Photo of Lisa Beth Anger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Lisa Beth Anger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601
A good therapeutic relationship is critical for growth and change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a holistic approach to treatment. I have over thirty years of clinical experience. To best help my clients I make a point of keeping abreast of current and new theories, and integrate them with traditional strategies. I help individuals, couples and families negotiate through a large variety of issues and life transitions. My specializations include: anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders, grief and loss, women's issues, addiction issues, trauma, dysfunctional and toxic relationships, and navigating through stage of life issues.
A good therapeutic relationship is critical for growth and change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a holistic approach to treatment. I have over thirty years of clinical experience. To best help my clients I make a point of keeping abreast of current and new theories, and integrate them with traditional strategies. I help individuals, couples and families negotiate through a large variety of issues and life transitions. My specializations include: anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders, grief and loss, women's issues, addiction issues, trauma, dysfunctional and toxic relationships, and navigating through stage of life issues.
(706) 862-8093 View (706) 862-8093
Photo of Ed Glauser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Athens, GA
Ed Glauser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30605  (Online Only)
I have specialized training and certifications in Mind Body Medicine, Clinical Hypnosis, Yoga Philosophy, Behavioral Sleep, Stress and Pain Management, Online Counseling, as well as Mindfulness-based approaches for assisting individuals throughout the lifespan in experiencing relief from chronic pain, illness, insomnia, depression, stress, trauma and relationship issues. I am also a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider. My graduate counseling degree is from the University of Georgia. I am Licensed in Florida (telemental health only), Georgia and North Carolina. Offering 100% Telemental Health Counseling.
I have specialized training and certifications in Mind Body Medicine, Clinical Hypnosis, Yoga Philosophy, Behavioral Sleep, Stress and Pain Management, Online Counseling, as well as Mindfulness-based approaches for assisting individuals throughout the lifespan in experiencing relief from chronic pain, illness, insomnia, depression, stress, trauma and relationship issues. I am also a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider. My graduate counseling degree is from the University of Georgia. I am Licensed in Florida (telemental health only), Georgia and North Carolina. Offering 100% Telemental Health Counseling.
(706) 752-7194 View (706) 752-7194
Photo of Cindy Branch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Cindy Branch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CP, PAT
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
Some of the symptoms you may be experiencing are depression, worry, anxiety, grief, anger, trauma, relationship / couple / marital issues, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, self-esteem issues, mood and emotional regulation, life balance .
Have you ever thought "I JUST WANT TO BE HAPPY" ~or~ "ALL I WANT IS SOME PEACE IN MY LIFE" ??? Most of my clients want the same thing. The good news is I have helped them and I can help you! My clients are not broken. They are hurting, and together we move towards healing and finding solutions. I am eclectic in my approach, and often incorporate experiential methods to enhance traditional talk therapy which helps to deepen and expand the therapeutic process.
Some of the symptoms you may be experiencing are depression, worry, anxiety, grief, anger, trauma, relationship / couple / marital issues, addiction and recovery, co-dependency, self-esteem issues, mood and emotional regulation, life balance .
Have you ever thought "I JUST WANT TO BE HAPPY" ~or~ "ALL I WANT IS SOME PEACE IN MY LIFE" ??? Most of my clients want the same thing. The good news is I have helped them and I can help you! My clients are not broken. They are hurting, and together we move towards healing and finding solutions. I am eclectic in my approach, and often incorporate experiential methods to enhance traditional talk therapy which helps to deepen and expand the therapeutic process.
(706) 256-8221 View (706) 256-8221
Photo of The Banyan Tree Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Athens, GA
The Banyan Tree Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
It is our belief that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of therapy and for this reason we carefully match each client with a therapist, service and treatment approach that is best suited to meet your individual needs.
The Banyan Tree Center is an integrative counseling & wellness facility committed to a holistic approach to overall wellness. We provide professional, integrative and comprehensive services tailored to the individual needs of each person and family we serve. Our work is grounded in the most effective treatment approaches available, promoting lasting change and personal transformation. We believe that focusing on the whole person is the most effective way to produce lasting change. Therefore, we strive to provide a comprehensive selection of professional services in one convenient location.
It is our belief that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of therapy and for this reason we carefully match each client with a therapist, service and treatment approach that is best suited to meet your individual needs.
The Banyan Tree Center is an integrative counseling & wellness facility committed to a holistic approach to overall wellness. We provide professional, integrative and comprehensive services tailored to the individual needs of each person and family we serve. Our work is grounded in the most effective treatment approaches available, promoting lasting change and personal transformation. We believe that focusing on the whole person is the most effective way to produce lasting change. Therefore, we strive to provide a comprehensive selection of professional services in one convenient location.
(706) 610-0845 View (706) 610-0845
Photo of Dr. Gloria G. Brame - Certified Sexologist in Athens, GA
Dr. Gloria G. Brame - Certified Sexologist
PhD, MPH, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30602  (Online Only)
Do you need to make positive changes in your sex life? Whether you want to work on your sexual performance or health, your kinks or fetishes, relationship problems, or emotional baggage that weighs you down, you will make progress from the start. You'll find a safe space to discuss everything and anything you need to get off your chest and get answers to all your questions. Expect affirmation and a level of expertise that can change your life.
Do you need to make positive changes in your sex life? Whether you want to work on your sexual performance or health, your kinks or fetishes, relationship problems, or emotional baggage that weighs you down, you will make progress from the start. You'll find a safe space to discuss everything and anything you need to get off your chest and get answers to all your questions. Expect affirmation and a level of expertise that can change your life.
(706) 661-7089 View (706) 661-7089
Photo of Athens Area Psychotherapy/Patricia S.Brawner, PhD, Psychologist in Athens, GA
Athens Area Psychotherapy/Patricia S.Brawner, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Athens, GA 30601
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience. My specialities include marriage and couples counseling, treatment of various degrees of mood disturbances such as depression & anxiety, as well as adjustment and relationship issues. I work with adults and college students as they navigate new territory, and couples who are struggling in their relationship/marriage. I have a PhD, a Certificate in Marriage and Family Relationships from the University of Georgia, and I have completed Gottman Level 3 Training. My practice also offers Psychological Evaluations including ADHD Evaluations.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience. My specialities include marriage and couples counseling, treatment of various degrees of mood disturbances such as depression & anxiety, as well as adjustment and relationship issues. I work with adults and college students as they navigate new territory, and couples who are struggling in their relationship/marriage. I have a PhD, a Certificate in Marriage and Family Relationships from the University of Georgia, and I have completed Gottman Level 3 Training. My practice also offers Psychological Evaluations including ADHD Evaluations.
(706) 622-4113 View (706) 622-4113
Photo of Dawn Stula, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Dawn Stula
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CDPC
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606  (Online Only)
I offer individual and couples counseling in a way that scaffolds your journey.
In this time of high stress, instability and fear we need to be able to speak freely in a safe space. Most recently that space is thru telemental health. Your challenges, needs and goals lead our discussions as I help create a supportive and validating session that allows you to learn about yourself, heal and grow. Now accepting new clients.
I offer individual and couples counseling in a way that scaffolds your journey.
In this time of high stress, instability and fear we need to be able to speak freely in a safe space. Most recently that space is thru telemental health. Your challenges, needs and goals lead our discussions as I help create a supportive and validating session that allows you to learn about yourself, heal and grow. Now accepting new clients.
(706) 406-8048 View (706) 406-8048
Photo of Caroline Broom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Caroline Broom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are navigating a significant life transition, trauma, or difficult interpersonal relationship and seeking peace of mind and body, I am here as a source of support to walk beside you along the journey. My hope is for clients to gain increased awareness, coping skills, and a sense of grounding within themselves and their environment. I have experience using trauma-informed, strengths-based, and gender-affirming approaches as I engage collaboratively with clients to increase a sense of agency, self-efficacy, and capacity for sustainable change.
If you are navigating a significant life transition, trauma, or difficult interpersonal relationship and seeking peace of mind and body, I am here as a source of support to walk beside you along the journey. My hope is for clients to gain increased awareness, coping skills, and a sense of grounding within themselves and their environment. I have experience using trauma-informed, strengths-based, and gender-affirming approaches as I engage collaboratively with clients to increase a sense of agency, self-efficacy, and capacity for sustainable change.
(706) 906-6770 View (706) 906-6770
Photo of Mamie L Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Athens, GA
Mamie L Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT, NCC, ABD
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601  (Online Only)
If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis, I am the therapist for you. If you are: having difficulties at work and need assistance in working through a solution, experiencing problems in your relationship or maybe your child is having problems in school, I can help you navigate your way to a plausible solution. In an effort to be the best boss that you can possibly be, the best partner the best parent, student and overall team player, it is important that you have a strong foundation. This foundation should be supported by all the resources that you possibly can have to ensure positive growth, including an excellent therapist.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis, I am the therapist for you. If you are: having difficulties at work and need assistance in working through a solution, experiencing problems in your relationship or maybe your child is having problems in school, I can help you navigate your way to a plausible solution. In an effort to be the best boss that you can possibly be, the best partner the best parent, student and overall team player, it is important that you have a strong foundation. This foundation should be supported by all the resources that you possibly can have to ensure positive growth, including an excellent therapist.
(404) 882-1578 View (404) 882-1578
Photo of Peggy Sharr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Peggy Sharr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30601
Since 2006, I've been helping individuals with myriad challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, behavioral challenges, stress reduction, mood stabilization/regulation, crisis intervention, grief and loss, relationship problems, and resolving feelings and experiences from the past. In order to affect deep change, I integrate a number of approaches, including traditional talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Psychotherapy, meditation, EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, guided imagery, health and nutrition advice, to name a few. My goal is for you to feel supported and validated.
Since 2006, I've been helping individuals with myriad challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, behavioral challenges, stress reduction, mood stabilization/regulation, crisis intervention, grief and loss, relationship problems, and resolving feelings and experiences from the past. In order to affect deep change, I integrate a number of approaches, including traditional talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Psychotherapy, meditation, EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, guided imagery, health and nutrition advice, to name a few. My goal is for you to feel supported and validated.
(319) 302-3509 View (319) 302-3509
Photo of Grace Knox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Grace Knox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601  (Online Only)
I also work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other.
I believe that sometimes life will knock you down so you can learn how to fight. I am here to support and empower you in that process. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be shared without fear of judgement. I believe that you are the expert of your story and have strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to partner with you along this journey.
I also work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other.
I believe that sometimes life will knock you down so you can learn how to fight. I am here to support and empower you in that process. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be shared without fear of judgement. I believe that you are the expert of your story and have strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to partner with you along this journey.
(470) 517-6621 View (470) 517-6621
Photo of Feven B. Seyoum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Feven B. Seyoum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-acceptance, I'm here to help.
Welcome, I am Feven! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety, depression and burnouts. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the different challenges they face and build coping skills to create more fulfilling and holistic life experiences.
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-acceptance, I'm here to help.
Welcome, I am Feven! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety, depression and burnouts. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the different challenges they face and build coping skills to create more fulfilling and holistic life experiences.
(678) 831-7137 View (678) 831-7137
Photo of Meg McLeroy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Athens, GA
Meg McLeroy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30601
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples, both pre-marital stage and long term partners who are navigating difficult decisions around marriage or divorce.
Do you nurture fear or hope? Investing in therapy is a positive step towards facing your fears and uncovering new possibilities. Identify insights, wisdom and truth whether you are struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief or major life transitions. We'll clarify your values and develop custom skills and tools to support change. Integrating experiential interventions with systems theory and mindfulness strategies helps you understand new ways for dealing with challenges.
I work with couples, both pre-marital stage and long term partners who are navigating difficult decisions around marriage or divorce.
Do you nurture fear or hope? Investing in therapy is a positive step towards facing your fears and uncovering new possibilities. Identify insights, wisdom and truth whether you are struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief or major life transitions. We'll clarify your values and develop custom skills and tools to support change. Integrating experiential interventions with systems theory and mindfulness strategies helps you understand new ways for dealing with challenges.
(404) 721-3596 View (404) 721-3596
Photo of Eleanor H McMahan, Psychologist in Athens, GA
Eleanor H McMahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
A trusting and affirming relationship is the foundation of effective psychotherapy.
Welcome, and well done! Visiting this site is an important first step towards seeking something different for yourself. Reaching out for support takes courage. It's an empowered move toward claiming a healthy, happier life, more fulfilling relationships, and an enriched and compassionate connection with yourself. I would be delighted and honored to learn more about you and be part of your journey. I am a licensed psychologist in private practice and feel privileged to serve the Athens area and beyond!
A trusting and affirming relationship is the foundation of effective psychotherapy.
Welcome, and well done! Visiting this site is an important first step towards seeking something different for yourself. Reaching out for support takes courage. It's an empowered move toward claiming a healthy, happier life, more fulfilling relationships, and an enriched and compassionate connection with yourself. I would be delighted and honored to learn more about you and be part of your journey. I am a licensed psychologist in private practice and feel privileged to serve the Athens area and beyond!
(678) 929-2269 View (678) 929-2269
Photo of Dianne Grove, Licensed Professional Counselor in Athens, GA
Dianne Grove
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30605
Waitlist for new clients
If someone took time to listen deeply to you, what do you think would be said? If you could settle your mind, listen to your body, and open your heart, what do you think might happen? If you are looking for a place to explore thoughts, feelings, questions, and the paradoxes of life, you can find that kind of place here. I offer sincere presence, warm companionship and practical guidance through the desert and wilderness of modern life. For over 25 years, I have worked with individuals and couples navigating the deep waters of uncertainty, transition and transformation.
If someone took time to listen deeply to you, what do you think would be said? If you could settle your mind, listen to your body, and open your heart, what do you think might happen? If you are looking for a place to explore thoughts, feelings, questions, and the paradoxes of life, you can find that kind of place here. I offer sincere presence, warm companionship and practical guidance through the desert and wilderness of modern life. For over 25 years, I have worked with individuals and couples navigating the deep waters of uncertainty, transition and transformation.
(706) 715-5227 View (706) 715-5227
Photo of Jane Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Jane Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601
I bring 20+ years of established success in helping clients discover, process, and reconcile the source of their emotional pain, healing and alleviating emotional distress related to anxiety, traumatic experiences and grief, navigating health issues, working through relationship, life, and career changes, and developing self-esteem and personal boundaries.
Are you experiencing emotional pain or facing challenges that are impacting your life such as anxiety, grief, emotional trauma, or life transitions? I offer effective, whole person centered, and compassionate therapeutic services to help you heal and move forward. Our time together provides you a safe and confidential environment, as you clarify and process challenges and/or pain, along with learning powerful personal skills and possible solutions. The insight and skills, gained through our sessions together, frequently prompt emotional breakthroughs that result in meaningful healing and growth with significant, lifetime benefits.
I bring 20+ years of established success in helping clients discover, process, and reconcile the source of their emotional pain, healing and alleviating emotional distress related to anxiety, traumatic experiences and grief, navigating health issues, working through relationship, life, and career changes, and developing self-esteem and personal boundaries.
Are you experiencing emotional pain or facing challenges that are impacting your life such as anxiety, grief, emotional trauma, or life transitions? I offer effective, whole person centered, and compassionate therapeutic services to help you heal and move forward. Our time together provides you a safe and confidential environment, as you clarify and process challenges and/or pain, along with learning powerful personal skills and possible solutions. The insight and skills, gained through our sessions together, frequently prompt emotional breakthroughs that result in meaningful healing and growth with significant, lifetime benefits.
(706) 808-4138 View (706) 808-4138
Photo of Pamela E. Flatow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Athens, GA
Pamela E. Flatow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30609  (Online Only)
We look forward to a long-term relationship as we walk together on your path towards inner peace.
Pam Flatow was born and raised in New York. She graduated Cum Laude from Boston University with a BA and received her Masters in Social Work from Hunter College. She has worked in medical and psychiatric settings, inpatient and outpatient, and was Director of Social Services at a psychiatric hospital in Florida. Pam has many years of experience in her private practice, working with both adolescents and adults utilizing an eclectic range of therapeutic modalities. She is warm and caring and this comes across to her clients. She is the mother of three grown children and had a long term marriage until her husband passed away in 2015.
We look forward to a long-term relationship as we walk together on your path towards inner peace.
Pam Flatow was born and raised in New York. She graduated Cum Laude from Boston University with a BA and received her Masters in Social Work from Hunter College. She has worked in medical and psychiatric settings, inpatient and outpatient, and was Director of Social Services at a psychiatric hospital in Florida. Pam has many years of experience in her private practice, working with both adolescents and adults utilizing an eclectic range of therapeutic modalities. She is warm and caring and this comes across to her clients. She is the mother of three grown children and had a long term marriage until her husband passed away in 2015.
(678) 841-8165 View (678) 841-8165
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Athens, GA
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(706) 917-9012 x1 View (706) 917-9012 x1
Photo of Eli Budd, Psychologist in Athens, GA
Eli Budd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
Human beings can change. Through the years I have worked with people of all ages who have managed to change every thing from immediate circumstances to life long, self-defeating patterns. My experience is that when you can find a therapist with expertise in the area of your difficulties, and when there is also a good personal match between you and the therapist, there are few limits on what you can accomplish.
Human beings can change. Through the years I have worked with people of all ages who have managed to change every thing from immediate circumstances to life long, self-defeating patterns. My experience is that when you can find a therapist with expertise in the area of your difficulties, and when there is also a good personal match between you and the therapist, there are few limits on what you can accomplish.
(404) 369-7708 View (404) 369-7708
Photo of Daphne Jones, Psychologist in Athens, GA
Daphne Jones
Psychologist, MEd, PhD
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30605  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I strive to always meet my clients where they are in their various journeys and building a relationship is my number one priority.
Hello and Welcome! I go by Dr. J and I am part of the clinical team at the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy. I seek to empower my clients by exploring how dynamics of power, privilege, and oppression have shaped their lives and/or resulted in marginalization, discrimination, and trauma. I greatly enjoy working with individuals who hold minoritized identities, particularly individuals and couples/polycules from the Q+BIPOC and Neurodivergent communities. Additionally, I enjoy working with athletes, and as a former collegiate athlete, I understand the unique internal and external pressures that athletes often face.
I strive to always meet my clients where they are in their various journeys and building a relationship is my number one priority.
Hello and Welcome! I go by Dr. J and I am part of the clinical team at the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy. I seek to empower my clients by exploring how dynamics of power, privilege, and oppression have shaped their lives and/or resulted in marginalization, discrimination, and trauma. I greatly enjoy working with individuals who hold minoritized identities, particularly individuals and couples/polycules from the Q+BIPOC and Neurodivergent communities. Additionally, I enjoy working with athletes, and as a former collegiate athlete, I understand the unique internal and external pressures that athletes often face.
(706) 918-8876 View (706) 918-8876
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.