Couples Counseling Therapists in Waynesville, NC

Photo of Lynn P Burrough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waynesville, NC
Lynn P Burrough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Most patients come to me suffering with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger, and loneliness.
My ideal client is one who is interested in finding happiness in love, work and community. My reward during my 30 years in practice is to experience, with individuals and couples, their growth towards these goals. Years in private practice and a major medical setting in New York have given me a broad background in helping people cope with the many challenges life hands them and to help them regain their feelings of hope. Additional focus is placed on life transitions including divorce, retirement, and bereavement. Additionally, I offer guidance in helping your children and teens navigate those challenging years.
Most patients come to me suffering with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger, and loneliness.
My ideal client is one who is interested in finding happiness in love, work and community. My reward during my 30 years in practice is to experience, with individuals and couples, their growth towards these goals. Years in private practice and a major medical setting in New York have given me a broad background in helping people cope with the many challenges life hands them and to help them regain their feelings of hope. Additional focus is placed on life transitions including divorce, retirement, and bereavement. Additionally, I offer guidance in helping your children and teens navigate those challenging years.
(828) 627-8744 View (828) 627-8744
Photo of Ian D Meeks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Ian D Meeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
I can help couples work on improving communication and sustainability in their relationships, I can help children and adults improve anger management or cope with other uncomfortable emotions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician with a Master’s in School Counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University. I use person-centered therapy, reality therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am rostered in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidenced-based practice that aids individuals in recovering from and understanding traumatic events in their lifetime. I believe we all need support in various ways, & a systemic approach via our families or other outside members is key to our success.
I can help couples work on improving communication and sustainability in their relationships, I can help children and adults improve anger management or cope with other uncomfortable emotions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician with a Master’s in School Counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University. I use person-centered therapy, reality therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am rostered in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidenced-based practice that aids individuals in recovering from and understanding traumatic events in their lifetime. I believe we all need support in various ways, & a systemic approach via our families or other outside members is key to our success.
(828) 624-2864 View (828) 624-2864
Photo of Leslie Y Badalucca, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Leslie Y Badalucca
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
...Life often involves challenges effecting the journey toward personal and professional objectives. There are times when it is only the support of genuine listening, empathy, and guidance that desired outcomes are achieved. Whether you are trying to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence, relationship challenges, communication skills, impulse control concerns, life-transition issues (e.g., military/vet, divorce, job loss, retirement), trauma, grief, physical/sexual abuse, or other life challenges. Life is difficult and requires growth and change that are not always easy or comfortable.
...Life often involves challenges effecting the journey toward personal and professional objectives. There are times when it is only the support of genuine listening, empathy, and guidance that desired outcomes are achieved. Whether you are trying to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence, relationship challenges, communication skills, impulse control concerns, life-transition issues (e.g., military/vet, divorce, job loss, retirement), trauma, grief, physical/sexual abuse, or other life challenges. Life is difficult and requires growth and change that are not always easy or comfortable.
(828) 268-3822 View (828) 268-3822
Photo of Lynne Finger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waynesville, NC
Lynne Finger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PA
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
You have the ability to reinvent yourself, endlessly. It isn't too late. Your life is here and now. If you have found yourself at this site, you must be going through something pretty tough and are looking for a solution. Perhaps you are feeling lost and uncertain, and don't know where to begin. Whether it be a relationship issue or a personal struggle, the strain of it all can be overwhelming and can cause a mix of emotions...loneliness, sadness, grief, anger, anxiety, depression. It may feel as if your life is spiraling out of control. All you want is to find peace, happiness, and to change your current situation.
You have the ability to reinvent yourself, endlessly. It isn't too late. Your life is here and now. If you have found yourself at this site, you must be going through something pretty tough and are looking for a solution. Perhaps you are feeling lost and uncertain, and don't know where to begin. Whether it be a relationship issue or a personal struggle, the strain of it all can be overwhelming and can cause a mix of emotions...loneliness, sadness, grief, anger, anxiety, depression. It may feel as if your life is spiraling out of control. All you want is to find peace, happiness, and to change your current situation.
(828) 539-4538 View (828) 539-4538
Photo of Margaret Huss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Margaret Huss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
I have experience in several areas including: Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Education/Occupation stress, Grief and Loss, Anxiety/Depression, Trauma, Family conflict, and Changing Life Roles.
Life transitions are a part of our journey and, while some are rewarding, some are a challenge. Whether you are struggling with something personally or professionally, you could benefit from working with a therapist who understands and can help guide you through the work to initiate change in your life. My approach is holistic, honest, and interactive with a little humor thrown in when needed. Clients appreciate my authenticity and ability to “be real” with them regarding how best to tackle current issues and concerns. I encourage my clients to start with small steps and move toward what speaks to their heart and their values.
I have experience in several areas including: Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Education/Occupation stress, Grief and Loss, Anxiety/Depression, Trauma, Family conflict, and Changing Life Roles.
Life transitions are a part of our journey and, while some are rewarding, some are a challenge. Whether you are struggling with something personally or professionally, you could benefit from working with a therapist who understands and can help guide you through the work to initiate change in your life. My approach is holistic, honest, and interactive with a little humor thrown in when needed. Clients appreciate my authenticity and ability to “be real” with them regarding how best to tackle current issues and concerns. I encourage my clients to start with small steps and move toward what speaks to their heart and their values.
(828) 554-7720 View (828) 554-7720
Photo of Katherine Sloan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Waynesville, NC
Katherine Sloan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
I am also a musician, a mother, and a partner who enjoys hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and traveling to remote beaches.
Taking new clients and supervisees. I am a LCMHCS (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor) who specializes in providing counseling to adults. During therapy sessions, I pull from trauma-informed approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness-based stress reduction to empower clients to embrace authentic self-expression and increase their feelings of self-worth and well-being. I also specialize in treating ADHD in adults. I am also a Licensed Supervisor with experience supervising interns. I have 20 years of counseling experience.
I am also a musician, a mother, and a partner who enjoys hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and traveling to remote beaches.
Taking new clients and supervisees. I am a LCMHCS (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor) who specializes in providing counseling to adults. During therapy sessions, I pull from trauma-informed approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness-based stress reduction to empower clients to embrace authentic self-expression and increase their feelings of self-worth and well-being. I also specialize in treating ADHD in adults. I am also a Licensed Supervisor with experience supervising interns. I have 20 years of counseling experience.
(828) 471-9905 View (828) 471-9905
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waynesville, NC
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, LFBPC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Deborah Barnett, Psychologist in Waynesville, NC
Deborah Barnett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786  (Online Only)
Welcome! Psychologists in my practice are accepting new clients! You are creative, live life consciously, and have enjoyed success in many areas of life. You juggle your career, family, and friends. But it's not easy, is it? In fact, it's impossible when you feel stressed out and the imbalance is contributing to anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing. I'll help you find more balance and experience greater joy and harmony in your life. For couples, I will help you feel more deeply respected and honored by one another. Together, we'll reduce the conflict and tension in your relationship and bring back the fun and romance.
Welcome! Psychologists in my practice are accepting new clients! You are creative, live life consciously, and have enjoyed success in many areas of life. You juggle your career, family, and friends. But it's not easy, is it? In fact, it's impossible when you feel stressed out and the imbalance is contributing to anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing. I'll help you find more balance and experience greater joy and harmony in your life. For couples, I will help you feel more deeply respected and honored by one another. Together, we'll reduce the conflict and tension in your relationship and bring back the fun and romance.
(828) 649-6071 View (828) 649-6071
Photo of Asheville Marriage Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waynesville, NC
Asheville Marriage Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
For the past 15 years I've worked exclusively assisting couples in understanding and correcting missteps in their marriage or primary relationship - and helping them to discover how to establish rich, fulfilling, and solid connections and communication. If your marriage isn't feeling as stable as you'd like, you're likely experiencing some heartache, worry, or some resentment. Having intense emotions in this situation is certainly normal, but they also make effective communication even more difficult... right when it's most needed. Using the expertise of a couples counselor in these times can be a very worthwhile investment.
For the past 15 years I've worked exclusively assisting couples in understanding and correcting missteps in their marriage or primary relationship - and helping them to discover how to establish rich, fulfilling, and solid connections and communication. If your marriage isn't feeling as stable as you'd like, you're likely experiencing some heartache, worry, or some resentment. Having intense emotions in this situation is certainly normal, but they also make effective communication even more difficult... right when it's most needed. Using the expertise of a couples counselor in these times can be a very worthwhile investment.
(828) 686-9601 View (828) 686-9601
Photo of Jillian Vandegrift, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Jillian Vandegrift
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
Waitlist for new clients
I lean into warm, well-researched approaches to therapy that focus on emotion and relationship as agents of change.
You really want to talk about it. You don’t! It’s too painful. Or maybe you don’t even know what you feel or what to say. Feeling alone there hurts. Bringing others into what you struggle with most can make you feel worse. It’s hard to not believe something is really wrong, if not with you, then with others. A sense of feeling trapped in this bind, especially as a couple or as a person with trauma, can lead to feelings of hopelessness. Why is it so hard to just to connect?
I lean into warm, well-researched approaches to therapy that focus on emotion and relationship as agents of change.
You really want to talk about it. You don’t! It’s too painful. Or maybe you don’t even know what you feel or what to say. Feeling alone there hurts. Bringing others into what you struggle with most can make you feel worse. It’s hard to not believe something is really wrong, if not with you, then with others. A sense of feeling trapped in this bind, especially as a couple or as a person with trauma, can lead to feelings of hopelessness. Why is it so hard to just to connect?
(828) 392-6190 View (828) 392-6190
Photo of Aundrea Collebrusco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waynesville, NC
Aundrea Collebrusco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
Welcome to Psychology Today! You've taken a huge step being here today, and I'm sure you're wondering where to begin. My name is Aundrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience providing therapy services. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families with an array of needs such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationship support and specializing in Autism/IDD services.
Welcome to Psychology Today! You've taken a huge step being here today, and I'm sure you're wondering where to begin. My name is Aundrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience providing therapy services. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families with an array of needs such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationship support and specializing in Autism/IDD services.
(828) 330-9633 View (828) 330-9633
Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waynesville, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785  (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Katie L Neiswonger, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Katie L Neiswonger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Now I am fulfilling my dream of private practice, specializing in trauma, depression, and relationship issues.
Sometimes we feel 'stuck.' Sometimes we experience negative emotions which we feel conflict with our values, morals, ideals. Sometimes we feel an emptiness. Like our inner flame...the one which burns inside, pushing us to set & pursue goals, dream, live life with a sense of anticipation...has dimmed, until just an ember. Sometimes our negative life experiences get us caught up in the lies of guilt and shame. Paralyzing us. Keeping us from moving forward. Perhaps it's more than 'just' feelings and emotions. Maybe symptoms of mental illness make life hard. And navigating through life, each day, each moment, feels like tedious work.
Now I am fulfilling my dream of private practice, specializing in trauma, depression, and relationship issues.
Sometimes we feel 'stuck.' Sometimes we experience negative emotions which we feel conflict with our values, morals, ideals. Sometimes we feel an emptiness. Like our inner flame...the one which burns inside, pushing us to set & pursue goals, dream, live life with a sense of anticipation...has dimmed, until just an ember. Sometimes our negative life experiences get us caught up in the lies of guilt and shame. Paralyzing us. Keeping us from moving forward. Perhaps it's more than 'just' feelings and emotions. Maybe symptoms of mental illness make life hard. And navigating through life, each day, each moment, feels like tedious work.
(828) 457-7950 View (828) 457-7950
Photo of Jeanette Fisher, Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Jeanette Fisher
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). As a therapist, one of my main goals is to build a strong connection with my clients based on acceptance, trust, and motivation. I feel this connection is important in order to establish a successful therapeutic relationship. I believe that empowering my clients will help them achieve many goals in many areas of their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). As a therapist, one of my main goals is to build a strong connection with my clients based on acceptance, trust, and motivation. I feel this connection is important in order to establish a successful therapeutic relationship. I believe that empowering my clients will help them achieve many goals in many areas of their lives.
(828) 392-7319 View (828) 392-7319
Photo of Kristin Mamrack, Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Kristin Mamrack
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
As a trained couples counselor, I also can help you create stronger bonds with your partner, become a better listener and communicator, and make necessary repairs to your relationship.
You're worried and irritable, thinking of worst-case scenarios for everything. Are you constantly questioning yourself? Or afraid if you drop your guard, you'll lose control of yourself? You're probably exhausted and worry it will always be like this. You need a change. Constant stress and fear is so overwhelming and can have a chilling effect both on your relationship with others and with yourself. You want to be able to enjoy your life, without worrying about what comes next. You want to let go of the struggle for perfection. You deserve some peace. I can help you get there.
As a trained couples counselor, I also can help you create stronger bonds with your partner, become a better listener and communicator, and make necessary repairs to your relationship.
You're worried and irritable, thinking of worst-case scenarios for everything. Are you constantly questioning yourself? Or afraid if you drop your guard, you'll lose control of yourself? You're probably exhausted and worry it will always be like this. You need a change. Constant stress and fear is so overwhelming and can have a chilling effect both on your relationship with others and with yourself. You want to be able to enjoy your life, without worrying about what comes next. You want to let go of the struggle for perfection. You deserve some peace. I can help you get there.
(828) 301-4110 View (828) 301-4110
Photo of Maria A Averza, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Maria A Averza
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Thanks for taking the time to consider me for potential counseling. You must be experiencing a time of significant distress during this part of your life. I’d like to help if I am a good fit for you! Mental health counseling is an investment in the quality of your life. That’s what we are trained to do, assist persons who can’t seem to find a way out of their suffering and negative circumstances. It offers a combination of human support, professional guidance and evidence-based psychoeducation.
Thanks for taking the time to consider me for potential counseling. You must be experiencing a time of significant distress during this part of your life. I’d like to help if I am a good fit for you! Mental health counseling is an investment in the quality of your life. That’s what we are trained to do, assist persons who can’t seem to find a way out of their suffering and negative circumstances. It offers a combination of human support, professional guidance and evidence-based psychoeducation.
(828) 283-0113 View (828) 283-0113
Photo of Kylie Yacuzzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waynesville, NC
Kylie Yacuzzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
I am best suited for clients who are ready to make some positive changes in their lives to increase their satisfaction. I have a diverse range of clients of all ages. Whether you want to work with overcoming struggles from the past, things happening currently, or anxiety about the future I am able to support you through these challenges. I work alongside of you to ensure that we are prioritizing what issues, needs, and goals that are what you feel is most important. Therapy works best when you are bought into change and sometimes being ready for change is hard. I can help either of these perspectives..
I am best suited for clients who are ready to make some positive changes in their lives to increase their satisfaction. I have a diverse range of clients of all ages. Whether you want to work with overcoming struggles from the past, things happening currently, or anxiety about the future I am able to support you through these challenges. I work alongside of you to ensure that we are prioritizing what issues, needs, and goals that are what you feel is most important. Therapy works best when you are bought into change and sometimes being ready for change is hard. I can help either of these perspectives..
(828) 532-2608 View (828) 532-2608
Photo of Pablo Javier Averza, Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Pablo Javier Averza
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786
Thank you for taking the time to seek counseling. That is a huge step to trigger the change you want in your current situation. Congratulations! As a psychotherapist, I strive to provide a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment where my clients feel heard. I utilize an eclectic approach,  using a variety of tools according to the situation that the client presents.
Thank you for taking the time to seek counseling. That is a huge step to trigger the change you want in your current situation. Congratulations! As a psychotherapist, I strive to provide a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment where my clients feel heard. I utilize an eclectic approach,  using a variety of tools according to the situation that the client presents.
(828) 283-0614 View (828) 283-0614
Photo of Crossroads Life Coaching, Pastoral Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Crossroads Life Coaching
Pastoral Counselor, MACCS, MAPCLC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
All of us can get stuck living in a comfortable default mode. Nothing is wrong, but some things aren't quite right. The support of mental health life coaching helps you to become unstuck and to live more intentionally. You can achieve a clearer picture of your own potential, with all the joy and hope that offers.
All of us can get stuck living in a comfortable default mode. Nothing is wrong, but some things aren't quite right. The support of mental health life coaching helps you to become unstuck and to live more intentionally. You can achieve a clearer picture of your own potential, with all the joy and hope that offers.
(561) 843-3878 View (561) 843-3878
Photo of Michael Fagan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waynesville, NC
Michael Fagan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NBCCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785
Clear, Resolve, Transform. I help clients discover and resolve subconscious causes for emotionaI and behavioral difficulties. The Subconscious controls emotions, desires, memory, habits, thoughts, dreams, and automatic responses. One may consciously understand the value of eliminating problematic emotions, thoughts or behaviors but unless the Subconscious Mind is reached, enduring change is unlikely. I address the underlying subconscious blocks to living a clear and free life. I have effectively treated sexual abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions and more. Issues are cleared, clients report being able to function with more energy and clarity. Relationships thrive and lives are transformed.
Clear, Resolve, Transform. I help clients discover and resolve subconscious causes for emotionaI and behavioral difficulties. The Subconscious controls emotions, desires, memory, habits, thoughts, dreams, and automatic responses. One may consciously understand the value of eliminating problematic emotions, thoughts or behaviors but unless the Subconscious Mind is reached, enduring change is unlikely. I address the underlying subconscious blocks to living a clear and free life. I have effectively treated sexual abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions and more. Issues are cleared, clients report being able to function with more energy and clarity. Relationships thrive and lives are transformed.
(828) 348-4154 View (828) 348-4154

See more therapy options for Waynesville

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.