Photo of Desire Lines Psychotherapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Desire Lines Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I offer Discernment Counseling, relationship therapy and sex therapy for unique people in non-traditional relationships.
A "desire line" is a foot path made by us – people walking over time, as we discover that the path made for us isn't the easiest, safest or most fun route to walk. Desire lines remind us that we are not alone with our longing, frustration or irritation, nor are we alone in our search for fulfillment, peace or pleasure. Desire lines are also a good metaphor for life. Maybe you and your partner are on an unchosen or changing path and you need a therapist to help you navigate new territory.
I offer Discernment Counseling, relationship therapy and sex therapy for unique people in non-traditional relationships.
A "desire line" is a foot path made by us – people walking over time, as we discover that the path made for us isn't the easiest, safest or most fun route to walk. Desire lines remind us that we are not alone with our longing, frustration or irritation, nor are we alone in our search for fulfillment, peace or pleasure. Desire lines are also a good metaphor for life. Maybe you and your partner are on an unchosen or changing path and you need a therapist to help you navigate new territory.
(410) 936-3666 View (410) 936-3666
Photo of Brittany Spencer, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Brittany Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
(202) 759-6027 View (202) 759-6027
Photo of Julia Rainer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Julia Rainer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Julia is a Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, families, caregivers, and groups. She uses empathy and open communication to collaborate with clients and identify their goals for therapy. Julia believes therapy can help build and strengthen the relationship with oneself and others, promote healing, increase confidence, and allow a person to experience more peace and joy in life.
Julia is a Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, families, caregivers, and groups. She uses empathy and open communication to collaborate with clients and identify their goals for therapy. Julia believes therapy can help build and strengthen the relationship with oneself and others, promote healing, increase confidence, and allow a person to experience more peace and joy in life.
(240) 410-6379 View (240) 410-6379
Photo of Living Deliberately LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Living Deliberately LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
We have clinicians that specialize with helping people with autism, Dissociative-Identity Disorders (DID), sex / sexual disorders, couples, art therapy, Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT), EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, and DBT.
Living Deliberately, LLC is dedicated to client-focused and client-forward treatment. We have medication management in addition to multiple skilled practitioners well-versed in the treatment of ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, and associated traumatic events for children / teens / adults. We look forward to working with you on your difficulties to process and break down the barriers that are stopping you from achieving contentment in living. Now offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment for medicationaly resistant depression, anxiety and OCD.
We have clinicians that specialize with helping people with autism, Dissociative-Identity Disorders (DID), sex / sexual disorders, couples, art therapy, Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT), EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, and DBT.
Living Deliberately, LLC is dedicated to client-focused and client-forward treatment. We have medication management in addition to multiple skilled practitioners well-versed in the treatment of ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, and associated traumatic events for children / teens / adults. We look forward to working with you on your difficulties to process and break down the barriers that are stopping you from achieving contentment in living. Now offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment for medicationaly resistant depression, anxiety and OCD.
(410) 401-1098 View (410) 401-1098
Photo of Matthew Malouf, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Matthew Malouf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
NOTE: I currently have a waitlist for new patients (pre-surgical evals may still be scheduled). If you are searching this site, you are probably looking for help for yourself, your family or someone you care about. I know this is an important step and I hope that the information on my listing can assist you in finding what you need. I am a counseling psychologist with a background in the treatment of anxiety, depression and other common mental health concerns and a specialty in LGBTQI issues. I treat adults, couples (Gottman Method), and children/families seeking support with sexuality, gender and/or an intersex/DSD diagnosis.
NOTE: I currently have a waitlist for new patients (pre-surgical evals may still be scheduled). If you are searching this site, you are probably looking for help for yourself, your family or someone you care about. I know this is an important step and I hope that the information on my listing can assist you in finding what you need. I am a counseling psychologist with a background in the treatment of anxiety, depression and other common mental health concerns and a specialty in LGBTQI issues. I treat adults, couples (Gottman Method), and children/families seeking support with sexuality, gender and/or an intersex/DSD diagnosis.
(443) 485-5976 View (443) 485-5976
Photo of Jennifer Evans Buerger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Jennifer Evans Buerger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSASS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
I've been an Adolescent, Adult, Couples therapist for over 25 years.
I work extensively with healthcare​ professionals and other therapists. I currently have a few openings for some additional individuals 17+, couples, and​ families. I utilize DBT, CBT, and various other​ modules to assist every client. I have over 25 years of experience assisting adults just like you. ​Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, anger, stress, or something else entirely, I am here for you.
I've been an Adolescent, Adult, Couples therapist for over 25 years.
I work extensively with healthcare​ professionals and other therapists. I currently have a few openings for some additional individuals 17+, couples, and​ families. I utilize DBT, CBT, and various other​ modules to assist every client. I have over 25 years of experience assisting adults just like you. ​Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, anger, stress, or something else entirely, I am here for you.
(410) 449-0939 View (410) 449-0939
Photo of Kris T Gebhard, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Kris T Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
I hope to partner with clients in co-creating a space where we feel safe to explore, question, and heal.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
I hope to partner with clients in co-creating a space where we feel safe to explore, question, and heal.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
(240) 443-3726 View (240) 443-3726
Photo of David O. Avruch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
David O. Avruch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Being fully seen and fully accepted by one’s life partner is a universal human need, the stuff of spirituality - an experience felt in the soul, not just the mind or the heart. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) provides a roadmap for how to get there. In my career I've seen a lot and worked with many different kinds of individuals; hence, I'm professional and nonjudgmental. While I enjoy being a social worker and therapist for all types of humans, my private practice is focused primarily on serving queer and trans couples. My office is located in Baltimore; I am also licensed in DC and serve couples there remotely.
Being fully seen and fully accepted by one’s life partner is a universal human need, the stuff of spirituality - an experience felt in the soul, not just the mind or the heart. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) provides a roadmap for how to get there. In my career I've seen a lot and worked with many different kinds of individuals; hence, I'm professional and nonjudgmental. While I enjoy being a social worker and therapist for all types of humans, my private practice is focused primarily on serving queer and trans couples. My office is located in Baltimore; I am also licensed in DC and serve couples there remotely.
(410) 734-2020 View (410) 734-2020
Photo of Dr. Misbha E. Qureshi, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Dr. Misbha E. Qureshi
Counselor, PhD, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218
About Dr. Qureshi-> Dr. Misbha Qureshi received her Master and PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Drexel University (PA). She has over 17 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health system of care, providing individual, family, couples, and group therapies to culturally diverse communities. Her areas of expertise address cultural diversity, social justice, trauma/abuse, parent-child relationships, and family dynamics, while targeting symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, PTSD, and much more.
About Dr. Qureshi-> Dr. Misbha Qureshi received her Master and PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Drexel University (PA). She has over 17 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health system of care, providing individual, family, couples, and group therapies to culturally diverse communities. Her areas of expertise address cultural diversity, social justice, trauma/abuse, parent-child relationships, and family dynamics, while targeting symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, PTSD, and much more.
(301) 900-6961 View (301) 900-6961
Photo of Healing From Within, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Healing From Within
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
My clients seek help for various life problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family relationship and marital issues, mood disorders, trauma disorders, addiction, just to name a few. Whatever the issue that brings someone to therapy, we all need support, guidance, and healing in a safe nurturing environment. I offer a compassionate individualized approach to therapy and healing. I believe that a therapist's role is to help others to tap into the wisdom and healing that resides within.
My clients seek help for various life problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family relationship and marital issues, mood disorders, trauma disorders, addiction, just to name a few. Whatever the issue that brings someone to therapy, we all need support, guidance, and healing in a safe nurturing environment. I offer a compassionate individualized approach to therapy and healing. I believe that a therapist's role is to help others to tap into the wisdom and healing that resides within.
(443) 429-1372 View (443) 429-1372
Photo of Della Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Della Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Are you stressed out in your romantic relationships? Is your teenager starting to struggle to balance school, home, and friends? At Brighter Future Counseling, I use evidenced based strategies with teens, adults, and couples to combat anxiety and depression in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment. If you're feeling stuck, unhappy, or like life is in chaos, give me a call today and we can begin the journey to realizing your strength!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Are you stressed out in your romantic relationships? Is your teenager starting to struggle to balance school, home, and friends? At Brighter Future Counseling, I use evidenced based strategies with teens, adults, and couples to combat anxiety and depression in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment. If you're feeling stuck, unhappy, or like life is in chaos, give me a call today and we can begin the journey to realizing your strength!
(443) 249-8702 View (443) 249-8702
Photo of Lori Mostofsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Lori Mostofsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
My practice focus includes adolescents, individuals, couples and family therapy, treatment of mood/anxiety/substance use disorders, and trauma.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the field of mental health for over 30 years, having graduated from SUNY Stony Brook, School of Social Work, in 1990. I have advanced training in family therapy, CBT for anxiety/depression/trauma, and addictions. I am a Certified Mediator focusing on family mediation using relational conflict theory. In addition to my therapy practice, I have taught at McDaniel University Masters in Counseling program, supervised students and colleagues, and worked for 10 years in Child Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital and served as a member of the hospital wide Ethics Committee.
My practice focus includes adolescents, individuals, couples and family therapy, treatment of mood/anxiety/substance use disorders, and trauma.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the field of mental health for over 30 years, having graduated from SUNY Stony Brook, School of Social Work, in 1990. I have advanced training in family therapy, CBT for anxiety/depression/trauma, and addictions. I am a Certified Mediator focusing on family mediation using relational conflict theory. In addition to my therapy practice, I have taught at McDaniel University Masters in Counseling program, supervised students and colleagues, and worked for 10 years in Child Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital and served as a member of the hospital wide Ethics Committee.
(443) 486-0184 View (443) 486-0184
Photo of AMA Transitional Services, LLC, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
AMA Transitional Services, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21239  (Online Only)
We are a group of telehealth therapist. All clinician's are Master's level educated with experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment. We specialize in working with young adults and adults experiencing difficulties transitioning from one area of life into another area of life i.e. high school to work world, changing jobs, anxiety, working through stress, grief and loss, depression, substance abuse issues, relationship issues, self-esteem, motivation, trauma, domestic violence, co-occurring, and family issues. Independent supervision available for substance abuse certificate holders, LGPC, LGADC, LGPAT, LGMFT.
We are a group of telehealth therapist. All clinician's are Master's level educated with experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment. We specialize in working with young adults and adults experiencing difficulties transitioning from one area of life into another area of life i.e. high school to work world, changing jobs, anxiety, working through stress, grief and loss, depression, substance abuse issues, relationship issues, self-esteem, motivation, trauma, domestic violence, co-occurring, and family issues. Independent supervision available for substance abuse certificate holders, LGPC, LGADC, LGPAT, LGMFT.
(443) 402-3200 View (443) 402-3200
Photo of Amanda Menke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Amanda Menke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy for individuals of all ages and Crisis Response.
Not currently able to accept new clients. I firmly believe in holistic wellness and cater my practice towards helping my clients to achieve their goals. Therapy is only effective when it meets your needs and caters towards you as your own unique self. Therapy is also an expenditure when it comes to time, money and energy. I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure you receive the quality care you deserve. When we combine our strengths, we can create a well-balanced therapeutic relationship.
I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy for individuals of all ages and Crisis Response.
Not currently able to accept new clients. I firmly believe in holistic wellness and cater my practice towards helping my clients to achieve their goals. Therapy is only effective when it meets your needs and caters towards you as your own unique self. Therapy is also an expenditure when it comes to time, money and energy. I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure you receive the quality care you deserve. When we combine our strengths, we can create a well-balanced therapeutic relationship.
(667) 217-2370 View (667) 217-2370
Photo of Kate Gerwin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Kate Gerwin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Whether it is a codependent relationship, healing from trauma, a major illness, the loss of a loved one or you're not quite sure what "it" is yet, I can support you in gaining a deeper sense of wholeness and well-being. My starting point for all of my work is simple: you matter. Your story matters, your experience matters, your desire to heal, grow, and thrive matters. In all of our lives there are times where we need help making sense of our stories and experiences and I am here to journey with you in that process. I look forward to connecting with you!
Whether it is a codependent relationship, healing from trauma, a major illness, the loss of a loved one or you're not quite sure what "it" is yet, I can support you in gaining a deeper sense of wholeness and well-being. My starting point for all of my work is simple: you matter. Your story matters, your experience matters, your desire to heal, grow, and thrive matters. In all of our lives there are times where we need help making sense of our stories and experiences and I am here to journey with you in that process. I look forward to connecting with you!
(703) 991-2421 View (703) 991-2421
Photo of Kier M Johnson- Marshall, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Kier M Johnson- Marshall
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
I passionately work with those who want help: children & adolescence, adults (men and women), families, and couples.
I believe "Knowledge Is Power"! Knowledge of how to find and apply solutions to deal with confusion, anxiety, depression and other challenging life situations that results in feeling of helplessness or sometimes even hopelessness, is what I have found empowers change. I, your listener, co-pilgrim, and spiritual pastoral counselor am here to facilitate an opportunity for you to regain a sense of understanding self in all of your challenges which will open the doors of love, power and a sound mind!
I passionately work with those who want help: children & adolescence, adults (men and women), families, and couples.
I believe "Knowledge Is Power"! Knowledge of how to find and apply solutions to deal with confusion, anxiety, depression and other challenging life situations that results in feeling of helplessness or sometimes even hopelessness, is what I have found empowers change. I, your listener, co-pilgrim, and spiritual pastoral counselor am here to facilitate an opportunity for you to regain a sense of understanding self in all of your challenges which will open the doors of love, power and a sound mind!
(443) 213-0152 x1 View (443) 213-0152 x1
Photo of Healing Horizons Group, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Healing Horizons Group
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
My passion is working with both my individual clients and couples to assist them throughout their time of pain and find a path to healing together.
What you are going through matters. Your pain is heavy and weighing you down. Life is not easy to navigate and we all need support from time to time. At first, I will help carry that weight with you while we process the source of your pain, increase your coping skills, confront those intrusive thoughts or all the above. Whatever your unique issue is, know that you have someone that genuinely cares to help you through it. For couples- we will work together to increase communication and conflict resolution skills. If you are both willing to seek therapy together, you have won half the battle already.
My passion is working with both my individual clients and couples to assist them throughout their time of pain and find a path to healing together.
What you are going through matters. Your pain is heavy and weighing you down. Life is not easy to navigate and we all need support from time to time. At first, I will help carry that weight with you while we process the source of your pain, increase your coping skills, confront those intrusive thoughts or all the above. Whatever your unique issue is, know that you have someone that genuinely cares to help you through it. For couples- we will work together to increase communication and conflict resolution skills. If you are both willing to seek therapy together, you have won half the battle already.
(443) 383-4296 View (443) 383-4296
Photo of Eliza Pelton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Eliza Pelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I partner with my clients to foster their ability to live a healthy and comfortable life, in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment.
My goal is to help you identify your needs, plan and act for positive change, and create balance in your life. During our sessions, I strive to empower and support you while helping you build the tools to manage stressful life events and reach your goals. Most importantly, I will meet you where you are (mentally and emotionally) and personalize therapy to your needs. I have experience across a broad spectrum of topics and specialize in treating eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I partner with my clients to foster their ability to live a healthy and comfortable life, in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment.
My goal is to help you identify your needs, plan and act for positive change, and create balance in your life. During our sessions, I strive to empower and support you while helping you build the tools to manage stressful life events and reach your goals. Most importantly, I will meet you where you are (mentally and emotionally) and personalize therapy to your needs. I have experience across a broad spectrum of topics and specialize in treating eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
(443) 596-6895 View (443) 596-6895
Photo of Kay Edwards - Counseling on Call, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Kay Edwards - Counseling on Call
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
Hey, I’m Kay! I am so glad you are here. I believe that wellness is a continuum; Therefore, no matter where you currently find yourself on the spectrum, there is always something new and available for you to discover that will enhance your present state of being. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C), I have had the opportunity to partner with children, individuals, families, and organizations, in numerous different clinical settings, to support their holistic wellness.
Hey, I’m Kay! I am so glad you are here. I believe that wellness is a continuum; Therefore, no matter where you currently find yourself on the spectrum, there is always something new and available for you to discover that will enhance your present state of being. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C), I have had the opportunity to partner with children, individuals, families, and organizations, in numerous different clinical settings, to support their holistic wellness.
(410) 983-6999 View (410) 983-6999
Photo of Marc J Weinstein, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Marc J Weinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
In my experience, a person who seeks therapy wants solutions that work. And since two heads are better than one, I believe an effective therapeutic alliance can help people attain the happiness and fulfillment they desire. When a safe and trusting environment is established, people can learn to value themselves, develop healthy relationships and heal from painful experiences. My therapy style is direct and active. I rely on honesty and authenticity in therapy to guide our collaborative efforts. Therapy can only be successful when the client and therapist have a good working relationship and the client participates fully.
In my experience, a person who seeks therapy wants solutions that work. And since two heads are better than one, I believe an effective therapeutic alliance can help people attain the happiness and fulfillment they desire. When a safe and trusting environment is established, people can learn to value themselves, develop healthy relationships and heal from painful experiences. My therapy style is direct and active. I rely on honesty and authenticity in therapy to guide our collaborative efforts. Therapy can only be successful when the client and therapist have a good working relationship and the client participates fully.
(410) 205-1022 View (410) 205-1022
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.