Couples Counseling Therapists in Columbus, GA

Photo of Belinda Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbus, GA
Belinda Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907  (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 Katie Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Columbus, GA
Katie Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907  (Online Only)
I also specialize in couples therapy and have completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I and II training.
We all deserve to be seen, to be heard, and to be supported without the fear of judgement. I believe that our life is like a story- comprised of triumphs/hardships, gains/losses, love/pain and more. Often we start to tell ourselves stories about our experiences that can hold us back from reaching our goals and living our authentic lives. As a therapist, I aim to help clients deconstruct the story line that is not supportive to them, and instead start constructing ones for their preferred reality and identity. My foundational belief is that we are separate entities from our problems, and we have strength and resiliency inside us.
I also specialize in couples therapy and have completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I and II training.
We all deserve to be seen, to be heard, and to be supported without the fear of judgement. I believe that our life is like a story- comprised of triumphs/hardships, gains/losses, love/pain and more. Often we start to tell ourselves stories about our experiences that can hold us back from reaching our goals and living our authentic lives. As a therapist, I aim to help clients deconstruct the story line that is not supportive to them, and instead start constructing ones for their preferred reality and identity. My foundational belief is that we are separate entities from our problems, and we have strength and resiliency inside us.
(706) 719-7454 View (706) 719-7454
Photo of Erin Harkey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Columbus, GA
Erin Harkey
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31901
I have completed Level 1 Gottman Training, and use research-based methods proven to help couples communicate more effectively.
Whether I am working with an individual or a couple, I believe in recognizing each client’s unique strengths as they relate to the particular challenges they wish to address. I specialize in helping couples who are unsatisfied with their current level of connection. I believe that a couple's relationship happens outside of the therapy office, so work to give couples the tools needed to improve their relationship in the context of their daily lives. I also provide discernment counseling for couples considering separation or divorce.
I have completed Level 1 Gottman Training, and use research-based methods proven to help couples communicate more effectively.
Whether I am working with an individual or a couple, I believe in recognizing each client’s unique strengths as they relate to the particular challenges they wish to address. I specialize in helping couples who are unsatisfied with their current level of connection. I believe that a couple's relationship happens outside of the therapy office, so work to give couples the tools needed to improve their relationship in the context of their daily lives. I also provide discernment counseling for couples considering separation or divorce.
(706) 397-3813 View (706) 397-3813
Photo of Timothy Birt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
Timothy Birt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901
I provide individual counseling, couples and family therapy, and group counseling.
Therapy works! Begin the healing process to transform yourself and your relationships. Help your children thrive. Find new purpose together. Working together we can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples seeking counseling, parents wanting help with their children and adolescents, and individuals seeking healing from grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, or abuse. In therapy, we work together with your family members to heal, grow, and progress. Therapy works as you open yourself to changes in thought, feeling, and behavior.
I provide individual counseling, couples and family therapy, and group counseling.
Therapy works! Begin the healing process to transform yourself and your relationships. Help your children thrive. Find new purpose together. Working together we can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples seeking counseling, parents wanting help with their children and adolescents, and individuals seeking healing from grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, or abuse. In therapy, we work together with your family members to heal, grow, and progress. Therapy works as you open yourself to changes in thought, feeling, and behavior.
(706) 417-9357 View (706) 417-9357
Photo of The LifeSource LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
The LifeSource LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31906
I also offer a support group for couples or individuals dealing with infertility and loss.
I have a passion for helping those who are struggling with navigating through some of life's tough challenges. My goal is to join in on the journey and help you face those tough challenges by developing lifelong coping skills in an environment that is accepting to your individualized needs.
I also offer a support group for couples or individuals dealing with infertility and loss.
I have a passion for helping those who are struggling with navigating through some of life's tough challenges. My goal is to join in on the journey and help you face those tough challenges by developing lifelong coping skills in an environment that is accepting to your individualized needs.
(762) 583-8586 View (762) 583-8586
Photo of John T Doheny III, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
John T Doheny III
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901
Waitlist for new clients
Worked in mental health and addictions for over 40 years, extensive experience with individuals and couples.
The world is a bit chaotic in 2023! The stress of school, family, relationships, career, finances, and life in general can become overwhelming. Political chaos, religious debate, and what has evolved into an extremely judgmental, shame and blame oriented approach to differences, leaves many people feeling bewildered and unsure of themselves. Sadly, guilt and self-doubt have become much too commonplace. For many, the stress can cause or worsen already existing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues. Alcohol and/or other drug use may begin or become worse, leading to significant self-destructive behavior.
Worked in mental health and addictions for over 40 years, extensive experience with individuals and couples.
The world is a bit chaotic in 2023! The stress of school, family, relationships, career, finances, and life in general can become overwhelming. Political chaos, religious debate, and what has evolved into an extremely judgmental, shame and blame oriented approach to differences, leaves many people feeling bewildered and unsure of themselves. Sadly, guilt and self-doubt have become much too commonplace. For many, the stress can cause or worsen already existing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues. Alcohol and/or other drug use may begin or become worse, leading to significant self-destructive behavior.
(706) 222-3841 View (706) 222-3841
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Sapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
Dr. Cheryl Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, NCC, CPCS, DBS
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31906
As a professional counselor with over 30 years in the field I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse and all related symptoms, dual-diagnosis, trauma, grief, couples/family counseling and more.
I have over 30 years in the field of counseling specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders. I also have vast experience with the Military ASAP program as well with other private treatment facilities. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Psychology and Counseling from Troy University. I hold the credentials of Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified Addiction Counselor II.
As a professional counselor with over 30 years in the field I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse and all related symptoms, dual-diagnosis, trauma, grief, couples/family counseling and more.
I have over 30 years in the field of counseling specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders. I also have vast experience with the Military ASAP program as well with other private treatment facilities. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Psychology and Counseling from Troy University. I hold the credentials of Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified Addiction Counselor II.
(706) 685-6190 View (706) 685-6190
Photo of Darren D Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Columbus, GA
Darren D Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT , Aprvd, Supv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31907
Moore has worked with a variety of issues, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Addiction, workplace conflict, family dysfunction, childhood trauma, parent/child relationships, teen delinquency, sibling issues, caregiver stress, children with disabilities, couples conflict, religious concerns, among other areas.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
Moore has worked with a variety of issues, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Addiction, workplace conflict, family dysfunction, childhood trauma, parent/child relationships, teen delinquency, sibling issues, caregiver stress, children with disabilities, couples conflict, religious concerns, among other areas.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
(762) 583-8917 View (762) 583-8917
Photo of Treena Rawlins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbus, GA
Treena Rawlins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Treena, Do you feel stuck in the battle of the Mind? Do you feel as if you are barely making it through each day? I want to partner with you to assist with winning the battle of the mind; so you can feel true peace, joy and happiness. I provide a Holistic approach with a Christian perspective, addressing the needs of the mind, body and spirituality.
Hi, I'm Treena, Do you feel stuck in the battle of the Mind? Do you feel as if you are barely making it through each day? I want to partner with you to assist with winning the battle of the mind; so you can feel true peace, joy and happiness. I provide a Holistic approach with a Christian perspective, addressing the needs of the mind, body and spirituality.
(706) 919-9177 View (706) 919-9177
Photo of Brighter Day Behavioral Health Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
Brighter Day Behavioral Health Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901
My counseling experiences includes working with children from ages 6 to adolescents, adults, couples, families, and veterans.
As a mental health therapist, I believe in empowering clients to become aware of their own healthy/unhealthy thinking and behavior so, in return, they can implement positive lifestyle changes. Collaboration between the client and myself is used to guide the client in redefining their own way of life. Clients should know that this sometimes can be a short or lengthy process but I am willing to walk all the way with them as they develop their new healthy self. Clients should know that they are never alone in this new journey...
My counseling experiences includes working with children from ages 6 to adolescents, adults, couples, families, and veterans.
As a mental health therapist, I believe in empowering clients to become aware of their own healthy/unhealthy thinking and behavior so, in return, they can implement positive lifestyle changes. Collaboration between the client and myself is used to guide the client in redefining their own way of life. Clients should know that this sometimes can be a short or lengthy process but I am willing to walk all the way with them as they develop their new healthy self. Clients should know that they are never alone in this new journey...
(706) 365-0772 View (706) 365-0772
Photo of I am MOORE, LLC #2, Marriage & Family Therapist in Columbus, GA
I am MOORE, LLC #2
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907
I AM MOORE, LLC is a counseling and consulting practice owned by Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED, LMFT. At I AM MOORE, LLC, we have therapists that can work with you regarding a variety of treatment issues and populations, including but not limited to Military Families, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Workplace conflict, Family dysfunction, Family Secrets, Childhood trauma, Parent/child relationships, Teen delinquency, Sibling Issues, Caregiver stress, Children with disabilities, Single life, Dating, Pre-marital, Couples conflict, Divorce, Career Transition, Gen X, Y(Millennials), Z, & beyond, and much more.
I AM MOORE, LLC is a counseling and consulting practice owned by Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED, LMFT. At I AM MOORE, LLC, we have therapists that can work with you regarding a variety of treatment issues and populations, including but not limited to Military Families, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Workplace conflict, Family dysfunction, Family Secrets, Childhood trauma, Parent/child relationships, Teen delinquency, Sibling Issues, Caregiver stress, Children with disabilities, Single life, Dating, Pre-marital, Couples conflict, Divorce, Career Transition, Gen X, Y(Millennials), Z, & beyond, and much more.
(706) 702-1906 View (706) 702-1906
Photo of Kimberly Merritt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
Kimberly Merritt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have a plethora of experience in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, High School Counseling; Self Esteem; Body Imaging; Self-Awareness, Couples Therapy, Anger Mgmt, Grief/Loss, Relational Issues; etc.
My name is Kimberly Merritt Barrett and I grew in a small rural area in SW Georgia.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have a plethora of experience in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, High School Counseling; Self Esteem; Body Imaging; Self-Awareness, Couples Therapy, Anger Mgmt, Grief/Loss, Relational Issues; etc.
My name is Kimberly Merritt Barrett and I grew in a small rural area in SW Georgia.
(706) 705-7394 View (706) 705-7394
Photo of Alexandria LaMont, Counselor in Columbus, GA
Alexandria LaMont
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31901
I have experience working with clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar- disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual abuse. I enjoy working with individuals, families, couples and groups of all ages, identities and cultural backgrounds. My primary goals with clients are to build resiliency, promote independency and self advocacy, build confidence in decision-making, address traumas, establish healthy boundaries, and promote self-compassion/care.
I have experience working with clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar- disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual abuse. I enjoy working with individuals, families, couples and groups of all ages, identities and cultural backgrounds. My primary goals with clients are to build resiliency, promote independency and self advocacy, build confidence in decision-making, address traumas, establish healthy boundaries, and promote self-compassion/care.
(706) 480-8744 View (706) 480-8744
Photo of Andy Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbus, GA
Andy Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
My specialties include, but are not limited to, stress, anxiety, depression, marital and other relationship issues, veteran issues, teenage emotions, and behaviors, as well as parenting styles and issues.
Hello. My name is Howard Patterson, but I go by Andy. I have been a mental health professional for over 45 years, with the majority of my experience in the field of child welfare.
My specialties include, but are not limited to, stress, anxiety, depression, marital and other relationship issues, veteran issues, teenage emotions, and behaviors, as well as parenting styles and issues.
Hello. My name is Howard Patterson, but I go by Andy. I have been a mental health professional for over 45 years, with the majority of my experience in the field of child welfare.
(706) 740-6631 View (706) 740-6631
Photo of L.I.T. Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
L.I.T. Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31901
I work with Couples (premarital and married) using the Prepare-Enrich Curriculum.
Are you feeling stressed out, anxious or have an irritable mood that leads to anger? Does it seem like you are stuck, lost or unmotivated? Are you struggling with healing from a traumatic event, even from childhood? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I’m so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.
I work with Couples (premarital and married) using the Prepare-Enrich Curriculum.
Are you feeling stressed out, anxious or have an irritable mood that leads to anger? Does it seem like you are stuck, lost or unmotivated? Are you struggling with healing from a traumatic event, even from childhood? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I’m so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.
(706) 230-9580 View (706) 230-9580
Photo of Dr. Charlotte Michelle Sanchez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
Dr. Charlotte Michelle Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdDPsy, LPC, CAMS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901
Personal experience in raising children and being the maternal multi-tasker, experiencing divorce, grief due to loss of loved ones, travelling the world as a military child and spouse, and supervising other counselors in the school and mental health settings.
Taking the step to find solutions through therapy is the first step towards taking control of your life! Society is now focusing on the importance of mental health in our society. Physical health and mental health are immeasurably tied together. I strongly believe in a great physical workout with a combined mental health workout! My therapy has been available to a diverse populaton which has helped me achieve growth as a therapist. My office is passionate about facillitating positive growth in others. It is Judgement Free Zone!! Have had certification in anger management, and certified in clinical anxiety.
Personal experience in raising children and being the maternal multi-tasker, experiencing divorce, grief due to loss of loved ones, travelling the world as a military child and spouse, and supervising other counselors in the school and mental health settings.
Taking the step to find solutions through therapy is the first step towards taking control of your life! Society is now focusing on the importance of mental health in our society. Physical health and mental health are immeasurably tied together. I strongly believe in a great physical workout with a combined mental health workout! My therapy has been available to a diverse populaton which has helped me achieve growth as a therapist. My office is passionate about facillitating positive growth in others. It is Judgement Free Zone!! Have had certification in anger management, and certified in clinical anxiety.
(762) 225-9019 View (762) 225-9019
Photo of Jessica Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
Jessica Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
I have worked with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, family conflicts, relationship difficulties, traumas, abuse, bipolar disorder (manic episodes), suicidal ideations etc.
Hi. I am a middle-aged married mother of one grown and one smaller child. Our next anniversary will be 10 years for us. We were both married before finding each other, so there is a history of blending families with children. I am a Christian and Jesus is the foundation of my life. Life can be quite challenging. Many times we are facing situations that we are not prepared for or have prior hurts that affect our ability to overcome. When we get into these places it is easy to feel stuck or even blind to what is really going on. It is easy to shut down and isolate out of fear of what others may think.
I have worked with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, family conflicts, relationship difficulties, traumas, abuse, bipolar disorder (manic episodes), suicidal ideations etc.
Hi. I am a middle-aged married mother of one grown and one smaller child. Our next anniversary will be 10 years for us. We were both married before finding each other, so there is a history of blending families with children. I am a Christian and Jesus is the foundation of my life. Life can be quite challenging. Many times we are facing situations that we are not prepared for or have prior hurts that affect our ability to overcome. When we get into these places it is easy to feel stuck or even blind to what is really going on. It is easy to shut down and isolate out of fear of what others may think.
(762) 400-0421 View (762) 400-0421
Photo of Maddi Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional in Columbus, GA
Maddi Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, EdS, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, an internationally recognized and evidence-based approach, and regularly use EMDR in combination with a mindfulness-based lens to treat a variety of problems from complex trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Do you struggle with anxiety, self doubt, or people pleasing? Caught in a constant chaotic pattern of “fight or flight” survival mode? Dealing with unresolved past traumas that continue to hurt you today? I can help you shift from surviving in this world to successfully thriving in your life and relationships.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, an internationally recognized and evidence-based approach, and regularly use EMDR in combination with a mindfulness-based lens to treat a variety of problems from complex trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Do you struggle with anxiety, self doubt, or people pleasing? Caught in a constant chaotic pattern of “fight or flight” survival mode? Dealing with unresolved past traumas that continue to hurt you today? I can help you shift from surviving in this world to successfully thriving in your life and relationships.
(706) 523-4713 x14 View (706) 523-4713 x14
Photo of Sophia Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Columbus, GA
Sophia Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Sophia and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Boston University with a specialization is Groupwork. With everything going on in the world today, life can be hard to manage. Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, relationship issues or feel like isolation yourself? Have you thought about reaching out for help before? Well, any time you decide to reach out is a good time.
Hello! I’m Sophia and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Boston University with a specialization is Groupwork. With everything going on in the world today, life can be hard to manage. Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, relationship issues or feel like isolation yourself? Have you thought about reaching out for help before? Well, any time you decide to reach out is a good time.
(470) 414-5808 View (470) 414-5808
Photo of April Noriega, Licensed Professional Counselor in Columbus, GA
April Noriega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901
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
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.