Couples Counseling Therapists in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY

Photo of Lana Hurst, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Lana Hurst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10038
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
(347) 391-3629 View (347) 391-3629
Photo of Katherine J Mitchell, Psychologist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Katherine J Mitchell
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10012
As a clinical psychologist the most important aspect of my work is to create an environment where clients feel safe to actively engage in the psychotherapy process. My approach is referred to as "integrationist;" incorporating aspects of psychodynamic, cognitive, and mindfulness therapy. I treat difficulties associated with mood, anxiety, trauma, addiction and ADHD, as well as more basic problems in living (i.e. relationship, employment). I welcome clients from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, sexual preference and genders.
As a clinical psychologist the most important aspect of my work is to create an environment where clients feel safe to actively engage in the psychotherapy process. My approach is referred to as "integrationist;" incorporating aspects of psychodynamic, cognitive, and mindfulness therapy. I treat difficulties associated with mood, anxiety, trauma, addiction and ADHD, as well as more basic problems in living (i.e. relationship, employment). I welcome clients from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, sexual preference and genders.
(646) 592-2688 View (646) 592-2688
Photo of Iris Lifshitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Iris Lifshitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10003
We work together and use the foundations of the relationship to help move you forward in life.
All people struggle with Issues. Everyone expresses this differently. Some people get anxious, some get depressed. These feelings can lead one to feel stuck. I can provide a comfortable and confidential space to work through whatever may be causing you to feel stuck. Whether you are new to therapy or have been in therapy before, I provide the opportunity to help deepen your understanding of your current situation and work towards lasting change.
We work together and use the foundations of the relationship to help move you forward in life.
All people struggle with Issues. Everyone expresses this differently. Some people get anxious, some get depressed. These feelings can lead one to feel stuck. I can provide a comfortable and confidential space to work through whatever may be causing you to feel stuck. Whether you are new to therapy or have been in therapy before, I provide the opportunity to help deepen your understanding of your current situation and work towards lasting change.
(646) 759-4245 View (646) 759-4245
Photo of Dr. Alyson Caldari in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Dr. Alyson Caldari
PsyD
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10012
I have a particular interest in working with individual's who want to understand their relationship with their bodies and their sexuality.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is grounded in a relational perspective, where I work to establish a safe and collaborative space in order to promote insight, curiosity, and personal growth. As a clinician I emphasize and value the therapeutic relationship, and work to meet each person where they are. My goal in working with people, is to work together to help bring meaning and understanding to the ways in which we respond and react to the world around us.
I have a particular interest in working with individual's who want to understand their relationship with their bodies and their sexuality.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is grounded in a relational perspective, where I work to establish a safe and collaborative space in order to promote insight, curiosity, and personal growth. As a clinician I emphasize and value the therapeutic relationship, and work to meet each person where they are. My goal in working with people, is to work together to help bring meaning and understanding to the ways in which we respond and react to the world around us.
(929) 577-4651 View (929) 577-4651
Photo of Tori Maidenberg, Licensed Master Social Worker in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Tori Maidenberg
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10006
Tori has extensive training in a diverse range of therapeutic modalities proven to be highly effective, including DBT, CBT, Exposure Therapy, and Couples/Family Therapy. She was a fellow in Columbia University’s DBT Training Program and trained by the renowned Behavioral Tech Institute. Working with adolescents through adulthood, Tori has cultivated a wealth of experience and expertise in addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs across the lifespan. Her focus lies in the treatment of emotional and interpersonal dysregulation, OCD, anxiety-related disorders, social anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and couples/family issues.
Tori has extensive training in a diverse range of therapeutic modalities proven to be highly effective, including DBT, CBT, Exposure Therapy, and Couples/Family Therapy. She was a fellow in Columbia University’s DBT Training Program and trained by the renowned Behavioral Tech Institute. Working with adolescents through adulthood, Tori has cultivated a wealth of experience and expertise in addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs across the lifespan. Her focus lies in the treatment of emotional and interpersonal dysregulation, OCD, anxiety-related disorders, social anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and couples/family issues.
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Photo of Yanli Liang, Psychologist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Yanli Liang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy.
Life can be difficult at times. People could feel "dissatisfied with life," or "unfulfilled," despite the efforts. Collaborating with a skilled psychotherapist could help a person or a couple identify and break the maladaptive patterns, make positive changes, and experience more happiness and freedom. I am a bilingual (Chinese & English) psychologist with over 19 years of training and experience. I adopt an integrative style, blending elements of Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) through the lens of attachment and culture.
I provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy.
Life can be difficult at times. People could feel "dissatisfied with life," or "unfulfilled," despite the efforts. Collaborating with a skilled psychotherapist could help a person or a couple identify and break the maladaptive patterns, make positive changes, and experience more happiness and freedom. I am a bilingual (Chinese & English) psychologist with over 19 years of training and experience. I adopt an integrative style, blending elements of Psychodynamic, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) through the lens of attachment and culture.
(646) 846-9712 View (646) 846-9712
Photo of Emily Lambert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Emily Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Not Verified Not Verified
8 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10003
Now offering Imago Getting the Love You Want Couples weekend workshops! Next workshop is May 5-7, 2023 in NYC- reach out for more information. Are you unhappy in your romantic relationship? Do you feel like the connection you once had with your partner is lost? I'm a certified Imago couples therapist specializing in couples and sex therapy. Using a tool in Imago called the Intentional Dialogue, I help you and your partner improve the way you communicate and listen to one another. Conflict in relationships is an opportunity for growth- I love helping couples restore their connection and grow both individually and together.
Now offering Imago Getting the Love You Want Couples weekend workshops! Next workshop is May 5-7, 2023 in NYC- reach out for more information. Are you unhappy in your romantic relationship? Do you feel like the connection you once had with your partner is lost? I'm a certified Imago couples therapist specializing in couples and sex therapy. Using a tool in Imago called the Intentional Dialogue, I help you and your partner improve the way you communicate and listen to one another. Conflict in relationships is an opportunity for growth- I love helping couples restore their connection and grow both individually and together.
(201) 204-9869 View (201) 204-9869
Photo of Jean M Principe, Psychologist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Jean M Principe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10012  (Online Only)
Life in New York can present its own set of challenges, and sometimes just committing to a decision about a job or a relationship can become a seemingly insurmountable challenge.
Many of my patients have never had the experience of being truly listened to, or heard. The transformative potential of that experience is fundamental to my practice. The confidential setting of psychotherapy enables completely open expression away from the self-consciousness and fear of judgment one may feel when confiding in friends and family. Safe self-expression enables recognition and awareness; through that awareness, we can facilitate real change.
Life in New York can present its own set of challenges, and sometimes just committing to a decision about a job or a relationship can become a seemingly insurmountable challenge.
Many of my patients have never had the experience of being truly listened to, or heard. The transformative potential of that experience is fundamental to my practice. The confidential setting of psychotherapy enables completely open expression away from the self-consciousness and fear of judgment one may feel when confiding in friends and family. Safe self-expression enables recognition and awareness; through that awareness, we can facilitate real change.
(347) 650-2272 View (347) 650-2272
Photo of Allyson Puzzo, Counselor in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Allyson Puzzo
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10002
Therapy can be a difficult step, and even more difficult to find a therapist you connect with. I work to develop a therapeutic relationship in which realizations can occur and positive changes can be made. I have experience with both group and individuals, and the intention is always to help enhance the client's current level of functioning and overall condition. My areas of expertise include behavioral issues, childhood trauma, insecure attachments, familial issues, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Therapy can be a difficult step, and even more difficult to find a therapist you connect with. I work to develop a therapeutic relationship in which realizations can occur and positive changes can be made. I have experience with both group and individuals, and the intention is always to help enhance the client's current level of functioning and overall condition. My areas of expertise include behavioral issues, childhood trauma, insecure attachments, familial issues, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
(646) 825-6929 View (646) 825-6929
Photo of Annie Iannuzzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Annie Iannuzzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10012  (Online Only)
Acknowledging your desire to begin this process is a brave first step. Everyone has gone through periods of time where life feels overwhelming and challenging. Individual Therapy is a space for you to visit where you can feel understood, and not judged. Our time together can be short term if you are working through an acute crisis, or longer term if you need a place to work through deeply rooted feelings of low self worth, anxiety or depression. I am able to work with couples upon request.
Acknowledging your desire to begin this process is a brave first step. Everyone has gone through periods of time where life feels overwhelming and challenging. Individual Therapy is a space for you to visit where you can feel understood, and not judged. Our time together can be short term if you are working through an acute crisis, or longer term if you need a place to work through deeply rooted feelings of low self worth, anxiety or depression. I am able to work with couples upon request.
(718) 970-7156 View (718) 970-7156
Photo of Christopher Chamberlin, Counselor in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Christopher Chamberlin
Counselor, LHMC, NCC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10003
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, relationship and family concerns, academic stressors (including transitioning into higher education), and identity development. From a trauma-informed lens, I will work with you collaboratively to understand your experiences - your joy, your pain, your struggles, and your goals and aspirations. I am a great match for anyone with a desire to get to know themselves and get to know the many parts that make up who we are and influence how we live. Together we'll help you continue along on your journey - wherever that may take you!
I work with adults who are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, relationship and family concerns, academic stressors (including transitioning into higher education), and identity development. From a trauma-informed lens, I will work with you collaboratively to understand your experiences - your joy, your pain, your struggles, and your goals and aspirations. I am a great match for anyone with a desire to get to know themselves and get to know the many parts that make up who we are and influence how we live. Together we'll help you continue along on your journey - wherever that may take you!
(845) 415-7430 View (845) 415-7430
Photo of Christine Malossi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Christine Malossi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10003
I’ve worked with people across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background, and have a particular interest in working with individuals undergoing life transitions, grief/loss, or chronic/terminal illness; exploring their spirituality; or struggling with identity, relationship, and body image issues.
Do you feel lost, overwhelmed, confused, isolated? Maybe it feels like your life is spinning out of control, but you can barely find time to catch your breath. Your sessions with me will be an opportunity to slow down…breathe…and develop a deeper awareness of your body, mind, heart, and soul. This process is incredibly rewarding. It’s also challenging, which is why I’m here to be your guide as we collaborate to create your unique path to self-knowledge, self-acceptance, and transformation. I'm committed to providing a space that is safe, open, and judgment-free, within which you'll learn to trust your own instinctive knowledge.
I’ve worked with people across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background, and have a particular interest in working with individuals undergoing life transitions, grief/loss, or chronic/terminal illness; exploring their spirituality; or struggling with identity, relationship, and body image issues.
Do you feel lost, overwhelmed, confused, isolated? Maybe it feels like your life is spinning out of control, but you can barely find time to catch your breath. Your sessions with me will be an opportunity to slow down…breathe…and develop a deeper awareness of your body, mind, heart, and soul. This process is incredibly rewarding. It’s also challenging, which is why I’m here to be your guide as we collaborate to create your unique path to self-knowledge, self-acceptance, and transformation. I'm committed to providing a space that is safe, open, and judgment-free, within which you'll learn to trust your own instinctive knowledge.
(929) 565-5679 View (929) 565-5679
Photo of Isabel Golan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Isabel Golan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10005
Life's challenges, past traumas or present stresses, can make us feel very overwhelmed. Deeply affecting our lives, relationships, and overall well-being. But you don't have to navigate it alone! I support adults in navigating trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, family conflicts, loss, depression, and anxiety, often focusing on how childhood trauma influences adulthood. Together we’ll decipher the intricate patterns of behavior that may be holding you back and grapple with hard emotions. By letting things unravel, past and present experiences, you will rediscover yourself and create the path towards transformative change.
Life's challenges, past traumas or present stresses, can make us feel very overwhelmed. Deeply affecting our lives, relationships, and overall well-being. But you don't have to navigate it alone! I support adults in navigating trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, family conflicts, loss, depression, and anxiety, often focusing on how childhood trauma influences adulthood. Together we’ll decipher the intricate patterns of behavior that may be holding you back and grapple with hard emotions. By letting things unravel, past and present experiences, you will rediscover yourself and create the path towards transformative change.
(929) 810-2452 View (929) 810-2452
Photo of Selena Collazo in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Selena Collazo
MFT-LP
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I have the honor of accompanying fellow LGBTQIA+ individuals of color, especially those moving through life transitions, first-generation undergraduate & graduate students, academics, artists, writers, and those holding intersectional identities rooted in multicultural and interracial families, partnerships, and transcultural and/or adult adoption. In addition, I work with couples as well as poly individuals and ethically/consensually non-monogamous partnerships.
I have the honor of accompanying fellow LGBTQIA+ individuals of color, especially those moving through life transitions, first-generation undergraduate & graduate students, academics, artists, writers, and those holding intersectional identities rooted in multicultural and interracial families, partnerships, and transcultural and/or adult adoption. In addition, I work with couples as well as poly individuals and ethically/consensually non-monogamous partnerships.
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Photo of Sam Rosenthal in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Sam Rosenthal
MHC-LP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10012
Waitlist for new clients
You are one step closer to living a better life. If you are dealing with low self-esteem, relationship problems, LGBTQ+ issues, career stress, or life transitions, I am here to help. I work with people from a span of backgrounds and specialize in issues related to anxiety, depression, intersecting identities, Gay couples and families, and childhood trauma. My goal in working with adults, teens, couples, and families is to create a collaborative and affirming space where you can voice your struggles and find a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings.
You are one step closer to living a better life. If you are dealing with low self-esteem, relationship problems, LGBTQ+ issues, career stress, or life transitions, I am here to help. I work with people from a span of backgrounds and specialize in issues related to anxiety, depression, intersecting identities, Gay couples and families, and childhood trauma. My goal in working with adults, teens, couples, and families is to create a collaborative and affirming space where you can voice your struggles and find a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings.
(929) 323-4241 View (929) 323-4241
Photo of Kelly Meyering, Psychologist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Kelly Meyering
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10002  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Is there something in your past that’s getting in the way of your future? Are you feeling lonely or disconnected from your friends and family? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re not alone anymore. I am specially trained to assist those who struggle with anxiety, trauma, and relationship problems. I see my patients and myself as a team, and our relationship as the key to successful therapy. We’re in this together, and we’ve got this.
Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Is there something in your past that’s getting in the way of your future? Are you feeling lonely or disconnected from your friends and family? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re not alone anymore. I am specially trained to assist those who struggle with anxiety, trauma, and relationship problems. I see my patients and myself as a team, and our relationship as the key to successful therapy. We’re in this together, and we’ve got this.
(347) 431-0670 View (347) 431-0670
Photo of Sanam Sajnani in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Sanam Sajnani
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10007
I've also received training from The Gottman Institute in Couples Therapy.
You are the expert of your life, and I am here to listen, to ask questions, and to help you identify what you need to feel fulfilled. I recognize that you face a unique set of challenges, strengths, and have different areas you wish to improve upon. We will work together to uniquely achieve your goals through an individualized plan. My therapeutic approach is integrative, dynamic, and holistic, which allows for the utilization of several different treatment modalities. I incorporate techniques and skills from Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness.
I've also received training from The Gottman Institute in Couples Therapy.
You are the expert of your life, and I am here to listen, to ask questions, and to help you identify what you need to feel fulfilled. I recognize that you face a unique set of challenges, strengths, and have different areas you wish to improve upon. We will work together to uniquely achieve your goals through an individualized plan. My therapeutic approach is integrative, dynamic, and holistic, which allows for the utilization of several different treatment modalities. I incorporate techniques and skills from Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness.
(646) 586-3311 View (646) 586-3311
Photo of Yuen Ling Elaine Ho, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Yuen Ling Elaine Ho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10003
A necessary part of life is facing difficult situations that will be hard to understand, and thus we seek validation. When you are overwhelmed with emotions, you are unable to address them and respond negatively. You might be aware of your sadness, anxiety, fears, and shame. In that process, you could uncover a lot of how you defend yourself from rejection or part of our vulnerable self both consciously and unconsciously. I start my private practice by incorporating my experiences to work with clients who struggling with depression, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation, relationship problems and acculturation issues.
A necessary part of life is facing difficult situations that will be hard to understand, and thus we seek validation. When you are overwhelmed with emotions, you are unable to address them and respond negatively. You might be aware of your sadness, anxiety, fears, and shame. In that process, you could uncover a lot of how you defend yourself from rejection or part of our vulnerable self both consciously and unconsciously. I start my private practice by incorporating my experiences to work with clients who struggling with depression, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation, relationship problems and acculturation issues.
(718) 785-8260 View (718) 785-8260
Photo of Tarynn Dier in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Tarynn Dier
LMSW, Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
My experience includes work with individuals, couples, and multiple partners ranging from their late teens to 60s, on issues relating to gender, sexuality, and relationships, including those in all manner of non-monogamous relationships and non-traditional families.
I'm a proud queer/pan/poly human, and I absolutely love being a therapist. As a straight-passing queer person, I have a lived understanding of what it’s like to have multiple marginalized identities that are misread both in and outside my communities. As a single parent who was raised in a very religious environment, I have done a lot of my own introspection and exploration to become the sex positive and body positive person I am today. I am a compassionate, non-judgmental, and empowerment-focused therapist. I aim to support you in living freely and authentically, as you thrive in your relationships with yourself and others.
My experience includes work with individuals, couples, and multiple partners ranging from their late teens to 60s, on issues relating to gender, sexuality, and relationships, including those in all manner of non-monogamous relationships and non-traditional families.
I'm a proud queer/pan/poly human, and I absolutely love being a therapist. As a straight-passing queer person, I have a lived understanding of what it’s like to have multiple marginalized identities that are misread both in and outside my communities. As a single parent who was raised in a very religious environment, I have done a lot of my own introspection and exploration to become the sex positive and body positive person I am today. I am a compassionate, non-judgmental, and empowerment-focused therapist. I aim to support you in living freely and authentically, as you thrive in your relationships with yourself and others.
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Photo of David Amarel, Psychologist in Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
David Amarel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10005
My experience ranges from psychotherapy with adults, teens, and couples to counseling trauma survivors with acute PTSD.
I have 25 years experience working productively with people of diverse backgrounds, ages, and sexual orientations. Our job together is to identify dysfunctional patterns that contribute to—even perpetuate—your difficulties. The main focus of therapy is to remove inner and outer obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals and having better relationships. Please note, after years of counseling and assessment in offices, I‘ve recently moved into a different space: video. Active listening in a safe, private setting is foundational to this work. I’ve learned that the catalytic elements of good therapy can thrive via video too.
My experience ranges from psychotherapy with adults, teens, and couples to counseling trauma survivors with acute PTSD.
I have 25 years experience working productively with people of diverse backgrounds, ages, and sexual orientations. Our job together is to identify dysfunctional patterns that contribute to—even perpetuate—your difficulties. The main focus of therapy is to remove inner and outer obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals and having better relationships. Please note, after years of counseling and assessment in offices, I‘ve recently moved into a different space: video. Active listening in a safe, private setting is foundational to this work. I’ve learned that the catalytic elements of good therapy can thrive via video too.
(917) 791-1180 View (917) 791-1180

See more therapy options for Lower Manhattan, New York

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.