Couples Counseling Therapists in Clearlake, CA

Photo of Susanna Eileen Wright, LCSW, CADC-I, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susanna Eileen Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-I, MSW
Verified Verified
Clearlake, CA 95422  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is compassionately driven to help others improve their lives through individual therapy sessions. I believe everyone deserves to live their best life, have purpose, happiness and fulfillment and learn how feel happy and optimistic. I am able to help you find ways to motivate for change, grow, learn new skills and develop on your path towards better mental health. I am a reflective listener who will walk with you, letting you lead the way as you are the driver and expert in your own life. Only you know what problems you are facing and what you want to accomplish.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is compassionately driven to help others improve their lives through individual therapy sessions. I believe everyone deserves to live their best life, have purpose, happiness and fulfillment and learn how feel happy and optimistic. I am able to help you find ways to motivate for change, grow, learn new skills and develop on your path towards better mental health. I am a reflective listener who will walk with you, letting you lead the way as you are the driver and expert in your own life. Only you know what problems you are facing and what you want to accomplish.
(707) 659-0389 View (707) 659-0389

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janine Orri (Hoffman Reyes), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janine Orri (Hoffman Reyes)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychotherapist and former hospice grief counselor. I am founder of The Way Through - Grief and Loss Services, in Sebastopol, CA. I offer a multi-dimensional approach to clients facing grief and loss life situations. If you or someone you know is having difficulty with a divorce, separation, death or dying of loved one, or loss of life situation we can help you find The Way Through. Services include crisis intervention, biopsychosocial assessment, grief counseling, EMDR treatment, PTSD treatment, support groups and couples counseling. We also work with loss through drug and alcohol addiction and recovery, providing support and community resources.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and former hospice grief counselor. I am founder of The Way Through - Grief and Loss Services, in Sebastopol, CA. I offer a multi-dimensional approach to clients facing grief and loss life situations. If you or someone you know is having difficulty with a divorce, separation, death or dying of loved one, or loss of life situation we can help you find The Way Through. Services include crisis intervention, biopsychosocial assessment, grief counseling, EMDR treatment, PTSD treatment, support groups and couples counseling. We also work with loss through drug and alcohol addiction and recovery, providing support and community resources.
(707) 419-3322 View (707) 419-3322
Photo of Kim Baughan Young, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Baughan Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423
I help couples discover their personality types, understanding why you BOTH love and hate each other at the same time.
CONFUSED? WORRIED? Fighting at home? Or just can't decide what to do next? I can help you quickly focus and get back on track. We'll look for the next step that you can take TODAY to feel more in control. Then, we'll focus on the BIG PICTURE. What do you love about your life? What do you want to change? What have you always wanted to do? Together, we'll identify your best strengths that will build your confidence, strengthen your relationships and finally find peace of mind.
I help couples discover their personality types, understanding why you BOTH love and hate each other at the same time.
CONFUSED? WORRIED? Fighting at home? Or just can't decide what to do next? I can help you quickly focus and get back on track. We'll look for the next step that you can take TODAY to feel more in control. Then, we'll focus on the BIG PICTURE. What do you love about your life? What do you want to change? What have you always wanted to do? Together, we'll identify your best strengths that will build your confidence, strengthen your relationships and finally find peace of mind.
(707) 531-4461 View (707) 531-4461
Photo of Vicki Foster, PhD, MFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vicki Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lower Lake, CA 95457
I have been working with individual adults, adolescents, families and couples for nearly 40 yrs. I have worked in every level of mental health care and have been teaching clinical Psychology courses at the graduate level for 20 yrs. as well. I am an eclectic therapist that draws from a wide range of theories, whichever one or combination would be most helpful in the resolution of the issues at hand.
I have been working with individual adults, adolescents, families and couples for nearly 40 yrs. I have worked in every level of mental health care and have been teaching clinical Psychology courses at the graduate level for 20 yrs. as well. I am an eclectic therapist that draws from a wide range of theories, whichever one or combination would be most helpful in the resolution of the issues at hand.
(949) 347-5732 View (949) 347-5732
Photo of Dvora Kravitz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dvora Kravitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kelseyville, CA 95451  (Online Only)
I'm Dvora Kravitz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, aging, and other aches and pains that cannot be explained. Currently, I offer telehealth conference sessions. If you are a struggling parent, a teen, or senior I am available to help in a caring and professional manner. Starting 40 years ago as an educator, and from my training as a psychotherapist starting 35 years ago, I have successfully evolved and synthesized a wide variety of tools including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness-Based, and Play Therapy.
I'm Dvora Kravitz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, aging, and other aches and pains that cannot be explained. Currently, I offer telehealth conference sessions. If you are a struggling parent, a teen, or senior I am available to help in a caring and professional manner. Starting 40 years ago as an educator, and from my training as a psychotherapist starting 35 years ago, I have successfully evolved and synthesized a wide variety of tools including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness-Based, and Play Therapy.
(510) 369-2690 View (510) 369-2690
Photo of Elizabeth Russell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kelseyville, CA 95451
As a psychotherapist, I specialize in helping you to sort through thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be troubling you, bringing about feelings of depression, anxiety and even discouragement and low self esteem. I view psychotherapy as a unique process of support, growth, change and self discovery. A process which often leads to a greater understanding and connection to yourself, and in turn, to more meaningful connections with others.
As a psychotherapist, I specialize in helping you to sort through thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be troubling you, bringing about feelings of depression, anxiety and even discouragement and low self esteem. I view psychotherapy as a unique process of support, growth, change and self discovery. A process which often leads to a greater understanding and connection to yourself, and in turn, to more meaningful connections with others.
(323) 275-9474 View (323) 275-9474
Photo of Laura deBaun, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura deBaun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lower Lake, CA 95457
Not accepting new clients
My areas of expertise include individuals, couples and family therapy.
When you feel stuck; upset over a recent difficulty; or shaken by trauma whether it be a car accident, wildfire, pandemic or a divorce...you need to talk and get support, and you need real clinical help and healing. My therapy approach covers both the present time problems you face, and quickly sorts out any historical patterns that may be driving your behavior in ways that are no longer working. I have specific training in EMDR trauma therapy which resolves both large (like abuse and accidents) and small traumas ("mini traumas" that happen in every day life). Anxiety, panic, depression can all be moved through with therapy.
My areas of expertise include individuals, couples and family therapy.
When you feel stuck; upset over a recent difficulty; or shaken by trauma whether it be a car accident, wildfire, pandemic or a divorce...you need to talk and get support, and you need real clinical help and healing. My therapy approach covers both the present time problems you face, and quickly sorts out any historical patterns that may be driving your behavior in ways that are no longer working. I have specific training in EMDR trauma therapy which resolves both large (like abuse and accidents) and small traumas ("mini traumas" that happen in every day life). Anxiety, panic, depression can all be moved through with therapy.
(707) 266-7665 View (707) 266-7665

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Fulton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Fulton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I provide online therapy to help couples, families, and individuals reclaim the joy of connection.
Welcome. Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feel alone, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Perhaps distance, criticism, or conflict have taken over and you no longer feel connected to yourself or your partner(s). You may worry that confusion, anger, grief, and loneliness are the new normal in your life. Perhaps you feel something special has been lost, and you want to find it again. Whether you are going through a major change like having a baby, recovering from a betrayal or loss, or simply facing the challenges of everyday life, you may find yourself longing for a feeling of wholehearted connection and belonging.
I provide online therapy to help couples, families, and individuals reclaim the joy of connection.
Welcome. Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feel alone, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Perhaps distance, criticism, or conflict have taken over and you no longer feel connected to yourself or your partner(s). You may worry that confusion, anger, grief, and loneliness are the new normal in your life. Perhaps you feel something special has been lost, and you want to find it again. Whether you are going through a major change like having a baby, recovering from a betrayal or loss, or simply facing the challenges of everyday life, you may find yourself longing for a feeling of wholehearted connection and belonging.
(626) 460-0707 View (626) 460-0707
Photo of Kurt Johnson, LPCC, CATC
Kurt Johnson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CATC
Not Verified Not Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
I have worked successfully with a wide range of clients, including couples and families.
Life rarely happens the way we would prefer. For any of us, there's bound to come a time when we need help making sense of things; and getting back up on our feet. Balance Counseling was created to provide a opportunity for you to talk about your life with a highly trained, compassionate, and experienced personal counselor.
I have worked successfully with a wide range of clients, including couples and families.
Life rarely happens the way we would prefer. For any of us, there's bound to come a time when we need help making sense of things; and getting back up on our feet. Balance Counseling was created to provide a opportunity for you to talk about your life with a highly trained, compassionate, and experienced personal counselor.
(707) 229-1584 View (707) 229-1584
Photo of Ingrid H Tsong, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ingrid H Tsong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Healdsburg, CA 95448
I work with my clients from a whole person approach, and am passionate about supporting people of color, individuals and couples in life transition, and children and their parents. I believe that cultural empathy is a real skill, and being able to hold space for clients in this way is particularly important to me. My approach is client centered with a depth orientation and I meet all my clients and their families where they are at developmentally, emotionally, and experientially to support them in identifying and healing the experiences they believe are holding them back emotionally from living their fullest life.
I work with my clients from a whole person approach, and am passionate about supporting people of color, individuals and couples in life transition, and children and their parents. I believe that cultural empathy is a real skill, and being able to hold space for clients in this way is particularly important to me. My approach is client centered with a depth orientation and I meet all my clients and their families where they are at developmentally, emotionally, and experientially to support them in identifying and healing the experiences they believe are holding them back emotionally from living their fullest life.
(707) 415-1842 View (707) 415-1842
Photo of Natasha Cameron - Growing Together Preventive & Psychological Svcs, PhD, Psychologist
Growing Together Preventive & Psychological Svcs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526
Over the course of the last 15+ years, she has been an engaged therapist to children, families, adults, and couples in clinic, home, and school settings in addition to supervising and training over 250 early professionals.
Together, our team of considerate, thoughtful, engaged, determined, and compassionate psychologists is changing the landscape of mental health services. With over 15 years of experience in community mental health, founder Dr. Natasha (Molony) Cameron learned that most people wait until they are in crisis to seek help. That is why we are making mental health services more accessible and consumer friendly than ever ‒ so you can get help when you need it. We provide comprehensive therapy services (both in-person in our Danville office and virtually) to individuals, children, families, couples, and groups.
Over the course of the last 15+ years, she has been an engaged therapist to children, families, adults, and couples in clinic, home, and school settings in addition to supervising and training over 250 early professionals.
Together, our team of considerate, thoughtful, engaged, determined, and compassionate psychologists is changing the landscape of mental health services. With over 15 years of experience in community mental health, founder Dr. Natasha (Molony) Cameron learned that most people wait until they are in crisis to seek help. That is why we are making mental health services more accessible and consumer friendly than ever ‒ so you can get help when you need it. We provide comprehensive therapy services (both in-person in our Danville office and virtually) to individuals, children, families, couples, and groups.
(925) 667-3930 View (925) 667-3930
Photo of Georgina Crisanto, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Georgina Crisanto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
Whether you’re a couple struggling in your relationship or an individual facing relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions, I’m here to support you on your journey to healing and greater well-being.
I believe we often have the answers within ourselves, but life’s challenges and overwhelming emotions can cloud that clarity. This is where I come in. I provide a safe, supportive space to help guide and walk alongside you during these difficult times. I specialize in helping couples who are facing relationship difficulties. Whether they are on the brink of separation/divorce, experiencing communication breakdowns, or simply looking to strengthen their connection, I’m here to help. I support couples in restoring their emotional bond, rekindling intimacy, and moving from conflict to a more peaceful and productive relationship.
Whether you’re a couple struggling in your relationship or an individual facing relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, or navigating life transitions, I’m here to support you on your journey to healing and greater well-being.
I believe we often have the answers within ourselves, but life’s challenges and overwhelming emotions can cloud that clarity. This is where I come in. I provide a safe, supportive space to help guide and walk alongside you during these difficult times. I specialize in helping couples who are facing relationship difficulties. Whether they are on the brink of separation/divorce, experiencing communication breakdowns, or simply looking to strengthen their connection, I’m here to help. I support couples in restoring their emotional bond, rekindling intimacy, and moving from conflict to a more peaceful and productive relationship.
(559) 657-6805 View (559) 657-6805
Photo of Shana Barber, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shana Barber
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
That is why our counseling approach is grounded in creating an authentic, supportive, and empathetic relationship with clients.
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
That is why our counseling approach is grounded in creating an authentic, supportive, and empathetic relationship with clients.
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
(310) 807-1591 View (310) 807-1591
Photo of Mitch Blum - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
Mitch PsyD & Lisa Relationship Coach (30 Years) are truly very Caring Professional's having a Male/Female Perspective on your Relationship.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Mitch PsyD & Lisa Relationship Coach (30 Years) are truly very Caring Professional's having a Male/Female Perspective on your Relationship.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(341) 217-3160 View (341) 217-3160
Photo of Katherine Fan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Fan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping clients work through challenges by creating a comfortable environment where they feel safe to explore and process hardships. I believe that it is necessary for there to be respect, sensitivity, and compassion within the therapeutic relationship for treatment to be effective. I use a person-centered approach to treatment and do my best to tailor treatment to meet each client’s needs.
I am passionate about helping clients work through challenges by creating a comfortable environment where they feel safe to explore and process hardships. I believe that it is necessary for there to be respect, sensitivity, and compassion within the therapeutic relationship for treatment to be effective. I use a person-centered approach to treatment and do my best to tailor treatment to meet each client’s needs.
(415) 876-5910 View (415) 876-5910
Photo of Kimberly Ciardella - The Path Wellness Center: Dr. Kimberly Ciardella, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Path Wellness Center: Dr. Kimberly Ciardella
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Whether you are looking for a one time guide to start you on your journey of healing or an accountability partner to make sure you stay on your path, we can help.
Finding you here, means you are looking for answers, for purpose, for reasons, for meaning. You feel sadness, you feel rage, you feel fear, AND sometimes you feel NOTHING, you feel emptiness, numbness, you feel a deep void. You're disconnected from everything that brings you life, the things that bring you joy, the people you love, but most of all you are disconnected from your SELF. Whether you are in the throes of anxiety or depression, moving through a traumatic experience, working to repair your relationships or coping with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), you are brave for reaching out and we are here to help.
Whether you are looking for a one time guide to start you on your journey of healing or an accountability partner to make sure you stay on your path, we can help.
Finding you here, means you are looking for answers, for purpose, for reasons, for meaning. You feel sadness, you feel rage, you feel fear, AND sometimes you feel NOTHING, you feel emptiness, numbness, you feel a deep void. You're disconnected from everything that brings you life, the things that bring you joy, the people you love, but most of all you are disconnected from your SELF. Whether you are in the throes of anxiety or depression, moving through a traumatic experience, working to repair your relationships or coping with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), you are brave for reaching out and we are here to help.
(916) 538-1683 View (916) 538-1683
Photo of Kristin Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Hi, I'm Kristin Roberts. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California. I see individual adults, couples, families, and minors (14-17). I specialize in treating trauma and use EMDR and brainspotting. I'm also IFS informed and use that modality to heal client's inner adult/child parts of self. I treat anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship distress in friendships, family dynamics, and with couples.
Hi, I'm Kristin Roberts. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California. I see individual adults, couples, families, and minors (14-17). I specialize in treating trauma and use EMDR and brainspotting. I'm also IFS informed and use that modality to heal client's inner adult/child parts of self. I treat anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, grief, relationship distress in friendships, family dynamics, and with couples.
(831) 666-0175 View (831) 666-0175
Photo of Gianina Casareno Reibling, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gianina Casareno Reibling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Union City, CA 94587  (Online Only)
I hear and see you! I have personal experience aiding clients of all ages, but have worked extensively with teens. I have worked with clients who faced issues with depression, anxiety, self worth, relentless inner chatter, complicated relationships, transitional life stages, infertility, public speaking, the global pandemic and generational cultural expectations which differ from one's own values. What everyone does have in common is that they are looking for a better relationship with themselves and others. I understand you because of my experience and I know how to assist you in overcoming your life challenges. You are not alone.
I hear and see you! I have personal experience aiding clients of all ages, but have worked extensively with teens. I have worked with clients who faced issues with depression, anxiety, self worth, relentless inner chatter, complicated relationships, transitional life stages, infertility, public speaking, the global pandemic and generational cultural expectations which differ from one's own values. What everyone does have in common is that they are looking for a better relationship with themselves and others. I understand you because of my experience and I know how to assist you in overcoming your life challenges. You are not alone.
(510) 422-0862 View (510) 422-0862
Photo of Joann Yang, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joann Yang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742  (Online Only)
With couples, I practice Emotions-Focused Therapy.
Welcome to the first step of your next journey! I look forward to being a part of it with you. It takes courage for anyone to acknowledge they need help, and I am so happy you are here, open to the idea of therapy, and advocating for your happiness. In therapy, we will work together to navigate life's challenges. I will meet you where you are at, listen with understanding and compassion, and work with you to problem-solve and effectively create change for the future. You are here for a reason-to find answers and clarity. Let me help you find it.
With couples, I practice Emotions-Focused Therapy.
Welcome to the first step of your next journey! I look forward to being a part of it with you. It takes courage for anyone to acknowledge they need help, and I am so happy you are here, open to the idea of therapy, and advocating for your happiness. In therapy, we will work together to navigate life's challenges. I will meet you where you are at, listen with understanding and compassion, and work with you to problem-solve and effectively create change for the future. You are here for a reason-to find answers and clarity. Let me help you find it.
(714) 888-6683 View (714) 888-6683
Photo of Yu Hang 'ronald' Deng, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yu Hang 'ronald' Deng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
I also strongly value the connections with my clients because I understand it is the relationship and connections we have that make all the curing procedure possible!.
I received my B.A. degree in University of California, Davis, with a major in Psychology, and my M.A. degree from John F. Kennedy University in the Counseling Psychology program. My expertise includes mental health counseling, such as depressive/anxiety disorders, communication, family, intimacy and/or relationship issues for individuals, groups, couples, and families, drug addiction treatment, and gambling addiction. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strongly believe in human potential, and my goal is to help my clients to discover and utilize the tools they have already possessed!
I also strongly value the connections with my clients because I understand it is the relationship and connections we have that make all the curing procedure possible!.
I received my B.A. degree in University of California, Davis, with a major in Psychology, and my M.A. degree from John F. Kennedy University in the Counseling Psychology program. My expertise includes mental health counseling, such as depressive/anxiety disorders, communication, family, intimacy and/or relationship issues for individuals, groups, couples, and families, drug addiction treatment, and gambling addiction. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strongly believe in human potential, and my goal is to help my clients to discover and utilize the tools they have already possessed!
(415) 367-4238 View (415) 367-4238

See more therapy options for Clearlake

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.