Photo of James Cote, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
James Cote
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34953  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in the State of Florida with 5+ years of professional experience supporting and empowering adults struggling with a wide array of mental health challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, trauma & abuse, addiction, depression, meaninglessness, grief & loss, family conflict, anger management, identity issues, and relationship problems. I maintain an open and safe space for you to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in the State of Florida with 5+ years of professional experience supporting and empowering adults struggling with a wide array of mental health challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, trauma & abuse, addiction, depression, meaninglessness, grief & loss, family conflict, anger management, identity issues, and relationship problems. I maintain an open and safe space for you to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
(561) 823-3646 View (561) 823-3646
Photo of Michael E Ryan, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Michael E Ryan
Counselor, MA, PhD, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952
If you are an individual seeking rapid relief from emotional distress, a couple hoping to improve their relationship or a parent wanting help for their child I have over 30 years of training and experience to provide highly effective assistance. Via cognitive-behavioral therapy, you will learn to think and to behave in a manner that leads to greater happiness. Couples and families will learn to skillfully communicate and problem solve. I am also a certified Health Coach and hypnotherapist prepared to assist with issues including smoking cessation, weight loss and stress management. I am a Qualified Supervisor of mh interns.
If you are an individual seeking rapid relief from emotional distress, a couple hoping to improve their relationship or a parent wanting help for their child I have over 30 years of training and experience to provide highly effective assistance. Via cognitive-behavioral therapy, you will learn to think and to behave in a manner that leads to greater happiness. Couples and families will learn to skillfully communicate and problem solve. I am also a certified Health Coach and hypnotherapist prepared to assist with issues including smoking cessation, weight loss and stress management. I am a Qualified Supervisor of mh interns.
(772) 205-3129 View (772) 205-3129
Photo of Hope Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Hope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952
Dear Hurting Person, Perhaps life for you has become so painful or complicated that you do not know what to do for relief. Is your experience of suffering overwhelming? Do your problems appear to have no real solutions? Are the very things that you used to do to cope with life no longer working? Are you feeling despair? Pain expresses itself through many feelings: loneliness, anxiety, grief, inadequacy, guilt, shame, emptiness, fear, obsession, sadness, depression, and even anger or rage. Confusion reigns when you are lost in anguish. Stress often restricts your clarity of thought and inhibits action.
Dear Hurting Person, Perhaps life for you has become so painful or complicated that you do not know what to do for relief. Is your experience of suffering overwhelming? Do your problems appear to have no real solutions? Are the very things that you used to do to cope with life no longer working? Are you feeling despair? Pain expresses itself through many feelings: loneliness, anxiety, grief, inadequacy, guilt, shame, emptiness, fear, obsession, sadness, depression, and even anger or rage. Confusion reigns when you are lost in anguish. Stress often restricts your clarity of thought and inhibits action.
(772) 266-5126 View (772) 266-5126

Online Therapists

Photo of Adam Schulman, Psychologist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Adam Schulman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
Struggling in your relationships with others? Are you waking up each day and feeling dissatisfied? You may be looking for a partner, trying to fix the current one, or wanting to end a relationship that is not working. You may even find you are just not happy with yourself. So many parts of your life are affected when your needs are not being met in your relationships. While you may have tried to resolve this on your own, sometimes it’s necessary to reach out for help. Being happy and satisfied is priceless!
Struggling in your relationships with others? Are you waking up each day and feeling dissatisfied? You may be looking for a partner, trying to fix the current one, or wanting to end a relationship that is not working. You may even find you are just not happy with yourself. So many parts of your life are affected when your needs are not being met in your relationships. While you may have tried to resolve this on your own, sometimes it’s necessary to reach out for help. Being happy and satisfied is priceless!
(954) 266-0854 View (954) 266-0854
Photo of Dan Rowlands, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Dan Rowlands
Counselor, LMHC, CSAT, MCAP, CST, BRI II
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Greetings, my primary therapy focus is helping Individuals and families who struggle with Sex, Love, Relationship, Fantasy, and Internet Addictions. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Masters Certified Addition Professional, I am qualified to help you discover a healthier way to cope with life's challenges by recovering from addictive and compulsive behaviors. My own continuous recovery spanning over three decades is a testimonial that sobriety is achievable and for me, a much better way of life than continuing in addiction. Call for a free initial consultation.
Greetings, my primary therapy focus is helping Individuals and families who struggle with Sex, Love, Relationship, Fantasy, and Internet Addictions. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Masters Certified Addition Professional, I am qualified to help you discover a healthier way to cope with life's challenges by recovering from addictive and compulsive behaviors. My own continuous recovery spanning over three decades is a testimonial that sobriety is achievable and for me, a much better way of life than continuing in addiction. Call for a free initial consultation.
(561) 405-9829 View (561) 405-9829
Photo of Richard Taborga, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Richard Taborga
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
I am an experienced doctor of psychology and licensed psychotherapist, who specializes in treating individuals across the life span, couples, and families experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a therapeutic relationship with my clients that will inspire hope, help them recognize their strengths and develop the insight and skills to navigate life's challenges. With an understanding and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, I recognize that no single approach is right for everyone and strive to integrate various therapeutic orientations and interventions in understanding and helping clients.
I am an experienced doctor of psychology and licensed psychotherapist, who specializes in treating individuals across the life span, couples, and families experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a therapeutic relationship with my clients that will inspire hope, help them recognize their strengths and develop the insight and skills to navigate life's challenges. With an understanding and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, I recognize that no single approach is right for everyone and strive to integrate various therapeutic orientations and interventions in understanding and helping clients.
(786) 528-6616 View (786) 528-6616
Photo of Jeffrey Sumber, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Jeffrey Sumber
Counselor, MA, MTS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33434  (Online Only)
In fact, I enjoy working with challenging issues including, but not limited to, relationship and communication, divorce, anxiety, depression, addiction, sexuality, meaning of life issues, obesity and body image as well as trauma.
We work together to identify and support who you are at your core. I help you determine what you want from your relationships, family and career and then create a plan to make it happen. Of course, there may be some challenges along the way but I don't believe life has to be endless suffering. Schedule a session and we can figure out the path together. All you need already exists within you!
In fact, I enjoy working with challenging issues including, but not limited to, relationship and communication, divorce, anxiety, depression, addiction, sexuality, meaning of life issues, obesity and body image as well as trauma.
We work together to identify and support who you are at your core. I help you determine what you want from your relationships, family and career and then create a plan to make it happen. Of course, there may be some challenges along the way but I don't believe life has to be endless suffering. Schedule a session and we can figure out the path together. All you need already exists within you!
(312) 647-2396 View (312) 647-2396
Photo of Alfredo Ramos, Mental Health Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Alfredo Ramos
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
Positive Mindful Counseling has empathetic and dedicated clinicians, whose goal is to provide the most comfortable, evidence-based, and solution-focused counseling. We specialize in Individual and Group Therapy, always focusing on progress toward clear, measurable, and personalized goals. Services are provided both in our office and via telehealth. As Licensed Professionals, it is our purpose to help clients work through their distress to achieve positive results. We work well with clients seeking to alleviate their stress, relationship difficulties, and conflict while improving their mood and functioning. Tambien Hablamos Español.
Positive Mindful Counseling has empathetic and dedicated clinicians, whose goal is to provide the most comfortable, evidence-based, and solution-focused counseling. We specialize in Individual and Group Therapy, always focusing on progress toward clear, measurable, and personalized goals. Services are provided both in our office and via telehealth. As Licensed Professionals, it is our purpose to help clients work through their distress to achieve positive results. We work well with clients seeking to alleviate their stress, relationship difficulties, and conflict while improving their mood and functioning. Tambien Hablamos Español.
(786) 244-6420 View (786) 244-6420
Photo of Luis F. Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Luis F. Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32826  (Online Only)
I strive to offer mental health counseling, career counseling, and couples counseling catered to what your needs are.
Are you overwhelmed with situations that are currently presenting themselves within your life? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, misunderstood, or lost? Do you feel as if you are seeking the person you used to be or wish to achieve the potential you know you have? These feelings can be challenging, but positive change is possible through mindful self-exploration. In understanding your unique story, you can clear the path toward your intended goals. Working together we can identify the protagonist of your story, and work toward developing a richer, more satisfying future.
I strive to offer mental health counseling, career counseling, and couples counseling catered to what your needs are.
Are you overwhelmed with situations that are currently presenting themselves within your life? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, misunderstood, or lost? Do you feel as if you are seeking the person you used to be or wish to achieve the potential you know you have? These feelings can be challenging, but positive change is possible through mindful self-exploration. In understanding your unique story, you can clear the path toward your intended goals. Working together we can identify the protagonist of your story, and work toward developing a richer, more satisfying future.
(321) 273-7026 View (321) 273-7026
Photo of Patrick M. DeCarlo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Patrick M. DeCarlo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33330
Beyond my work with couples, I extend individual therapy services to adults grappling with a spectrum of emotional struggles, including anxiety, depression, grief, and maladaptive coping strategies.
I treat the thorniest aspects of relationships, such as persistent conflicts, deep-rooted communication barriers, and issues surrounding intimacy. When infidelity, parenting disagreements, or broader family conflicts push a relationship to its breaking point, my client-centered approach can pave the way for healing and recovery. If your partnership is facing such challenges, know that there's hope. Via targeted assessments and straightforward yet compassionate interventions, I aim to help you both mend and strengthen the bonds of your relationship.
Beyond my work with couples, I extend individual therapy services to adults grappling with a spectrum of emotional struggles, including anxiety, depression, grief, and maladaptive coping strategies.
I treat the thorniest aspects of relationships, such as persistent conflicts, deep-rooted communication barriers, and issues surrounding intimacy. When infidelity, parenting disagreements, or broader family conflicts push a relationship to its breaking point, my client-centered approach can pave the way for healing and recovery. If your partnership is facing such challenges, know that there's hope. Via targeted assessments and straightforward yet compassionate interventions, I aim to help you both mend and strengthen the bonds of your relationship.
(954) 547-8982 View (954) 547-8982
Photo of New Hope Psychotherapy LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
New Hope Psychotherapy LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32824  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis Urena, founder of New Hope Psychotherapy. We are dedicated to working with clients seeking transformative experiences of self-discovery. We specialize in supporting individuals, families and couples struggling with relationship conflicts, stress management, anxiety, depressive moods, and traumatic experiences. It’s hard to feel motivated when you’re feeling stressed about work assignments, a spouse’s expectations, or those awful things you went through. With a relationship built on compassion, we will help you uncover what is and isn’t working, while helping you reach your goals.
Hi, I'm Genesis Urena, founder of New Hope Psychotherapy. We are dedicated to working with clients seeking transformative experiences of self-discovery. We specialize in supporting individuals, families and couples struggling with relationship conflicts, stress management, anxiety, depressive moods, and traumatic experiences. It’s hard to feel motivated when you’re feeling stressed about work assignments, a spouse’s expectations, or those awful things you went through. With a relationship built on compassion, we will help you uncover what is and isn’t working, while helping you reach your goals.
(781) 604-1247 View (781) 604-1247
Photo of J. Oscar Ortiz, P.A., Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
J. Oscar Ortiz, P.A.
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with specialized training in various therapeutic modalities. For the past 20 years, I have had the pleasure of working with children, adolescents, and adults who were struggling in one or more areas of their lives. I also have a passion for working with couples and have completed several trainings from the renowned Gottman Institute relating to working with couples. I am exceptionally open minded to treat individuals and couples of all backgrounds and orientations. I am credentialed with most insurance panels.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with specialized training in various therapeutic modalities. For the past 20 years, I have had the pleasure of working with children, adolescents, and adults who were struggling in one or more areas of their lives. I also have a passion for working with couples and have completed several trainings from the renowned Gottman Institute relating to working with couples. I am exceptionally open minded to treat individuals and couples of all backgrounds and orientations. I am credentialed with most insurance panels.
(754) 581-8670 View (754) 581-8670
Photo of Malcolm L. Thomas Jr., Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Malcolm L. Thomas Jr.
Counselor, DMin, LMHC, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tamarac, FL 33321
Do you have more problems than answers and solutions? Do your co-works, supervisor, spouse, children, parents or even friends find it challenging to connect and understand you? Do find it hard to understand yourself and the world around you? If so, I am here to help. My object as a psychotherapist, counselor, and life coach is to help families, individuals, and adolescences find balance and answers to their and your mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and physical problems and concerns. I believe in making space for transformational change. Let us find answers together to life's presenting problems in moving forward.
Do you have more problems than answers and solutions? Do your co-works, supervisor, spouse, children, parents or even friends find it challenging to connect and understand you? Do find it hard to understand yourself and the world around you? If so, I am here to help. My object as a psychotherapist, counselor, and life coach is to help families, individuals, and adolescences find balance and answers to their and your mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and physical problems and concerns. I believe in making space for transformational change. Let us find answers together to life's presenting problems in moving forward.
(754) 714-2168 View (754) 714-2168
Photo of Alex Antonucci, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Alex Antonucci
Counselor, MS, CMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
You're wondering if you should stay or leave the relationship. Fights are happening more often and you wish you could communicate better with your partner. Perhaps one of you needs to work on yourselves if you want the relationship to last. If you've already experienced a separation, you likely need help coping with some pain or confusion. If you share a child or responsibilities with your ex, you need to figure out a healthy way of coexisting with them. Whether you're gay or straight, you might be single and frustrated with the dating scene - your relationships don't seem to last, or it's been hard to even get one started!
You're wondering if you should stay or leave the relationship. Fights are happening more often and you wish you could communicate better with your partner. Perhaps one of you needs to work on yourselves if you want the relationship to last. If you've already experienced a separation, you likely need help coping with some pain or confusion. If you share a child or responsibilities with your ex, you need to figure out a healthy way of coexisting with them. Whether you're gay or straight, you might be single and frustrated with the dating scene - your relationships don't seem to last, or it's been hard to even get one started!
(786) 244-6721 View (786) 244-6721
Photo of Richard Paul Del Prete, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Richard Paul Del Prete
Counselor, LMHC, MA, NBCC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062  (Online Only)
I commend you for seeking change. Psychotherapy is an art based on psychology. Talking to a stranger about your concerns may cause anxiety. I start with the issue you present. My style is to listen well, be mindful, deliberate, supportive, respectful, and flexible based on your needs and personality. I am interactive and present as we interact. My client is my co-partner and has the information to change as we collaborate. I work with life cycle issues as a source of growth. I lived in Key West which is referred to as "Paradise". Understanding the lifestyle enhances my work with those living there. I live in Fort Lauderdale
I commend you for seeking change. Psychotherapy is an art based on psychology. Talking to a stranger about your concerns may cause anxiety. I start with the issue you present. My style is to listen well, be mindful, deliberate, supportive, respectful, and flexible based on your needs and personality. I am interactive and present as we interact. My client is my co-partner and has the information to change as we collaborate. I work with life cycle issues as a source of growth. I lived in Key West which is referred to as "Paradise". Understanding the lifestyle enhances my work with those living there. I live in Fort Lauderdale
(954) 751-3670 View (954) 751-3670
Photo of Evan Kotler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Evan Kotler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432  (Online Only)
My clients and colleagues describe me as a highly knowledgeable and skilled psychotherapist who provides an open therapeutic space for all individuals to grow, heal and recover. My expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, anger, stress, letting go, navigating complex relationship dynamics, sexuality and sexual concerns. I also specializes in treating sex & porn addiction. As a licensed psychotherapist and master's-level educator, you can rest assured that I offer high-quality care. My approach is conversational and semi-structured, and I always strive to use the best evidence-based treatment interventions.
My clients and colleagues describe me as a highly knowledgeable and skilled psychotherapist who provides an open therapeutic space for all individuals to grow, heal and recover. My expertise includes treating anxiety, depression, anger, stress, letting go, navigating complex relationship dynamics, sexuality and sexual concerns. I also specializes in treating sex & porn addiction. As a licensed psychotherapist and master's-level educator, you can rest assured that I offer high-quality care. My approach is conversational and semi-structured, and I always strive to use the best evidence-based treatment interventions.
(561) 677-8437 View (561) 677-8437
Photo of Collaborative Healing Partners, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Collaborative Healing Partners
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAP
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401  (Online Only)
We provide counseling to individuals, couples and families struggling with substance abuse issues, relationship difficulties, sexual identity issues, infidelity, electronics addiction, depression, anxiety, communication skills, assertiveness training, self-esteem and confidence building, parenting, career and life transitions, and family changes.
Collaborative Healing Partners believes that our client’s behaviors or presenting concerns will make sense once we understand the context of their behavior or situation. We partner with our clients to better understand their individual situations from their perspective and work to create a roadmap together to help them achieve their short term or long-term goals and begin living a more enriched/purposeful driven life. We specialize in the brief therapy model which seeks to provide our clients with permanent lasting changes in 10 sessions or less per presenting problem thus minimizing endless therapy.
We provide counseling to individuals, couples and families struggling with substance abuse issues, relationship difficulties, sexual identity issues, infidelity, electronics addiction, depression, anxiety, communication skills, assertiveness training, self-esteem and confidence building, parenting, career and life transitions, and family changes.
Collaborative Healing Partners believes that our client’s behaviors or presenting concerns will make sense once we understand the context of their behavior or situation. We partner with our clients to better understand their individual situations from their perspective and work to create a roadmap together to help them achieve their short term or long-term goals and begin living a more enriched/purposeful driven life. We specialize in the brief therapy model which seeks to provide our clients with permanent lasting changes in 10 sessions or less per presenting problem thus minimizing endless therapy.
(561) 861-1668 View (561) 861-1668
Photo of Jonathan Rios, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Jonathan Rios
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jupiter, FL 33469
Jonathan specializes in: Anxiety, Panic, Phobias, Performance barriers, Masculine development, Relationship issues, Porn Recovery.
Jonathan is an athlete-turned mental coach & licensed psychotherapist who is deeply committed to remaining undomesticated. A former Division 1 athlete and military academy graduate. For the past 20 years Jonathan has worked in the mental health industry. His ideal client may struggle with Panic Attacks, Performance anxiety, Relationship issues, and lacks clarity about their purpose in life. He offers a PORN recovery group (8 weeks), a Rite of Passage Men's group (8 weeks) as well as a 3 day men's intensive training in North Carolina. Check out his instagram page for free content: PrimalVirtues
Jonathan specializes in: Anxiety, Panic, Phobias, Performance barriers, Masculine development, Relationship issues, Porn Recovery.
Jonathan is an athlete-turned mental coach & licensed psychotherapist who is deeply committed to remaining undomesticated. A former Division 1 athlete and military academy graduate. For the past 20 years Jonathan has worked in the mental health industry. His ideal client may struggle with Panic Attacks, Performance anxiety, Relationship issues, and lacks clarity about their purpose in life. He offers a PORN recovery group (8 weeks), a Rite of Passage Men's group (8 weeks) as well as a 3 day men's intensive training in North Carolina. Check out his instagram page for free content: PrimalVirtues
(561) 448-6416 View (561) 448-6416
Photo of Ostin Celestin Jr, Counselor in Port Saint Lucie, FL
Ostin Celestin Jr
Counselor, LMHC, QS, EMDR, DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Trauma affects us all, in one way or another, either individually, in your relationship or family. Emotions like Shame, Guilt, Security, Trust and Intimacy are just some of the complex struggles you’ll need help navigating with either yourself, partner or family. Here’s my 4 keys to solving those issues together. First, explore and assess your trauma, second ensure a sense of emotional safety and stability, third, process your trauma and lastly, reconnect and reintegrate your sense of self and integrity. By following these steps together, we can overcome the challenges posed by trauma and move forward towards healing and growth.
Trauma affects us all, in one way or another, either individually, in your relationship or family. Emotions like Shame, Guilt, Security, Trust and Intimacy are just some of the complex struggles you’ll need help navigating with either yourself, partner or family. Here’s my 4 keys to solving those issues together. First, explore and assess your trauma, second ensure a sense of emotional safety and stability, third, process your trauma and lastly, reconnect and reintegrate your sense of self and integrity. By following these steps together, we can overcome the challenges posed by trauma and move forward towards healing and growth.
(561) 658-4963 View (561) 658-4963
Photo of William Eyring, Psychologist in Port Saint Lucie, FL
William Eyring
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Two practice locations: Satellite Beach & Merritt Island. Together, we can discover the tools you need to have a happier life and more fulfilling relationships. If your best ideas haven't been successful in helping you solve your problems, I may be able to help. With my clinical training and experience, I can offer unique suggestions and solutions tailored to your situation. I have been helping couples and families resolve their differences for years. If you feel stuck and you don't know where else to turn, I can help you make positive changes in your life.
Two practice locations: Satellite Beach & Merritt Island. Together, we can discover the tools you need to have a happier life and more fulfilling relationships. If your best ideas haven't been successful in helping you solve your problems, I may be able to help. With my clinical training and experience, I can offer unique suggestions and solutions tailored to your situation. I have been helping couples and families resolve their differences for years. If you feel stuck and you don't know where else to turn, I can help you make positive changes in your life.
(321) 392-2992 View (321) 392-2992

See more therapy options for Port Saint Lucie

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.