you, the client. I will work with you to support the process of growth and discovery as well as to work toward the goals which brought you to therapy. In my work with couples, individuals, families, and children, I use a strengths based, collaborative approach. Whether you want to improve your relationships, learn new coping skills, develop your parenting skills, or work toward other personal goals, I encourage you to give me a call so we can develop a plan which will work for you.
If you are looking to improve your relationship with your partner or spouse, develop new tools for communication, or build intimacy and improve your connection I am here to help! Relationships are a vital part of our mental health and overall wellbeing.
I believe that therapy is a partnership between the therapist and you, the client. I will work with you to support the process of growth and discovery as well as to work toward the goals which brought you to therapy. In my work with couples, individuals, families, and children, I use a strengths based, collaborative approach. Whether you want to improve your relationships, learn new coping skills, develop your parenting skills, or work toward other personal goals, I encourage you to give me a call so we can develop a plan which will work for you.
(831) 621-5240 View (831) 621-5240
Photo of Dana Weston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Dana Weston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
I work with a broad range of client concerns, including: crisis situations, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexuality, eating disorders, and more.
I've been working with clients for over 25 years. I am down to earth and straightforward with a good sense of humor. Through my own therapy, I found that an interactive style works best combined with being a good listener. In a safe and supportive setting, I facilitate clients finding their way through their emotional struggles.
I work with a broad range of client concerns, including: crisis situations, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexuality, eating disorders, and more.
I've been working with clients for over 25 years. I am down to earth and straightforward with a good sense of humor. Through my own therapy, I found that an interactive style works best combined with being a good listener. In a safe and supportive setting, I facilitate clients finding their way through their emotional struggles.
(831) 508-3716 View (831) 508-3716
Photo of Jennifer Dentici, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jennifer Dentici, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCCi
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
(831) 525-0097 View (831) 525-0097
Photo of Jared Phillips, Counselor in Carmel, CA
Jared Phillips
Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
​As a Licensed and Board-Certified counselor, and, more aptly, as a human Being, I understand pain in life. I also know that we humans have an amazing capacity to tolerate and be at ease in the tensions in life, no matter what arises, by un-learning the habits that get in the way. Utilizing evidenced-based practices with timeless principles of mind/body/spirit, I support individuals and couples with a warm-hearted Presence into the extraordinary process of embracing and responding to life from the Wisdom within us all.
​As a Licensed and Board-Certified counselor, and, more aptly, as a human Being, I understand pain in life. I also know that we humans have an amazing capacity to tolerate and be at ease in the tensions in life, no matter what arises, by un-learning the habits that get in the way. Utilizing evidenced-based practices with timeless principles of mind/body/spirit, I support individuals and couples with a warm-hearted Presence into the extraordinary process of embracing and responding to life from the Wisdom within us all.
(831) 609-9083 View (831) 609-9083
Photo of Christina Shamah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Christina Shamah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93921
I enjoy working with individuals, children, adolescence, couples and families with a practice that is inclusive of lifespan, economic, educational, gender, and cultural diversity.
Are you searching for a sense of purpose, to better understand or be understood by others? Are you looking for support in making decisions more aligned with your values? I utilize an integrative counseling style tailored to your unique needs, providing the opportunity for you to tap into your strengths. Insight gained may provide you the opportunity to manage stressors and to make self driven choices in a balanced manner. Approaching life's most difficult challenges in a confidential way may allow you to work towards your goals, providing you the opportunity to safely delve into your relationship struggles.
I enjoy working with individuals, children, adolescence, couples and families with a practice that is inclusive of lifespan, economic, educational, gender, and cultural diversity.
Are you searching for a sense of purpose, to better understand or be understood by others? Are you looking for support in making decisions more aligned with your values? I utilize an integrative counseling style tailored to your unique needs, providing the opportunity for you to tap into your strengths. Insight gained may provide you the opportunity to manage stressors and to make self driven choices in a balanced manner. Approaching life's most difficult challenges in a confidential way may allow you to work towards your goals, providing you the opportunity to safely delve into your relationship struggles.
(831) 920-4874 View (831) 920-4874
Photo of Mark F. Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Mark F. Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, Sc, D
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93922
With more than 30 years of experience and a degree in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Schwartz specializes in working with 1) couples, marriage, and intimacy disorders; 2) bipolar and unipolar depression 3) eating disorders, 4) PTSD, addiction, and 5) sexual difficulties, sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction. His national recognition afforded him the experience of lecturing to over 100,000 therapists nationally, as well as editing three books. He is extremely compassionate and forms exceptional connections with his clients. He also Directs a Partial Hospitalization Program /Harmonyplacemonterey.See websight
With more than 30 years of experience and a degree in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Schwartz specializes in working with 1) couples, marriage, and intimacy disorders; 2) bipolar and unipolar depression 3) eating disorders, 4) PTSD, addiction, and 5) sexual difficulties, sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction. His national recognition afforded him the experience of lecturing to over 100,000 therapists nationally, as well as editing three books. He is extremely compassionate and forms exceptional connections with his clients. He also Directs a Partial Hospitalization Program /Harmonyplacemonterey.See websight
(831) 706-4795 View (831) 706-4795
Photo of Therapy Lab Monterey, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Therapy Lab Monterey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
Common goals include depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, insomnia, parenting, child anxiety, and self-esteem.
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
Common goals include depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, insomnia, parenting, child anxiety, and self-esteem.
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
(831) 231-1429 View (831) 231-1429
Photo of Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc., Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
(831) 222-6388 View (831) 222-6388
Photo of Carmen Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Carmen Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923
Life is an ongoing journey of growth and learning. It involves ups and downs, and ruptures do happen. Do we know how to heal and repair those ruptures? Whether processing grief or trauma, or wondering if intimacy and trust can ever happen, or wondering why we stay stuck in unhealthy patterns that just aren't working, I will help you uncover what it is you really want for yourself and then support you in committing to a path forward. I also welcome the challenge of helping partners listen and feel heard as separate individuals, so that they can collaborate on a shared vision that works for all involved. You deserve more joy!
Life is an ongoing journey of growth and learning. It involves ups and downs, and ruptures do happen. Do we know how to heal and repair those ruptures? Whether processing grief or trauma, or wondering if intimacy and trust can ever happen, or wondering why we stay stuck in unhealthy patterns that just aren't working, I will help you uncover what it is you really want for yourself and then support you in committing to a path forward. I also welcome the challenge of helping partners listen and feel heard as separate individuals, so that they can collaborate on a shared vision that works for all involved. You deserve more joy!
(831) 920-4318 View (831) 920-4318
Photo of Mary Welschmeyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Mary Welschmeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSN, MAPsych, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
Prior to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I worked as an Intensive Care Nurse and Educator. I have witnessed the importance of integrating mind, body and spirit in the role of healing. In my work I utilize techniques from a variety of theories in an attempt to identify and resolve issues you are facing. To achieve your goals, I employ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Guided Imagery, Expressive Arts and Sandtray. I help clients reclaim parts of self eclipsed by childhood woundedness. My focus is to empower you to find your authentic voice and inner wisdom.
Prior to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I worked as an Intensive Care Nurse and Educator. I have witnessed the importance of integrating mind, body and spirit in the role of healing. In my work I utilize techniques from a variety of theories in an attempt to identify and resolve issues you are facing. To achieve your goals, I employ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Guided Imagery, Expressive Arts and Sandtray. I help clients reclaim parts of self eclipsed by childhood woundedness. My focus is to empower you to find your authentic voice and inner wisdom.
(831) 278-4714 View (831) 278-4714
Photo of Olivia Fae Stadler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Olivia Fae Stadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923
I warmly welcome you as you are, and hold a safe space to support your growth as your guide, witness, and companion. I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional “talk” therapy. I offer experiential therapy, so you can go beyond cognitive understanding to having a transformative experience. I have an active style that is more than simply listening. I would describe the way I work as collaborative, curious, and challenging when it needs to be. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) of gifted intelligence, both of which inform my work. My approach is mindfulness-based and somatic.
I warmly welcome you as you are, and hold a safe space to support your growth as your guide, witness, and companion. I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional “talk” therapy. I offer experiential therapy, so you can go beyond cognitive understanding to having a transformative experience. I have an active style that is more than simply listening. I would describe the way I work as collaborative, curious, and challenging when it needs to be. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) of gifted intelligence, both of which inform my work. My approach is mindfulness-based and somatic.
(415) 965-4452 View (415) 965-4452
Photo of Stephanie Chastain, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Stephanie Chastain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Carmel, CA 93921
Not accepting new clients
If you are experiencing life’s bumps in the road, or feeling like you’re stuck, I can help. I am available to provide you and your family with compassionate, non-judgmental guidance. With 25 years experience, I specialize in relationships, couples, marital issues, divorce recovery, blended families, step parenting, women’s issues and transitions, mid-life changes, step parenting, blended families and military families.
If you are experiencing life’s bumps in the road, or feeling like you’re stuck, I can help. I am available to provide you and your family with compassionate, non-judgmental guidance. With 25 years experience, I specialize in relationships, couples, marital issues, divorce recovery, blended families, step parenting, women’s issues and transitions, mid-life changes, step parenting, blended families and military families.
(831) 216-5385 View (831) 216-5385

Online Therapists

Photo of Gino Memoli, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carmel, CA
Gino Memoli
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, CATC-IV, MA-MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I enjoy working with couples utilizing Gottman principles.
Taking the first step towards healing by reaching out is difficult. I will support you in taking that first step towards a brighter future by creating a safe space for healing and growth. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, trauma and substance abuse. Whether you're a child, college student or adult, I'll support you in processing through life challenges and building skills for growth and empowerment. I am a part of and have a passion for working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and creating an authentic space for navigating areas of discomfort for healing.
I enjoy working with couples utilizing Gottman principles.
Taking the first step towards healing by reaching out is difficult. I will support you in taking that first step towards a brighter future by creating a safe space for healing and growth. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, trauma and substance abuse. Whether you're a child, college student or adult, I'll support you in processing through life challenges and building skills for growth and empowerment. I am a part of and have a passion for working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and creating an authentic space for navigating areas of discomfort for healing.
(805) 272-7631 View (805) 272-7631
Photo of Mary Karver, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Mary Karver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
I am enthusiastic about work with couples, poly groups, and alternative sexualities.
Therapy is an amazing placebo. You do not NEED a therapist to learn, transform, and grow your awareness of yourself. I firmly believe whatever it is you are seeking to learn, change, or make peace with, you can do it. The benefit of working with a trained therapist who sees you, gives your sense of agency and innate wisdom the respect it deserves, and offers an outside perspective on your experience informed by evidenced-based theory and practice, is that the pace of growth is greatly accelerated.
I am enthusiastic about work with couples, poly groups, and alternative sexualities.
Therapy is an amazing placebo. You do not NEED a therapist to learn, transform, and grow your awareness of yourself. I firmly believe whatever it is you are seeking to learn, change, or make peace with, you can do it. The benefit of working with a trained therapist who sees you, gives your sense of agency and innate wisdom the respect it deserves, and offers an outside perspective on your experience informed by evidenced-based theory and practice, is that the pace of growth is greatly accelerated.
View
Photo of Kaleo Kalani Kaluhiwa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Kaleo Kalani Kaluhiwa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
First, we explore your concerns, history, and the outcomes you desire while establishing a supportive working relationship.
Are you in emotional pain, numbed out, or in conflict and want to change that? We all learn patterns of relating to ourselves, others, and the world that may no longer work. This can show up as relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, grief, emptiness, confusion, or a lack of direction and meaning. I help folks experience more ease, joy, connection and the ability to live the life of their dreams. I am a relational therapist, curious and compassionate. I facilitate exploration, healing and growth, as we uncover your powerful, authentic self from which you are able to live your best life and contribute your unique gifts.
First, we explore your concerns, history, and the outcomes you desire while establishing a supportive working relationship.
Are you in emotional pain, numbed out, or in conflict and want to change that? We all learn patterns of relating to ourselves, others, and the world that may no longer work. This can show up as relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, grief, emptiness, confusion, or a lack of direction and meaning. I help folks experience more ease, joy, connection and the ability to live the life of their dreams. I am a relational therapist, curious and compassionate. I facilitate exploration, healing and growth, as we uncover your powerful, authentic self from which you are able to live your best life and contribute your unique gifts.
(831) 612-1969 View (831) 612-1969
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.