Couples Counseling Therapists in Puyallup, WA

Photo of Sunrise Intensive Workshops & Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Sunrise Intensive Workshops & Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHP, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families.
Discreet. Licensed. Professional services tailored to your specific needs. Register for services www.sunrisecouplestherapy.com Get to know me and learn about my Intensive Workshops, Coaching and Clinical services. I approach helping from the belief that when motivated individuals acquire the tools to listen, then acknowledge and honor each other’s core needs, they can build on their innate strengths and shift behaviors leading to useful changes in their relationships. I understand the importance of having a safe restorative space to express, repair, heal, and discover deeper levels of functioning. Text "mytime" to (253) 300-0967.
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families.
Discreet. Licensed. Professional services tailored to your specific needs. Register for services www.sunrisecouplestherapy.com Get to know me and learn about my Intensive Workshops, Coaching and Clinical services. I approach helping from the belief that when motivated individuals acquire the tools to listen, then acknowledge and honor each other’s core needs, they can build on their innate strengths and shift behaviors leading to useful changes in their relationships. I understand the importance of having a safe restorative space to express, repair, heal, and discover deeper levels of functioning. Text "mytime" to (253) 300-0967.
(253) 336-7576 View (253) 336-7576
Photo of Rebekah Betts, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Rebekah Betts
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I find the relationship between clients and therapists to be important as I strive to ensure the relationship is built on trust and a thorough understanding of the client experiences.
I work in Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative therapy models. My goals for clients are to find strengths and resources already existing in their life to facilitate change towards a less problem focused future. I review how relationships and society can affect an individual, couple, or family's relationships.
I find the relationship between clients and therapists to be important as I strive to ensure the relationship is built on trust and a thorough understanding of the client experiences.
I work in Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative therapy models. My goals for clients are to find strengths and resources already existing in their life to facilitate change towards a less problem focused future. I review how relationships and society can affect an individual, couple, or family's relationships.
(253) 501-7498 View (253) 501-7498
Photo of Anne M Eugenio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Anne M Eugenio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I help individuals, families, and couples create or restore secure secure bonds in family and intimate relationships. Relational counseling means that my relationship with you, my client, will be our best, most important tool for your healing. Before anything else, we will establish safety, trust, and connection. Then together we will uncover the path of healing for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I also help those coping with the effects of anxiety and depression.
I help individuals, families, and couples create or restore secure secure bonds in family and intimate relationships. Relational counseling means that my relationship with you, my client, will be our best, most important tool for your healing. Before anything else, we will establish safety, trust, and connection. Then together we will uncover the path of healing for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I also help those coping with the effects of anxiety and depression.
(253) 303-5880 View (253) 303-5880
Photo of Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Dr. Bre | Evolution Engineered, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
Relationship Coaching is for you if you want: ● To do your personal work to be a healthier partner ● Skills to have difficult conversations honestly ● To decide to either call it quits—or recommit ● Learn to Love in the dways you each understand ● A proven process to simplify your relationships priorities + boundaries ● To feel unfuckwithable as a team!.
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
Relationship Coaching is for you if you want: ● To do your personal work to be a healthier partner ● Skills to have difficult conversations honestly ● To decide to either call it quits—or recommit ● Learn to Love in the dways you each understand ● A proven process to simplify your relationships priorities + boundaries ● To feel unfuckwithable as a team!.
Wanna be your own #RelationshipGoals! I help folx evolve beyond the same old arguments, into an honest partnership that nourishes each of you individually + together! My approach is all about identifying the individual skills each of you need to co-create a loving partnership -- without trauma bonds or codependency. I work with all backgrounds + orientations + expressions that know how to Love in all different ways! We do the work that is right for YOUR partnership—not anyone else's. You'll also discover if it's time to release your relationship. AND if it is time... I'll help you do so in the most Loving way!
(360) 526-8654 View (360) 526-8654
Photo of HorizonView Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Puyallup, WA
HorizonView Health
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Counseling is a brave and wonderful step and finding a positive therapeutic relationship without judgement is necessary for change and growth. Our counselors believe in a client centered, strength-based approach. They have training and experience in several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused treatment and are experienced in the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of trauma.
Counseling is a brave and wonderful step and finding a positive therapeutic relationship without judgement is necessary for change and growth. Our counselors believe in a client centered, strength-based approach. They have training and experience in several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused treatment and are experienced in the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of trauma.
(253) 331-2547 View (253) 331-2547
Photo of John Carlsen, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
John Carlsen
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
Rather, it's about finding healing through relationship.
You're someone who is looking to find just the right fit in a counselor. Maybe you are experiencing grief, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes. Perhaps you have a general sense of dissatisfaction with life, or have specific things you want to work through. Or, maybe you're feeling trapped by anxiety, or past trauma, and you want to feel a sense of hope; to be seen, heard, and understood. There is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy, and the things you may want to work on are important and unique.
Rather, it's about finding healing through relationship.
You're someone who is looking to find just the right fit in a counselor. Maybe you are experiencing grief, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes. Perhaps you have a general sense of dissatisfaction with life, or have specific things you want to work through. Or, maybe you're feeling trapped by anxiety, or past trauma, and you want to feel a sense of hope; to be seen, heard, and understood. There is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy, and the things you may want to work on are important and unique.
(253) 201-0431 View (253) 201-0431
Photo of Cornelia A. Thomas, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Cornelia A. Thomas
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
Christian Morden, our new intern is seeing clients at reduced rates. Only $75 for Individual Sessions and $95 for Family/Couples- HOPE is the only thing stronger than fear. Are you looking for a therapist to hope with you? I will. Have you found yourself bound and unable to move past your hurting circumstances? Facing challenges in your home & family life? What is the condition of your heart? You're reading this because you are ready for CHANGE! Learn how to apply LASTING solutions to the issues in your life. I'll help you envision, fall in love with, and then create your best future. Aim for change. Hope with me. Let's get started!
Christian Morden, our new intern is seeing clients at reduced rates. Only $75 for Individual Sessions and $95 for Family/Couples- HOPE is the only thing stronger than fear. Are you looking for a therapist to hope with you? I will. Have you found yourself bound and unable to move past your hurting circumstances? Facing challenges in your home & family life? What is the condition of your heart? You're reading this because you are ready for CHANGE! Learn how to apply LASTING solutions to the issues in your life. I'll help you envision, fall in love with, and then create your best future. Aim for change. Hope with me. Let's get started!
(253) 242-6809 View (253) 242-6809
Photo of Margaret Goodrum, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Margaret Goodrum
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
Taking a client-centered approach, I work to assist individuals, couples and families in reaching the goals that they bring with them to therapy. I believe that trust and compassion are essential to the success of therapy and my role is to facilitate that relationship of trust. I strive to be culturally aware and humble, recognizing that no two people experience life the same way. My goal is to help clients find their strengths and resources in a brief, systemic way. Some of the models that inform my approach include Narrative Family Therapy and Collaborative Therapy.
Taking a client-centered approach, I work to assist individuals, couples and families in reaching the goals that they bring with them to therapy. I believe that trust and compassion are essential to the success of therapy and my role is to facilitate that relationship of trust. I strive to be culturally aware and humble, recognizing that no two people experience life the same way. My goal is to help clients find their strengths and resources in a brief, systemic way. Some of the models that inform my approach include Narrative Family Therapy and Collaborative Therapy.
(253) 352-4795 View (253) 352-4795
Photo of Live Life Healed, PLLC - Tabitha Kuria, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Live Life Healed, PLLC - Tabitha Kuria
Counselor, EdS, CMHS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I strive to create a non-judgmental space where individuals, couples, or families can feel safe unveiling pain and start the process of healing.
To say that life is hard is an understatement; what a time to be alive and to be human! Life has an interesting way of "just" happening when we least expect it. Everyone has a story or a burden to bear, some heavier than others. Regardless, seeking a therapist midst those things can add another layer of hardness or stress. My goal as your therapist is to help you find healing. Whether I am the right fit or not, you will leave our consultation one or two ways; ready to dive in together and do the work or help with finding the right therapist.
I strive to create a non-judgmental space where individuals, couples, or families can feel safe unveiling pain and start the process of healing.
To say that life is hard is an understatement; what a time to be alive and to be human! Life has an interesting way of "just" happening when we least expect it. Everyone has a story or a burden to bear, some heavier than others. Regardless, seeking a therapist midst those things can add another layer of hardness or stress. My goal as your therapist is to help you find healing. Whether I am the right fit or not, you will leave our consultation one or two ways; ready to dive in together and do the work or help with finding the right therapist.
(253) 867-8475 View (253) 867-8475
Photo of Sound Foundations Professional Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Sound Foundations Professional Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
At Sound Foundations we specialize in COUPLES ISSUES, With over 90% percent of our clients being couples, we put the focus where it counts, on the issues that are important to you. Our education, training and experience is on what matters to you most, Couples Issues. Whether you have lost that loving feeling, are having trouble communicating, resolving conflict, or are struggling to survive an infidelity; we can help.
At Sound Foundations we specialize in COUPLES ISSUES, With over 90% percent of our clients being couples, we put the focus where it counts, on the issues that are important to you. Our education, training and experience is on what matters to you most, Couples Issues. Whether you have lost that loving feeling, are having trouble communicating, resolving conflict, or are struggling to survive an infidelity; we can help.
(253) 236-0298 View (253) 236-0298
Photo of Roger Hoeschen, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Roger Hoeschen
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
He loves working with children, couples, and families and finds innovative ways to engage with those who are struggling to open.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth offering evening and weekend sessions to meet the needs of working professional. Roger is enthusiastic about implementing creative techniques to help clients achieve their goals, make meaning, improve their relationships, find empowerment, and engage in self-understanding and discovery. Roger’s theoretical approach to clients is person-centered and humanistic, paired with eclectic interventions including dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, relational-cultural therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and existential techniques.
He loves working with children, couples, and families and finds innovative ways to engage with those who are struggling to open.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth offering evening and weekend sessions to meet the needs of working professional. Roger is enthusiastic about implementing creative techniques to help clients achieve their goals, make meaning, improve their relationships, find empowerment, and engage in self-understanding and discovery. Roger’s theoretical approach to clients is person-centered and humanistic, paired with eclectic interventions including dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, relational-cultural therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and existential techniques.
(253) 265-4278 View (253) 265-4278
Photo of Andrea Tuliao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Andrea Tuliao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
(253) 465-4502 View (253) 465-4502
Photo of Annie Sturtewagen, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Annie Sturtewagen
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth children, teens, and couples. She received their master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Northwestern University in June of 2023. Annie's past clinical experience includes working with a variety of clients at a community mental health agency dedicated to reaching underserved populations. Prior to becoming a licensed mental health counselor associate.Annie worked as a board-certified music therapist at a state psychiatric hospital for six years. Annie utilized a variety of expressive arts and therapeutic activities in both individual and group therapy settings.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth children, teens, and couples. She received their master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Northwestern University in June of 2023. Annie's past clinical experience includes working with a variety of clients at a community mental health agency dedicated to reaching underserved populations. Prior to becoming a licensed mental health counselor associate.Annie worked as a board-certified music therapist at a state psychiatric hospital for six years. Annie utilized a variety of expressive arts and therapeutic activities in both individual and group therapy settings.
(253) 262-0586 View (253) 262-0586
Photo of Shawnda Brese, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Shawnda Brese
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Current openings: Monday 11am or 2pm, Tuesday 9am or 3:30pm; Wednesday 3:30pm; Thursday 11am, 1pm, 2pm. People see counselors for many different reasons. Some folks have mental health struggles such as anxiety or depression and therefore come to therapy for treatment and help. Others come to therapy for other life problems such as relationship problems, stressful work environments, worries about their future or their kids, struggles with their faith and spirituality, or grief and loss, etc. Counseling is an investment in the betterment of your life.
Current openings: Monday 11am or 2pm, Tuesday 9am or 3:30pm; Wednesday 3:30pm; Thursday 11am, 1pm, 2pm. People see counselors for many different reasons. Some folks have mental health struggles such as anxiety or depression and therefore come to therapy for treatment and help. Others come to therapy for other life problems such as relationship problems, stressful work environments, worries about their future or their kids, struggles with their faith and spirituality, or grief and loss, etc. Counseling is an investment in the betterment of your life.
(253) 231-3581 View (253) 231-3581
Photo of Karen A Burdick, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Karen A Burdick
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults, individuals and couples through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship and marriage issues.
Welcome to Thrive Counseling. I am here to offer a place for healing and restored hope: A place to Thrive! Because of some of my most challenging experiences as a child, an adult, wife and mother, in addition to my experience in ministry leadership, I pursued counseling as a career. My goal as a therapist is to give you the room to grow and find the courage for change. Together, we can work to find the skills needed for a new and exciting therapeutic transformation.
I work with teens and adults, individuals and couples through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship and marriage issues.
Welcome to Thrive Counseling. I am here to offer a place for healing and restored hope: A place to Thrive! Because of some of my most challenging experiences as a child, an adult, wife and mother, in addition to my experience in ministry leadership, I pursued counseling as a career. My goal as a therapist is to give you the room to grow and find the courage for change. Together, we can work to find the skills needed for a new and exciting therapeutic transformation.
(253) 263-1113 View (253) 263-1113
Photo of Abby White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Abby White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
As a marriage and family therapist I work with couples, family's, and individuals.
I enjoy working with people experiencing difficulty in all elements of life. I look through the lens of family systems which means I incorporate family dynamics and looking at generational patterns to learn more about what is presently impacting the clients ability to function optimally. I specialize in working with families all together to support change longevity. I particularly enjoy working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or facing relationship difficulty. I use many methods to help people process their stress and trauma including art, movement, talk, and practicing alternative ways to navigate the world.
As a marriage and family therapist I work with couples, family's, and individuals.
I enjoy working with people experiencing difficulty in all elements of life. I look through the lens of family systems which means I incorporate family dynamics and looking at generational patterns to learn more about what is presently impacting the clients ability to function optimally. I specialize in working with families all together to support change longevity. I particularly enjoy working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or facing relationship difficulty. I use many methods to help people process their stress and trauma including art, movement, talk, and practicing alternative ways to navigate the world.
(360) 780-3005 View (360) 780-3005
Photo of Sanna Collado, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Sanna Collado
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I provide afternoon telehealth therapy sessions to individuals, couples, and families of children ages 10 and up. At the heart of my approach, I see my clients as competent and capable people, who are inherently worthy of support, validation, and respect. In therapy, I encourage nonjudgmental self-reflection and I will support you in developing a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships, which will help guide you in responding confidently to difficult problems.
I provide afternoon telehealth therapy sessions to individuals, couples, and families of children ages 10 and up. At the heart of my approach, I see my clients as competent and capable people, who are inherently worthy of support, validation, and respect. In therapy, I encourage nonjudgmental self-reflection and I will support you in developing a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships, which will help guide you in responding confidently to difficult problems.
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Photo of The Joy and Wellness Center, Psychologist in Puyallup, WA
The Joy and Wellness Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
We also focus on helping resolve relationship problems.
Even with the current situation, we are still accepting new clients. However, please email us rather than call. Our goal is to focus on mental wellness. We do this through a variety of treatment methods tailored for your specific needs. Our providers will work with you to determine whether CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Art therapy, or other treatment methods are best in helping you overcome your current challenges. We’ll work together to develop an action plan to gain the skills and insight that help you get back on track to happiness and success.
We also focus on helping resolve relationship problems.
Even with the current situation, we are still accepting new clients. However, please email us rather than call. Our goal is to focus on mental wellness. We do this through a variety of treatment methods tailored for your specific needs. Our providers will work with you to determine whether CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Art therapy, or other treatment methods are best in helping you overcome your current challenges. We’ll work together to develop an action plan to gain the skills and insight that help you get back on track to happiness and success.
(253) 329-5745 View (253) 329-5745
Photo of Megan M. Woods, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Megan M. Woods
Counselor, MS, CCTP, CNC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
I provide support to adolescents, young individuals, couples, and families who have encountered challenging life changes or are experiencing feelings of stagnation or stress.
Choosing a therapist can be an apprehensive endeavor, and my aim is to ensure your comfort throughout the process. I provide a free 15-minute consultation to evaluate if our compatibility aligns for the therapeutic journey and to address administrative matters such as fees and scheduling. Regardless of whether you opt for my services or another therapist's, I sincerely hope you find the individual best suited to meet your requirements. During challenging times, guidance and a sense of being understood can provide solace. I advocate for a non-judgmental environment that fosters support and safety.
I provide support to adolescents, young individuals, couples, and families who have encountered challenging life changes or are experiencing feelings of stagnation or stress.
Choosing a therapist can be an apprehensive endeavor, and my aim is to ensure your comfort throughout the process. I provide a free 15-minute consultation to evaluate if our compatibility aligns for the therapeutic journey and to address administrative matters such as fees and scheduling. Regardless of whether you opt for my services or another therapist's, I sincerely hope you find the individual best suited to meet your requirements. During challenging times, guidance and a sense of being understood can provide solace. I advocate for a non-judgmental environment that fosters support and safety.
(206) 309-5695 View (206) 309-5695
Photo of Heidi Halsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Heidi Halsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
Experience includes- individuals, teens, adults, couples & families in areas such as marriage, divorce, blending families, substance abuse, affairs, grief, depression, anxiety, communication, issues arising from various family stage transitions, childhood issues, abuse, suicidality, work and extended family issues, PTSD, ADHD & Deafness.
ONLY TELE THERAPY - sessions open this week. Teletherapy sessions for people 25 and older - in Washington State. Register & schedule, 24 hours a day at www.heidihalsey.com. Appointments Tuesday - Thursday & Saturday this week and Monday & Friday after the first appointment. I am not a therapist who says "uh huh", "uh-huh" and "I'll see you next week". I will ask questions to find the root of what you want to change or understand. I make suggestions & teach skills as a respectful professional while maintaining your confidentiality. My website www.heidihalsey.com has a lot of information about how I work and what insurances I accept.
Experience includes- individuals, teens, adults, couples & families in areas such as marriage, divorce, blending families, substance abuse, affairs, grief, depression, anxiety, communication, issues arising from various family stage transitions, childhood issues, abuse, suicidality, work and extended family issues, PTSD, ADHD & Deafness.
ONLY TELE THERAPY - sessions open this week. Teletherapy sessions for people 25 and older - in Washington State. Register & schedule, 24 hours a day at www.heidihalsey.com. Appointments Tuesday - Thursday & Saturday this week and Monday & Friday after the first appointment. I am not a therapist who says "uh huh", "uh-huh" and "I'll see you next week". I will ask questions to find the root of what you want to change or understand. I make suggestions & teach skills as a respectful professional while maintaining your confidentiality. My website www.heidihalsey.com has a lot of information about how I work and what insurances I accept.
(253) 214-9934 View (253) 214-9934
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.