Catherine Huet-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I have experience working with French expats, with individuals & couples with a military background, & with pro-athletes and their wives in couples therapy.
I am confident in my skills as a therapist to help you help yourself. What I would require of you, in turn, is a willingness to search yourself and a willingness to take steps to learn to grow personally. I have worked with many issues from depression, relationship issues (including couples and marital therapy), anxiety issues, stress related issues, co-dependency issues, adjustment issues such as going through a divorce or recovering from a divorce (but not limited to those life events), and loss issues which may include trauma.
I have experience working with French expats, with individuals & couples with a military background, & with pro-athletes and their wives in couples therapy.
I am confident in my skills as a therapist to help you help yourself. What I would require of you, in turn, is a willingness to search yourself and a willingness to take steps to learn to grow personally. I have worked with many issues from depression, relationship issues (including couples and marital therapy), anxiety issues, stress related issues, co-dependency issues, adjustment issues such as going through a divorce or recovering from a divorce (but not limited to those life events), and loss issues which may include trauma.
(281) 730-8284 View (281) 730-8284
Photo of Chuck Gray, Psychologist in Sugar Land, TX
Chuck Gray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479  (Online Only)
I deeply value marital and relationship fulfillment. If you are an adult seeking marriage, dating, premarital, affairs, or other relationship counseling, then we are likely to be a good fit for each other. Since 1987 I have focused as a psychologist full-time on developing and implementing specialized expertise in couples and other adult relationship counseling. Together we may assess in a friendly way what is happening in your relationship, how it developed to be this way, and what may be done to improve communication, build trust, strengthen emotional connections, enhance intimacy, and otherwise fulfill your relationship goals.
I deeply value marital and relationship fulfillment. If you are an adult seeking marriage, dating, premarital, affairs, or other relationship counseling, then we are likely to be a good fit for each other. Since 1987 I have focused as a psychologist full-time on developing and implementing specialized expertise in couples and other adult relationship counseling. Together we may assess in a friendly way what is happening in your relationship, how it developed to be this way, and what may be done to improve communication, build trust, strengthen emotional connections, enhance intimacy, and otherwise fulfill your relationship goals.
(713) 338-9087 View (713) 338-9087
Photo of Brenda Moreno, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Brenda Moreno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Life challenges can cause us to feel anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed. Together we will create a new path to a more balanced and peaceful lifestyle. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can explore the challenges you may be facing. The goal during the counseling sessions is to self-explore and to identify healthy coping skills to help you achieve self-improvement and create healthy connections. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Couples Counseling and I am fluent in English and Spanish.
Life challenges can cause us to feel anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed. Together we will create a new path to a more balanced and peaceful lifestyle. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can explore the challenges you may be facing. The goal during the counseling sessions is to self-explore and to identify healthy coping skills to help you achieve self-improvement and create healthy connections. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Couples Counseling and I am fluent in English and Spanish.
(346) 746-7920 View (346) 746-7920
Photo of Carolyn Dylla Henderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Carolyn Dylla Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Hi there! I am Carolyn, a licensed therapist trained to work with individuals and couples. I help individuals discover their true, authentic selves, learn how to self-regulate and re-center, and navigate the existential questions of life. I help couples learn how to take accountability within their relationships, and connect even deeper, or re-connect all together. I also help individuals or couples navigate the aftermath of infidelity. Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of and relationship with yourself, improve your relationship with your partner, or just find a better way to do life, I am here to guide you.
Hi there! I am Carolyn, a licensed therapist trained to work with individuals and couples. I help individuals discover their true, authentic selves, learn how to self-regulate and re-center, and navigate the existential questions of life. I help couples learn how to take accountability within their relationships, and connect even deeper, or re-connect all together. I also help individuals or couples navigate the aftermath of infidelity. Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of and relationship with yourself, improve your relationship with your partner, or just find a better way to do life, I am here to guide you.
(832) 554-9328 View (832) 554-9328
Photo of Kamica L. Hampton, LPC-Associate in Sugar Land, TX
Kamica L. Hampton
LPC-Associate, M ED, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478  (Online Only)
My services include anxiety management, stress reduction, life coaching, and relationship counseling.
Hey there! If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or struggling with life changes, you're in the right place. I'm here to help you gain tools to cope better, understand your feelings, and improve your relationships. Together, we'll work towards your goal of finding balance, boosting self-esteem, and living a fulfilling life. Let's embark on this journey of growth and well-being together.
My services include anxiety management, stress reduction, life coaching, and relationship counseling.
Hey there! If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or struggling with life changes, you're in the right place. I'm here to help you gain tools to cope better, understand your feelings, and improve your relationships. Together, we'll work towards your goal of finding balance, boosting self-esteem, and living a fulfilling life. Let's embark on this journey of growth and well-being together.
(346) 545-4612 View (346) 545-4612
Photo of Jodi Diane Sheffield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Jodi Diane Sheffield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Hope, Healing and Wholeness can be found when our relationships with ourselves and others are Healthy. The therapeutic relationship between client and counselor can create a space for clients to safely explore his or her relationship with self and with others. My primary goal is to create this space for individual adults and couples to heal at their own pace. I utilize the treatment modalities of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients explore how their thoughts, behaviors and feelings are connected in their relationship with self and with others.
Hope, Healing and Wholeness can be found when our relationships with ourselves and others are Healthy. The therapeutic relationship between client and counselor can create a space for clients to safely explore his or her relationship with self and with others. My primary goal is to create this space for individual adults and couples to heal at their own pace. I utilize the treatment modalities of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients explore how their thoughts, behaviors and feelings are connected in their relationship with self and with others.
(346) 248-2771 View (346) 248-2771
Photo of Julie Ames, Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Julie Ames
Counselor, MA, LPC - A
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I work with individuals dealing with anxiety and depression as well as substance-abuse and trauma. I also enjoy working with couples and figuring out blocks to greater intimacy. Additionally, I have both personal and professional experience working with families who have a child or family member with special needs. My personal journey with counseling began when I was 25 years old. As a young adult, I sought out counseling and completed the Adult Children of Alcoholics 12 step program. Years later, my husband and I would seek out counseling for our marriage and at times for our children.
I work with individuals dealing with anxiety and depression as well as substance-abuse and trauma. I also enjoy working with couples and figuring out blocks to greater intimacy. Additionally, I have both personal and professional experience working with families who have a child or family member with special needs. My personal journey with counseling began when I was 25 years old. As a young adult, I sought out counseling and completed the Adult Children of Alcoholics 12 step program. Years later, my husband and I would seek out counseling for our marriage and at times for our children.
(346) 483-2680 View (346) 483-2680
Photo of Karen Waldman, Psychologist in Sugar Land, TX
Karen Waldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479  (Online Only)
My specializations include couples and marital counseling, individual therapy, behavioral health (i.e., the mind-body connection), mindfulness training, stress management, values/goals clarification, LGBT issues, and hypnosis. Understandably, clients want results that are both fast and lasting, so I tend to use some type of brief, solution-focused model in my work. I also have considerable experience utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a method that is both quick and effective for relationship/family/parenting problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, chronic pain, guilt, insomnia, medical impairments, work stress, anger/resentment, smoking addiction, and many other difficult issues.
My specializations include couples and marital counseling, individual therapy, behavioral health (i.e., the mind-body connection), mindfulness training, stress management, values/goals clarification, LGBT issues, and hypnosis. Understandably, clients want results that are both fast and lasting, so I tend to use some type of brief, solution-focused model in my work. I also have considerable experience utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a method that is both quick and effective for relationship/family/parenting problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, chronic pain, guilt, insomnia, medical impairments, work stress, anger/resentment, smoking addiction, and many other difficult issues.
(713) 766-4375 View (713) 766-4375
Photo of Bridget Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Bridget Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, SAP
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I specialize in working with people with depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, grief/trauma and loss issues, relationship issues, family, parenting, co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, and stress issues.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and their families who are dealing with a variety of behavioral health, alcohol and drug abuse issues. My experience has shown me that by changing unhealthy patterns, expressing fears and concerns and taking gentle risks, it is possible to live a satisfying life regardless of what or how long your struggle. I use a combination of techniques depending on issues presented and we will work together on both short and long term goals.
I specialize in working with people with depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, grief/trauma and loss issues, relationship issues, family, parenting, co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, and stress issues.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and their families who are dealing with a variety of behavioral health, alcohol and drug abuse issues. My experience has shown me that by changing unhealthy patterns, expressing fears and concerns and taking gentle risks, it is possible to live a satisfying life regardless of what or how long your struggle. I use a combination of techniques depending on issues presented and we will work together on both short and long term goals.
(281) 336-0508 View (281) 336-0508
Photo of Jeffrey S McDowell, LPC Associate in Sugar Land, TX
Jeffrey S McDowell
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I help individuals and couples who are stuck get unstuck. They want more from life but can’t seem to push beyond their current circumstances. Their thoughts, feelings, and habits hold them back or move them even further from their desired futures. We partner together to define your values based goals and get you moving to close the gap between the life you are currently living and the one that is possible.
I help individuals and couples who are stuck get unstuck. They want more from life but can’t seem to push beyond their current circumstances. Their thoughts, feelings, and habits hold them back or move them even further from their desired futures. We partner together to define your values based goals and get you moving to close the gap between the life you are currently living and the one that is possible.
(346) 639-3187 View (346) 639-3187
Photo of Kimberly Martinez-Vasquez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sugar Land, TX
Kimberly Martinez-Vasquez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77498  (Online Only)
Do you feel invalidated, unheard, or misunderstood in your relationship? Are you constantly arguing with your partner and have trouble communicating effectively? Any unaddressed underlying issues that get in the way of a happy and healthy relationship? Trying to recover from an affair or breakup? Have you been hurt or betrayed and found it challenging to trust & love again? I believe healing and recovery take place in the context of relationships, both with ourselves and others. That’s why I seek to help my clients understand how past experiences have shaped their lives, and give them tools to increase their overall well-being.
Do you feel invalidated, unheard, or misunderstood in your relationship? Are you constantly arguing with your partner and have trouble communicating effectively? Any unaddressed underlying issues that get in the way of a happy and healthy relationship? Trying to recover from an affair or breakup? Have you been hurt or betrayed and found it challenging to trust & love again? I believe healing and recovery take place in the context of relationships, both with ourselves and others. That’s why I seek to help my clients understand how past experiences have shaped their lives, and give them tools to increase their overall well-being.
(830) 947-5391 View (830) 947-5391
Photo of Ida Ramos, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Ida Ramos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of counseling individuals and couples. I specialize in anger management, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and emotional disturbance. I work with various modalities that cater to each individual’s needs, such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Solution-focused, and more. I believe outstanding achievements come with excellent communication. Our partnership will help you understand yourself, why you feel the way you do, and how to make the changes you desire.
Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of counseling individuals and couples. I specialize in anger management, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and emotional disturbance. I work with various modalities that cater to each individual’s needs, such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Solution-focused, and more. I believe outstanding achievements come with excellent communication. Our partnership will help you understand yourself, why you feel the way you do, and how to make the changes you desire.
(512) 399-0742 View (512) 399-0742
Photo of Alessia Fontenette Madkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Alessia Fontenette Madkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC-S, CCPS, ImTT, NFB
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
If you’ve faced betrayal in your marriage or long-term relationship, you know the devastation that broken trust creates.
Welcome to your story of renewal, healing, and hope. There is hope, even if you can’t see a way forward right now. God made you exactly the way He wanted you to be. We were created to live lives of peace, joy, and fulfillment. If you are not experiencing the abundant life that Christ freely gives, it's not too late! Gods wants nothing than to comfort you, love you, empower you, redeem you and see His glory shine through you. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right sprit within me", Psalm 51:10. Each session is warm. supportive and inviting, with a Christ-centered, biblically rooted, and clinically competent approach.
If you’ve faced betrayal in your marriage or long-term relationship, you know the devastation that broken trust creates.
Welcome to your story of renewal, healing, and hope. There is hope, even if you can’t see a way forward right now. God made you exactly the way He wanted you to be. We were created to live lives of peace, joy, and fulfillment. If you are not experiencing the abundant life that Christ freely gives, it's not too late! Gods wants nothing than to comfort you, love you, empower you, redeem you and see His glory shine through you. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right sprit within me", Psalm 51:10. Each session is warm. supportive and inviting, with a Christ-centered, biblically rooted, and clinically competent approach.
(281) 201-1512 View (281) 201-1512
Photo of Muhibbah Khan, LPC Intern in Sugar Land, TX
Muhibbah Khan
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
We will collaborate to build a strong therapeutic relationship and tailor a treatment plan that meets your needs while helping you achieve your goals.
You did it! You made it to the first step of your journey to better mental health. I know that it can be daunting and nerve-wracking to take the step to start therapy, but know I am here to support you as you go through the ups and downs of that journey. Counseling is such a deeply personal experience and I believe that it is different for each and every person. This is why I aim to create a judgment-free environment in our sessions where you will feel comfortable and safe to be your true self because that is where the most growth takes place.
We will collaborate to build a strong therapeutic relationship and tailor a treatment plan that meets your needs while helping you achieve your goals.
You did it! You made it to the first step of your journey to better mental health. I know that it can be daunting and nerve-wracking to take the step to start therapy, but know I am here to support you as you go through the ups and downs of that journey. Counseling is such a deeply personal experience and I believe that it is different for each and every person. This is why I aim to create a judgment-free environment in our sessions where you will feel comfortable and safe to be your true self because that is where the most growth takes place.
(346) 788-1915 View (346) 788-1915
Photo of Kori Odior, LPC-Associate in Sugar Land, TX
Kori Odior
LPC-Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
In working with teens, young adults, women, and couples, I will incorporate evidence-based practices and personal needs to target concerns and desires.
When navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, loss, identity struggles, trauma and more a deep breath may be what is desired yet, life does not stop. Whether you have reached a dead end or you are starting out on your journey toward healing, I am here to walk alongside you.
In working with teens, young adults, women, and couples, I will incorporate evidence-based practices and personal needs to target concerns and desires.
When navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, loss, identity struggles, trauma and more a deep breath may be what is desired yet, life does not stop. Whether you have reached a dead end or you are starting out on your journey toward healing, I am here to walk alongside you.
(346) 361-2451 x25 View (346) 361-2451 x25
Photo of Angela Rasmuson, Licensed Master Social Worker in Sugar Land, TX
Angela Rasmuson
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
I believe in building a trusting and collaborative relationship with my young clients and recognizing the importance of involving parents or guardians in the therapeutic process.
Dedicated child and adolescent counselor passionate about empowering young minds to navigate the challenges of growing up. Committed to creating a safe, supportive space where each child can discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and flourish. Through genuine connection and tailored interventions, I strive to inspire confidence and resilience, guiding the next generation toward a brighter and more fulfilling future. Flexible and convenient nights and weekend appointments are now available! In-person and virtual.
I believe in building a trusting and collaborative relationship with my young clients and recognizing the importance of involving parents or guardians in the therapeutic process.
Dedicated child and adolescent counselor passionate about empowering young minds to navigate the challenges of growing up. Committed to creating a safe, supportive space where each child can discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and flourish. Through genuine connection and tailored interventions, I strive to inspire confidence and resilience, guiding the next generation toward a brighter and more fulfilling future. Flexible and convenient nights and weekend appointments are now available! In-person and virtual.
(346) 639-4347 View (346) 639-4347
Photo of JoAnna Lynn Quan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
JoAnna Lynn Quan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
I have worked in private practice, university clinics, and hospital settings across the country including Lucille Packard Children's Stanford and Texas Children's Hospital. I have over 20 years experience working with kids, teens, and adults with a wide range of mental health and behavioral conditions. Including kids with ADHD, Autism, Learning DIsabilities, and Grief. I specialize in working with women with Post Partum Depression, Adoption, and Infertility, couples, and family counseling. I completed training with Bo's Place. I was awarded graduate fellowship in Distress Screening from Yale University .
I have worked in private practice, university clinics, and hospital settings across the country including Lucille Packard Children's Stanford and Texas Children's Hospital. I have over 20 years experience working with kids, teens, and adults with a wide range of mental health and behavioral conditions. Including kids with ADHD, Autism, Learning DIsabilities, and Grief. I specialize in working with women with Post Partum Depression, Adoption, and Infertility, couples, and family counseling. I completed training with Bo's Place. I was awarded graduate fellowship in Distress Screening from Yale University .
(281) 783-3951 View (281) 783-3951
Photo of Sadia Jalali, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Sadia Jalali
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77498  (Online Only)
I am a parent to six children ranging from adolescents to toddlers and understand issues such as effective communication in families including the parent-child relationship, marital relationship and blended family issues.
Therapy is a journey. I feel privileged to join my clients in working towards improving their lives. I have worked in private practice since 2006, providing family/couple, individual, and group therapy services. I work with clients of diverse ethnicities, ages, and genders. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and solution-focused, family therapy-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered. If faith is important to you, I'm happy to work with that as a resource for hope and healing.
I am a parent to six children ranging from adolescents to toddlers and understand issues such as effective communication in families including the parent-child relationship, marital relationship and blended family issues.
Therapy is a journey. I feel privileged to join my clients in working towards improving their lives. I have worked in private practice since 2006, providing family/couple, individual, and group therapy services. I work with clients of diverse ethnicities, ages, and genders. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and solution-focused, family therapy-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered. If faith is important to you, I'm happy to work with that as a resource for hope and healing.
(713) 965-6959 View (713) 965-6959
Photo of Chamara Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Chamara Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LPC-S, CCMC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I value the relationship we build and the progress we make together.
Welcome to my practice. As a dedicated mental health professional, my foremost commitment is to provide you with a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts & emotions. I understand that seeking support is a courageous step, and I want you to know that I am here to support you every step of the way. I believe in the power of collaboration, where we work together to understand your unique experiences & challenges. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and evidence-based practices. Through active listening and open dialogue, we will tailor our sessions to your individual needs, goals, & preferences.
I value the relationship we build and the progress we make together.
Welcome to my practice. As a dedicated mental health professional, my foremost commitment is to provide you with a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts & emotions. I understand that seeking support is a courageous step, and I want you to know that I am here to support you every step of the way. I believe in the power of collaboration, where we work together to understand your unique experiences & challenges. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and evidence-based practices. Through active listening and open dialogue, we will tailor our sessions to your individual needs, goals, & preferences.
(346) 258-7565 View (346) 258-7565
Photo of Gerald W Ford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Gerald W Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478  (Online Only)
I use a Collaborative Marriage Skills Approach I love seeing couples build a healthy marriage, with 1) clear, genuine communication 2) conflict resolution that treats the relationship as more important than the issue, 3) mutual satisfaction by each person caring about the needs of the other.
Everything can be different, so said Psychologist, Alfred Adler. I believe it, too. We are not trapped in our past, we are locked in our ideas that we hold about ourselves, and about our future... and ideas can change. I invite you to join me in an adventure of finding encouragement, and finding new ideas about your life. I offer counseling sessions which will focus on...Personal Growth... Marriage and Relationship Issues... Communication Skills... Assertiveness Skills... Overcoming Depression... Overcoming Anxiety... Let's Talk- Everything Can Be Different.
I use a Collaborative Marriage Skills Approach I love seeing couples build a healthy marriage, with 1) clear, genuine communication 2) conflict resolution that treats the relationship as more important than the issue, 3) mutual satisfaction by each person caring about the needs of the other.
Everything can be different, so said Psychologist, Alfred Adler. I believe it, too. We are not trapped in our past, we are locked in our ideas that we hold about ourselves, and about our future... and ideas can change. I invite you to join me in an adventure of finding encouragement, and finding new ideas about your life. I offer counseling sessions which will focus on...Personal Growth... Marriage and Relationship Issues... Communication Skills... Assertiveness Skills... Overcoming Depression... Overcoming Anxiety... Let's Talk- Everything Can Be Different.
(281) 408-4225 View (281) 408-4225
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.