Photo of Carleigh Hannah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carleigh Hannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, CT 06360
I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
I’m Carleigh Hannah, LCSW and I’m here to help. My goal is to provide a safe place to explore current life challenges. I am here to root you on when things are going well, encourage you to look deeper into underlining meanings, support you through difficult life decisions and transitions. I treat ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Autism, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD. I am an ally to our LGBTQ+ community and have experience with educating and advocating for LGBTQ+ misconceptions.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
I’m Carleigh Hannah, LCSW and I’m here to help. My goal is to provide a safe place to explore current life challenges. I am here to root you on when things are going well, encourage you to look deeper into underlining meanings, support you through difficult life decisions and transitions. I treat ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Autism, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD. I am an ally to our LGBTQ+ community and have experience with educating and advocating for LGBTQ+ misconceptions.
(860) 362-2409 View (860) 362-2409
Photo of Rhonda Spaziani, MS, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Spaziani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New London, CT 06320
I have a broad range of counseling experience and have worked with many personal, behavioral, and cultural issues over my 20+ year counseling career. I utilize a holistic approach to help you create positive change within your life. We all encounter transitions in our lifetime (e.g., divorce, relationship issues, illness, death of loved ones, occupational conflicts, separation from employment, end of military service, empty nests, etc.), but it is often the way we respond to these challenges more than the actual challenges themselves that impacts our overall physical and emotional health and wellbeing.
I have a broad range of counseling experience and have worked with many personal, behavioral, and cultural issues over my 20+ year counseling career. I utilize a holistic approach to help you create positive change within your life. We all encounter transitions in our lifetime (e.g., divorce, relationship issues, illness, death of loved ones, occupational conflicts, separation from employment, end of military service, empty nests, etc.), but it is often the way we respond to these challenges more than the actual challenges themselves that impacts our overall physical and emotional health and wellbeing.
(860) 863-4181 View (860) 863-4181
Photo of Marlene Popeo Nickerson, LMFT, GC-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marlene Popeo Nickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niantic, CT 06357  (Online Only)
However, I specialize in addiction, anxiety/depression, parenting, couples relationships and healing from loss/grief.
I have been a Connecticut Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1995 and am now also licensed in the state of Florida, as well. I offer therapeutic services that emphasize quality of life, living life by life's terms and learning the skills for maintaining a healthy self within a marriage, family and other significant relationships. By focusing on the present yet acknowledging and accepting past patterns of behavior, my clients are able to make better choices that support healthier relationships.
However, I specialize in addiction, anxiety/depression, parenting, couples relationships and healing from loss/grief.
I have been a Connecticut Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1995 and am now also licensed in the state of Florida, as well. I offer therapeutic services that emphasize quality of life, living life by life's terms and learning the skills for maintaining a healthy self within a marriage, family and other significant relationships. By focusing on the present yet acknowledging and accepting past patterns of behavior, my clients are able to make better choices that support healthier relationships.
(860) 412-6918 View (860) 412-6918
Photo of undefined - Alliance Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alliance Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Groton, CT 06340
We are a group private practice of female therapists offering individual, couples, and family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.
Welcome! Thank you for checking out what we have to offer in your search for a therapist who can meet your unique therapy needs. For 100% telehealth, we currently have waiting lists of 3-5 months for adults, couples, or teens 15-17. For in person services, waiting lists are 3-5 months for ages 10 and up, couples, or family therapy with kids 8+; 6-12 months for children under 10 or family therapy with kids 7 and under. Unfortunately we do not have openings after 2pm or on weekends. We do our best to return calls within 2 business days, but if it takes longer, know that we WILL call you back!
We are a group private practice of female therapists offering individual, couples, and family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.
Welcome! Thank you for checking out what we have to offer in your search for a therapist who can meet your unique therapy needs. For 100% telehealth, we currently have waiting lists of 3-5 months for adults, couples, or teens 15-17. For in person services, waiting lists are 3-5 months for ages 10 and up, couples, or family therapy with kids 8+; 6-12 months for children under 10 or family therapy with kids 7 and under. Unfortunately we do not have openings after 2pm or on weekends. We do our best to return calls within 2 business days, but if it takes longer, know that we WILL call you back!
(860) 552-2274 View (860) 552-2274
Photo of Katie Ziskind, BS,  MA, LMFT, RTY500, ERTY200, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Ziskind
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT, RTY500, ERTY200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Niantic, CT 06357  (Online Only)
Is trauma coming up? Are you having the same arguments and can't seem to resolve conflict? Has your romantic relationship, sex life, and intimacy fallen to the back burner? I can help you learn to handle complex emotions and stress in your marriage in more effective ways.
Are you fighting or arguing and feeling hopeless afterwards? Do you have a sexless marriage? Wishing you had more frequent sex? Wanting better communication skills, more intimacy and a better sex life? Are you stressed and frustrated with the state of your relationship? Stuck parenting and needing help rebuilding desire? It can be overwhelming without help. I help distant couples rebuild their sex life, talk about sex and intimacy in a confident and comfortable way, and overcome anger, betrayal, secret keeping, and infidelity. I would love to help you and your partner create a playful, passionate, erotic, and meaningful marriage.
Is trauma coming up? Are you having the same arguments and can't seem to resolve conflict? Has your romantic relationship, sex life, and intimacy fallen to the back burner? I can help you learn to handle complex emotions and stress in your marriage in more effective ways.
Are you fighting or arguing and feeling hopeless afterwards? Do you have a sexless marriage? Wishing you had more frequent sex? Wanting better communication skills, more intimacy and a better sex life? Are you stressed and frustrated with the state of your relationship? Stuck parenting and needing help rebuilding desire? It can be overwhelming without help. I help distant couples rebuild their sex life, talk about sex and intimacy in a confident and comfortable way, and overcome anger, betrayal, secret keeping, and infidelity. I would love to help you and your partner create a playful, passionate, erotic, and meaningful marriage.
(860) 698-0253 View (860) 698-0253
Photo of undefined - Penny For Our Thoughts LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Penny For Our Thoughts LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colchester, CT 06415
Waitlist for new clients
“All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make, the better.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson. Hello! My name is Sarah Simmons and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes your life is an individualized journey that I would be honored and excited to explore with you. I primarily work with teens, adults, and couples who feel they struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief/loss, trouble communicating, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. I strive to collaborate with you to offer a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive space where we focus on your personally identified needs and goals.
“All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make, the better.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson. Hello! My name is Sarah Simmons and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who believes your life is an individualized journey that I would be honored and excited to explore with you. I primarily work with teens, adults, and couples who feel they struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief/loss, trouble communicating, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. I strive to collaborate with you to offer a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive space where we focus on your personally identified needs and goals.
(860) 718-4286 View (860) 718-4286
Photo of Giulia Jaramillo, MSLMFT, Author, Marriage & Family Therapist
Giulia Jaramillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSLMFT, Author
Verified Verified
Mystic, CT 06355
I am certified to work with individuals starting at age 16, as well as couples and families. I have experience in working with clients who struggle with trauma (PTSD), anxiety, panic, ADHD (all types), depression, physical disabilities, and navigating the ADA legal system. I have over a decade of experience working with military families, legal issues, criminal issues, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
I am certified to work with individuals starting at age 16, as well as couples and families. I have experience in working with clients who struggle with trauma (PTSD), anxiety, panic, ADHD (all types), depression, physical disabilities, and navigating the ADA legal system. I have over a decade of experience working with military families, legal issues, criminal issues, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
(860) 786-4752 View (860) 786-4752
Photo of undefined - Baxley Counseling LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Baxley Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colchester, CT 06415
I enjoy helping couples reconnect and building a foundation of trust and attachment.
Currently accepting new clients for TELEHEALTH Services only. Do you worry excessively or have trouble motivating yourself to do the everyday tasks? Does managing your moods take all of your energy? Answering YES to any of these questions, can have a significant impact on the quality of your life. I will utilize a variety of approaches that are strengths based to help YOU make some positive changes in your life.
I enjoy helping couples reconnect and building a foundation of trust and attachment.
Currently accepting new clients for TELEHEALTH Services only. Do you worry excessively or have trouble motivating yourself to do the everyday tasks? Does managing your moods take all of your energy? Answering YES to any of these questions, can have a significant impact on the quality of your life. I will utilize a variety of approaches that are strengths based to help YOU make some positive changes in your life.
(860) 269-4830 View (860) 269-4830
Photo of Lydia P Perry, LPC, LADC, AADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lydia P Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC, AADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Groton, CT 06340
I treat individuals, children, family and couples, regardless of age/sex/orientation/expression.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do/with your one wild and precious life?" Welcome! Now accepting new clients! Have you lost focus on your wild, precious life? Let's work to find it, or towards finding it again/anew. I believe that positive change can happen, a positive life can result, with confidence, courage, and with the skills you’ve possessed all along but might not have known you had at your availability. I take blended approach to therapy, so that treatment can be tailored to fit your need(s); this is centered in/around an empowerment/strengths based foci; one both respectful and responsive to the concern you bring.
I treat individuals, children, family and couples, regardless of age/sex/orientation/expression.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do/with your one wild and precious life?" Welcome! Now accepting new clients! Have you lost focus on your wild, precious life? Let's work to find it, or towards finding it again/anew. I believe that positive change can happen, a positive life can result, with confidence, courage, and with the skills you’ve possessed all along but might not have known you had at your availability. I take blended approach to therapy, so that treatment can be tailored to fit your need(s); this is centered in/around an empowerment/strengths based foci; one both respectful and responsive to the concern you bring.
(860) 390-4808 View (860) 390-4808
Photo of Carla Harper, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Harper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, CT 06365  (Online Only)
Experience dealing with teen social issues, divorce, couples and self harm.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a broad base of counseling experience with; children, adolescents, and families. Areas of emphasis; mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and Asperger/Autism Spectrum. I view mental health holistically, incorporating the roles of mind, body, and spirit as key components to healthy living. I am a relationships-based counselor, which uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy as my models for treatment.
Experience dealing with teen social issues, divorce, couples and self harm.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a broad base of counseling experience with; children, adolescents, and families. Areas of emphasis; mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and Asperger/Autism Spectrum. I view mental health holistically, incorporating the roles of mind, body, and spirit as key components to healthy living. I am a relationships-based counselor, which uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy as my models for treatment.
(203) 689-7400 View (203) 689-7400
Photo of Tracey Laszloffy, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracey Laszloffy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, CT 06360
As a PhD level Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who been providing individual, couple and family therapy for the past 20 years, I understand the power of good therapy to help with a range of issues. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger, a loss of meaning and hope, communication problems, parenting issues or relationship distress, I have the knowledge, skills and experience to help you heal what hurts and to live a more satisfying life.
As a PhD level Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who been providing individual, couple and family therapy for the past 20 years, I understand the power of good therapy to help with a range of issues. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger, a loss of meaning and hope, communication problems, parenting issues or relationship distress, I have the knowledge, skills and experience to help you heal what hurts and to live a more satisfying life.
(860) 544-5745 View (860) 544-5745
Photo of Patricia Healy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Lyme, CT 06333  (Online Only)
Examples of issues addressed include relationship problems, parenting difficulties, depression, anxiety, codependency, self-esteem, and identity clarification.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who employs a family systems theoretical perspective in doing counseling with adults, adolescents, and children. Depending upon the particular client, I will conduct individual, couple/marital, or family sessions to help individuals gain insight into the dynamics of his or her family of origin. This approach includes an examination of the manner in which these behavior patterns are currently influencing the client's relationships with dating partners, spouses, children, in-laws, friends, co-workers, supervisors, employers, and other significant individuals in the client's life.
Examples of issues addressed include relationship problems, parenting difficulties, depression, anxiety, codependency, self-esteem, and identity clarification.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who employs a family systems theoretical perspective in doing counseling with adults, adolescents, and children. Depending upon the particular client, I will conduct individual, couple/marital, or family sessions to help individuals gain insight into the dynamics of his or her family of origin. This approach includes an examination of the manner in which these behavior patterns are currently influencing the client's relationships with dating partners, spouses, children, in-laws, friends, co-workers, supervisors, employers, and other significant individuals in the client's life.
(860) 631-4209 View (860) 631-4209
Photo of Judith Gruber, LCSW, CCEP, EMM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Gruber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCEP, EMM
Verified Verified
Niantic, CT 06357
I am a Certified Exceptional Marriage and Relationship Mentor and work with my partner of 24 years.
I am a down-to-earth, friendly, interactive psychotherapist, couples counselor and life coach. My solution-focused work, support and practical feedback help you resolve both current problems and long-standing patterns. I can also accelerate your process by adding body-centered psychotherapy techniques that work directly on emotional blocks that keep you feeling trapped, no matter how much you have talked about them. With sensitivity and compassion, we will explore your conflicts to help you find your own unique solutions and coping strategies to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues. Visit my website www.judithgrubertherapy.com
I am a Certified Exceptional Marriage and Relationship Mentor and work with my partner of 24 years.
I am a down-to-earth, friendly, interactive psychotherapist, couples counselor and life coach. My solution-focused work, support and practical feedback help you resolve both current problems and long-standing patterns. I can also accelerate your process by adding body-centered psychotherapy techniques that work directly on emotional blocks that keep you feeling trapped, no matter how much you have talked about them. With sensitivity and compassion, we will explore your conflicts to help you find your own unique solutions and coping strategies to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues. Visit my website www.judithgrubertherapy.com
(347) 308-7096 View (347) 308-7096
Photo of Elizabeth Kramer, MEd, MA, CAGS, LPC, RYT 200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, CAGS, LPC, RYT 200
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360
I am Holistic Counselor and use an holistic approach to psychotherapy which targets the mind, body and spirit. I combine traditional therapies with spiritual and innovative practices in a safe supportive environment. I use a person-centered process to help guide clients toward healing and self-fulfillment. My focus is to assist clients with personal self-growth, self confidence, mid-life challenges and relationship issues. I am open to individuals, couples, and families.
I am Holistic Counselor and use an holistic approach to psychotherapy which targets the mind, body and spirit. I combine traditional therapies with spiritual and innovative practices in a safe supportive environment. I use a person-centered process to help guide clients toward healing and self-fulfillment. My focus is to assist clients with personal self-growth, self confidence, mid-life challenges and relationship issues. I am open to individuals, couples, and families.
(860) 792-5820 View (860) 792-5820
Photo of Cyndi Palma, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cyndi Palma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience in working with adults, adolescents, families and couples.
Life is full of challenges and we all reach a time when we need extra support and assistance in meeting those challenges. I am currently accepting new clients ages 16 and over for virtual therapy. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use issues including co-dependency, trauma, couples counseling and family therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience in working with adults, adolescents, families and couples.
Life is full of challenges and we all reach a time when we need extra support and assistance in meeting those challenges. I am currently accepting new clients ages 16 and over for virtual therapy. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use issues including co-dependency, trauma, couples counseling and family therapy.
(860) 362-3894 View (860) 362-3894
Photo of Sabine O'Donnell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sabine O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Old Lyme, CT 06371
Welcome! Are you feeling stressed, sad, anxious, and unfulfilled? Worried about a struggling child or family member? When being listened to, heard, and understood, you might perceive your world in a new, more positive way. As a marriage and family therapist, I have been trained to help individuals, couples, and families to collaboratively define and reach their goals. We live our lives wishing for close connections with our loved ones. I am hoping to provide you with warm, gentle, and empathic companionship on your journey towards healing.
Welcome! Are you feeling stressed, sad, anxious, and unfulfilled? Worried about a struggling child or family member? When being listened to, heard, and understood, you might perceive your world in a new, more positive way. As a marriage and family therapist, I have been trained to help individuals, couples, and families to collaboratively define and reach their goals. We live our lives wishing for close connections with our loved ones. I am hoping to provide you with warm, gentle, and empathic companionship on your journey towards healing.
(959) 207-8492 View (959) 207-8492
Photo of Ellen Schnier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Schnier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Lyme, CT 06371
**Accepting referrals in CT office only** I am an NYU trained licensed clinical social worker and have completed postgraduate work in individual, couples, family and group therapy at several New York City institutes. I am licensed to practice psychotherapy in New York and Connecticut and have private practices in both states. I'm the former director of a children's mental health clinic, but now focus on work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, eating disorders, parenting issues, adjustment problems, relationship conflicts, and work difficulties.
**Accepting referrals in CT office only** I am an NYU trained licensed clinical social worker and have completed postgraduate work in individual, couples, family and group therapy at several New York City institutes. I am licensed to practice psychotherapy in New York and Connecticut and have private practices in both states. I'm the former director of a children's mental health clinic, but now focus on work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, eating disorders, parenting issues, adjustment problems, relationship conflicts, and work difficulties.
(646) 863-5592 View (646) 863-5592
Photo of Deborah S Hulien, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah S Hulien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Colchester, CT 06420
Deborah S. Hulien is a CT. State Licensed Professional Counselor in Hebron, CT. Her career spans 25+ years, guiding adults, adolescents and individuals , single parents, and couples who struggle with the emotions of life's challenges. Additionally, she provides information/education for individuals and parents of Autistic children to bridge communication gaps. Furthermore, adults who seek divorce will learn that the process is complicated and emotionally disruptive. An experienced therapist can help families achieve a peaceful and successful resolution to this challenging process.
Deborah S. Hulien is a CT. State Licensed Professional Counselor in Hebron, CT. Her career spans 25+ years, guiding adults, adolescents and individuals , single parents, and couples who struggle with the emotions of life's challenges. Additionally, she provides information/education for individuals and parents of Autistic children to bridge communication gaps. Furthermore, adults who seek divorce will learn that the process is complicated and emotionally disruptive. An experienced therapist can help families achieve a peaceful and successful resolution to this challenging process.
(860) 808-9177 View (860) 808-9177
Photo of Barbara Holtzman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Holtzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New London, CT 06320  (Online Only)
Are you living your life by design or by default? Perhaps the symptom that brought you here today is not the real issue but is actually a message from your deepest wisdom to nudge you towards living your authentic life. Whether you are hoping to change your relationship with food and your body, shift your patterns in relationships, cope with an illness or pain, or simply to like yourself better, I have a question for you. Are you looking simply to alleviate your symptom (often replaced by another) or are you open to living from your heart’s desire to be fully Alive? I invite you to participate in this journey with me.
Are you living your life by design or by default? Perhaps the symptom that brought you here today is not the real issue but is actually a message from your deepest wisdom to nudge you towards living your authentic life. Whether you are hoping to change your relationship with food and your body, shift your patterns in relationships, cope with an illness or pain, or simply to like yourself better, I have a question for you. Are you looking simply to alleviate your symptom (often replaced by another) or are you open to living from your heart’s desire to be fully Alive? I invite you to participate in this journey with me.
(401) 257-7136 View (401) 257-7136
Photo of undefined - Sara B. Snyder, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara B. Snyder, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Lyme, CT 06371
I try to create a collaborative, reflective and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I am a social worker with over 25 years experience in clinical practice with an office in old Saybrook, CT. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, insight oriented psychodynamic and psycho-educational techniques to help you understand yourself better and resolve issues and reach goals most important to you.
I try to create a collaborative, reflective and supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I am a social worker with over 25 years experience in clinical practice with an office in old Saybrook, CT. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, insight oriented psychodynamic and psycho-educational techniques to help you understand yourself better and resolve issues and reach goals most important to you.
(203) 916-5494 View (203) 916-5494

See more therapy options for New London County

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.