Photo of Susan Stork, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Susan Stork
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMH, CST
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients to address sex therapy + sexual health topics such as mismatched arousal/desire in couples, sexual identity/orientation exploration, Out Of Control Sexual Behaviors (OCSB), concerns related to sexual imagery/porn, navigating "kink" culture, + sexual pain/dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction (ED), anorgasmia + dyspareunia.
We are innately wired for connection, intimacy + pleasure. However, these intrinsic values can be altered by experiences of trauma, physiological factors, + the environment. Part of our work together will center around separating who you think you “should” be as a human from who you actually are as an intersectional being. I work with both individuals + couples to develop an understanding of attachments + sexuality in order to promote intimate relationships with both the self + others. We will explore how to cultivate meaningful connections that enable vulnerability, generate deeper intimacy, unearth desires, + harness pleasure.
I work with clients to address sex therapy + sexual health topics such as mismatched arousal/desire in couples, sexual identity/orientation exploration, Out Of Control Sexual Behaviors (OCSB), concerns related to sexual imagery/porn, navigating "kink" culture, + sexual pain/dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction (ED), anorgasmia + dyspareunia.
We are innately wired for connection, intimacy + pleasure. However, these intrinsic values can be altered by experiences of trauma, physiological factors, + the environment. Part of our work together will center around separating who you think you “should” be as a human from who you actually are as an intersectional being. I work with both individuals + couples to develop an understanding of attachments + sexuality in order to promote intimate relationships with both the self + others. We will explore how to cultivate meaningful connections that enable vulnerability, generate deeper intimacy, unearth desires, + harness pleasure.
(443) 355-4740 View (443) 355-4740
Photo of Ben Barer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Ben Barer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209  (Online Only)
I've worked with adolescents, individuals, and couples, applying evidence-based therapeutic techniques during my practice.
Are you struggling to express your emotions, identify your feelings, or assert boundaries? Is this affecting both your daily life and close relationships? I'm here to support you in addressing these challenges. My kind, considerate, and down-to-earth disposition fosters an atmosphere for personal growth, helping you understand and communicate your emotions and desires more effectively.
I've worked with adolescents, individuals, and couples, applying evidence-based therapeutic techniques during my practice.
Are you struggling to express your emotions, identify your feelings, or assert boundaries? Is this affecting both your daily life and close relationships? I'm here to support you in addressing these challenges. My kind, considerate, and down-to-earth disposition fosters an atmosphere for personal growth, helping you understand and communicate your emotions and desires more effectively.
(443) 501-2681 View (443) 501-2681
Photo of Chris Kraft, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Chris Kraft
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
I conduct a comprehensive evaluation with both members of a couple along with taking a detailed sexual and relationship history.
As a psychologist/sexologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist on faculty at Johns Hopkins University, I specialize in marital sexual functioning, problematic Internet sexual behaviors, and sexual addiction and compulsivity. I also specialize in intimacy challenges for couples and individuals who are looking to improve their happiness as it is related to their relationships. Common challenges to sexual satisfaction can include internet sexual problems, infidelity, marital conflicts, low sexual desire, erection and/or arousal difficulties, premature ejaculation or orgasm difficulties, and performance and sexual anxiety.
I conduct a comprehensive evaluation with both members of a couple along with taking a detailed sexual and relationship history.
As a psychologist/sexologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist on faculty at Johns Hopkins University, I specialize in marital sexual functioning, problematic Internet sexual behaviors, and sexual addiction and compulsivity. I also specialize in intimacy challenges for couples and individuals who are looking to improve their happiness as it is related to their relationships. Common challenges to sexual satisfaction can include internet sexual problems, infidelity, marital conflicts, low sexual desire, erection and/or arousal difficulties, premature ejaculation or orgasm difficulties, and performance and sexual anxiety.
(410) 656-4485 View (410) 656-4485
Photo of John J Michalczyk, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
John J Michalczyk
Counselor, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
"It is my goal as a therapist to provide a safe and supportive environment for others so they may achieve personal well-being and productive relationships on the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual levels. I believe that through the healing of psychological and emotional wounds, each person has the potential and freedom to maintain positive self-acceptance and self-definition. I rejoice in helping individuals, couples and families bring greater meaning and satisfaction to their lives."
"It is my goal as a therapist to provide a safe and supportive environment for others so they may achieve personal well-being and productive relationships on the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual levels. I believe that through the healing of psychological and emotional wounds, each person has the potential and freedom to maintain positive self-acceptance and self-definition. I rejoice in helping individuals, couples and families bring greater meaning and satisfaction to their lives."
(410) 415-1484 x115 View (410) 415-1484 x115
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 Raina Burlak, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Raina Burlak
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Do you want to stop reliving the painful emotions each time you are reminded of the trauma? Would you like to repair a relationship with yourself and others or learn how to heal grief in a way that honors values? Does regaining self esteem feel like a hopeless pursuit? Let's work together using our strengths and skills to jumpstart your healing.
I can help you use your strengths to meet your goals. Let's engage in a you-focused, judgement free, empathetic, skillful and goal directed conversation. Let's work through the dark emotions together. With support it can once again feel safe to rekindle hope and reprocess the felt memories that stick. We will focus on your goals and view you as capable with strengths. Hope and healing is possible.
Do you want to stop reliving the painful emotions each time you are reminded of the trauma? Would you like to repair a relationship with yourself and others or learn how to heal grief in a way that honors values? Does regaining self esteem feel like a hopeless pursuit? Let's work together using our strengths and skills to jumpstart your healing.
I can help you use your strengths to meet your goals. Let's engage in a you-focused, judgement free, empathetic, skillful and goal directed conversation. Let's work through the dark emotions together. With support it can once again feel safe to rekindle hope and reprocess the felt memories that stick. We will focus on your goals and view you as capable with strengths. Hope and healing is possible.
(850) 816-3144 View (850) 816-3144
Photo of Jason Hovey, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Jason Hovey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230
As a Clinical Pastoral Counselor I work with individuals, couples, families and groups in the healing process.
"Fear lives in the head. And courage lives in the heart. The job is to get from one to the other" - Louis Penny. It is inevitable that we will be wounded during the journey of life. Many of those wounds generally heal on their own. However some wounds cut deeper. They are unable to heal themselves and leave scars causing broken relationships, anxiety, addiction, insecurity, fear, and pain. Facing these wounds can be frightening and overwhelming, especially when facing them alone. Together we find the courage and strength to face and heal these wounds.
As a Clinical Pastoral Counselor I work with individuals, couples, families and groups in the healing process.
"Fear lives in the head. And courage lives in the heart. The job is to get from one to the other" - Louis Penny. It is inevitable that we will be wounded during the journey of life. Many of those wounds generally heal on their own. However some wounds cut deeper. They are unable to heal themselves and leave scars causing broken relationships, anxiety, addiction, insecurity, fear, and pain. Facing these wounds can be frightening and overwhelming, especially when facing them alone. Together we find the courage and strength to face and heal these wounds.
(410) 734-2187 View (410) 734-2187
Photo of Monica J Smith in Baltimore, MD
Monica J Smith
MA, BCC, CAC, CAPP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21229
I am passionate about helping those who: struggle with addictive behavior, love someone who struggles with addictive behavior, don't identify with a specific addiction but find themselves in survival mode or generally unhappy in life and relationships, or, have worked through a lot of issues but want to take things to the next level and infuse more well-being into their life. I also love working with couples facing challenges related to recovery, communication and/or boundary issues. This is particularly helpful for couples seeking recovery and repair from sexual addiction or betrayal.
I am passionate about helping those who: struggle with addictive behavior, love someone who struggles with addictive behavior, don't identify with a specific addiction but find themselves in survival mode or generally unhappy in life and relationships, or, have worked through a lot of issues but want to take things to the next level and infuse more well-being into their life. I also love working with couples facing challenges related to recovery, communication and/or boundary issues. This is particularly helpful for couples seeking recovery and repair from sexual addiction or betrayal.
(443) 951-3368 View (443) 951-3368
Photo of John Dende, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
John Dende
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21217
People seek me out when they or their family members are in psychological or emotional pain, stress or crisis. Your kids aren't behaving and you want help for them; the career, relationship/marriage is falling apart; you feel depressed and hopeless, or lost; lack confidence, feel angry or someone tells you that you need "anger management"; you might feel shame and humiliation; unfulfilled with your life; dealing with loss and grief; psychological or sexual traumas; phobias and fears. I specialize in treating people who feel "stuck" and want expert help. Let me help.
People seek me out when they or their family members are in psychological or emotional pain, stress or crisis. Your kids aren't behaving and you want help for them; the career, relationship/marriage is falling apart; you feel depressed and hopeless, or lost; lack confidence, feel angry or someone tells you that you need "anger management"; you might feel shame and humiliation; unfulfilled with your life; dealing with loss and grief; psychological or sexual traumas; phobias and fears. I specialize in treating people who feel "stuck" and want expert help. Let me help.
(240) 393-4207 View (240) 393-4207
Photo of Galaxy Hypnosis in Baltimore, MD
Galaxy Hypnosis
CHT, DCI
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
We partner with your subconscious to be in line with your goals for success and achievement.
We work with clients to help them deal with Anger, Anxiety, Self- Confidence, Depression, Fears and Phobias, Smoking Cessation, and Weight Loss. We will explain how hypnosis works and can help you enhance your life using hypnosis to better manage stress over life's challenges and improve your quality of life. We enhance your situational coping skills. We help you retake control of your life, place the past in the past where it belongs, and make positive choices that facilitate the change you want in your life.
We partner with your subconscious to be in line with your goals for success and achievement.
We work with clients to help them deal with Anger, Anxiety, Self- Confidence, Depression, Fears and Phobias, Smoking Cessation, and Weight Loss. We will explain how hypnosis works and can help you enhance your life using hypnosis to better manage stress over life's challenges and improve your quality of life. We enhance your situational coping skills. We help you retake control of your life, place the past in the past where it belongs, and make positive choices that facilitate the change you want in your life.
(301) 259-3729 View (301) 259-3729
Photo of Samuel Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Samuel Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Now accepting new clients... Are you experiencing negative emotions, intrusive thoughts, difficulty managing your mood, or struggling with building or maintaining meaningful relationships? Then my friend you have taken the first step on your journey of internal reflection and growth. Therapy can be a wonderful safe haven which provides the freedom to explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals, couples, and families to achieve their goals and provide much needed support to create lasting change to your life.
Now accepting new clients... Are you experiencing negative emotions, intrusive thoughts, difficulty managing your mood, or struggling with building or maintaining meaningful relationships? Then my friend you have taken the first step on your journey of internal reflection and growth. Therapy can be a wonderful safe haven which provides the freedom to explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals, couples, and families to achieve their goals and provide much needed support to create lasting change to your life.
(443) 671-1534 View (443) 671-1534
Photo of PsychCare Psychological Services LLC, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
PsychCare Psychological Services LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
At PsychCare, our staff has successfully helped many individuals and couples resolve a wide variety of personal concerns both through psychotherapy and psychological and educational evaluations. The staff at PsychCare in Baltimore, MD, brings decades of experience in specialized areas of treatment and assessment, such as couples counseling, alcohol abuse treatment, and psychological evaluations and forensic psychological services.
At PsychCare, our staff has successfully helped many individuals and couples resolve a wide variety of personal concerns both through psychotherapy and psychological and educational evaluations. The staff at PsychCare in Baltimore, MD, brings decades of experience in specialized areas of treatment and assessment, such as couples counseling, alcohol abuse treatment, and psychological evaluations and forensic psychological services.
(410) 505-8244 View (410) 505-8244
Photo of Andrew L Martin, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Andrew L Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
I specialize in sex addiction, compulsive pornography, trauma, LGBTQ issues, veterans and active military, athletic/performance problems, couples issues, spiritual integration, and various conditions.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New Jersey, Ohio, Maryland, and Virginia. Over the past 20 years I have worked collaboratively with clients on a wide range of issues, and am comfortable utilizing a variety of techniques designed to help empower my clients and establish a greater sense of integrity within their lives. My training in psychotherapy has been influenced by a wide variety of philosophies and theories, and I am skilled in helping clients become more aware of deeper connections to their problems, whether it be in their relationships with others or in their relationship with themselves.
I specialize in sex addiction, compulsive pornography, trauma, LGBTQ issues, veterans and active military, athletic/performance problems, couples issues, spiritual integration, and various conditions.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New Jersey, Ohio, Maryland, and Virginia. Over the past 20 years I have worked collaboratively with clients on a wide range of issues, and am comfortable utilizing a variety of techniques designed to help empower my clients and establish a greater sense of integrity within their lives. My training in psychotherapy has been influenced by a wide variety of philosophies and theories, and I am skilled in helping clients become more aware of deeper connections to their problems, whether it be in their relationships with others or in their relationship with themselves.
(703) 595-2868 View (703) 595-2868
Photo of Rogue River Counseling and Recovery Group, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Rogue River Counseling and Recovery Group
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21228
We at Rogue River Counseling specialize in working with individuals and couples who have found themselves deeply suffering due to sex addiction, infidelity, betrayal or compulsive sexual behaviors and want to find a way to heal not only their own pain but to heal those relationships that have been destroyed.
Infidelity, Sex addiction, Compulsive Porn use and other compulsive sexual behaviors can wreak havoc on ones own life, and leave a wake of pain, betrayal and trauma in the lives of those who are connected with them. If you are a man or woman who relates to this chaos, we are very aware of the shame, pain and confusion you may be feeling. If you are the partner, wife or family member of this individual, we understand the betrayal, trauma, confusion, anger, despair that may be how you are feeling.
We at Rogue River Counseling specialize in working with individuals and couples who have found themselves deeply suffering due to sex addiction, infidelity, betrayal or compulsive sexual behaviors and want to find a way to heal not only their own pain but to heal those relationships that have been destroyed.
Infidelity, Sex addiction, Compulsive Porn use and other compulsive sexual behaviors can wreak havoc on ones own life, and leave a wake of pain, betrayal and trauma in the lives of those who are connected with them. If you are a man or woman who relates to this chaos, we are very aware of the shame, pain and confusion you may be feeling. If you are the partner, wife or family member of this individual, we understand the betrayal, trauma, confusion, anger, despair that may be how you are feeling.
(410) 421-7371 View (410) 421-7371
Photo of Iris Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Iris Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
As of April 2024, we are not accepting new patients- there is a waitlist for new and/ or returning patients...We offer comprehensive mental health services to residents of Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and surrounding areas. Our therapist's philosophy is to treat individuals and families as a whole, by taking into account their environment, personal strengths and community supports. The goal is to: enhance mental health wellness, promote positive change, and achieve a higher level of functioning.
As of April 2024, we are not accepting new patients- there is a waitlist for new and/ or returning patients...We offer comprehensive mental health services to residents of Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and surrounding areas. Our therapist's philosophy is to treat individuals and families as a whole, by taking into account their environment, personal strengths and community supports. The goal is to: enhance mental health wellness, promote positive change, and achieve a higher level of functioning.
(410) 623-3893 View (410) 623-3893
Photo of Carr Cares Therapeutic Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Carr Cares Therapeutic Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214
Are you looking for a safe space to express your thoughts? One of my best qualities is actively listening and helping clients process without judgment. I've worked in the mental health field since 2011. I have a unique way of making people feel comfortable and building rapport. I am highly motivated and persistent. Mature, calm and emotionally stable, I am most often praised for my listening, observation skills, and empathy.
Are you looking for a safe space to express your thoughts? One of my best qualities is actively listening and helping clients process without judgment. I've worked in the mental health field since 2011. I have a unique way of making people feel comfortable and building rapport. I am highly motivated and persistent. Mature, calm and emotionally stable, I am most often praised for my listening, observation skills, and empathy.
(410) 846-6072 View (410) 846-6072
Photo of Aaron Schneider, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Aaron Schneider
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21208
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD and spirituality. I also specialize in working with families in conflict and crisis. I work with people of all backgrounds and have a particular passion for supporting those who are struggling with their Judaism and Jewish identity. Mindfulness-based body-centered psychotherapy is my primary approach to psychotherapy. I sprinkle in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as appropriate. Upon request, I also enjoy integrating spirituality based on your value system. I am a holistic psychotherapist and do not push medication; instead I support my clients in using psychotherapy and integrative medical physicians to heal.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD and spirituality. I also specialize in working with families in conflict and crisis. I work with people of all backgrounds and have a particular passion for supporting those who are struggling with their Judaism and Jewish identity. Mindfulness-based body-centered psychotherapy is my primary approach to psychotherapy. I sprinkle in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as appropriate. Upon request, I also enjoy integrating spirituality based on your value system. I am a holistic psychotherapist and do not push medication; instead I support my clients in using psychotherapy and integrative medical physicians to heal.
(720) 310-2861 View (720) 310-2861
Photo of Dr Brian J Hall, PhD Therapy Associates , Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Dr Brian J Hall, PhD Therapy Associates 
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, work stress, and trauma, I offer empathetic support tailored to individual needs. Through evidence-based techniques and a nonjudgmental approach, I empower clients to navigate challenges, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. With convenient online sessions, I aim to break down barriers to mental health care, providing accessible and effective support for a more fulfilling life.
As a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, work stress, and trauma, I offer empathetic support tailored to individual needs. Through evidence-based techniques and a nonjudgmental approach, I empower clients to navigate challenges, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. With convenient online sessions, I aim to break down barriers to mental health care, providing accessible and effective support for a more fulfilling life.
(443) 339-9417 View (443) 339-9417
Photo of Jeremy Brenneman, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Jeremy Brenneman
Counselor, LCPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Are you a human who struggles with life? Do you find yourself "going through the motions"? Do you feel like you're constantly in survival mode, going from one crisis to the next? Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed or increasingly alone? Does your mind race at night, does it replay all of your mistakes? We all struggle with these kinds of thoughts/feelings because of how our mind works. Imagine if you didn't have to struggle and you were engaged in your life in more meaningful ways. You can become more active and engaged in your life and be who you truly want to be. You can LIVE more and struggle less.
Are you a human who struggles with life? Do you find yourself "going through the motions"? Do you feel like you're constantly in survival mode, going from one crisis to the next? Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed or increasingly alone? Does your mind race at night, does it replay all of your mistakes? We all struggle with these kinds of thoughts/feelings because of how our mind works. Imagine if you didn't have to struggle and you were engaged in your life in more meaningful ways. You can become more active and engaged in your life and be who you truly want to be. You can LIVE more and struggle less.
(240) 226-3287 View (240) 226-3287
Photo of Ernestine Stewart, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Ernestine Stewart
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
Are you a caretaker experiencing depression, stress or resentment towards your loved one? Have you been actively using substances or had a recent slip in use after years of being in recovery? Do you find yourself engaging in emotional eating or caloric restriction? Are you in need of emotional support after terminating a pregnancy? Has something occurred that caused you to start anew? Do you need a supportive ear that will listen and allow you to express your thoughts and feelings? Are you seeking skills to help you cope with everyday issues? Asking for help can be scary, but trying to go it alone can be even scarier.
Are you a caretaker experiencing depression, stress or resentment towards your loved one? Have you been actively using substances or had a recent slip in use after years of being in recovery? Do you find yourself engaging in emotional eating or caloric restriction? Are you in need of emotional support after terminating a pregnancy? Has something occurred that caused you to start anew? Do you need a supportive ear that will listen and allow you to express your thoughts and feelings? Are you seeking skills to help you cope with everyday issues? Asking for help can be scary, but trying to go it alone can be even scarier.
(336) 585-7091 View (336) 585-7091

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.