Couples Counseling Therapists in Middletown, CT

Photo of Heather Agid, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Heather Agid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
I provide individual therapy to adults and children as well as couples counseling.
Are you looking for a supportive space to process your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgement? Are you carrying around the weight of stress, trauma or worry all day? Whether you're looking for structured trauma treatment such as EMDR, anxiety and depression management through CBT or emotionally focused talk therapy for everyday challenges, your needs will be prioritized in sessions. Together, we will work on creating a plan that feels comfortable and effective at helping you feel better so you can get back to your life. I offer in person and virtual appointments depending on your preference.
I provide individual therapy to adults and children as well as couples counseling.
Are you looking for a supportive space to process your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgement? Are you carrying around the weight of stress, trauma or worry all day? Whether you're looking for structured trauma treatment such as EMDR, anxiety and depression management through CBT or emotionally focused talk therapy for everyday challenges, your needs will be prioritized in sessions. Together, we will work on creating a plan that feels comfortable and effective at helping you feel better so you can get back to your life. I offer in person and virtual appointments depending on your preference.
(860) 590-8217 View (860) 590-8217
Photo of Jill E Fontanella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Jill E Fontanella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I am a devoted therapist that will provide competent services to adolescents, adults and couples seeking support to address and maintain emotional and physical well being. I believe in solution focused approach where clients are encouraged and supported to develop coping skills and strategies to find their own personal strengths to address stressors in everyday life. Forging a collaborative therapeutic relationship helps develop insight and understanding into old destructive behaviors and beliefs that get in the way of making positive change.
I am a devoted therapist that will provide competent services to adolescents, adults and couples seeking support to address and maintain emotional and physical well being. I believe in solution focused approach where clients are encouraged and supported to develop coping skills and strategies to find their own personal strengths to address stressors in everyday life. Forging a collaborative therapeutic relationship helps develop insight and understanding into old destructive behaviors and beliefs that get in the way of making positive change.
(860) 854-3192 View (860) 854-3192
Photo of Karen Bogdan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Karen Bogdan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
Having worked with people of diverse backgrounds and personal histories, for 17+ years, I have experience treating anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and issues of life transition.
***Accepting new patients*** Brene Brown says, that "daring greatly is being brave and afraid every minute of the day at the exact same time". Deciding to participate in therapy is one of the most brave and scary decisions a person can make, but it is also one of the most rewarding. I congratulate you on taking the step to see change happen, and it would be an honor to walk with you through this journey! Using a strengths based perspective, together we will work to address the various barriers and life circumstances that are getting in the way of living your best life.
Having worked with people of diverse backgrounds and personal histories, for 17+ years, I have experience treating anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and issues of life transition.
***Accepting new patients*** Brene Brown says, that "daring greatly is being brave and afraid every minute of the day at the exact same time". Deciding to participate in therapy is one of the most brave and scary decisions a person can make, but it is also one of the most rewarding. I congratulate you on taking the step to see change happen, and it would be an honor to walk with you through this journey! Using a strengths based perspective, together we will work to address the various barriers and life circumstances that are getting in the way of living your best life.
(860) 406-7655 View (860) 406-7655
Photo of Leigh Ann Smith-Gary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Leigh Ann Smith-Gary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
My areas of focus include anxiety & depression management, career & life transitions, relationship & diversity issues, couples therapy, sexual orientation & gender identity, and trauma recovery.
*Please note: I am unable to accept new clients at this time.* My approach to therapy is humanistic and my aim is to work with honesty, gentleness, and in a collaborative spirit. My hope is that the process of therapy will result in your ability to live with less anxiety and depression, a stronger sense of well-being, and deeper self-understanding and self-acceptance. My background is in work with clients in university (CAPS), community, and residential settings. I collaborate extensively with other providers (psychiatrists, home therapists, etc.).
My areas of focus include anxiety & depression management, career & life transitions, relationship & diversity issues, couples therapy, sexual orientation & gender identity, and trauma recovery.
*Please note: I am unable to accept new clients at this time.* My approach to therapy is humanistic and my aim is to work with honesty, gentleness, and in a collaborative spirit. My hope is that the process of therapy will result in your ability to live with less anxiety and depression, a stronger sense of well-being, and deeper self-understanding and self-acceptance. My background is in work with clients in university (CAPS), community, and residential settings. I collaborate extensively with other providers (psychiatrists, home therapists, etc.).
(833) 910-0645 View (833) 910-0645
Photo of Andrea B Maule, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middletown, CT
Andrea B Maule
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
APRIL-Accepting NEW Clients! Therapy is effective when clients feel safe, respected and understood within a welcoming and non-judgmental environment. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples in a variety of professional settings including the public school system, clinical, and private sectors. I work with individuals dealing with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and those dealing with everyday work, marriage, family, health, relationships, and other life stressors.
APRIL-Accepting NEW Clients! Therapy is effective when clients feel safe, respected and understood within a welcoming and non-judgmental environment. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples in a variety of professional settings including the public school system, clinical, and private sectors. I work with individuals dealing with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and those dealing with everyday work, marriage, family, health, relationships, and other life stressors.
(860) 631-5143 View (860) 631-5143
Photo of Winifred M Neville, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middletown, CT
Winifred M Neville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in relationship counseling, both with couples as well as family issues.
I have been working in the field of Mental Health and Addiction for 20 years. I graduated with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from CCSU. My main focus is trauma, centering on Addictions, including substance abuse, eating disorders and excessive spending, however, I am also experienced working with clients who have, depression, anxiety or trauma related symptoms. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults I believe strongly in recovery, use various therapeutic approaches to assist clients to live a productive and self directed life. And pets are always welcome so bring yours in.
I am experienced in relationship counseling, both with couples as well as family issues.
I have been working in the field of Mental Health and Addiction for 20 years. I graduated with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from CCSU. My main focus is trauma, centering on Addictions, including substance abuse, eating disorders and excessive spending, however, I am also experienced working with clients who have, depression, anxiety or trauma related symptoms. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults I believe strongly in recovery, use various therapeutic approaches to assist clients to live a productive and self directed life. And pets are always welcome so bring yours in.
(860) 406-5906 x1 View (860) 406-5906 x1
Photo of Heather Ram, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middletown, CT
Heather Ram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
I work with heterosexual couples and LGBTQ couples who have reached a crossroads in their relationship.
Daytime availability only: I have been privileged to work with a wide variety of clients and know that everyone feels "stuck" at some point in time. Men, women, and kids are all managing the stress of work, school, family, and intimate relationships. I have demonstrated success helping people manage stress, and I know that everyone in your personal and professional life benefits when you feel more capable of dealing with life's emotional challenges. I help you get "unstuck" and move past your sadness, your fears, your anger, and your frustrations.
I work with heterosexual couples and LGBTQ couples who have reached a crossroads in their relationship.
Daytime availability only: I have been privileged to work with a wide variety of clients and know that everyone feels "stuck" at some point in time. Men, women, and kids are all managing the stress of work, school, family, and intimate relationships. I have demonstrated success helping people manage stress, and I know that everyone in your personal and professional life benefits when you feel more capable of dealing with life's emotional challenges. I help you get "unstuck" and move past your sadness, your fears, your anger, and your frustrations.
(860) 305-4500 View (860) 305-4500
Photo of Rose D'Amico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Rose D'Amico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
Building a strong therapeutic relationship is necessary for progression within sessions to foster growth in the real world.
Psychotherapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to be, learn about, and better yourself. I have experience working with a multitude of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity issues, personality disorders, relationship/familial concerns, substance use, life transitions, and so on. My goal is to work collaboratively with individuals and couples to help facilitate forward movement in their lives.
Building a strong therapeutic relationship is necessary for progression within sessions to foster growth in the real world.
Psychotherapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to be, learn about, and better yourself. I have experience working with a multitude of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity issues, personality disorders, relationship/familial concerns, substance use, life transitions, and so on. My goal is to work collaboratively with individuals and couples to help facilitate forward movement in their lives.
(203) 648-4134 View (203) 648-4134
Photo of Amy LaMarre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middletown, CT
Amy LaMarre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I feel that regardless of why you’re here, a trusting relationship is the most important.
Daytime openings! We are all constantly changing. We may have already accomplished goals in our lives, yet are at a crossroads again. This time, we may wish to seek help, whether it’s to develop a goal, figure out what may be a little “off” in our life or maybe some direction with some heavier challenges. I specifically have experience working with substance use disorders, infant mental health and parent-child attachment. I've been trained in Infant Mental Health, Risking Connection, Seeking Safety as well as Circle of Security, but have worked with many individuals and families with varying reasons that brought them to therapy.
I feel that regardless of why you’re here, a trusting relationship is the most important.
Daytime openings! We are all constantly changing. We may have already accomplished goals in our lives, yet are at a crossroads again. This time, we may wish to seek help, whether it’s to develop a goal, figure out what may be a little “off” in our life or maybe some direction with some heavier challenges. I specifically have experience working with substance use disorders, infant mental health and parent-child attachment. I've been trained in Infant Mental Health, Risking Connection, Seeking Safety as well as Circle of Security, but have worked with many individuals and families with varying reasons that brought them to therapy.
(860) 485-7917 View (860) 485-7917
Photo of Bardwell Behavioral, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middletown, CT
Bardwell Behavioral
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LCMHC, TPMC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
(860) 764-3517 View (860) 764-3517
Photo of Richard V. Daly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Richard V. Daly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
I have extensive training and experience with conducting individual psychotherapy with adults, preteens and teenagers, in family therapy, couples therapy, parenting coaching and substance abuse treatment.
Warm greetings, I am happy that you have found your way here and I am looking forward to helping. It is important for you to know that my approach to therapy is solution focused and strength based. I am a highly experienced therapist with over 40 years of clinical treatment experience. My main interests and expertise as a therapist center around Individual therapy, Couples Therapy, Parenting and Substance Abuse. During my long and rewarding career I have worked as a primary therapist with individual adults, families, children, couples and groups and as a parenting coach. I thoroughly enjoy my work and look forward to helping you.
I have extensive training and experience with conducting individual psychotherapy with adults, preteens and teenagers, in family therapy, couples therapy, parenting coaching and substance abuse treatment.
Warm greetings, I am happy that you have found your way here and I am looking forward to helping. It is important for you to know that my approach to therapy is solution focused and strength based. I am a highly experienced therapist with over 40 years of clinical treatment experience. My main interests and expertise as a therapist center around Individual therapy, Couples Therapy, Parenting and Substance Abuse. During my long and rewarding career I have worked as a primary therapist with individual adults, families, children, couples and groups and as a parenting coach. I thoroughly enjoy my work and look forward to helping you.
(959) 210-0115 View (959) 210-0115
Photo of Katie Chesanek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Katie Chesanek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I am a trauma informed and solution-focused therapist with areas of focus that include life transitions, trauma related to child abuse, intimate partner violence and sexual assault.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Struggling with a life transition such as beginning college or a divorce? Grieving the loss of a loved one? The decision you have made to start therapy is an incredibly important first step in improving your quality of life and achieving your wellness goals. I am happy you are here!
I am a trauma informed and solution-focused therapist with areas of focus that include life transitions, trauma related to child abuse, intimate partner violence and sexual assault.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Struggling with a life transition such as beginning college or a divorce? Grieving the loss of a loved one? The decision you have made to start therapy is an incredibly important first step in improving your quality of life and achieving your wellness goals. I am happy you are here!
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Photo of Brenda I Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middletown, CT
Brenda I Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MM, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my strengths are working with couples, individuals, families, military personnel and business professionals. I am successful treating clients who are adjusting to life transitions, work related stress, anxiety and depression. My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative holistic wellness model which highlights and builds on the clients' strengths. My philosophy is simple, I listen to what my clients are saying and then together we come up with therapeutic goals that lead to solutions. I use my education, clinical training and life experience to help clients solve very complex problems.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my strengths are working with couples, individuals, families, military personnel and business professionals. I am successful treating clients who are adjusting to life transitions, work related stress, anxiety and depression. My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative holistic wellness model which highlights and builds on the clients' strengths. My philosophy is simple, I listen to what my clients are saying and then together we come up with therapeutic goals that lead to solutions. I use my education, clinical training and life experience to help clients solve very complex problems.
(860) 513-2325 x1 View (860) 513-2325 x1
Photo of Brian A Zelesky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Brian A Zelesky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with approximately twenty years experience providing professional clinical treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families. I have successfully engaged clients of all ages in a trusting therapeutic relationship and I am committed to establishing a collaborative relationship between the client and myself. My experience has given me a unique ability to connect to difficult children and adolescents. My goal is to help provide clinical insight and counseling resulting in effective changes for the clients I serve. I practice a goal oriented approach that involves the family.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with approximately twenty years experience providing professional clinical treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families. I have successfully engaged clients of all ages in a trusting therapeutic relationship and I am committed to establishing a collaborative relationship between the client and myself. My experience has given me a unique ability to connect to difficult children and adolescents. My goal is to help provide clinical insight and counseling resulting in effective changes for the clients I serve. I practice a goal oriented approach that involves the family.
(860) 308-1583 View (860) 308-1583
Photo of Susan M Hameline-Kasznay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middletown, CT
Susan M Hameline-Kasznay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I have been treating families, couples, individuals and children for over 20 years. I enjoy working with families in transition, including divorce and blended families. I have experience in treating people with depression and anxiety as well.
I have been treating families, couples, individuals and children for over 20 years. I enjoy working with families in transition, including divorce and blended families. I have experience in treating people with depression and anxiety as well.
(860) 455-4697 View (860) 455-4697
Photo of Full and Fit Family LLC Erika Moses, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Full and Fit Family LLC Erika Moses
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I work with adults and children offering; individual, couples, and family counseling.
“Currently Holding Video Sessions.” Are you like many others, whom on a daily basis, face a variety of stressors and struggle to keep things organized? Do you, or a close family member juggle many roles, such as work, family, children and relationships? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that some days are overwhelming, and stress can take an emotional toll. In my practice, I work to help people identify the best ways to incorporate balance in their ever changing lives. Through a supportive environment people learn how to take time for themselves, and/or develop ways to manage more chronic emotional conditions.
I work with adults and children offering; individual, couples, and family counseling.
“Currently Holding Video Sessions.” Are you like many others, whom on a daily basis, face a variety of stressors and struggle to keep things organized? Do you, or a close family member juggle many roles, such as work, family, children and relationships? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that some days are overwhelming, and stress can take an emotional toll. In my practice, I work to help people identify the best ways to incorporate balance in their ever changing lives. Through a supportive environment people learn how to take time for themselves, and/or develop ways to manage more chronic emotional conditions.
(203) 779-6374 View (203) 779-6374
Photo of Lauri Weber, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Middletown, CT
Lauri Weber
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
My practice provides a safe, caring environment for individuals, couples and families to address the many difficult and sensitive issues relating to the impact of the disease of addiction.
Addiction is one of the most serious epidemics of our time. I specialize in treating individuals and families who are struggling with the pain of loving someone who suffers with the disease of addiction. For every person struggling with addiction, there are family members and friends affected, and they also face many challenges. Addiction, the resulting trauma and interpersonal conflicts can manifest in depression, anxiety and anger. With support, professional guidance and empathy, those grappling with these challenges can find the strength, hope and determination to create change and find new meaning in their lives.
My practice provides a safe, caring environment for individuals, couples and families to address the many difficult and sensitive issues relating to the impact of the disease of addiction.
Addiction is one of the most serious epidemics of our time. I specialize in treating individuals and families who are struggling with the pain of loving someone who suffers with the disease of addiction. For every person struggling with addiction, there are family members and friends affected, and they also face many challenges. Addiction, the resulting trauma and interpersonal conflicts can manifest in depression, anxiety and anger. With support, professional guidance and empathy, those grappling with these challenges can find the strength, hope and determination to create change and find new meaning in their lives.
(860) 901-1645 View (860) 901-1645
Photo of Kathleen Watanabe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middletown, CT
Kathleen Watanabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE - AS A LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER I STRIVE TO PROVIDE A CONFIDENTIAL AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH INDIVIDUALS ARE FREE TO GROW AT THEIR OWN PACE. I WORK WITH INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES TO RESOLVE RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS, REDUCE ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION AND ADDRESS TRAUMA. I HAVE A SUB SPECIALTY OF TREATING SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AND THE FAMILIES THAT ARE AFFECTED.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE - AS A LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER I STRIVE TO PROVIDE A CONFIDENTIAL AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH INDIVIDUALS ARE FREE TO GROW AT THEIR OWN PACE. I WORK WITH INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES TO RESOLVE RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS, REDUCE ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION AND ADDRESS TRAUMA. I HAVE A SUB SPECIALTY OF TREATING SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AND THE FAMILIES THAT ARE AFFECTED.
(860) 317-2815 View (860) 317-2815
Photo of Briana Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middletown, CT
Briana Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
This is why the relationship between you and I is most important in our work.
Sometimes, life deals us an awful hand with so many wounds and hurts that we have no idea how we'll get through. We feel sad, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, depressed and don't know how to move forward with that emotion. We find ourselves stuck in the same patterns and don't know how to change them. Frequently, our relationships struggle as a result. I believe in becoming whole and healing from these wounds and hurts. I believe each person has innate characteristics that make this healing possible. In therapy, our goal is to remove these constraints that prevent you from accessing your core Self and create a life that feels lighter.
This is why the relationship between you and I is most important in our work.
Sometimes, life deals us an awful hand with so many wounds and hurts that we have no idea how we'll get through. We feel sad, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, depressed and don't know how to move forward with that emotion. We find ourselves stuck in the same patterns and don't know how to change them. Frequently, our relationships struggle as a result. I believe in becoming whole and healing from these wounds and hurts. I believe each person has innate characteristics that make this healing possible. In therapy, our goal is to remove these constraints that prevent you from accessing your core Self and create a life that feels lighter.
(860) 368-0803 View (860) 368-0803
Photo of Harita Seiderer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middletown, CT
Harita Seiderer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
Additionally, I specialize in Couples/Family Conflict Management, through Couples/Family Work, especially in couples going through separation/divorce.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience in the Mental Health field. I have served all populations throughout the years, from young children to elderly, with all different types of challenges. I am certified in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and utilize an eclectic approach in my therapeutic interventions. I believe each individual is the expert of themselves and their lives. My job is primarily to guide you, utilizing a collaborative manner, into finding a place where you no longer feel stuck and ultimately feel happier and more content in your life.
Additionally, I specialize in Couples/Family Conflict Management, through Couples/Family Work, especially in couples going through separation/divorce.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience in the Mental Health field. I have served all populations throughout the years, from young children to elderly, with all different types of challenges. I am certified in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and utilize an eclectic approach in my therapeutic interventions. I believe each individual is the expert of themselves and their lives. My job is primarily to guide you, utilizing a collaborative manner, into finding a place where you no longer feel stuck and ultimately feel happier and more content in your life.
(860) 421-6161 View (860) 421-6161
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.