Photo of Octavia Carlos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
Octavia Carlos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD, LLC
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
If you want to have peace of mind when situations around you are stressing you out, call me and WE can determine how I can best help you and your situation. As a Psychiatric Social Worker my services are geared to help adults manage the circumstances adversely affecting them. For many, short term or brief therapy is sufficient. I treat people exhibiting problems with stress, marital problems, gay/lesbian relationships, Incest, and I also provide pre-marital counseling. My pre-marital sessions are 6 to 10 sessions to help prepare you for a lifetime with your new partner. I also provide grief/loss counseling.
If you want to have peace of mind when situations around you are stressing you out, call me and WE can determine how I can best help you and your situation. As a Psychiatric Social Worker my services are geared to help adults manage the circumstances adversely affecting them. For many, short term or brief therapy is sufficient. I treat people exhibiting problems with stress, marital problems, gay/lesbian relationships, Incest, and I also provide pre-marital counseling. My pre-marital sessions are 6 to 10 sessions to help prepare you for a lifetime with your new partner. I also provide grief/loss counseling.
(301) 852-6163 View (301) 852-6163
Photo of Teresa M Trabue, Psychologist in Largo, MD
Teresa M Trabue
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
Clients present with a variety of troubling thoughts and feelings perceived as depression, anxiety, relationship stress, marital discord, parenting stress, or communication struggles.
Clients present with a variety of troubling thoughts and feelings perceived as depression, anxiety, relationship stress, marital discord, parenting stress, or communication struggles.
(301) 284-3944 View (301) 284-3944
Photo of Minds In Motion Therapeutic Services LLC, Counselor in Largo, MD
Minds In Motion Therapeutic Services LLC
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor licensed through the state of Maryland. My specialization is working with young adults and adults that are currently experiencing peer relationship issues, stress, depression and/or anxiety. I provide a client-centered approach while utilizing Adlerian Theory and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modalities. As an EMDR Informed therapist, I utilize Adlerian and CBT approach, we will discuss how childhood situations and interactions have formed who you are today. Through our sessions we will work to create better thinking that involves the
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor licensed through the state of Maryland. My specialization is working with young adults and adults that are currently experiencing peer relationship issues, stress, depression and/or anxiety. I provide a client-centered approach while utilizing Adlerian Theory and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modalities. As an EMDR Informed therapist, I utilize Adlerian and CBT approach, we will discuss how childhood situations and interactions have formed who you are today. Through our sessions we will work to create better thinking that involves the
(443) 234-9127 View (443) 234-9127
Photo of Pathways 2 New Beginnings, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
Pathways 2 New Beginnings, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
I have a niche for helping clients and couples through the most difficult times in their lives and ensuring they feel supported along the process.
Welcome to Pathways 2 New Beginnings. My practice is specialized for individuals and couples who need support with coping skills, communication, life stressors, anxiety, and possibly a new direction in life. During our sessions, I will use a combination of CBT and SFBT, which focuses on a person's present and future circumstances and uses their strengths to work through presenting problems. During our initial session, I will help you develop a vision of your future and offer support as we determine the skills, solutions, resources, and abilities you need to achieve that vision successfully and resolve your presenting problem.
I have a niche for helping clients and couples through the most difficult times in their lives and ensuring they feel supported along the process.
Welcome to Pathways 2 New Beginnings. My practice is specialized for individuals and couples who need support with coping skills, communication, life stressors, anxiety, and possibly a new direction in life. During our sessions, I will use a combination of CBT and SFBT, which focuses on a person's present and future circumstances and uses their strengths to work through presenting problems. During our initial session, I will help you develop a vision of your future and offer support as we determine the skills, solutions, resources, and abilities you need to achieve that vision successfully and resolve your presenting problem.
(240) 624-9055 View (240) 624-9055
Photo of Jacquean L. Kosh, Counselor in Largo, MD
Jacquean L. Kosh
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical experience includes couples counseling & working through relationship challenges, managing emotions stemming from living with chronic illnesses, understanding purpose and meaning for life, and spirituality.
I am very passionate about providing clients the ability to speak their truth in a non-judgemental environment. Many times in life, a person's concerns are unheard, not valued, or not addressed which can cause frustration, distress, unhappiness, and hopelessness. What I hope to offer you is, not only a listening ear, but also someone to collaborate with you on your journey to wellness and happiness, whatever that looks like for you. I encourage clients to help me help them find the light at the end of the tunnel and see the rainbow after the rain.
My clinical experience includes couples counseling & working through relationship challenges, managing emotions stemming from living with chronic illnesses, understanding purpose and meaning for life, and spirituality.
I am very passionate about providing clients the ability to speak their truth in a non-judgemental environment. Many times in life, a person's concerns are unheard, not valued, or not addressed which can cause frustration, distress, unhappiness, and hopelessness. What I hope to offer you is, not only a listening ear, but also someone to collaborate with you on your journey to wellness and happiness, whatever that looks like for you. I encourage clients to help me help them find the light at the end of the tunnel and see the rainbow after the rain.
(301) 228-0045 View (301) 228-0045
Photo of Peaceful Mind, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Largo, MD
Peaceful Mind, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
Utilizing an integrative approach is essential when I’m helping individuals, couples and families navigate through their obstacles in life. My goal is to provide a safe, judgement free space while partnering with my clients to address a wide range of challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, trauma healing and family/martial/relationship issues. Through our work together, you will gain an understanding of your strengths which will empower you to come up with resolutions and solutions. Making the first step to reach out to a Therapist can be intimidating but if you take the first step, we can go through the journey together.
Utilizing an integrative approach is essential when I’m helping individuals, couples and families navigate through their obstacles in life. My goal is to provide a safe, judgement free space while partnering with my clients to address a wide range of challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, trauma healing and family/martial/relationship issues. Through our work together, you will gain an understanding of your strengths which will empower you to come up with resolutions and solutions. Making the first step to reach out to a Therapist can be intimidating but if you take the first step, we can go through the journey together.
(240) 650-8848 View (240) 650-8848
Photo of Ongisa Ichile-McKenzie, Pre-Licensed Professional in Largo, MD
Ongisa Ichile-McKenzie
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Your relationship with other things, such as work, school, money, food, shopping, and your body competes for your attention.
I’m Ongisa, a Couple and Family Therapist with a specialty in human communication. I work extensively with individuals and couples. I often find that communication breakdowns are at the center of unhappy relationships. Poor communication can leave partners feeling unsafe, misunderstood, and exhausted. If you’re currently experiencing distress or a disconnect in a relationship that genuinely matters to you, then I’m your person.
Your relationship with other things, such as work, school, money, food, shopping, and your body competes for your attention.
I’m Ongisa, a Couple and Family Therapist with a specialty in human communication. I work extensively with individuals and couples. I often find that communication breakdowns are at the center of unhappy relationships. Poor communication can leave partners feeling unsafe, misunderstood, and exhausted. If you’re currently experiencing distress or a disconnect in a relationship that genuinely matters to you, then I’m your person.
(240) 798-3871 View (240) 798-3871
Photo of Sonja Williams and Associates, LCMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist in Largo, MD
Sonja Williams and Associates, LCMFT, MDiv
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
You CAN change your circumstances with a little motivation and the right help. I work with individuals, adolescents, couples and families who are looking to transform their quality of life and connections with others. My clients find new approaches to old problems and reclaim a sense of joy, dignity and vitality in their lives. Before opening my practice, I was a psychiatric therapist at Johns Hopkins Hopsital. I currently teach couples therapy at John Hopkins University. I am trained to help with depression, anxiety, rebuilding relationships, life transitions, separation/divorce, parenting challenges and more. Don't delay new life. Start today!
You CAN change your circumstances with a little motivation and the right help. I work with individuals, adolescents, couples and families who are looking to transform their quality of life and connections with others. My clients find new approaches to old problems and reclaim a sense of joy, dignity and vitality in their lives. Before opening my practice, I was a psychiatric therapist at Johns Hopkins Hopsital. I currently teach couples therapy at John Hopkins University. I am trained to help with depression, anxiety, rebuilding relationships, life transitions, separation/divorce, parenting challenges and more. Don't delay new life. Start today!
(301) 852-5666 View (301) 852-5666
Photo of Porscher Charles, Counselor in Largo, MD
Porscher Charles
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, or life transitions, demonstrating a sincere desire for positive change? Placing value on therapeutic relationship as a safe and empathetic space, I recognize the importance of collaborating in helping you navigate challenges but also a deeper understanding of yourself and patterns.
Are you grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, or life transitions, demonstrating a sincere desire for positive change? Placing value on therapeutic relationship as a safe and empathetic space, I recognize the importance of collaborating in helping you navigate challenges but also a deeper understanding of yourself and patterns.
(240) 852-2127 View (240) 852-2127
Photo of Veronica Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
Veronica Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSWC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
Looking for purpose? Trying to understand life? Hard transition from or to the league? Questioning God? At the end of your rope? I may not have the answers but I can help you process your questions, your thoughts, and your situations. I'm here to team with you through this journey. I can partner with you and provide the needed support through life transitions, self-exploration, and self-development. Whether you are someone who is looking to understand their thoughts and behaviors, a couple looking to improve their relationship, or an athlete looking for an unbiased listening ear, I'm the therapist for you.
Looking for purpose? Trying to understand life? Hard transition from or to the league? Questioning God? At the end of your rope? I may not have the answers but I can help you process your questions, your thoughts, and your situations. I'm here to team with you through this journey. I can partner with you and provide the needed support through life transitions, self-exploration, and self-development. Whether you are someone who is looking to understand their thoughts and behaviors, a couple looking to improve their relationship, or an athlete looking for an unbiased listening ear, I'm the therapist for you.
(240) 436-3671 View (240) 436-3671
Photo of The Bee Network, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
The Bee Network
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DPA, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
The Bee Network is a group mental health practice dedicated to expanding access to mental health care to people of color. As a team of Black clinicians, we provide safe spaces to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). We specialize in all things relationships, trauma and grief. This can include a client’s partner, family, close friends, acquaintances, co-workers, and many others who make up the social connections in their life. Our goal is to help our clients improve their relationships in order to alleviate any stress, anxiety or depression; and heal past traumas.
The Bee Network is a group mental health practice dedicated to expanding access to mental health care to people of color. As a team of Black clinicians, we provide safe spaces to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). We specialize in all things relationships, trauma and grief. This can include a client’s partner, family, close friends, acquaintances, co-workers, and many others who make up the social connections in their life. Our goal is to help our clients improve their relationships in order to alleviate any stress, anxiety or depression; and heal past traumas.
(240) 851-3162 View (240) 851-3162
Photo of Tariiq Omari Walton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Largo, MD
Tariiq Omari Walton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
I specialize in providing couples with the tools: to form better communication habits; to create a collaborative atmosphere designed to enhance problem solving skills; and to build and strengthen four significant areas of intimacy - physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.
The ancient adage, "It Takes A Village...", applies to more than just raising children. We are not always meant to do things on our own. Sometimes, we need the insight of others to help us along our collective paths. I would like to be a part of your village. I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) and the proprietor of iNisight Marriage & Family Therapists, LLC, private mental health practice, currently with an offices in downtown Silver Spring, MD and Largo, MD.
I specialize in providing couples with the tools: to form better communication habits; to create a collaborative atmosphere designed to enhance problem solving skills; and to build and strengthen four significant areas of intimacy - physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.
The ancient adage, "It Takes A Village...", applies to more than just raising children. We are not always meant to do things on our own. Sometimes, we need the insight of others to help us along our collective paths. I would like to be a part of your village. I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) and the proprietor of iNisight Marriage & Family Therapists, LLC, private mental health practice, currently with an offices in downtown Silver Spring, MD and Largo, MD.
(240) 392-6220 View (240) 392-6220
Photo of Restoration Center, Inc, Psychological Associate in Largo, MD
Restoration Center, Inc
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
provides individual, group, couples, family, marital, and pre-marital counseling, as well as psychological testing by licensed mental health counselors and supervised mental health interns.
At the Restoration Center, Inc., you can expect to find competent, caring, and professional therapists who will listen without judgment in a nurturing atmosphere. Our goal is to inspire hope and healing as well as provide a place for support and understanding where you can feel safe and at ease. We will partner with you as you discover new possibilities and learn new ways to accomplish your goals and enhance your life.
provides individual, group, couples, family, marital, and pre-marital counseling, as well as psychological testing by licensed mental health counselors and supervised mental health interns.
At the Restoration Center, Inc., you can expect to find competent, caring, and professional therapists who will listen without judgment in a nurturing atmosphere. Our goal is to inspire hope and healing as well as provide a place for support and understanding where you can feel safe and at ease. We will partner with you as you discover new possibilities and learn new ways to accomplish your goals and enhance your life.
(301) 304-1061 View (301) 304-1061
Photo of Michael A. Barnette, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Largo, MD
Michael A. Barnette
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples to reconnect with themselves or their partners.
Are you currently struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Have you been carrying a heavy emotional weight on your shoulders that you just can't get rid of? No matter the circumstances, you do not have to go through them alone. When clients can reframe their current way of thinking, they can begin to feel better and perform better in their everyday lives. Therapy can help to unload and process difficult emotions while developing tools and providing the support needed to assist you to move toward the person you have the potential to become.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples to reconnect with themselves or their partners.
Are you currently struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Have you been carrying a heavy emotional weight on your shoulders that you just can't get rid of? No matter the circumstances, you do not have to go through them alone. When clients can reframe their current way of thinking, they can begin to feel better and perform better in their everyday lives. Therapy can help to unload and process difficult emotions while developing tools and providing the support needed to assist you to move toward the person you have the potential to become.
(240) 641-0564 View (240) 641-0564
Photo of Sonja Williams And Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in Largo, MD
Sonja Williams And Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
I taught Couples Therapy as well as Marriage and Family Therapy at Johns Hopkins University, and served as Psychiatric Therapist at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Are you feeling stuck in a painful situation and worried that things wont get better? Are negative patterns repeating in your life and relationships? Well, you're not alone. With the right help, you can turn things around. I am the Director of Sonja Williams and Associates. For over 20 years, I have been helping people overcome impossible situations and heal broken relationships. Our team provides therapy, coaching, and Christian Counseling to individuals, couples, youth, and families. Visit us in Silver Spring (across from Metro), Largo (across from Metro), or in our Olney-Clarksville location. Parking is free. Your tomorrow can begin today!
I taught Couples Therapy as well as Marriage and Family Therapy at Johns Hopkins University, and served as Psychiatric Therapist at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Are you feeling stuck in a painful situation and worried that things wont get better? Are negative patterns repeating in your life and relationships? Well, you're not alone. With the right help, you can turn things around. I am the Director of Sonja Williams and Associates. For over 20 years, I have been helping people overcome impossible situations and heal broken relationships. Our team provides therapy, coaching, and Christian Counseling to individuals, couples, youth, and families. Visit us in Silver Spring (across from Metro), Largo (across from Metro), or in our Olney-Clarksville location. Parking is free. Your tomorrow can begin today!
(301) 979-7747 View (301) 979-7747
Photo of Marilyn Denise Grayned Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
Marilyn Denise Grayned Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
Marilyn has been a Behavioral Health Specialist since 2002, providing psychotherapy and life coaching to individuals, couples, families and groups dealing with life stressors and/or mental health challenges that include PTSD, mood, psychotic, behavior, anxiety, personality, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Marilyn D. Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW is the founder and President of Ms. and Mr. Little Ones, Incorporated. Marilyn's dedication to empowering individuals can best be acknowledged by her extensive background domestically and abroad. She has dedicated over 20 years assisting individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds using evidence-based practices that have led to healthy and sustainable positive outcomes. Marilyn is a servant to the community and believes paying it forward is the way to empower individuals and families to obtain their highest potential and change social injustice.
Marilyn has been a Behavioral Health Specialist since 2002, providing psychotherapy and life coaching to individuals, couples, families and groups dealing with life stressors and/or mental health challenges that include PTSD, mood, psychotic, behavior, anxiety, personality, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Marilyn D. Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW is the founder and President of Ms. and Mr. Little Ones, Incorporated. Marilyn's dedication to empowering individuals can best be acknowledged by her extensive background domestically and abroad. She has dedicated over 20 years assisting individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds using evidence-based practices that have led to healthy and sustainable positive outcomes. Marilyn is a servant to the community and believes paying it forward is the way to empower individuals and families to obtain their highest potential and change social injustice.
(240) 249-8699 View (240) 249-8699
Photo of My Empowering Impact, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
My Empowering Impact
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774
Life can get the best of anyone, at anytime, and in those times support is necessary. Looking for the bright side in dark situations can be difficult, however, learning to manage helps to create resilience. From Faith Based/ Christian Counseling, Children & Families, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Spirituality, Gerontology, Couples/Marital Counseling, to Spanish Speaking Psychotherapy - My Empowering Impact’s Diverse Therapist are here to help you. Call Us, Email Us or Visit Us online to Schedule Your Appointment TODAY ! Your Mental Health is Your Wealth !!!!!
Life can get the best of anyone, at anytime, and in those times support is necessary. Looking for the bright side in dark situations can be difficult, however, learning to manage helps to create resilience. From Faith Based/ Christian Counseling, Children & Families, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Spirituality, Gerontology, Couples/Marital Counseling, to Spanish Speaking Psychotherapy - My Empowering Impact’s Diverse Therapist are here to help you. Call Us, Email Us or Visit Us online to Schedule Your Appointment TODAY ! Your Mental Health is Your Wealth !!!!!
(301) 383-9561 View (301) 383-9561
Photo of Tiphanie Gibbs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Largo, MD
Tiphanie Gibbs
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), I have a strong commitment to strengthen couples’ connections, helping partners open up with each other, & build/rebuild or revive their relationship bond.
Relationships are hard work and can be tough to navigate through. Just like our bodies, our relationships require regular maintenance to keep them running well. When life brings about unexpected challenges, it is best to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further complications in the long run. Oftentimes we can do general maintenance and repairs ourselves. Other times, despite our best efforts, we need someone to look at our relationships, listen to us and help us make the best decisions. I am committed to helping you gain insight into your relationships, resolve conflict and improve your relationship satisfaction.
Trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), I have a strong commitment to strengthen couples’ connections, helping partners open up with each other, & build/rebuild or revive their relationship bond.
Relationships are hard work and can be tough to navigate through. Just like our bodies, our relationships require regular maintenance to keep them running well. When life brings about unexpected challenges, it is best to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further complications in the long run. Oftentimes we can do general maintenance and repairs ourselves. Other times, despite our best efforts, we need someone to look at our relationships, listen to us and help us make the best decisions. I am committed to helping you gain insight into your relationships, resolve conflict and improve your relationship satisfaction.
(301) 265-2778 View (301) 265-2778
Photo of Esther O Popoola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Largo, MD
Esther O Popoola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCADC, LMSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774
If you're a man or woman feeling stuck, grappling with relationship issues, or facing challenges related to substance use, you're in the right place. I specialize in providing support and guidance tailored to your unique journey. Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, be it with a partner, family member, or yourself? I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and address issues such as communication, attachment concerns, or navigating through significant life changes like divorce or infidelity. For those dealing with substance use issues and DOT violations, I bring a wealth of experience and understanding.
If you're a man or woman feeling stuck, grappling with relationship issues, or facing challenges related to substance use, you're in the right place. I specialize in providing support and guidance tailored to your unique journey. Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, be it with a partner, family member, or yourself? I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and address issues such as communication, attachment concerns, or navigating through significant life changes like divorce or infidelity. For those dealing with substance use issues and DOT violations, I bring a wealth of experience and understanding.
(240) 202-2289 View (240) 202-2289
Photo of Mechelle Armstead, Counselor in Largo, MD
Mechelle Armstead
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Are you facing a challenge/hurdle that is hindering your career goals, affecting relationships, or your general ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or a recent event that has occurred in your life? Are you at a transitional point in your life or in your career? If so, I would love to work with you, assist you in building self-confidence, in processing the root cause of the challenge, and in making your way to the other side where success awaits you!
Are you facing a challenge/hurdle that is hindering your career goals, affecting relationships, or your general ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or a recent event that has occurred in your life? Are you at a transitional point in your life or in your career? If so, I would love to work with you, assist you in building self-confidence, in processing the root cause of the challenge, and in making your way to the other side where success awaits you!
(240) 616-4793 View (240) 616-4793
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.