Photo of Rachel Meltzer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Rachel Meltzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
I specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, anger management, trauma, stress management, communication skills and family and relationship issues.
At times, everyone feels overwhelmed by stressors, life transitions, grief or anger. Change and healing doesn't happen in isolation and we all need help at some point. My clients range from 10 yrs old and up. My approach is strongly grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT). Clients are encouraged to identify what’s important to them and learn ways to move toward their values. Addressing how thoughts drive feelings and behavior and creating new ways to relate with our thoughts and feelings. I'm always amazed and privileged when clients report that a different perspective has greatly altered their lives for the better, especially in the midst of tremendous life stressors. My approach alligns evidenced based research with each individual's goals to improve both emotional well being and connections.
I specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, anger management, trauma, stress management, communication skills and family and relationship issues.
At times, everyone feels overwhelmed by stressors, life transitions, grief or anger. Change and healing doesn't happen in isolation and we all need help at some point. My clients range from 10 yrs old and up. My approach is strongly grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT). Clients are encouraged to identify what’s important to them and learn ways to move toward their values. Addressing how thoughts drive feelings and behavior and creating new ways to relate with our thoughts and feelings. I'm always amazed and privileged when clients report that a different perspective has greatly altered their lives for the better, especially in the midst of tremendous life stressors. My approach alligns evidenced based research with each individual's goals to improve both emotional well being and connections.
(972) 362-9959 View (972) 362-9959
Photo of Heather Resneder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richardson, TX
Heather Resneder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Individuals,couples and families come to my practice seeking a less stressful, more harmonious family atmosphere.
Getting help to untangle and navigate through this time is the first step. I can help you have better relationships within your family and with others. Finding your authentic self and expressing your needs brings benefits to your life in so many ways. Parenting, communicating with a significant other, and dealing with stress, anxiety or depression can be challenging. Together we can work to reduce or eliminate problematic patterns of behavior preventing you from living the life you desire.
Individuals,couples and families come to my practice seeking a less stressful, more harmonious family atmosphere.
Getting help to untangle and navigate through this time is the first step. I can help you have better relationships within your family and with others. Finding your authentic self and expressing your needs brings benefits to your life in so many ways. Parenting, communicating with a significant other, and dealing with stress, anxiety or depression can be challenging. Together we can work to reduce or eliminate problematic patterns of behavior preventing you from living the life you desire.
(972) 402-6992 View (972) 402-6992
Photo of Marisela Linebarger, LPC Intern in Richardson, TX
Marisela Linebarger
LPC Intern, LPC-A, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
My experience as a married person with children of my own, in addition to being a former public school teacher, has greatly strengthened my tools for play therapy, couples' therapy, and individual therapy.
For anyone looking for a safe space to talk, grieve, ponder, feel, or just be, you have found the right place! By merely searching the internet to look for potential therapists, you have already taken a HUGE first step. It can be daunting and overwhelming, but so rewarding when you have found the right fit in a therapist. Together we can take the first steps on your journey toward emotional wellness.
My experience as a married person with children of my own, in addition to being a former public school teacher, has greatly strengthened my tools for play therapy, couples' therapy, and individual therapy.
For anyone looking for a safe space to talk, grieve, ponder, feel, or just be, you have found the right place! By merely searching the internet to look for potential therapists, you have already taken a HUGE first step. It can be daunting and overwhelming, but so rewarding when you have found the right fit in a therapist. Together we can take the first steps on your journey toward emotional wellness.
(469) 956-6387 View (469) 956-6387
Photo of Laura Flowers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richardson, TX
Laura Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
***Specializing in Couples Counseling*** Most of my clients are couples seeking relief from relationship distress. This might include emotional disconnection, unresolved conflict, parenting stress, blending families, infidelity, contemplating divorce, living with mental and chronic illness, and other issues. Many of my clients are also individuals seeking healthier relationships and create change in their lives by taking ownership of their own growth areas; many work to incorporate healthy boundaries, assertiveness, healing from shame, and discovering untapped strengths. Families come for support with parenting and other issues.
***Specializing in Couples Counseling*** Most of my clients are couples seeking relief from relationship distress. This might include emotional disconnection, unresolved conflict, parenting stress, blending families, infidelity, contemplating divorce, living with mental and chronic illness, and other issues. Many of my clients are also individuals seeking healthier relationships and create change in their lives by taking ownership of their own growth areas; many work to incorporate healthy boundaries, assertiveness, healing from shame, and discovering untapped strengths. Families come for support with parenting and other issues.
(972) 808-5027 View (972) 808-5027
Photo of Alana Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richardson, TX
Alana Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
I empower adolescents, adults, and couples in therapy by utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities.
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of anxious thoughts, sadness or maladaptive behaviors? Are you interested in learning ways to resolve conflict, improve your self esteem, and create more meaningful relationships? I understand how courageous it is to ask for help, and I look forward to collaborating with you to reach your personal best.
I empower adolescents, adults, and couples in therapy by utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities.
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of anxious thoughts, sadness or maladaptive behaviors? Are you interested in learning ways to resolve conflict, improve your self esteem, and create more meaningful relationships? I understand how courageous it is to ask for help, and I look forward to collaborating with you to reach your personal best.
(214) 271-4504 View (214) 271-4504
Photo of Erica Pouncie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Erica Pouncie
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDCI, CBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Waitlist for new clients
Each persons journey to happiness is different and may take a different length of time from something acute, being short-term to something more complex entailing a longer client and counselor working relationship.
I love helping individuals grow to their fullest potential, as they utilize tools that reside within. My experience includes working in Private Practice settings and Veteran Mental Health/Rehabilitation facility. Additional experience has been gained by working in adolescent residential treatment, and intensive outpatient. My counseling experience has given me a natural ability to work with individuals, groups, and families of any culture or background. I have the ability to meet individuals where they are in life and help implement tools to grow. My expertise includes working with Veterans adjusting back to civilian life, adults, and adolescents. I modify therapy for your specific needs.
Each persons journey to happiness is different and may take a different length of time from something acute, being short-term to something more complex entailing a longer client and counselor working relationship.
I love helping individuals grow to their fullest potential, as they utilize tools that reside within. My experience includes working in Private Practice settings and Veteran Mental Health/Rehabilitation facility. Additional experience has been gained by working in adolescent residential treatment, and intensive outpatient. My counseling experience has given me a natural ability to work with individuals, groups, and families of any culture or background. I have the ability to meet individuals where they are in life and help implement tools to grow. My expertise includes working with Veterans adjusting back to civilian life, adults, and adolescents. I modify therapy for your specific needs.
(469) 351-3389 View (469) 351-3389
Photo of Eric James Liles, LPC Intern in Richardson, TX
Eric James Liles
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75082
I believe that people are intrinsically good and that their unfavorable actions are a result of something that happened to them in the past or is currently happening in their lives. My counseling approach aligns with person-centered therapy. I firmly believe that the empathic relationship between counselor and client is crucial for the success of the therapeutic process. I value the method, based on a collaborative effort, in which the client controls the process. In my work with couples, adolescents and adults, I draw techniques from many different theories and approaches.
I believe that people are intrinsically good and that their unfavorable actions are a result of something that happened to them in the past or is currently happening in their lives. My counseling approach aligns with person-centered therapy. I firmly believe that the empathic relationship between counselor and client is crucial for the success of the therapeutic process. I value the method, based on a collaborative effort, in which the client controls the process. In my work with couples, adolescents and adults, I draw techniques from many different theories and approaches.
(469) 336-3991 View (469) 336-3991
Photo of Kristina M. Stephens, Counselor in Richardson, TX
Kristina M. Stephens
Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
I also see couples, families, and adult individuals providing marriage counseling, premarital counseling (certified through Prepare-Enrich), and counseling for step/blended families.
PLAY THERAPY (age 2 & up!), FAMILIES, COUPLES (marital, pre marital, other) or INDIVIDUALS! I have worked with children and families for 13+ years. I taught in the public schools for 6 years before leaving the classroom to work with children and families in a more intimate, counseling setting. As a registered play therapist, I work with young clients who are having issues in school as well as home. I have training on attachment and bonding issues and frequently work with adoption triad cases (birth families, adoptive families, and adoptees). My clients range in age 2-adulthood!
I also see couples, families, and adult individuals providing marriage counseling, premarital counseling (certified through Prepare-Enrich), and counseling for step/blended families.
PLAY THERAPY (age 2 & up!), FAMILIES, COUPLES (marital, pre marital, other) or INDIVIDUALS! I have worked with children and families for 13+ years. I taught in the public schools for 6 years before leaving the classroom to work with children and families in a more intimate, counseling setting. As a registered play therapist, I work with young clients who are having issues in school as well as home. I have training on attachment and bonding issues and frequently work with adoption triad cases (birth families, adoptive families, and adoptees). My clients range in age 2-adulthood!
(469) 908-3440 View (469) 908-3440
Photo of Abdi Zelaya, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Abdi Zelaya
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist and I am honored to walk with clients as they navigate various life challenges. I thrive to establish a safe therapeutic relationship with clients who have experienced trauma and difficult life circumstances. I am an EMDR trained therapist and understand that early life experiences affect and mold how we walk through life. My goal in the therapeutic process is to meet the client where they are at and offer a culturally sensitive approach to their challenges. I hope to hold a safe space for each client as they navigate and find their healing.
I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist and I am honored to walk with clients as they navigate various life challenges. I thrive to establish a safe therapeutic relationship with clients who have experienced trauma and difficult life circumstances. I am an EMDR trained therapist and understand that early life experiences affect and mold how we walk through life. My goal in the therapeutic process is to meet the client where they are at and offer a culturally sensitive approach to their challenges. I hope to hold a safe space for each client as they navigate and find their healing.
(972) 480-6128 View (972) 480-6128
Photo of Meltzer Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Meltzer Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Meltzer Counseling is located in Richardson, Texas. We offer counseling services to adults, adolescents, children, couples. Clinicians accept health insurance, some clinicians offer therapy services on a sliding scale. Additionally, we offer short-term FREE family therapy for qualifying families. All clinicians are direct and respectful and our goal is to utilize the best fit for each client's needs. Therapists specialize in mood, eating disorders, addiction , anger management, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation ,trauma, EMDR, PTSD, grief and loss issues, communication skills, family and relationship dynamics.
Meltzer Counseling is located in Richardson, Texas. We offer counseling services to adults, adolescents, children, couples. Clinicians accept health insurance, some clinicians offer therapy services on a sliding scale. Additionally, we offer short-term FREE family therapy for qualifying families. All clinicians are direct and respectful and our goal is to utilize the best fit for each client's needs. Therapists specialize in mood, eating disorders, addiction , anger management, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation ,trauma, EMDR, PTSD, grief and loss issues, communication skills, family and relationship dynamics.
(972) 954-6256 View (972) 954-6256
Photo of Paul Moore, Psychologist in Richardson, TX
Paul Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
I place a strong focus on exploring developmentally important emotional and relational disruptions and rely heavily on attachment theory as a conceptual grounding in my work. I have experience in working with family-of-origin concerns, religious/spiritual concerns, existential questions, relationship concerns, Adult-Children-of-Divorce, LGBTQI concerns, and difficulties with acculturation. My clients are diverse in their racial and ethnic identity, religious affiliation, social class, economic status, sexual orientation, and age. I particularly enjoy working with those who are looking to explore what is beneath their current symptoms in order to understand themselves better and enact lasting change.
I place a strong focus on exploring developmentally important emotional and relational disruptions and rely heavily on attachment theory as a conceptual grounding in my work. I have experience in working with family-of-origin concerns, religious/spiritual concerns, existential questions, relationship concerns, Adult-Children-of-Divorce, LGBTQI concerns, and difficulties with acculturation. My clients are diverse in their racial and ethnic identity, religious affiliation, social class, economic status, sexual orientation, and age. I particularly enjoy working with those who are looking to explore what is beneath their current symptoms in order to understand themselves better and enact lasting change.
(469) 617-5447 View (469) 617-5447
Photo of Maria LaVorgna-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Maria LaVorgna-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD MFT, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I am a seasoned professional who has the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, specializing in family therapy and the creative arts to resolve conflicts and dilemmas. As a credentialed and registered art therapist, I have a passion for my field helping people to open-up to their creativity. I receive tremendous joy working with children, women, couples and families as trained in my doctorate of marriage and family therapy. Key issues include: ADHD, Autism Spectrum, couples therapy, children of divorce, adoption issues, parenting issues, transgender and identity, spirituality, mood disorder, anxiety and depression.
I am a seasoned professional who has the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, specializing in family therapy and the creative arts to resolve conflicts and dilemmas. As a credentialed and registered art therapist, I have a passion for my field helping people to open-up to their creativity. I receive tremendous joy working with children, women, couples and families as trained in my doctorate of marriage and family therapy. Key issues include: ADHD, Autism Spectrum, couples therapy, children of divorce, adoption issues, parenting issues, transgender and identity, spirituality, mood disorder, anxiety and depression.
(469) 416-4354 View (469) 416-4354
Photo of Mercedes Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Richardson, TX
Mercedes Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
I strive to work with all populations including troubled youth, couples, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, anger management, and substance abuse.
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate Supervised by Jane Kong, LPC-S. I see myself as an optimist and strongly believes in looking at situations with a “glass half full” mentality. I believe in providing a safe environment for my clients to be able to speak freely and openly about their experiences, problems at hand, and their emotions without judgment. I understand the power of a client being heard, acknowledged, and understood. I utilizes different therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Reality therapy, and Mindfulness when meeting with clients.
I strive to work with all populations including troubled youth, couples, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, anger management, and substance abuse.
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate Supervised by Jane Kong, LPC-S. I see myself as an optimist and strongly believes in looking at situations with a “glass half full” mentality. I believe in providing a safe environment for my clients to be able to speak freely and openly about their experiences, problems at hand, and their emotions without judgment. I understand the power of a client being heard, acknowledged, and understood. I utilizes different therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Reality therapy, and Mindfulness when meeting with clients.
(469) 393-5976 View (469) 393-5976
Photo of Tracy Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Tracy Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling sad, alone, worried, or depressed? Are you struggling in a relationship with a spouse, a child, a parent, or a friend? I enjoy working with individuals who are struggling with the stresses and challenges life brings and with couples struggling with issues that range from a lack of communication to infidelity. If divorce has occurred, I am here to help you work through the emotional issues that both children and parents go through. Let me help you gain new insights and grow through these experiences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling sad, alone, worried, or depressed? Are you struggling in a relationship with a spouse, a child, a parent, or a friend? I enjoy working with individuals who are struggling with the stresses and challenges life brings and with couples struggling with issues that range from a lack of communication to infidelity. If divorce has occurred, I am here to help you work through the emotional issues that both children and parents go through. Let me help you gain new insights and grow through these experiences.
(972) 437-4698 View (972) 437-4698
Photo of Melissa Greear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Melissa Greear
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Hi, I’m Melissa! Do you ever just feel stuck? Trapped in a difficult situation or an unhealthy relationship? You’re not alone! If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, women’s issues, grief, anger, loneliness, career uncertainty, relationship and family matters, faith-related concerns, or other stressful life events, I can help you untangle your thoughts, make sense of your emotions, and navigate through the complicated times with support, empathy, and compassion.
Hi, I’m Melissa! Do you ever just feel stuck? Trapped in a difficult situation or an unhealthy relationship? You’re not alone! If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, women’s issues, grief, anger, loneliness, career uncertainty, relationship and family matters, faith-related concerns, or other stressful life events, I can help you untangle your thoughts, make sense of your emotions, and navigate through the complicated times with support, empathy, and compassion.
(972) 474-3934 View (972) 474-3934
Photo of Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSSP
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
(512) 883-7116 View (512) 883-7116
Photo of The Therapy Project, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richardson, TX
The Therapy Project
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082  (Online Only)
I love counseling and love working with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and families. My therapeutic approach focuses on promoting self-awareness and developing effective strategies to cope with life situations which include trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions. My therapeutic philosophy is eclectic and individualized for each unique client. My most common approaches include CBT, REBT, and Trauma Informed.
I love counseling and love working with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and families. My therapeutic approach focuses on promoting self-awareness and developing effective strategies to cope with life situations which include trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions. My therapeutic philosophy is eclectic and individualized for each unique client. My most common approaches include CBT, REBT, and Trauma Informed.
(972) 640-7699 View (972) 640-7699
Photo of Crowned Hearts Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richardson, TX
Crowned Hearts Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081  (Online Only)
Whether it's navigating issues of depression, anxiety, anger, bullying, self-esteem, behavior problems, relational difficulties, school-related challenges, trauma, substance use/abuse, or grief, I provide a supportive and effective therapeutic experience for children, teens, adult individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe in fostering resilience and empowering individuals to overcome life's obstacles. As your counselor, I strive to create a nurturing and judgment-free environment where you can explore your challenges through the lens of faith, finding solace, strength, and healing.
Whether it's navigating issues of depression, anxiety, anger, bullying, self-esteem, behavior problems, relational difficulties, school-related challenges, trauma, substance use/abuse, or grief, I provide a supportive and effective therapeutic experience for children, teens, adult individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe in fostering resilience and empowering individuals to overcome life's obstacles. As your counselor, I strive to create a nurturing and judgment-free environment where you can explore your challenges through the lens of faith, finding solace, strength, and healing.
(469) 529-6247 View (469) 529-6247
Photo of Audrey H Atkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richardson, TX
Audrey H Atkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
Providing adult, adolescent, couples and family counseling.
As a top honors graduate from Texas Wesleyan University, I have been trained by some of the best licensed professionals in the mental health field today. Having done my graduate practicum at Sante Center for Healing, I learned that treating clients from a holistic perspective gives them the skills they need in all areas to address their greatest concerns. As a client of mine, you will be asked to be an active participant in your therapy. The vast majority of my clients report more happiness and positive changes in their lives after only a short time as my client.
Providing adult, adolescent, couples and family counseling.
As a top honors graduate from Texas Wesleyan University, I have been trained by some of the best licensed professionals in the mental health field today. Having done my graduate practicum at Sante Center for Healing, I learned that treating clients from a holistic perspective gives them the skills they need in all areas to address their greatest concerns. As a client of mine, you will be asked to be an active participant in your therapy. The vast majority of my clients report more happiness and positive changes in their lives after only a short time as my client.
(940) 294-8001 View (940) 294-8001
Photo of Psychotherapy & Growth Clinic of Dallas, Bilingual, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richardson, TX
Psychotherapy & Growth Clinic of Dallas, Bilingual
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
I am a Bilingual English/Spanish Psychotherapist in private practice. I treat children, adolescents, families, couples and adults. I provide individual, family and couples therapy for people with emotional and or behavioral issues. Hola, soy una psicoterapeuta bilingüe en Ingles y Español. Trato a personas con problemas emocionales, como ansiedad y depresión, así como problemas con sus hijos, de pareja, familia y en el trabajo.
I am a Bilingual English/Spanish Psychotherapist in private practice. I treat children, adolescents, families, couples and adults. I provide individual, family and couples therapy for people with emotional and or behavioral issues. Hola, soy una psicoterapeuta bilingüe en Ingles y Español. Trato a personas con problemas emocionales, como ansiedad y depresión, así como problemas con sus hijos, de pareja, familia y en el trabajo.
(214) 624-6459 View (214) 624-6459
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.