Photo of Rabia Ilahi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Rabia Ilahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CART
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I provide therapy/counseling to individuals, couples, teens, & families from very diverse populations with challenging issues such as marital/relationship distress, infidelity, fertility/infertility, self-esteem, meaning of life, depression, spirituality, dating, multicultural/interracial relationship issues, and cultural integration/immigration challenges.
'And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom' (Anais Nin). It is scary for many of us to risk initiating change in our lives, whether it's in ourselves, professionally, or in our intimate or family relationships. Having come to this site is a courageous first step, and I would like to help you in fulfilling your journey. I offer collaborative counseling/therapy for individuals, couples, and families who want to live more fulfilling lives.
I provide therapy/counseling to individuals, couples, teens, & families from very diverse populations with challenging issues such as marital/relationship distress, infidelity, fertility/infertility, self-esteem, meaning of life, depression, spirituality, dating, multicultural/interracial relationship issues, and cultural integration/immigration challenges.
'And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom' (Anais Nin). It is scary for many of us to risk initiating change in our lives, whether it's in ourselves, professionally, or in our intimate or family relationships. Having come to this site is a courageous first step, and I would like to help you in fulfilling your journey. I offer collaborative counseling/therapy for individuals, couples, and families who want to live more fulfilling lives.
(713) 489-4823 View (713) 489-4823

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sanah Kotadia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Sanah Kotadia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024  (Online Only)
I lean on the teachings of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, & behaviors.
Therapy allows us to pause for a moment and reflect on our priorities, goals, and values. Via therapy, I hope to provide a safe and empathic space, to foster a relationship based on trust and respect, and to listen to your concerns and anxieties. Throughout sessions, together, we can recognize counterproductive thought patterns, nurture inner strength, and learn new coping strategies. I specialize in anxiety stemming from people pleasing, perfectionism, & poor boundary setting. This space is filled with high achievers who, though have great intentions, deal with several stressors and pressures which affects their quality of life.
I lean on the teachings of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, & behaviors.
Therapy allows us to pause for a moment and reflect on our priorities, goals, and values. Via therapy, I hope to provide a safe and empathic space, to foster a relationship based on trust and respect, and to listen to your concerns and anxieties. Throughout sessions, together, we can recognize counterproductive thought patterns, nurture inner strength, and learn new coping strategies. I specialize in anxiety stemming from people pleasing, perfectionism, & poor boundary setting. This space is filled with high achievers who, though have great intentions, deal with several stressors and pressures which affects their quality of life.
(346) 275-3439 View (346) 275-3439
Photo of Nida Pirani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Nida Pirani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
Are you a teen or young adult who overthinks, worries too much, has difficulty focusing because of stress, or fears you're falling behind? Do college, choosing a career path, managing relationships or life transitions feel overwhelming? The pressure to be attractive, fit in, feel understood, earn top grades, and get into the best schools are hard on teens. Choosing a career path, interviewing, living on your own or supporting yourself, or making big relationship decisions can feel scary as a young adult. You don’t have to go this alone. I provide individual counseling and couples counseling for adults, adolescents, and children.
Are you a teen or young adult who overthinks, worries too much, has difficulty focusing because of stress, or fears you're falling behind? Do college, choosing a career path, managing relationships or life transitions feel overwhelming? The pressure to be attractive, fit in, feel understood, earn top grades, and get into the best schools are hard on teens. Choosing a career path, interviewing, living on your own or supporting yourself, or making big relationship decisions can feel scary as a young adult. You don’t have to go this alone. I provide individual counseling and couples counseling for adults, adolescents, and children.
(713) 388-6901 View (713) 388-6901
Photo of Madiha Anas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Madiha Anas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have completed Level 1 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, am a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator for martial and pre-marital counseling, and use the most appropriate evidence-based methods from the attachment perspective, DBT and CBT on your healing journey.
If there is a sense of hopelessness surrounding you about what has passed amidst the fear of what is yet to be; if you find yourself stuck as these challenges show up in your relationships, lingering grief, or a sense of powerlessness - know that you don't have to go through this alone. In this space, we can meet. My training has prepared me to provide tailored counseling to individuals, couples, and children navigate challenges of marriage, divorce, and illness or loss of loved ones. Along with private practice, I have worked at behavioral hospitals helping clients struggling with challenges of depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I have completed Level 1 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, am a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator for martial and pre-marital counseling, and use the most appropriate evidence-based methods from the attachment perspective, DBT and CBT on your healing journey.
If there is a sense of hopelessness surrounding you about what has passed amidst the fear of what is yet to be; if you find yourself stuck as these challenges show up in your relationships, lingering grief, or a sense of powerlessness - know that you don't have to go through this alone. In this space, we can meet. My training has prepared me to provide tailored counseling to individuals, couples, and children navigate challenges of marriage, divorce, and illness or loss of loved ones. Along with private practice, I have worked at behavioral hospitals helping clients struggling with challenges of depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(281) 825-3219 View (281) 825-3219
Photo of Renu A Thomas, Psychologist in Bellaire, TX
Renu A Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
I am an experienced clinical psychologist with extensive training in providing trauma-informed and evidence-based assessment, conceptualization and treatment for individuals and families. With training and interest in trauma, loss and bereavement, problematic personality, relational (e.g., marital discord) and behavioral patterns (e.g., coping using substances, disordered eating), and suicide prevention, I have a specific passion to provide services for adults, including emerging adults, couples, and families.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist with extensive training in providing trauma-informed and evidence-based assessment, conceptualization and treatment for individuals and families. With training and interest in trauma, loss and bereavement, problematic personality, relational (e.g., marital discord) and behavioral patterns (e.g., coping using substances, disordered eating), and suicide prevention, I have a specific passion to provide services for adults, including emerging adults, couples, and families.
(832) 662-7854 View (832) 662-7854
Photo of Pathway to Empathy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Pathway to Empathy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77092  (Online Only)
My role as your therapist is to skillfully inquire and guide you through addressing anxiety, depression, systematic oppression, trauma, communication, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, loss, or difficulty with life’s transitions.
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all its richness and seeking help with interpersonal or mental health symptom related concerns? Depression, anxiety, history of trauma? Are you, your family or relations journeying through life transitions or in need of support related to medical-health concerns? There are times in life when it feels like you are barely keeping your head above water. Not a fun feeling! More importantly, I work with compassion, empathy, and am non-judgmental, while creating a safe space for you to explore and understand.
My role as your therapist is to skillfully inquire and guide you through addressing anxiety, depression, systematic oppression, trauma, communication, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, loss, or difficulty with life’s transitions.
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all its richness and seeking help with interpersonal or mental health symptom related concerns? Depression, anxiety, history of trauma? Are you, your family or relations journeying through life transitions or in need of support related to medical-health concerns? There are times in life when it feels like you are barely keeping your head above water. Not a fun feeling! More importantly, I work with compassion, empathy, and am non-judgmental, while creating a safe space for you to explore and understand.
(713) 497-1285 View (713) 497-1285
Photo of The Resilience Center of Houston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
The Resilience Center of Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
We believe in the resilience of people and the human capacity to overcome even the most difficult of circumstances. We each have the ability to tap-in to our inner power to heal, and therapy can offer an ideal environment for transformation to happen. In therapy, the client is always the most powerful instrument for change. Therapy is not fixing problems or giving advice, it's walking with people in their journey and bearing witness to their deepest truth. Providing a securely attached relationship, the therapeutic bond offers a healthy templet for future relationships and can transform how I see ourselves, others, and the world.
We believe in the resilience of people and the human capacity to overcome even the most difficult of circumstances. We each have the ability to tap-in to our inner power to heal, and therapy can offer an ideal environment for transformation to happen. In therapy, the client is always the most powerful instrument for change. Therapy is not fixing problems or giving advice, it's walking with people in their journey and bearing witness to their deepest truth. Providing a securely attached relationship, the therapeutic bond offers a healthy templet for future relationships and can transform how I see ourselves, others, and the world.
(832) 742-6391 View (832) 742-6391
Photo of Dr. Devika Srivastava, Psychologist in Bellaire, TX
Dr. Devika Srivastava
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS across the U.S. (Psypact states). Life can get stressful and hard at times, so can navigating societal, work, and family issues especially if you’re a person of color, immigrant, child of immigrants or LGBTQIA. Life transitions also require us to accept change but sometimes that may be hard and we can feel “stuck”. My priority is to help you achieve YOUR goals in a way that resonates with who you are, your beliefs, and with your values. I have extensive years of clinical, research, and assessment experience and will provide evidence-based treatment in a supportive, accepting, and collaborative relationship.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS across the U.S. (Psypact states). Life can get stressful and hard at times, so can navigating societal, work, and family issues especially if you’re a person of color, immigrant, child of immigrants or LGBTQIA. Life transitions also require us to accept change but sometimes that may be hard and we can feel “stuck”. My priority is to help you achieve YOUR goals in a way that resonates with who you are, your beliefs, and with your values. I have extensive years of clinical, research, and assessment experience and will provide evidence-based treatment in a supportive, accepting, and collaborative relationship.
(281) 916-8878 View (281) 916-8878
Photo of Janki Amin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Janki Amin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I treat individuals, couples and families and help them to gain the understanding, empathic communication, connection, and resiliency that is necessary to restore trust to heal from the painful wounds of the past.
The capacity to heal resides in each and every one of us, however, choosing therapy takes a lot of courage on your part. You are choosing to talk to someone whom you have never met before, and the thought of disclosing personal information to this individual can be anxiety provoking. My goal is to create a safe and transformative environment for you that will help promote a non-judgmental experience full of compassion and acceptance. Through my holistic approach including emotional, physical, social and spiritual well-being, we will work together to create a life that you want.
I treat individuals, couples and families and help them to gain the understanding, empathic communication, connection, and resiliency that is necessary to restore trust to heal from the painful wounds of the past.
The capacity to heal resides in each and every one of us, however, choosing therapy takes a lot of courage on your part. You are choosing to talk to someone whom you have never met before, and the thought of disclosing personal information to this individual can be anxiety provoking. My goal is to create a safe and transformative environment for you that will help promote a non-judgmental experience full of compassion and acceptance. Through my holistic approach including emotional, physical, social and spiritual well-being, we will work together to create a life that you want.
(346) 787-1054 View (346) 787-1054
Photo of Paula M Rao, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Paula M Rao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, NCC, BS, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77001
Areas of Interest: Self-esteem issues; Relationship and Marriage Counseling; Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Abuse and Trauma Interventions; Addictions; Mood Disorders; Gender Issues; Multicultural Counseling; Wellness and life balance; Grief counseling.
My goal is to support and empower people to live optimally, achieve wellness, and individual goals. I believe that counseling is a dynamic and holistic process, and I strives to promote unconditional positive regard, empathy, congruence, and respect in every counseling setting. I enjoy working with clients from diverse and multicultural backgrounds. I am multilingual and have a working knowledge of English, Bengali, Urdu (limited), and Hindi. I provide low-cost counseling options to clients. Population Served: Children, Adolescents, Couples, Families.
Areas of Interest: Self-esteem issues; Relationship and Marriage Counseling; Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Abuse and Trauma Interventions; Addictions; Mood Disorders; Gender Issues; Multicultural Counseling; Wellness and life balance; Grief counseling.
My goal is to support and empower people to live optimally, achieve wellness, and individual goals. I believe that counseling is a dynamic and holistic process, and I strives to promote unconditional positive regard, empathy, congruence, and respect in every counseling setting. I enjoy working with clients from diverse and multicultural backgrounds. I am multilingual and have a working knowledge of English, Bengali, Urdu (limited), and Hindi. I provide low-cost counseling options to clients. Population Served: Children, Adolescents, Couples, Families.
(281) 903-5803 View (281) 903-5803
Photo of Asma Rahim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Asma Rahim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074
The stress of today's work demands burden relationship with self and others.
Mrs. Rahim started RCCS in 2010. Her first experience in the field in 2007 was at the Veteran Hospital's Pain Clinic and In-patient Area. After Graduation, she spent some time in the Middle East and voluntarily served her time and knowledge with familial issues and women issues. She has experienced hospice and loss, & understands grief and suicide. Her years of experience is wide as she has worked with clients and their families about depression, anxiety, addiction, multi-cultural, multi-racial family and marital issues. She works well with adults and adolescents dealing with self esteem and communication issues.
The stress of today's work demands burden relationship with self and others.
Mrs. Rahim started RCCS in 2010. Her first experience in the field in 2007 was at the Veteran Hospital's Pain Clinic and In-patient Area. After Graduation, she spent some time in the Middle East and voluntarily served her time and knowledge with familial issues and women issues. She has experienced hospice and loss, & understands grief and suicide. Her years of experience is wide as she has worked with clients and their families about depression, anxiety, addiction, multi-cultural, multi-racial family and marital issues. She works well with adults and adolescents dealing with self esteem and communication issues.
(832) 308-8146 View (832) 308-8146
Photo of Mehwash Naseem, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellaire, TX
Mehwash Naseem
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008
My approach is rooted in empowerment, as I deeply believe in collaborating with my clients and listening attentively to their aspirations for therapy. My services encompass a wide spectrum, encompassing individual, couples, and family therapy. I welcome clients of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities, from children as young adults to elders. Creating a safe, nurturing environment is at the core of my practice. I strive to cultivate a space free from judgment, where clients feel comfortable exploring their innermost thoughts and emotions.
My approach is rooted in empowerment, as I deeply believe in collaborating with my clients and listening attentively to their aspirations for therapy. My services encompass a wide spectrum, encompassing individual, couples, and family therapy. I welcome clients of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities, from children as young adults to elders. Creating a safe, nurturing environment is at the core of my practice. I strive to cultivate a space free from judgment, where clients feel comfortable exploring their innermost thoughts and emotions.
(346) 639-3864 View (346) 639-3864
Photo of Dr. Kinnari Birla, Psychologist in Bellaire, TX
Dr. Kinnari Birla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
We are accepting clients for individual, couples, family, children and adolescents.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
We are accepting clients for individual, couples, family, children and adolescents.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
(281) 949-6371 View (281) 949-6371
Photo of Sarah Ali, Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Sarah Ali
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
Specialties include depression, anxiety, couples/marriage/family, self-esteem and holistic alternatives to psychiatric medication.
Are you intimidated by going to a therapist? Feel bogged down by always having to take tons of meds with side effects? Well Sarah Ali developed an innovative approach combining psychotherapy with nutritional healing and clinical aromatherapy as an alternative to psychotropic medication. Miss Ali and associates offer individual and group psychotherapy, life coaching and nutritional medicine services. Wellness programs, marital and premarital retreats are also available. Weekday evening and weekend appointments are available as well as video based teletherapy for out of town clients.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, couples/marriage/family, self-esteem and holistic alternatives to psychiatric medication.
Are you intimidated by going to a therapist? Feel bogged down by always having to take tons of meds with side effects? Well Sarah Ali developed an innovative approach combining psychotherapy with nutritional healing and clinical aromatherapy as an alternative to psychotropic medication. Miss Ali and associates offer individual and group psychotherapy, life coaching and nutritional medicine services. Wellness programs, marital and premarital retreats are also available. Weekday evening and weekend appointments are available as well as video based teletherapy for out of town clients.
(832) 850-2676 View (832) 850-2676
Photo of Juni Shrestha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Juni Shrestha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77001
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, like you’re walking on eggshells with your family, going through hormonal changes, or having difficulty processing past traumatic events? Are your children facing difficulties or having adjustment issues in a new city/country? You are at the right place. Therapy can help children learn to identify/process emotions and explore coping strategies. We all come from different walks of life and at different stages in life with inherently unique perspectives and approaches to life and problems. We all need some assistance at a certain point in life in the process of becoming.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, like you’re walking on eggshells with your family, going through hormonal changes, or having difficulty processing past traumatic events? Are your children facing difficulties or having adjustment issues in a new city/country? You are at the right place. Therapy can help children learn to identify/process emotions and explore coping strategies. We all come from different walks of life and at different stages in life with inherently unique perspectives and approaches to life and problems. We all need some assistance at a certain point in life in the process of becoming.
(832) 583-2503 View (832) 583-2503
Photo of Wellness Restoration Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Wellness Restoration Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77074
Therapy starts with understanding a person and seeing the world from that person's eyes.
Therapy starts with understanding a person and seeing the world from that person's eyes.
(281) 377-9687 View (281) 377-9687
Photo of Syeda Mariam Hasnain, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bellaire, TX
Syeda Mariam Hasnain
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056
Life is stressful and full of events that make us anxious and sad at times. Even our relationships can be full of challenges such as issues with communication and connection. Or maybe you're experiencing a crisis of your faith, religious or cultural beliefs. Whatever source of turmoil you're facing, know that I am here to help. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding clients toward understanding their triggers and developing practical coping skills. With a secure and compassionate environment, we can work together towards finding the solutions that are best for you.
Life is stressful and full of events that make us anxious and sad at times. Even our relationships can be full of challenges such as issues with communication and connection. Or maybe you're experiencing a crisis of your faith, religious or cultural beliefs. Whatever source of turmoil you're facing, know that I am here to help. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding clients toward understanding their triggers and developing practical coping skills. With a secure and compassionate environment, we can work together towards finding the solutions that are best for you.
(832) 281-5009 View (832) 281-5009
Photo of Jagdeep Chadha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Jagdeep Chadha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77019
I am dedicated to helping clients improve their lives and achieve self-transformation. This includes learning to cope, manage, overcome and transcend mental health issues. Building mindfulness and emotional awareness is key to understanding how our belief systems and emotions drive our decisions/behaviors. Our sessions will be fully engaged in building healthier thoughts, feelings, emotions, beliefs, values, perceptions, assumptions so that we can reshape our life narrative and see reality differently. Each individual is capable of healing psychological wounds, finding peace and balance, while being centered and present.
I am dedicated to helping clients improve their lives and achieve self-transformation. This includes learning to cope, manage, overcome and transcend mental health issues. Building mindfulness and emotional awareness is key to understanding how our belief systems and emotions drive our decisions/behaviors. Our sessions will be fully engaged in building healthier thoughts, feelings, emotions, beliefs, values, perceptions, assumptions so that we can reshape our life narrative and see reality differently. Each individual is capable of healing psychological wounds, finding peace and balance, while being centered and present.
(281) 305-1752 View (281) 305-1752
Photo of Suniti Barua, Psychologist in Bellaire, TX
Suniti Barua
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Life can be wonderful, but often comes with many surprisingly hard twists and turns (e.g., marriage, divorce, adolescence, relocating, mid-life, crises and loss). Changes in health and chronic medical issues can be among the most difficult as they can be lasting, painful, and with serious consequences. Sometimes you need someone trustworthy, knowledgable and caring to walk you through some of the hardest times and I would be honored to do so.
Life can be wonderful, but often comes with many surprisingly hard twists and turns (e.g., marriage, divorce, adolescence, relocating, mid-life, crises and loss). Changes in health and chronic medical issues can be among the most difficult as they can be lasting, painful, and with serious consequences. Sometimes you need someone trustworthy, knowledgable and caring to walk you through some of the hardest times and I would be honored to do so.
(320) 302-6584 View (320) 302-6584
Photo of Rose Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Rose Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, GCSC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Life transitions, especially those involving a need to change or make decisions pertaining to your career, health, and family or personal lives, can be incredibly stressful. It can often lead to anxiety, stress, loneliness, self-doubt, and feelings of depression. You may be going through a time where even putting words to how you are feeling may be difficult. Despite all your best efforts, you may be experiencing feelings of being "stuck" and a sense of utter hopelessness. You are not alone! I am here to walk alongside you and provide a compassionate space of support and also challenge so that you can grow and flourish!
Life transitions, especially those involving a need to change or make decisions pertaining to your career, health, and family or personal lives, can be incredibly stressful. It can often lead to anxiety, stress, loneliness, self-doubt, and feelings of depression. You may be going through a time where even putting words to how you are feeling may be difficult. Despite all your best efforts, you may be experiencing feelings of being "stuck" and a sense of utter hopelessness. You are not alone! I am here to walk alongside you and provide a compassionate space of support and also challenge so that you can grow and flourish!
(210) 405-7966 View (210) 405-7966
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.