Couples Counseling Therapists in Everett, WA

Photo of Chett Hill, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chett Hill
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
As a sex and relationship therapist I focus on high functioning adults with complicated lives and issues.
Counseling for individuals and couples to overcome outstanding stress in daily life such as ongoing family conflict, resentment, bitterness, loneliness... Specialties include: overcoming depression cycles, infidelity, couples counseling (bringing romance and intimacy back), and critical insight as you adjust to a new normal that may be frightening. How many times have you said: "I know better, but I keep repeating the same mistakes over and over?" I invite you to slow down and become curious about your inner world so that we can identify the patterns that keep you frustrated.
As a sex and relationship therapist I focus on high functioning adults with complicated lives and issues.
Counseling for individuals and couples to overcome outstanding stress in daily life such as ongoing family conflict, resentment, bitterness, loneliness... Specialties include: overcoming depression cycles, infidelity, couples counseling (bringing romance and intimacy back), and critical insight as you adjust to a new normal that may be frightening. How many times have you said: "I know better, but I keep repeating the same mistakes over and over?" I invite you to slow down and become curious about your inner world so that we can identify the patterns that keep you frustrated.
(206) 504-2900 View (206) 504-2900
Photo of Lacey Niemi, MA, LMHCA
Lacey Niemi
MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
My highest priority is establishing a mutually comfortable relationship with my clients so they feel heard, understood, and most importantly, safe. I work with a wide range of individuals across the lifespan (children and adults) and specialize in working with the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities and supportive allies. I love to help parents and individuals understand themselves and their family members better through a neurodiverse affirming lens to support connection. I believe relationships are healing, and work from a holistic, feminist lens that considers clients' culture, intersecting identities, and unique experiences.
My highest priority is establishing a mutually comfortable relationship with my clients so they feel heard, understood, and most importantly, safe. I work with a wide range of individuals across the lifespan (children and adults) and specialize in working with the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities and supportive allies. I love to help parents and individuals understand themselves and their family members better through a neurodiverse affirming lens to support connection. I believe relationships are healing, and work from a holistic, feminist lens that considers clients' culture, intersecting identities, and unique experiences.
(425) 364-6707 View (425) 364-6707
Photo of Kelli Lovins, MA, LMHC
Kelli Lovins
Mental Health Counselor License, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens, young adults, adults, and couples to help them navigate the challenges life throws at them. Whether it's relationships, insecurities, past experiences, work stress, or the challenges of the day-to-day living, I believe you have the strengths within yourself to overcome those challenges. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to help you build those strengths. In my work with couples, I primarily use EFT and attachment based interventions to help partners repair attachment injuries and create a safe and secure bond with one another.
I work with teens, young adults, adults, and couples to help them navigate the challenges life throws at them. Whether it's relationships, insecurities, past experiences, work stress, or the challenges of the day-to-day living, I believe you have the strengths within yourself to overcome those challenges. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to help you build those strengths. In my work with couples, I primarily use EFT and attachment based interventions to help partners repair attachment injuries and create a safe and secure bond with one another.
(425) 610-7221 View (425) 610-7221
Photo of Andrew Baker - Andrew Baker - Umbrella Therapy, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Andrew Baker - Umbrella Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208  (Online Only)
Lasting change starts with understanding and changing your relationship with anxiety, depression, or life circumstances that has you by the collar. My goal is to help you make those changes. Whether it's the end of a relationship or overwhelming stress, I will help you create a second start for yourself. Let's work together to make lasting change for you.
Lasting change starts with understanding and changing your relationship with anxiety, depression, or life circumstances that has you by the collar. My goal is to help you make those changes. Whether it's the end of a relationship or overwhelming stress, I will help you create a second start for yourself. Let's work together to make lasting change for you.
(425) 448-6937 View (425) 448-6937
Photo of Klarissa Fellows, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Klarissa Fellows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to navigate life after a major change? Do you feel disconnected from your spouse, your family, or yourself? When life gets to be too much, we can all use some extra support. I work with adolescents, adults, families, and couples to overcome hurdles and find joy in the every day. Together, we will work to break down emotional barriers, uncover and heal wounds, and bring about self discovery.
Are you struggling to navigate life after a major change? Do you feel disconnected from your spouse, your family, or yourself? When life gets to be too much, we can all use some extra support. I work with adolescents, adults, families, and couples to overcome hurdles and find joy in the every day. Together, we will work to break down emotional barriers, uncover and heal wounds, and bring about self discovery.
(360) 837-5894 x1 View (360) 837-5894 x1
Photo of Stephen Greenhouse, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen Greenhouse
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Experts agree psychotherapy works best when client and therapist have formed a working relationship to explore thoughts, feelings, and motivations as well as life patterns and relationships.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and focus on treating adults, teens, and couples. My specialty now includes the treatment of Eating Disorders in addition to mood and anxiety disorders, anger management, and grief/loss recovery work. I also work with individuals struggling with relationship, career, and identity issues. While working with clients, I combine interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, and system approaches to help change unhealthy patterns in emotions, thoughts, and relationships. I find that good therapy includes the discovery and building of strengths and opportunities for change. My work is a rare privilege. I enjoy it immensely! For more information please consult my professional website.
Experts agree psychotherapy works best when client and therapist have formed a working relationship to explore thoughts, feelings, and motivations as well as life patterns and relationships.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and focus on treating adults, teens, and couples. My specialty now includes the treatment of Eating Disorders in addition to mood and anxiety disorders, anger management, and grief/loss recovery work. I also work with individuals struggling with relationship, career, and identity issues. While working with clients, I combine interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, and system approaches to help change unhealthy patterns in emotions, thoughts, and relationships. I find that good therapy includes the discovery and building of strengths and opportunities for change. My work is a rare privilege. I enjoy it immensely! For more information please consult my professional website.
(425) 428-4591 x209 View (425) 428-4591 x209
Photo of Chester Lee Hill - Parental Alienation Consultation (NWC-LLC), LMHC, Counselor
Parental Alienation Consultation (NWC-LLC)
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Or a dad tells his child that their mom prefers her new family (and kids with a new partner) to them.
Are you struggling through a high conflict divorce or custody arrangement? Is the ex- partner using your child as a weapon to lash out at you in increasingly odd ways? Does it seem like there is nowhere to turn as Guardian ad Litem, Judges, inexperienced counselors and CPS social workers seem uninterested in examining the root causes? Does your ex- spouse refuse to productively co-parent? Is your child now "parroting" their words and hatred to you? If so, you may be suffering from one of three stages of Parental Alienation. In severe forms, your child even may refuse to see you and appears to be programmed by the other parent.
Or a dad tells his child that their mom prefers her new family (and kids with a new partner) to them.
Are you struggling through a high conflict divorce or custody arrangement? Is the ex- partner using your child as a weapon to lash out at you in increasingly odd ways? Does it seem like there is nowhere to turn as Guardian ad Litem, Judges, inexperienced counselors and CPS social workers seem uninterested in examining the root causes? Does your ex- spouse refuse to productively co-parent? Is your child now "parroting" their words and hatred to you? If so, you may be suffering from one of three stages of Parental Alienation. In severe forms, your child even may refuse to see you and appears to be programmed by the other parent.
(425) 217-8890 View (425) 217-8890
Photo of Melanie McCain - Stop Digging for Rainbows Life Coaching, LLC, MACP
Stop Digging for Rainbows Life Coaching, LLC
MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208  (Online Only)
Your coach is a partner, allied with you to achieve transformative, empowering insight.
Do you wonder if your relationship is/was healthy? Are you still reeling from what you experienced? Are you questioning what serves you and your highest self? Are you ruminating and stuck in analysis paralysis? Struggling to move forward? Struggling to trust others, and, trust yourself? Do you experience flashbacks and anger? Even rage? Are you trying to make sense of it all? Do you find yourself stuck in pain and shame? Do you want to know how to protect yourself from manipulation tactics and illogical arguments meant to gain control over you? Co-parenting or FOO difficulties? Do you need a transformative, healing experience?
Your coach is a partner, allied with you to achieve transformative, empowering insight.
Do you wonder if your relationship is/was healthy? Are you still reeling from what you experienced? Are you questioning what serves you and your highest self? Are you ruminating and stuck in analysis paralysis? Struggling to move forward? Struggling to trust others, and, trust yourself? Do you experience flashbacks and anger? Even rage? Are you trying to make sense of it all? Do you find yourself stuck in pain and shame? Do you want to know how to protect yourself from manipulation tactics and illogical arguments meant to gain control over you? Co-parenting or FOO difficulties? Do you need a transformative, healing experience?
(425) 264-8649 View (425) 264-8649
Photo of Doug Blessington, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Doug Blessington
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
Are you heartbroken? Anxious? Angry? All of the above and more? You are welcome here. You may have a relationship that is falling apart or make the same bad decisions again and again. You may be overwhelmed by an overly critical mind that says you are undeserving, less than, or too much. Perhaps you take care of others and forget to take care of yourself. You long for companionship and have a deep desire to matter, to belong, and to be respected.
Are you heartbroken? Anxious? Angry? All of the above and more? You are welcome here. You may have a relationship that is falling apart or make the same bad decisions again and again. You may be overwhelmed by an overly critical mind that says you are undeserving, less than, or too much. Perhaps you take care of others and forget to take care of yourself. You long for companionship and have a deep desire to matter, to belong, and to be respected.
(360) 401-8811 View (360) 401-8811
Photo of Dacia M Morgan - Lumen Counseling, Dacia Morgan, MFT, LMHC, Counselor
Lumen Counseling
Counselor, Dacia Morgan, MFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
I am passionate about working alongside individuals couples and families to help them navigate the areas of life where they are feeling stuck, I feel privileged to be invited on their journey of self discovery and witness their empowerment and growth.
Life can be challenging! One of the most courageous choices one can make is to embark on the journey towards personal exploration and growth. As a therapist, my job is to help you access your inner wisdom, navigate relationships and change, and create a fulfilling, balanced life. I find that my clients are often equipped with strengths and talents that they do not give themselves credit for. I aim to help you recognize and strengthen these gifts in order to fully participate in and enjoy the world around you. I enjoy working with those who are embarking on new life transitions, as well as parents who are seeking guidance on behavior management with their young children, preadolecents and teens. Couples work, as well as parenting and the relationship between caregiver and child have been at the core of my practice for most of my career.
I am passionate about working alongside individuals couples and families to help them navigate the areas of life where they are feeling stuck, I feel privileged to be invited on their journey of self discovery and witness their empowerment and growth.
Life can be challenging! One of the most courageous choices one can make is to embark on the journey towards personal exploration and growth. As a therapist, my job is to help you access your inner wisdom, navigate relationships and change, and create a fulfilling, balanced life. I find that my clients are often equipped with strengths and talents that they do not give themselves credit for. I aim to help you recognize and strengthen these gifts in order to fully participate in and enjoy the world around you. I enjoy working with those who are embarking on new life transitions, as well as parents who are seeking guidance on behavior management with their young children, preadolecents and teens. Couples work, as well as parenting and the relationship between caregiver and child have been at the core of my practice for most of my career.
(425) 382-7103 View (425) 382-7103
Photo of Marcia Erickson Bates, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcia Erickson Bates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I am excited to announce our next Hold Me Tight couples workshop: October 5 & 6, 2024! Check under Groups for more information. I enjoy working with individual adults and couples. I meet my clients with warmth and acceptance, and provide a safe, calm, and grounding space that supports them in dealing with issues such as grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety and depression, distance or conflict in relationships, developing personal identity, working through trauma, and parenting issues.
I am excited to announce our next Hold Me Tight couples workshop: October 5 & 6, 2024! Check under Groups for more information. I enjoy working with individual adults and couples. I meet my clients with warmth and acceptance, and provide a safe, calm, and grounding space that supports them in dealing with issues such as grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety and depression, distance or conflict in relationships, developing personal identity, working through trauma, and parenting issues.
(425) 441-3066 x2 View (425) 441-3066 x2
Photo of Erika Baxter, MA, MDiv, LMHC, Counselor
Erika Baxter
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201
My work with couples is heavily influenced by my training from Dr.
Therapies that focus on brain change, heal symptoms more rapidly and get to the deepest part of the issue. I work from a positive perspective that is both challenging and supportive simultaneously. Some people come to me to grow in areas of peak performance and others come to break free from the gridlock they experience in their significant relationships. Many people are stuck in a depressive or anxious cycle that doesn't allow them to be authentic in how they engage the world. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I love it.
My work with couples is heavily influenced by my training from Dr.
Therapies that focus on brain change, heal symptoms more rapidly and get to the deepest part of the issue. I work from a positive perspective that is both challenging and supportive simultaneously. Some people come to me to grow in areas of peak performance and others come to break free from the gridlock they experience in their significant relationships. Many people are stuck in a depressive or anxious cycle that doesn't allow them to be authentic in how they engage the world. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I love it.
(425) 249-3548 View (425) 249-3548
Photo of Robyn Renee, MA, LMHC, CIIP, Counselor
Robyn Renee
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CIIP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Pursuing optimal intimacy improves your mental and physical health. I am an experienced therapist who is direct, affirming and effective in helping couples and individuals 'do what works' in and out of the bedroom. This requires facing and dealing with what holds you back, shuts you down, turns you off and intimidates you--in order to potentially open you up, draw you closer, and strengthen your bonds of authentic love. In our dynamic therapeutic process, you can also learn how to become irresistibly desirable and pursuable (once again)! The lovers' dance is born anew. I work with individuals and couples. Let's connect.
Pursuing optimal intimacy improves your mental and physical health. I am an experienced therapist who is direct, affirming and effective in helping couples and individuals 'do what works' in and out of the bedroom. This requires facing and dealing with what holds you back, shuts you down, turns you off and intimidates you--in order to potentially open you up, draw you closer, and strengthen your bonds of authentic love. In our dynamic therapeutic process, you can also learn how to become irresistibly desirable and pursuable (once again)! The lovers' dance is born anew. I work with individuals and couples. Let's connect.
(425) 654-1763 View (425) 654-1763
Photo of Gianna Leoncavallo, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Gianna Leoncavallo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I specialize in mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, sexual addiction, grief, trauma and anxiety.
With over twenty years experience as a therapist, I have always considered it a privilege to be allowed into the most intimate details of my clients' lives, their pain, their sorrows and their joys. Using a collaborative approach, I help clients gain insight into the thoughts and behaviors that may be holding them back. I help clients to draw on their strengths, and to learn coping skills in order to improve their lives, and find greater happiness.
I specialize in mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, sexual addiction, grief, trauma and anxiety.
With over twenty years experience as a therapist, I have always considered it a privilege to be allowed into the most intimate details of my clients' lives, their pain, their sorrows and their joys. Using a collaborative approach, I help clients gain insight into the thoughts and behaviors that may be holding them back. I help clients to draw on their strengths, and to learn coping skills in order to improve their lives, and find greater happiness.
(425) 584-5958 View (425) 584-5958
Photo of Tsion Kidane, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Tsion Kidane
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I help parents who are distressed due to challenges related to parenting and parent-child relationship problems.
Are you feeling frustrated and stuck with things that matter to you? Are you facing life challenges? Do you need support with depression, anxiety or trauma? Are you seeking assistance with parenting and family relationship issues? I might be able to help. I am a multi-cultural and multi-lingual Christian therapist who is trained in Marriage and Family Therapy. My skill set includes therapy techniques such as Life Span integration, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Faith-Based approaches.
I help parents who are distressed due to challenges related to parenting and parent-child relationship problems.
Are you feeling frustrated and stuck with things that matter to you? Are you facing life challenges? Do you need support with depression, anxiety or trauma? Are you seeking assistance with parenting and family relationship issues? I might be able to help. I am a multi-cultural and multi-lingual Christian therapist who is trained in Marriage and Family Therapy. My skill set includes therapy techniques such as Life Span integration, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Faith-Based approaches.
(206) 693-4342 View (206) 693-4342
Photo of Lisa Boyl-Davis, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Boyl-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208
Walk/Talk, EMDR, and office work - I treat couples, and individuals.
I'm thinking you are one of those brave, motivated sorts. Yes, you. Brave for refusing to ignore the pain it takes to get through the day. Strong for wanting change enough to work for it. Motivated in the way you're seeking help. I provide therapy for the motivated - because taking action heals! Over the past 28 years, I've provided mental health interventions to people in crisis, the first 20 years in an Emergency Room working as a Psychiatric Social Worker, and now heading into the eighth year as a trauma and couples therapist. Change is real - and what therapy is all about.
Walk/Talk, EMDR, and office work - I treat couples, and individuals.
I'm thinking you are one of those brave, motivated sorts. Yes, you. Brave for refusing to ignore the pain it takes to get through the day. Strong for wanting change enough to work for it. Motivated in the way you're seeking help. I provide therapy for the motivated - because taking action heals! Over the past 28 years, I've provided mental health interventions to people in crisis, the first 20 years in an Emergency Room working as a Psychiatric Social Worker, and now heading into the eighth year as a trauma and couples therapist. Change is real - and what therapy is all about.
(425) 296-1199 View (425) 296-1199
Photo of Vanessa Marin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Marin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98208  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Vanessa Marin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), that specializes in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with adolescents, families, individuals, and couples. I work with clients in adolescence through end of life, including couples & families; I am trained in CBT and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and currently working in training for EMDR & ART. Together, we can improve your mind/body connection- reducing somatic symptoms of nervous system dysregulation and increasing your peace/wellbeing.
Hello! I'm Vanessa Marin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), that specializes in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with adolescents, families, individuals, and couples. I work with clients in adolescence through end of life, including couples & families; I am trained in CBT and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and currently working in training for EMDR & ART. Together, we can improve your mind/body connection- reducing somatic symptoms of nervous system dysregulation and increasing your peace/wellbeing.
(509) 285-0818 View (509) 285-0818
Photo of Vanessa Marin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Marin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Vanessa Marin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), that specializes in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with adolescents, families, individuals, and couples. I work with clients in adolescence through end of life, including couples & families; I am trained in CBT and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and currently working in training for EMDR & ART. Together, we can improve your mind/body connection- reducing somatic symptoms of nervous system dysregulation and increasing your peace/wellbeing.
Hello! I'm Vanessa Marin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), that specializes in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with adolescents, families, individuals, and couples. I work with clients in adolescence through end of life, including couples & families; I am trained in CBT and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and currently working in training for EMDR & ART. Together, we can improve your mind/body connection- reducing somatic symptoms of nervous system dysregulation and increasing your peace/wellbeing.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Jolene Janacek, SUDP, BA, AAST, YTT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jolene Janacek
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDP, BA, AAST, YTT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Specializing in coaching and recovery from - Narcissistic Abuse, Partners and Family - Childhood and Adulthood Sexual, Emotional and Physical Abuse - Complex Trauma - Drug and Alcohol Use as a coping tool for trauma.
Hi there, My name is Jolene and I am a co-occurring disorders and trauma specialist, level 200 and 300 yoga instructor, sound healer, and domestic violence advocate. I am 40 years old and have been in the counseling/healing profession for almost 20 years. I would love to help you explore your identity and relationship with substances, trauma and other issues. I use a variety of techniques and modalities to explore and restore energy and your focus in life. Please reach out if you are feeling lost, empty or are in need of support. "You are enough". My work here on Psychology Today is private pay - under the title of life coaching.
Specializing in coaching and recovery from - Narcissistic Abuse, Partners and Family - Childhood and Adulthood Sexual, Emotional and Physical Abuse - Complex Trauma - Drug and Alcohol Use as a coping tool for trauma.
Hi there, My name is Jolene and I am a co-occurring disorders and trauma specialist, level 200 and 300 yoga instructor, sound healer, and domestic violence advocate. I am 40 years old and have been in the counseling/healing profession for almost 20 years. I would love to help you explore your identity and relationship with substances, trauma and other issues. I use a variety of techniques and modalities to explore and restore energy and your focus in life. Please reach out if you are feeling lost, empty or are in need of support. "You are enough". My work here on Psychology Today is private pay - under the title of life coaching.
(425) 390-5464 View (425) 390-5464
Photo of Christopher Sturgeon, PhD, (cand), Counselor
Christopher Sturgeon
Counselor, PhD, (cand)
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Let's partner up and find our way back by adjusting our sails and catching the powerful winds of secure mental health.
People treated at Westwinds Behavioral Health get better. The front line treatment is predominantly CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) along with Narrative Therapy. Clients prioritize & identify goals they desire to reach. They learn the tools to construct the functionality & desired outcomes for their lives. Therapy is a client centered approach regardless of the presenting issues. When things are not working out in life folks discover that each of us has within us resources to author our desired next chapter of life. Personalized success is identified by individual, couple & family accomplishment & achieving desired results.
Let's partner up and find our way back by adjusting our sails and catching the powerful winds of secure mental health.
People treated at Westwinds Behavioral Health get better. The front line treatment is predominantly CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) along with Narrative Therapy. Clients prioritize & identify goals they desire to reach. They learn the tools to construct the functionality & desired outcomes for their lives. Therapy is a client centered approach regardless of the presenting issues. When things are not working out in life folks discover that each of us has within us resources to author our desired next chapter of life. Personalized success is identified by individual, couple & family accomplishment & achieving desired results.
(206) 202-3890 View (206) 202-3890
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.