Photo of Dr. Tamara A. Noel, DSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tamara A. Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30904  (Online Only)
I have practiced in the behavioral health field since 1999, and I've been licensed to work independently since 2011. I easily engage Individuals, Couples, and Families of different cultural backgrounds and have worked in in-patient, out-patient, and community-based settings assisting Individuals, couples, and Families facing challenges that seek to devastate and/or tear them apart. I use a variety of treatment modalities including faith-based interventions to meet clients at their point of need. My approach to psychotherapy stemmed from the trauma-informed care (TIC) principles.
I have practiced in the behavioral health field since 1999, and I've been licensed to work independently since 2011. I easily engage Individuals, Couples, and Families of different cultural backgrounds and have worked in in-patient, out-patient, and community-based settings assisting Individuals, couples, and Families facing challenges that seek to devastate and/or tear them apart. I use a variety of treatment modalities including faith-based interventions to meet clients at their point of need. My approach to psychotherapy stemmed from the trauma-informed care (TIC) principles.
(706) 916-6570 View (706) 916-6570
Photo of April Noriega, LPC, CCTP, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Noriega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
April Noriega is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and holds certifications as a trauma and anxiety professional. April has a long history of working with a diverse population of clients and disorders. As a military spouse, a mother, and a survivor of past trauma, April brings a wide array of skill sets and real-world experiences. April offers an empathetic, non-judgmental space for anyone seeking help and/or growth in their current stage of life. Her hope is through therapy, you will see improvements and gain the tools you need to benefit your journey to a healthier you.
April Noriega is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and holds certifications as a trauma and anxiety professional. April has a long history of working with a diverse population of clients and disorders. As a military spouse, a mother, and a survivor of past trauma, April brings a wide array of skill sets and real-world experiences. April offers an empathetic, non-judgmental space for anyone seeking help and/or growth in their current stage of life. Her hope is through therapy, you will see improvements and gain the tools you need to benefit your journey to a healthier you.
(706) 943-0752 View (706) 943-0752
Photo of Britta Reed - Life Management Group, Coach, Psychologist
Life Management Group
Psychologist, Coach
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Life Management Group has been serving the CSRA for 18 years. Our counselors and coaches specialize in a variety of issues: anger management, anxiety, depression, addiction(s), self-esteem, wounded child and trauma--just to name a few. Or if you just need an experienced coach to help you process through life's changes, family matters, parenting issues, marriage problems or relationship difficulties, LMG has dedicated, healing counselors and coaches who have made it their life's work to help others find true peace and happiness.
Life Management Group has been serving the CSRA for 18 years. Our counselors and coaches specialize in a variety of issues: anger management, anxiety, depression, addiction(s), self-esteem, wounded child and trauma--just to name a few. Or if you just need an experienced coach to help you process through life's changes, family matters, parenting issues, marriage problems or relationship difficulties, LMG has dedicated, healing counselors and coaches who have made it their life's work to help others find true peace and happiness.
(762) 583-9017 View (762) 583-9017
Photo of Dr. Terri Vernese Jenkins, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terri Vernese Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Life's adversities are difficult whether they are disguised as grief, depression, anger, domestic violence, behavioral problems, etc. They are the barriers that constitute a stagnate lifestyle. Are you some one that needs help with conquering your adversities. I CAN HELP! I am a licensed professional counselor that provide therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I have a Masters degree in Counseling & Psychology from Troy University. I completed my doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Argosy University. In addition, I am a National Certified Counselor and Approved Clinical Supervisor.
Life's adversities are difficult whether they are disguised as grief, depression, anger, domestic violence, behavioral problems, etc. They are the barriers that constitute a stagnate lifestyle. Are you some one that needs help with conquering your adversities. I CAN HELP! I am a licensed professional counselor that provide therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I have a Masters degree in Counseling & Psychology from Troy University. I completed my doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Argosy University. In addition, I am a National Certified Counselor and Approved Clinical Supervisor.
(706) 786-3379 View (706) 786-3379
Photo of Karen Shaw Burch, MEd, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Shaw Burch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I have been practicing as a marriage and family therapist for over 35 years. I work with couples to restore their relationships, families with adolescent issues, divorce, blended families and infertility issues; Also individuals who want to heal family of origin and abuse issues, depression, and confusion regarding life's direction and circumstances. I respect each individual's journey, am honored to be trusted with the pain and complexity of life and hope to support them along the way. I attempt to be a guiding counselor while sometimes playing the role of "rent-a-grandmother" to provide guidance and support.
I have been practicing as a marriage and family therapist for over 35 years. I work with couples to restore their relationships, families with adolescent issues, divorce, blended families and infertility issues; Also individuals who want to heal family of origin and abuse issues, depression, and confusion regarding life's direction and circumstances. I respect each individual's journey, am honored to be trusted with the pain and complexity of life and hope to support them along the way. I attempt to be a guiding counselor while sometimes playing the role of "rent-a-grandmother" to provide guidance and support.
(762) 220-2618 View (762) 220-2618
Photo of Kecia West, MA, LPC, MAC, E-CADC, MATS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kecia West
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC, E-CADC, MATS
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
My training as a clinician has taught me to be highly attuned to individuals' needs, with a strong desire to help individuals overcome life's difficulties. Being knowledgeable about a number of treatment modalities is essential. I specialize in treating symptoms without focusing on labels. I am trained and highly skilled. I am certified in trauma, marriage and family, couples, substance used disorders. I know asking for help can be challenging. I aim to build and maintain positive and effective therapeutic relationships built around confidence and trust.
My training as a clinician has taught me to be highly attuned to individuals' needs, with a strong desire to help individuals overcome life's difficulties. Being knowledgeable about a number of treatment modalities is essential. I specialize in treating symptoms without focusing on labels. I am trained and highly skilled. I am certified in trauma, marriage and family, couples, substance used disorders. I know asking for help can be challenging. I aim to build and maintain positive and effective therapeutic relationships built around confidence and trust.
(706) 862-8723 View (706) 862-8723
Photo of Leslie M Cobb, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie M Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Brené Brown said it best in her statement, “I believe that you have to walk through vulnerability to get to courage, therefore ... embrace the suck." However, you don’t have to do it alone. And it doesn’t have to suck all the time. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist you will find new ways to solve problems, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. I am here to help you identify existing strengths, as well as introduce you to new strategies for managing your mental wellbeing. You’ll find it takes less time to get noticeable relief than what you think. And we’ll laugh a lot.
Brené Brown said it best in her statement, “I believe that you have to walk through vulnerability to get to courage, therefore ... embrace the suck." However, you don’t have to do it alone. And it doesn’t have to suck all the time. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist you will find new ways to solve problems, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. I am here to help you identify existing strengths, as well as introduce you to new strategies for managing your mental wellbeing. You’ll find it takes less time to get noticeable relief than what you think. And we’ll laugh a lot.
(706) 203-4252 View (706) 203-4252
Photo of Natalie Bryan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Bryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30904
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I currently offer therapy services to individuals, couples, families and groups. In my practice we accept BCBS, Tricare, Aetna, as well as self-pay clients. I use an integrative approach including mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive and behavioral principles as well as the humanistic and person centered approach to ensure that the right skills are used to meet your goals. I have experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, including adolescents, and I am trained in therapeutic modalities proven to work for trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I currently offer therapy services to individuals, couples, families and groups. In my practice we accept BCBS, Tricare, Aetna, as well as self-pay clients. I use an integrative approach including mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive and behavioral principles as well as the humanistic and person centered approach to ensure that the right skills are used to meet your goals. I have experience working with victims of abuse and trauma, including adolescents, and I am trained in therapeutic modalities proven to work for trauma.
(706) 847-4539 View (706) 847-4539
Photo of Dayna Jones, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dayna Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30907
" Entering into a therapeutic relationship is a major step into becoming the best "you.
I am committed to helping individuals reach their fullest potential holistically. In my practice, I offer a safe and respectful environment where individuals can explore their concerns and needs. My therapeutic approach centers around Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused Therapy. My experience includes working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavior modification, stress management and addiction.
" Entering into a therapeutic relationship is a major step into becoming the best "you.
I am committed to helping individuals reach their fullest potential holistically. In my practice, I offer a safe and respectful environment where individuals can explore their concerns and needs. My therapeutic approach centers around Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused Therapy. My experience includes working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavior modification, stress management and addiction.
(762) 533-3081 View (762) 533-3081
Photo of Belinda Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901  (Online Only)
My previous experiences have provided me an opportunity working with clients with a wide range of concerns and symptoms including anxiety, increased levels of stress and concern, relationship, parent-child conflict and depression. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations; all walks of life, ages and abilities. Utilizing therapy to better your life and continue to grow as a person is a major strength for anyone and I commend those who want to better their lives. Belinda's specialties include mood and anxiety disorders. To schedule, please visit: https://provider.growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=896&ref=prov
My previous experiences have provided me an opportunity working with clients with a wide range of concerns and symptoms including anxiety, increased levels of stress and concern, relationship, parent-child conflict and depression. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations; all walks of life, ages and abilities. Utilizing therapy to better your life and continue to grow as a person is a major strength for anyone and I commend those who want to better their lives. Belinda's specialties include mood and anxiety disorders. To schedule, please visit: https://provider.growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=896&ref=prov
(706) 954-6637 View (706) 954-6637
Photo of Krystal West, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystal West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals who may have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, crisis, anger management issues, grief/loss and relationship issues to name a few.
Has the journey of life been an uphill battle? Has the twist and turns caused you to lose focus on your path? If so, I would love to help. There is no roadmap to a happy and fulfilling life. However, many of us have the tools and the strength to make it through life's difficult circumstances. Together we will build self-efficacy. Therapy structured and focused on you. Out of the box thinking and perspectives is what makes my sessions so unique.
I specialize in helping individuals who may have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, crisis, anger management issues, grief/loss and relationship issues to name a few.
Has the journey of life been an uphill battle? Has the twist and turns caused you to lose focus on your path? If so, I would love to help. There is no roadmap to a happy and fulfilling life. However, many of us have the tools and the strength to make it through life's difficult circumstances. Together we will build self-efficacy. Therapy structured and focused on you. Out of the box thinking and perspectives is what makes my sessions so unique.
(770) 746-8523 View (770) 746-8523
Photo of LaTasha Abraham, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaTasha Abraham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
One of the biggest predictors for the success of therapy is your relationship with your counselor. I take your goals seriously and strive to guide each person in finding a solution that works for them. Each journey is a unique experience. I am a two-time graduate from The University of Georgia (no worries, I see fans of other SEC teams but may require you to say "GoDawgs" prior to session) with a Masters in Professional Counseling. I hold a certificate in Marriage & Family Therapy. I am a National Certified Counselor and a LPC in the state of Georgia. Looking for Life Coaching instead of therapy? Please visit www.liberatedvision.co
One of the biggest predictors for the success of therapy is your relationship with your counselor. I take your goals seriously and strive to guide each person in finding a solution that works for them. Each journey is a unique experience. I am a two-time graduate from The University of Georgia (no worries, I see fans of other SEC teams but may require you to say "GoDawgs" prior to session) with a Masters in Professional Counseling. I hold a certificate in Marriage & Family Therapy. I am a National Certified Counselor and a LPC in the state of Georgia. Looking for Life Coaching instead of therapy? Please visit www.liberatedvision.co
(706) 550-9642 View (706) 550-9642
Photo of Melodie Creager Good, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melodie Creager Good
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901
Waitlist for new clients
Happiness - make it a priority. Are you seeking more happiness and satisfaction in your life? Are you struggling in your relationships or just simply feeling stuck? Now is the time to get the help you deserve and make the changes that you desire. I have been a psychotherapist since 1995 and I am passionate about helping individuals move forward in their lives. I have a great deal of experience working with couples, adolescents, tweens, young adults, and women. Areas of expertise include mood disorders, adoption psychology, life transitions, military life, parenting coaching and life enrichment
Happiness - make it a priority. Are you seeking more happiness and satisfaction in your life? Are you struggling in your relationships or just simply feeling stuck? Now is the time to get the help you deserve and make the changes that you desire. I have been a psychotherapist since 1995 and I am passionate about helping individuals move forward in their lives. I have a great deal of experience working with couples, adolescents, tweens, young adults, and women. Areas of expertise include mood disorders, adoption psychology, life transitions, military life, parenting coaching and life enrichment
(706) 550-9554 View (706) 550-9554
Photo of Rochely Terrón - HOPE Virtual Counseling & Therapy - Healing Online, MS, LPC, LMHC, CFRC, Counselor
HOPE Virtual Counseling & Therapy - Healing Online
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30904  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan individually, as well as couples, families, and groups.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with 20+ years experience in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, family issues, grief, behavior problems and many other problems that people may be experiencing. I work with clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds and different sexual orientations. I have a unique, interdisciplinary background. The well-being of my clients is my biggest passion. I am committed to helping people avoid negative consequences in their lives and resolve their issues and internal conflict sensibly, effectively, and compassionately.
I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan individually, as well as couples, families, and groups.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with 20+ years experience in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, family issues, grief, behavior problems and many other problems that people may be experiencing. I work with clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds and different sexual orientations. I have a unique, interdisciplinary background. The well-being of my clients is my biggest passion. I am committed to helping people avoid negative consequences in their lives and resolve their issues and internal conflict sensibly, effectively, and compassionately.
(478) 217-7741 View (478) 217-7741
Photo of Markesha Miller - Holistic Psychological Associates, LLC, PhD, LPCS, NCC, CHPT, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holistic Psychological Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCS, NCC, CHPT, LAC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30904
We work intensely with various presenting problems through individual counseling/therapy and couples, marriage, and family counseling, as well as groups.
NOW OFFERING HYPNOTHERAPY! WE OFFER FAMILY MEDIATION! The mission of Holistic Psychological Associates is to help you live well, "Mind, Body, & Spirit". It is our professional philosophy of practice that in order to be well, all components of the individual must be considered. Therefore we will approach your treatment from a holistic perspective. We are committed to your well - being and your personal healing and growth. Allow your journey to begin today!
We work intensely with various presenting problems through individual counseling/therapy and couples, marriage, and family counseling, as well as groups.
NOW OFFERING HYPNOTHERAPY! WE OFFER FAMILY MEDIATION! The mission of Holistic Psychological Associates is to help you live well, "Mind, Body, & Spirit". It is our professional philosophy of practice that in order to be well, all components of the individual must be considered. Therefore we will approach your treatment from a holistic perspective. We are committed to your well - being and your personal healing and growth. Allow your journey to begin today!
(803) 636-8618 View (803) 636-8618
Photo of Tanya Ellis-Asbury, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya Ellis-Asbury
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
I partner with my clients in their journey of healing and wholeness.
The challenges of life comes in different forms. Sometimes the unexpected and uncontrollable are most unsettling. When things are uncertain, you may feel out of control, anxious or hopeless. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief or self-defeating behaviors, I AM HERE with you. Let us take this therapeutic journey together. You are not alone. I can help you gain control and increase harmonious balance in multiple areas of your life. To expand the capability to meet your needs, other counselors are available in my practice. Intern available at 70% less typical cost. LET US HELP!!
I partner with my clients in their journey of healing and wholeness.
The challenges of life comes in different forms. Sometimes the unexpected and uncontrollable are most unsettling. When things are uncertain, you may feel out of control, anxious or hopeless. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief or self-defeating behaviors, I AM HERE with you. Let us take this therapeutic journey together. You are not alone. I can help you gain control and increase harmonious balance in multiple areas of your life. To expand the capability to meet your needs, other counselors are available in my practice. Intern available at 70% less typical cost. LET US HELP!!
(706) 489-5083 View (706) 489-5083
Photo of Tujuana Shaw Jallah, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tujuana Shaw Jallah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
Hello and Welcome! New Beginnings Therapy and Consultation is a safe place where you can move out of your old and into a New Beginning. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience, I have worked in multiple settings from the Department of Corrections, and community-based settings to now private practice. I have worked with many different demographics over the years including children, adults, families, and couples. My goal is to assist YOU in achieving YOUR New Beginning.
Hello and Welcome! New Beginnings Therapy and Consultation is a safe place where you can move out of your old and into a New Beginning. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience, I have worked in multiple settings from the Department of Corrections, and community-based settings to now private practice. I have worked with many different demographics over the years including children, adults, families, and couples. My goal is to assist YOU in achieving YOUR New Beginning.
(912) 670-6072 View (912) 670-6072
Photo of Dr. Danielle R Veney, PhD, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Danielle R Veney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Danielle Veney is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia specializing in treating children, families, and couples. She provides individual, family, and couple sessions through various treatment techniques such as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Veney specializes in treating children, families, and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, anger management, marital and premarital, and family conflict.
Dr. Danielle Veney is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia specializing in treating children, families, and couples. She provides individual, family, and couple sessions through various treatment techniques such as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Veney specializes in treating children, families, and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, anger management, marital and premarital, and family conflict.
(706) 621-5470 View (706) 621-5470
Photo of Feven B. Seyoum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Feven B. Seyoum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-acceptance, I'm here to help.
Welcome, I am Feven! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety, depression and burnouts. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the different challenges they face and build coping skills to create more fulfilling and holistic life experiences.
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-acceptance, I'm here to help.
Welcome, I am Feven! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety, depression and burnouts. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the different challenges they face and build coping skills to create more fulfilling and holistic life experiences.
(678) 831-7137 View (678) 831-7137
Photo of Crystal N. Whetstone, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal N. Whetstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30906
I am highly skilled in working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, attachment issues, differences in parenting styles, relationship or marital issues, and more.
Everyone experiences the usual ups & downs that life throws at you. Sometimes, these moments in our lives become more than we can handle alone. Do you find yourself overwhelmed and not knowing when it's okay to ask for help? It’s not easy, but it can be the first step toward healthier functioning, improved relationships, & personal growth. Together, in a safe & supportive environment, we can uncover destructive patterns, identify strengths, & develop healthier ways of coping. Let me help guide you on your journey to find peace, strength, healing, & to become the best version of yourself.
I am highly skilled in working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, attachment issues, differences in parenting styles, relationship or marital issues, and more.
Everyone experiences the usual ups & downs that life throws at you. Sometimes, these moments in our lives become more than we can handle alone. Do you find yourself overwhelmed and not knowing when it's okay to ask for help? It’s not easy, but it can be the first step toward healthier functioning, improved relationships, & personal growth. Together, in a safe & supportive environment, we can uncover destructive patterns, identify strengths, & develop healthier ways of coping. Let me help guide you on your journey to find peace, strength, healing, & to become the best version of yourself.
(478) 249-5415 View (478) 249-5415
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.