Photo of Daniel Zykorie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Daniel Zykorie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
Although I specialize in treating trauma, mood, behavior, atypical development, relationships, and educational and parenting challenges in youth and families, college students, couples, and adults also access help.
Supporting and helping struggling children, adolescents, adults, and their families is not just a career choice but a passion for me. Difficulties related to stress, sleep, mood, anxiety, behavior, trauma, socialization, relationships, & education are proactively addressed. You don't need to feel desperate, at your end, hopeless, or helpless. Navigating people through a difficult period toward progress with patience, understanding, compassion, empathy, experience, reassurance, and solutions is my aim. Armed with skills, insight and confidence we will harness your strengths and resiliency to build you toward lasting positive change.
Although I specialize in treating trauma, mood, behavior, atypical development, relationships, and educational and parenting challenges in youth and families, college students, couples, and adults also access help.
Supporting and helping struggling children, adolescents, adults, and their families is not just a career choice but a passion for me. Difficulties related to stress, sleep, mood, anxiety, behavior, trauma, socialization, relationships, & education are proactively addressed. You don't need to feel desperate, at your end, hopeless, or helpless. Navigating people through a difficult period toward progress with patience, understanding, compassion, empathy, experience, reassurance, and solutions is my aim. Armed with skills, insight and confidence we will harness your strengths and resiliency to build you toward lasting positive change.
(732) 820-2545 View (732) 820-2545
Photo of Michael Ecklund, Counselor in Freehold, NJ
Michael Ecklund
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
I use a person-centered approach, a holistic one, to meet you where you are. For instance, what might be the nature of a depression? Each person is a bit different, and so can be the contributing factors. I will build a therapeutic relationship with you, based on trust, non-judgment, and empathy, so that you feel comfortable to take a deep dive within.
I use a person-centered approach, a holistic one, to meet you where you are. For instance, what might be the nature of a depression? Each person is a bit different, and so can be the contributing factors. I will build a therapeutic relationship with you, based on trust, non-judgment, and empathy, so that you feel comfortable to take a deep dive within.
(732) 838-9544 View (732) 838-9544
Photo of Neal Louis Fleischman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Neal Louis Fleischman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
It is always fulfilling to be a partner in your personal growth.
You may be experiencing difficulty in relationships, disappointment or anxiety regarding personal situations or self doubt. It is often helpful to have a third neutral party to share these concerns with. These therapeutic conversations can relieve stress, help clarify thoughts and help develop coping strategies, leading to a more positive outlook. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with forty years of clinical experience and a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I have worked in private practice, clinic and hospital settings including Rutgers University and RWJ/Barnabas.
It is always fulfilling to be a partner in your personal growth.
You may be experiencing difficulty in relationships, disappointment or anxiety regarding personal situations or self doubt. It is often helpful to have a third neutral party to share these concerns with. These therapeutic conversations can relieve stress, help clarify thoughts and help develop coping strategies, leading to a more positive outlook. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with forty years of clinical experience and a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I have worked in private practice, clinic and hospital settings including Rutgers University and RWJ/Barnabas.
(848) 207-2355 View (848) 207-2355
Photo of Judi Sargent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Judi Sargent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients for Teletherapy Only. You can do a video or phone session. I have 27 years of experience and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, addiction, grief and loss. I accept most insurances but will verify yours to be sure at the start. To request an appt you can call me at 732-581-5051 or send me an online request for an appointment at: https:/www.judisargentlcsw.online (Its HIPAA compliant and secured)
I am accepting new clients for Teletherapy Only. You can do a video or phone session. I have 27 years of experience and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, addiction, grief and loss. I accept most insurances but will verify yours to be sure at the start. To request an appt you can call me at 732-581-5051 or send me an online request for an appointment at: https:/www.judisargentlcsw.online (Its HIPAA compliant and secured)
(732) 581-5051 View (732) 581-5051
Photo of Life Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Life Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, RDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
LIFE PSYCHOTHERAPY is a private psychotherapy practice offering counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, elderly, couples, families, and groups. Since each person is unique, the approach to therapy is unique as well, combining existential philosophy with cognitive behavioral tools. The outcome empowers a person to feel empowered to take concrete actions in order to change or cope with their current level of distress, and achieve success in improving his/her life. Along with Psychotherapy we provide a variety of psycho-educational workshops to enhance personal growth and development without any stigma attached to psychotherapy.
LIFE PSYCHOTHERAPY is a private psychotherapy practice offering counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, elderly, couples, families, and groups. Since each person is unique, the approach to therapy is unique as well, combining existential philosophy with cognitive behavioral tools. The outcome empowers a person to feel empowered to take concrete actions in order to change or cope with their current level of distress, and achieve success in improving his/her life. Along with Psychotherapy we provide a variety of psycho-educational workshops to enhance personal growth and development without any stigma attached to psychotherapy.
(732) 595-4204 View (732) 595-4204
Tree of Life Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LMHC, LPC, ACS, LSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Tree of Life Counseling Center is a mental health center dedicated to helping clients improve their quality of life. We are client-centered and strive to provide a comforting environment; this is evident in the tranquil environment as you walk through the door. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening appointments. We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We treat children, teens, and adults. We are currently offering Telehealth and in person counseling
Tree of Life Counseling Center is a mental health center dedicated to helping clients improve their quality of life. We are client-centered and strive to provide a comforting environment; this is evident in the tranquil environment as you walk through the door. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening appointments. We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We treat children, teens, and adults. We are currently offering Telehealth and in person counseling
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Ronni Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Freehold, NJ
Ronni Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CASDCS
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728  (Online Only)
My education, knowledge, and professional and personal experience all give me the tools to help you; and my deep and abiding compassion infuses the therapeutic relationship and energizes the process.
Please click the link to my website to learn more about my practice. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where I will strive to help you reduce your struggles and meet your challenges, whatever they are. I will guide you and journey with you as you seek enduring happiness and greater satisfaction in your work, in your home, in your relationships, and in other areas of your life. Whatever you want to discuss is okay, I will not judge you. My intention is to help you lessen your suffering, improve your perspective, have more satisfying relationships, and feel less distress ... more joy.
My education, knowledge, and professional and personal experience all give me the tools to help you; and my deep and abiding compassion infuses the therapeutic relationship and energizes the process.
Please click the link to my website to learn more about my practice. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where I will strive to help you reduce your struggles and meet your challenges, whatever they are. I will guide you and journey with you as you seek enduring happiness and greater satisfaction in your work, in your home, in your relationships, and in other areas of your life. Whatever you want to discuss is okay, I will not judge you. My intention is to help you lessen your suffering, improve your perspective, have more satisfying relationships, and feel less distress ... more joy.
(732) 993-3418 View (732) 993-3418
Photo of Serenity Counseling Center NJ LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Freehold, NJ
Serenity Counseling Center NJ LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC, NCC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
We work with children, teens, adults, couples, etc.
At Serenity Counseling Center NJ we have Licensed Counselors with multiple years of experience. We are committed to helping clients reach their treatment goals and learn skills to cope with any life challenges. We provide a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment and utilize various treatment approaches that best meet the needs of each client. Skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Group Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Mental Health Counseling. Owner of practice has Master's degree in Science and Counseling Psychology from Monmouth University LPC. Visit us at www.serenitycounselingcenternj.org
We work with children, teens, adults, couples, etc.
At Serenity Counseling Center NJ we have Licensed Counselors with multiple years of experience. We are committed to helping clients reach their treatment goals and learn skills to cope with any life challenges. We provide a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment and utilize various treatment approaches that best meet the needs of each client. Skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Group Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Mental Health Counseling. Owner of practice has Master's degree in Science and Counseling Psychology from Monmouth University LPC. Visit us at www.serenitycounselingcenternj.org
(848) 251-0184 View (848) 251-0184
Photo of Elizabeth Paterno-Culp, Counselor in Freehold, NJ
Elizabeth Paterno-Culp
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have experience working with children and adults survivors who have experienced trauma, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and Intimate Partner Violence.
I offer a compassionate approach to help people who have a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more. My theoretical approach is eclectic and is based on the needs of the client. I believe that it is essential to provide a safe environment and to work collaboratively with the client to achieve their therapy goals.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have experience working with children and adults survivors who have experienced trauma, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and Intimate Partner Violence.
I offer a compassionate approach to help people who have a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more. My theoretical approach is eclectic and is based on the needs of the client. I believe that it is essential to provide a safe environment and to work collaboratively with the client to achieve their therapy goals.
(732) 561-1205 View (732) 561-1205
Photo of BBCS Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Freehold, NJ
BBCS Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CCMHC, NCCC, MCC
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
The Licensed Counselors at BBCS Counseling specialize in personal and mental health counseling for individuals, couples, children, adolescents and families. Beverly and her husband, Mitch Baskin also offer Professional Career Counseling Services, career testing, resumes, and exceptional support for career transition. We are a diverse group of men and women who refer to each others specialties in Freehold and Cranford offices. BBCS Counselors are available on weekdays, evenings, and weekends at both offices. We accept most insurance plans for mental health counseling. It takes courage to make the first call and we will try to get you seen within 48 hours if possible.
The Licensed Counselors at BBCS Counseling specialize in personal and mental health counseling for individuals, couples, children, adolescents and families. Beverly and her husband, Mitch Baskin also offer Professional Career Counseling Services, career testing, resumes, and exceptional support for career transition. We are a diverse group of men and women who refer to each others specialties in Freehold and Cranford offices. BBCS Counselors are available on weekdays, evenings, and weekends at both offices. We accept most insurance plans for mental health counseling. It takes courage to make the first call and we will try to get you seen within 48 hours if possible.
(732) 451-7941 x101 View (732) 451-7941 x101
Photo of Danielle Harte LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Danielle Harte LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
I provide therapy services for adults, children, adolescents, families and couples.
Congratulations in taking the first step towards desiring a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. If you or a member of your family is experiencing unsatisfying relationships, difficulty in school or work, anxiety, sadness, etc then I welcome the opportunity to help. In my 10+ years of practice I find that I am a believer in early prevention. I believe the stereotypical image of therapy is outdated and instead I believe it helps promote positive change and growth and helps facilitate people in having more satisfying relationships and lives.
I provide therapy services for adults, children, adolescents, families and couples.
Congratulations in taking the first step towards desiring a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. If you or a member of your family is experiencing unsatisfying relationships, difficulty in school or work, anxiety, sadness, etc then I welcome the opportunity to help. In my 10+ years of practice I find that I am a believer in early prevention. I believe the stereotypical image of therapy is outdated and instead I believe it helps promote positive change and growth and helps facilitate people in having more satisfying relationships and lives.
(917) 521-6730 View (917) 521-6730
Photo of Ivy Horan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Ivy Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
Waitlist for new clients
Through the therapeutic relationship, we can unearth your inner jewels!.
Do you ever find yourself being overwhelmed with your feelings? Does it seem like the peanut gallery in your mind is never silent - is it always ready with a judgmental comment? Do you find yourself tired, overwhelmed and stressed? It is possible for children, adolescents, and adults to be able to learn to feel their feelings and not be overwhelmed by them. For you to learn how to tame the peanut gallery of your mind and improve your sense of being in control of your thoughts and emotions. To build the skills to reduce feeling tired, overwhelmed and stressed. Your can become integrated and whole.
Through the therapeutic relationship, we can unearth your inner jewels!.
Do you ever find yourself being overwhelmed with your feelings? Does it seem like the peanut gallery in your mind is never silent - is it always ready with a judgmental comment? Do you find yourself tired, overwhelmed and stressed? It is possible for children, adolescents, and adults to be able to learn to feel their feelings and not be overwhelmed by them. For you to learn how to tame the peanut gallery of your mind and improve your sense of being in control of your thoughts and emotions. To build the skills to reduce feeling tired, overwhelmed and stressed. Your can become integrated and whole.
(908) 365-0950 View (908) 365-0950
Photo of Nick Bizzarro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Nick Bizzarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and strive to create a safe and comfortable space for our work together.
I will help you learn and develop skills to reduce stress and overcome the challenges you are experiencing. I will help you manage feelings of depression and elevate your mood. I will assist you in reducing the intensity of anger and anxiety. I will help you acquire and practice communication skills to improve your family and social relationships. Our work together will aid in your emotional, psychological, and physical growth. I will help you take action and make change.
I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and strive to create a safe and comfortable space for our work together.
I will help you learn and develop skills to reduce stress and overcome the challenges you are experiencing. I will help you manage feelings of depression and elevate your mood. I will assist you in reducing the intensity of anger and anxiety. I will help you acquire and practice communication skills to improve your family and social relationships. Our work together will aid in your emotional, psychological, and physical growth. I will help you take action and make change.
(732) 719-2805 View (732) 719-2805
Photo of Susan Rebmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Susan Rebmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
Current specialty areas: Motherhood, Children, Adolescents, Family Counseling, Couples, Alternative School Choice, Life Path Transition, Spiritual Awakening, Menopause, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Trauma, First Responders and Military, Illness and Diagnosis.
With gratitude, I look forward to the opportunity for connection as you fully embrace being who you are! The moment you decide to ask for help, a new experience unfolds. My long term work with the dying and those they love, as well as, my most important role as a mother directly influences my practice style and deepens my commitment to a compassionate and caring world. Direct experience can contribute to a greater understanding of our shared humanity. I trust we are provided chances for growth and know that gentle and loving guidance can invite harmony to areas asking for attention.
Current specialty areas: Motherhood, Children, Adolescents, Family Counseling, Couples, Alternative School Choice, Life Path Transition, Spiritual Awakening, Menopause, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Trauma, First Responders and Military, Illness and Diagnosis.
With gratitude, I look forward to the opportunity for connection as you fully embrace being who you are! The moment you decide to ask for help, a new experience unfolds. My long term work with the dying and those they love, as well as, my most important role as a mother directly influences my practice style and deepens my commitment to a compassionate and caring world. Direct experience can contribute to a greater understanding of our shared humanity. I trust we are provided chances for growth and know that gentle and loving guidance can invite harmony to areas asking for attention.
(732) 785-4521 View (732) 785-4521
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth, Psychologist in Freehold, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth
Psychologist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free, for a limited time. IPG has roughly 30 therapists over three NJ offices: Highland Park, Freehold, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for concerns ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We have a special focus on the LGBTQ community, including transgender/GNC youth, but we see clients from all walks of life. We also have many other niche specialties such as sex therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and eating disorders.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free, for a limited time. IPG has roughly 30 therapists over three NJ offices: Highland Park, Freehold, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for concerns ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We have a special focus on the LGBTQ community, including transgender/GNC youth, but we see clients from all walks of life. We also have many other niche specialties such as sex therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and eating disorders.
(732) 487-3688 View (732) 487-3688
Photo of Comprehensive Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Comprehensive Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
Comprehensive Counseling Center is a group of professionally trained and experienced psychotherapists who are committed to helping individuals in a comfortable and confidential setting. Our goal is to make a positive difference and to improve the emotional well-being of people in our community. Couples, families, and individuals of all ages are welcomed to embark on the journey of self-exploration, problem-solving, and goal setting with our highly skilled therapists. Our therapists are devoted to empowering their clients by providing guidance, support, and an individualized treatment plan that will cater to their specific needs.
Comprehensive Counseling Center is a group of professionally trained and experienced psychotherapists who are committed to helping individuals in a comfortable and confidential setting. Our goal is to make a positive difference and to improve the emotional well-being of people in our community. Couples, families, and individuals of all ages are welcomed to embark on the journey of self-exploration, problem-solving, and goal setting with our highly skilled therapists. Our therapists are devoted to empowering their clients by providing guidance, support, and an individualized treatment plan that will cater to their specific needs.
(732) 412-6393 View (732) 412-6393
Photo of Exceptional Wellness Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Freehold, NJ
Exceptional Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PAT
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
We know how difficult and stressful life can be. Our staff is committed in helping you reach your goals which will lead to a more fulfilling and happier life. At exceptional wellness we are dedicated to making our clients feel that they are of top priority. We work with children, adolescents, College students, adults, couples and families on identifying and fulfilling their goals. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the first courageous step in your journey. If you are ready to take that step please contact us. We look forward to meeting you!
We know how difficult and stressful life can be. Our staff is committed in helping you reach your goals which will lead to a more fulfilling and happier life. At exceptional wellness we are dedicated to making our clients feel that they are of top priority. We work with children, adolescents, College students, adults, couples and families on identifying and fulfilling their goals. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the first courageous step in your journey. If you are ready to take that step please contact us. We look forward to meeting you!
(908) 300-5871 View (908) 300-5871
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth - Jersey City, Psychologist in Freehold, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth - Jersey City
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free when you contact us, to see if it's right for you. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free when you contact us, to see if it's right for you. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
(848) 222-8978 View (848) 222-8978
Caren Grande
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
My work over the last 30 years helps individuals, children, couples, and parents. I strive to create a relaxed, compassionate, non judgemental atmosphere. I view therapy as a collaborative effort that promotes personal growth in a caring and supportive manner by trying to manage each persons individual issues, maximize strengths in order to improve daily life, gain independence, and find happiness within themselves and their life. Through a therapeutic relationship and supportive interaction, we work to improve your reactions and relationships as well as helping transition people into different phases of their life stages.
My work over the last 30 years helps individuals, children, couples, and parents. I strive to create a relaxed, compassionate, non judgemental atmosphere. I view therapy as a collaborative effort that promotes personal growth in a caring and supportive manner by trying to manage each persons individual issues, maximize strengths in order to improve daily life, gain independence, and find happiness within themselves and their life. Through a therapeutic relationship and supportive interaction, we work to improve your reactions and relationships as well as helping transition people into different phases of their life stages.
(732) 860-8945 View (732) 860-8945
Photo of Stephen L Feldman, Psychologist in Freehold, NJ
Stephen L Feldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
These include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and attentional disorders.
Most clients begin therapy after having engaged in their own soul-searching and independent efforts to change.They may be nervous about starting treatment, but they generally have a high level of motivation and a willingness to accept responsibility for making positive changes. My clients prefer their therapist to be quite active and, when necessary, quite willing to point out inconsistencies and unhealthy tendencies.
These include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and attentional disorders.
Most clients begin therapy after having engaged in their own soul-searching and independent efforts to change.They may be nervous about starting treatment, but they generally have a high level of motivation and a willingness to accept responsibility for making positive changes. My clients prefer their therapist to be quite active and, when necessary, quite willing to point out inconsistencies and unhealthy tendencies.
(732) 806-7208 View (732) 806-7208
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.