Couples Counseling Therapists in Sandy Springs, GA

Photo of Sophia Franklin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Sophia Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
As a clinical social worker, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and anger management.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia with over 12 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Originally from Mississippi, my counseling approach focuses heavily on building a strong rapport, so that trust is established before goals are discussed. Growing up in the South, treating someone with respect is required. In addition, my years working with individuals experiencing homelessness and those who were uninsured enhanced my awareness of seeing each person for who they are vs what they are currently experiencing.
As a clinical social worker, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and anger management.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia with over 12 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Originally from Mississippi, my counseling approach focuses heavily on building a strong rapport, so that trust is established before goals are discussed. Growing up in the South, treating someone with respect is required. In addition, my years working with individuals experiencing homelessness and those who were uninsured enhanced my awareness of seeing each person for who they are vs what they are currently experiencing.
(404) 476-5062 View (404) 476-5062
Photo of Dr. K. Jabarr Goodrum, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Dr. K. Jabarr Goodrum
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed with relationship stress, anxiety, depression or addiction? Do you need help identifying effective solutions to your relationship and personal issues? I can provide a safe space for you to gain insight into your personal needs. I'm a Doctor of Marriage & Family Therapy and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who can help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they relate to your personal and relationship experiences. I treat couples and individuals ages 18-99 with a range of issues including relationship conflict, infidelity, work stress, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, trauma, and addiction.
Are you overwhelmed with relationship stress, anxiety, depression or addiction? Do you need help identifying effective solutions to your relationship and personal issues? I can provide a safe space for you to gain insight into your personal needs. I'm a Doctor of Marriage & Family Therapy and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who can help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they relate to your personal and relationship experiences. I treat couples and individuals ages 18-99 with a range of issues including relationship conflict, infidelity, work stress, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, trauma, and addiction.
(770) 282-8352 View (770) 282-8352
Photo of Paul F. Austin MS LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Paul F. Austin MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I help troubled couples get their relationship back on track using proven tools and science-backed methods. I have over 20 years of experience helping others to remove obstacles that keep them from being their best self. There is a reason why most of my new clients are referred from those who have worked with me in the past. One reviewer said, "Paul is a great counselor. I have tried several others through the years and he is by far the best. I have come to understand myself in so many ways. I would highly recommend him to anyone in search of answers."
I help troubled couples get their relationship back on track using proven tools and science-backed methods. I have over 20 years of experience helping others to remove obstacles that keep them from being their best self. There is a reason why most of my new clients are referred from those who have worked with me in the past. One reviewer said, "Paul is a great counselor. I have tried several others through the years and he is by far the best. I have come to understand myself in so many ways. I would highly recommend him to anyone in search of answers."
(404) 205-8848 View (404) 205-8848
Photo of David Hatch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
David Hatch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I help clients with a variety of issues, specializing in relationship problems; individual concerns of stress, depression, and career; and adolescent issues. I also work with families, looking at the entire family system, and what is going on within it. I create a safe, trusting relationship with the client, working at a pace which is comfortable to the specific needs and desires, while at the same time, moving the client toward their desired goals. I firmly believe in the process of therapy, and thoroughly enjoy my profession.
I help clients with a variety of issues, specializing in relationship problems; individual concerns of stress, depression, and career; and adolescent issues. I also work with families, looking at the entire family system, and what is going on within it. I create a safe, trusting relationship with the client, working at a pace which is comfortable to the specific needs and desires, while at the same time, moving the client toward their desired goals. I firmly believe in the process of therapy, and thoroughly enjoy my profession.
(404) 566-6093 View (404) 566-6093
Photo of Stephen Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Stephen Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
As an integrative psychotherapist, I blend a variety of clinical techniques and strategies to address the unwanted impacts of chronic anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and difficulty trusting yourself.
Are you feeling "stuck"? Anxiety and depression can be challenging but it doesn’t have to stop you from living the life you want. We all experience difficult feelings such as sadness, disappointment, guilt, anxiety, and fear. If these feelings get in the way of you living the life you want then it is probably time to seek help. You deserve to live a life that is fulfilling despite the obstacles you face. I am here to help. Book an initial consultation or your first intake appointment directly on my website: heartwoodcounselingservices.clientsecure.me
As an integrative psychotherapist, I blend a variety of clinical techniques and strategies to address the unwanted impacts of chronic anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and difficulty trusting yourself.
Are you feeling "stuck"? Anxiety and depression can be challenging but it doesn’t have to stop you from living the life you want. We all experience difficult feelings such as sadness, disappointment, guilt, anxiety, and fear. If these feelings get in the way of you living the life you want then it is probably time to seek help. You deserve to live a life that is fulfilling despite the obstacles you face. I am here to help. Book an initial consultation or your first intake appointment directly on my website: heartwoodcounselingservices.clientsecure.me
(404) 738-7137 View (404) 738-7137
Photo of Amy Shapiro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Amy Shapiro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am a warm and compassionate mental health professional with over 25 years of experience. I work to create a safe relationship as you seek healing and insight. If you are struggling with mental health or interpersonal problems but find it difficult to speak with a therapist, I am here for you.
I am a warm and compassionate mental health professional with over 25 years of experience. I work to create a safe relationship as you seek healing and insight. If you are struggling with mental health or interpersonal problems but find it difficult to speak with a therapist, I am here for you.
(404) 882-7871 View (404) 882-7871
Photo of Serena Johnson, Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Serena Johnson
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
I'd love to work together with you on topics of general anxiety, self-confidence, identity issues, relationship issues, faith/religious questioning, perfectionism, and depression (and more!).
Occasionally we all struggle to stay "on top" of things, or have a hard time keeping up with everything we need to do in a day. For some of us, it's a little more than that. It's constant scrolling through social media to give your brain a break, and that break turns into an hour. Or procrastinating simple tasks like going grocery shopping, or sending an email. Maybe you're having a hard time just waking up and getting out of bed in the morning. It's distressing to feel like you're struggling and not know how to fix it. If this sounds like you, just know: things can get better! Anxiety and depression don't have to rule your life.
I'd love to work together with you on topics of general anxiety, self-confidence, identity issues, relationship issues, faith/religious questioning, perfectionism, and depression (and more!).
Occasionally we all struggle to stay "on top" of things, or have a hard time keeping up with everything we need to do in a day. For some of us, it's a little more than that. It's constant scrolling through social media to give your brain a break, and that break turns into an hour. Or procrastinating simple tasks like going grocery shopping, or sending an email. Maybe you're having a hard time just waking up and getting out of bed in the morning. It's distressing to feel like you're struggling and not know how to fix it. If this sounds like you, just know: things can get better! Anxiety and depression don't have to rule your life.
(470) 688-2253 View (470) 688-2253
Photo of Peggy K Morehouse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Peggy K Morehouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am an experienced therapist who has worked with hundreds of individuals and couples, I offer an empathetic, collaborative environment for your journey towards self-improvement and a more fulfilling life. With focus on couples, individuals and family therapy, I can assist you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, transition, divorce, blended family dynamics, women's issues and more. I tailor a results-oriented approach to each individual's specific needs to help them attain goals and personal growth.
I am an experienced therapist who has worked with hundreds of individuals and couples, I offer an empathetic, collaborative environment for your journey towards self-improvement and a more fulfilling life. With focus on couples, individuals and family therapy, I can assist you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, transition, divorce, blended family dynamics, women's issues and more. I tailor a results-oriented approach to each individual's specific needs to help them attain goals and personal growth.
(770) 574-6294 View (770) 574-6294
Photo of Jermaine Nicholas Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Jermaine Nicholas Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I also work with couples using a Gottman approach to healing and relationship wellbeing.
I am a trilingual (English, Spanish & Portuguese) therapist who honors each client, respecting who they are, where they've been and where they're going. My goal in serving clients is to create a safe therapeutic environment where healing and mutual learning can take place. I find that in this environment teens feel free to open up about their challenges, couples commit to making meaningful adjustments in their relationships and individual men and women act on their willingness to discuss the difficult problems they face.
I also work with couples using a Gottman approach to healing and relationship wellbeing.
I am a trilingual (English, Spanish & Portuguese) therapist who honors each client, respecting who they are, where they've been and where they're going. My goal in serving clients is to create a safe therapeutic environment where healing and mutual learning can take place. I find that in this environment teens feel free to open up about their challenges, couples commit to making meaningful adjustments in their relationships and individual men and women act on their willingness to discuss the difficult problems they face.
(770) 545-6918 View (770) 545-6918
Photo of Paul Stephen Burkhalter, Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Paul Stephen Burkhalter
Counselor, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
Are you frustrated with or worn down by the relationships in your life? Is the person who used to bring out your best bringing out your worst? My passion is working with couples and families. We all bring a suitcase full of past wounds, maladaptive patterns, and distorted thinking into each relationship. Sometimes these go undiscovered for years. I want to help you explore ways to heal and be more effective in relating to those that you love! I also enjoy working with individuals from a similar perspective. It's astonishing how often relational issues tie in to individual issues such as depression and anxiety.
Are you frustrated with or worn down by the relationships in your life? Is the person who used to bring out your best bringing out your worst? My passion is working with couples and families. We all bring a suitcase full of past wounds, maladaptive patterns, and distorted thinking into each relationship. Sometimes these go undiscovered for years. I want to help you explore ways to heal and be more effective in relating to those that you love! I also enjoy working with individuals from a similar perspective. It's astonishing how often relational issues tie in to individual issues such as depression and anxiety.
(833) 247-1841 View (833) 247-1841
Photo of Ginair Goodwin McKerrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Ginair Goodwin McKerrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I've worked with countless individuals, couples and families with problems like those you may be facing.
I appreciate the opportunity to share about my private practice and expertise with you. I am an experienced licensed psychotherapist in private practice and I specialize in the fields of Eating Disorders, Body Image, Depression and Women's issues. I work with individuals over the age of 14, couples and families of any ethnicity or sexual orientation. I also have expertise and experience in working with a broad range of women's issues.
I've worked with countless individuals, couples and families with problems like those you may be facing.
I appreciate the opportunity to share about my private practice and expertise with you. I am an experienced licensed psychotherapist in private practice and I specialize in the fields of Eating Disorders, Body Image, Depression and Women's issues. I work with individuals over the age of 14, couples and families of any ethnicity or sexual orientation. I also have expertise and experience in working with a broad range of women's issues.
(404) 566-8588 View (404) 566-8588
Photo of Peg Griffith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Peg Griffith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCP, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Are you repeating the same behaviors over and over and getting the same unhappy results? Are you having relationship problems or trust issues? Do you have unresolved family history or trauma? Are you depressed or anxious? Therapy produces change, healing and growth. Healing occurs from the inside out. Together, we will find the answers you seek to find new ways of approaching your life and relationships. All people desire and can achieve a healthy life. The key is to find what is stopping you from achieving it, and removing those blockages.
Are you repeating the same behaviors over and over and getting the same unhappy results? Are you having relationship problems or trust issues? Do you have unresolved family history or trauma? Are you depressed or anxious? Therapy produces change, healing and growth. Healing occurs from the inside out. Together, we will find the answers you seek to find new ways of approaching your life and relationships. All people desire and can achieve a healthy life. The key is to find what is stopping you from achieving it, and removing those blockages.
(678) 389-7193 View (678) 389-7193
Photo of Taneka S. White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Taneka S. White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
Though I specialize in working with couples, I am of the firm belief that one of the most important relationships any of us will ever have are the ones we have with ourselves.
At Courage To Heal, LLC, the focus of therapy is on emotional connectedness, which I believe is a primary agent of change and a useful ability to have in a world that is increasingly emotionally disconnected. It is normal for people to become stuck in negative interaction cycles over time. These cycles are typically fueled by ineffective communication that leaves us with unmet needs and creates more distance than closeness and understanding. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, individualized, and will provide you with communication skills that help you build trust and feel closer and more connected to those you love.
Though I specialize in working with couples, I am of the firm belief that one of the most important relationships any of us will ever have are the ones we have with ourselves.
At Courage To Heal, LLC, the focus of therapy is on emotional connectedness, which I believe is a primary agent of change and a useful ability to have in a world that is increasingly emotionally disconnected. It is normal for people to become stuck in negative interaction cycles over time. These cycles are typically fueled by ineffective communication that leaves us with unmet needs and creates more distance than closeness and understanding. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, individualized, and will provide you with communication skills that help you build trust and feel closer and more connected to those you love.
(678) 730-6273 View (678) 730-6273
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 771-6943 View (678) 771-6943
Photo of Michelle D Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Michelle D Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Why is my marriage so difficult? Should we get couples counseling? Why are my other relationships leaving me feeling hopeless? Why me? You need understanding and answers and a way of being that brings you peace and happiness. I have worked with and helped many individuals and couples asking these very questions. Whether you are suffering from relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress I understand and can help. You have the ability to make positive changes in your life you just need the tools to do so. Together we can understand these unwanted detours and learn how to manage next time more successfully.
Why is my marriage so difficult? Should we get couples counseling? Why are my other relationships leaving me feeling hopeless? Why me? You need understanding and answers and a way of being that brings you peace and happiness. I have worked with and helped many individuals and couples asking these very questions. Whether you are suffering from relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress I understand and can help. You have the ability to make positive changes in your life you just need the tools to do so. Together we can understand these unwanted detours and learn how to manage next time more successfully.
(404) 383-0275 View (404) 383-0275
Photo of Adrienne Marshall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Adrienne Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
(678) 990-6692 View (678) 990-6692
Photo of Jonathan Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Jonathan Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I seek to create a client centered relationship in hopes of assisting clients in making positive changes in their lives, fostering self growth, and learning healthy ways to cope with the challenges presented in life. I offer a safe space for adolescents, teens, adults, and couples to work through daily stresses, life transitions, and trauma. This may involve individual work or working within different family dynamics as each client is unique in not only the issues they are facing, but the attributes they possess.
I seek to create a client centered relationship in hopes of assisting clients in making positive changes in their lives, fostering self growth, and learning healthy ways to cope with the challenges presented in life. I offer a safe space for adolescents, teens, adults, and couples to work through daily stresses, life transitions, and trauma. This may involve individual work or working within different family dynamics as each client is unique in not only the issues they are facing, but the attributes they possess.
(404) 846-5165 View (404) 846-5165
Photo of Bud & Blossom Therapeutics, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Bud & Blossom Therapeutics, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAMS II, CFMHE, CCTP, cMHIMP
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
Jayne' Green, a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor serving Georgia and Florida, specializes in enriching couples' connections, guiding individuals through trauma healing, and diagnosing and treating personality disorders. My practice welcomes those desiring to enhance their relationships, find peace amidst personal struggles, and navigate the complexities of mental health with a focus on attachment styles and personal growth.
Jayne' Green, a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor serving Georgia and Florida, specializes in enriching couples' connections, guiding individuals through trauma healing, and diagnosing and treating personality disorders. My practice welcomes those desiring to enhance their relationships, find peace amidst personal struggles, and navigate the complexities of mental health with a focus on attachment styles and personal growth.
(470) 988-8861 View (470) 988-8861
Photo of Justin Harley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Justin Harley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Hello, I'm Dr. Justin Harley, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 19 years of experience. I hold a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults of all ages, couples, and families.
Hello, I'm Dr. Justin Harley, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 19 years of experience. I hold a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults of all ages, couples, and families.
(678) 379-1545 View (678) 379-1545
Photo of Tiffany Dennis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Tiffany Dennis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Waitlist for new clients
I treat many concerns however I do specialize in certain issues. I specialize in treating anxiety, adult ADHD, relationship concerns, self esteem issues & trouble setting boundaries. Do you want to better understand yourself & make your life more manageable? Are you ready to commit to personal growth? During the intake we’ll have a conversation about what brings you into counseling, your goals for therapy and your background. My overall goal for every client is for them to learn more about themselves and what works best for them. Overtime, we will work together to reach your goals and get you closer to building the life you desire.
I treat many concerns however I do specialize in certain issues. I specialize in treating anxiety, adult ADHD, relationship concerns, self esteem issues & trouble setting boundaries. Do you want to better understand yourself & make your life more manageable? Are you ready to commit to personal growth? During the intake we’ll have a conversation about what brings you into counseling, your goals for therapy and your background. My overall goal for every client is for them to learn more about themselves and what works best for them. Overtime, we will work together to reach your goals and get you closer to building the life you desire.
(678) 940-6539 View (678) 940-6539

See more therapy options for Sandy Springs

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.