Couples Counseling Therapists in Portage Park, Chicago, IL

Photo of Robert J VanTreeck, Counselor in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Robert J VanTreeck
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630
To engage in the work of psychotherapy is a profound act of courage. It requires risk, persistence, and often the willingness to look at very painful experiences. To seek positive change in one's life is a mark of health and strength. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with New Insights Behavioral Health Services, located near the Blue line. I have 21 years of specialized experience providing therapy in English and Spanish to children, adolescents and adults. I utilize evidence-based therapies in my practice, focusing on issues that include anxiety, depression, trauma, and marital/ relationship concerns.
To engage in the work of psychotherapy is a profound act of courage. It requires risk, persistence, and often the willingness to look at very painful experiences. To seek positive change in one's life is a mark of health and strength. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with New Insights Behavioral Health Services, located near the Blue line. I have 21 years of specialized experience providing therapy in English and Spanish to children, adolescents and adults. I utilize evidence-based therapies in my practice, focusing on issues that include anxiety, depression, trauma, and marital/ relationship concerns.
(847) 440-1410 View (847) 440-1410
Photo of Jeanette Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Jeanette Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630  (Online Only)
Hello,my name is Jeanette Rodriguez and I am an LCSW in Illinois. I have over 20 years of experience counseling individual, couples, and groups. I am bilingual and embrace Spanish as my native language.
Hello,my name is Jeanette Rodriguez and I am an LCSW in Illinois. I have over 20 years of experience counseling individual, couples, and groups. I am bilingual and embrace Spanish as my native language.
(224) 258-0602 View (224) 258-0602
Photo of Alejandro D. Solano Hermida., Counselor in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Alejandro D. Solano Hermida.
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630
Life events, many out of our control, such as trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, immigration, systemic oppression, and colonialism, might impact your wellbeing and mental health. I am a licensed clinical counselor with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I focus my work on young adults to elderly, including couples, men’s issues, domestic violence, and acculturation stress. I use evidenced-based therapies, adapting them to address the needs of my clients, to provide treatment for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual identity, anger, trauma, grief and psychoeducation in group and individual settings.
Life events, many out of our control, such as trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, immigration, systemic oppression, and colonialism, might impact your wellbeing and mental health. I am a licensed clinical counselor with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I focus my work on young adults to elderly, including couples, men’s issues, domestic violence, and acculturation stress. I use evidenced-based therapies, adapting them to address the needs of my clients, to provide treatment for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual identity, anger, trauma, grief and psychoeducation in group and individual settings.
(708) 740-2675 View (708) 740-2675
Photo of Raquel Wu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Raquel Wu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
(773) 692-0273 View (773) 692-0273
Photo of Amit Kakkar, Psychologist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Amit Kakkar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I have fifteen years of specialized experience in providing therapy in English and Spanish to children, adolescents, and adults. I bring with me a wealth of expertise in multiple outpatient/inpatient settings including: community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, college counseling centers, residential treatment centers for adolescents, and EAP companies. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety/panic, self-esteem, dating/relationship issues, trauma, and multicultural issues. Our practice has two locations. Our Jefferson Park and Logan Square offices are both conveniently located close to the CTA Blue Line. Se habla español.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I have fifteen years of specialized experience in providing therapy in English and Spanish to children, adolescents, and adults. I bring with me a wealth of expertise in multiple outpatient/inpatient settings including: community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, college counseling centers, residential treatment centers for adolescents, and EAP companies. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety/panic, self-esteem, dating/relationship issues, trauma, and multicultural issues. Our practice has two locations. Our Jefferson Park and Logan Square offices are both conveniently located close to the CTA Blue Line. Se habla español.
(847) 278-4535 View (847) 278-4535
Photo of Jimmy Escobar, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Jimmy Escobar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60630
Most clients come into therapy because of their current difficulty resolving a "presenting problem". That problem could be grief. It could be relationship troubles with partners, peers, or parents. It could be tied to substance abuse. Or trauma. Or both. It could be work-related. It could be a million things. Whatever the presenting problem, it tends to give the client physiological and psychological discomfort, which leads to the search for answers and relief, which often leads to counseling.
Most clients come into therapy because of their current difficulty resolving a "presenting problem". That problem could be grief. It could be relationship troubles with partners, peers, or parents. It could be tied to substance abuse. Or trauma. Or both. It could be work-related. It could be a million things. Whatever the presenting problem, it tends to give the client physiological and psychological discomfort, which leads to the search for answers and relief, which often leads to counseling.
(708) 286-5864 View (708) 286-5864
Photo of Amanda Hofbauer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Amanda Hofbauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Currently accepting new clients for in-person sessions in Fort Collins. My goal: to provide a safe relationship where you can face your difficulties in order to restore your connection to yourself and others. I am present with you in the messiness of life, while also providing you with new tools when possible. I work with individuals around pregnancy/postpartum, trauma (dangerous childhoods, sexual assault, etc), grief/loss, infertility, relationship patterns, emotions, identity, and deconstructing faith beliefs. I also help couples who have a respectful, loving relationship but are going through a difficult circumstance/transition.
Currently accepting new clients for in-person sessions in Fort Collins. My goal: to provide a safe relationship where you can face your difficulties in order to restore your connection to yourself and others. I am present with you in the messiness of life, while also providing you with new tools when possible. I work with individuals around pregnancy/postpartum, trauma (dangerous childhoods, sexual assault, etc), grief/loss, infertility, relationship patterns, emotions, identity, and deconstructing faith beliefs. I also help couples who have a respectful, loving relationship but are going through a difficult circumstance/transition.
(970) 463-7805 View (970) 463-7805
Photo of Orson Morrison, Psychologist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Orson Morrison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as an adolescent, adult, and couples therapist. My style is empathic, warm, and informative. At times, I am direct and challenging with clients in order to facilitate growth and insight. I draw upon relational, systems, and cognitive-behavioral approaches and tailor my treatment to each individual/couple's unique needs. My background/training, helps foster connections with people from various ethinicities, religions, and cultural identifications. I work with common adjustment concerns as well as with serious mental health issues.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as an adolescent, adult, and couples therapist. My style is empathic, warm, and informative. At times, I am direct and challenging with clients in order to facilitate growth and insight. I draw upon relational, systems, and cognitive-behavioral approaches and tailor my treatment to each individual/couple's unique needs. My background/training, helps foster connections with people from various ethinicities, religions, and cultural identifications. I work with common adjustment concerns as well as with serious mental health issues.
(708) 325-8554 View (708) 325-8554
Photo of Hillary Douin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Hillary Douin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I have a background in a variety of community settings, primarily specializing in work related to traumatic stress, family systems, and community mental health. I have individual and group therapy experience working with adult, adolescent, and child survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other forms of interpersonal violence. I am passionate about providing affirming services to the LGBTQIA+ community. Specialties: trauma and attachment, victim advocacy, anger management, relationship issues, transitions, parent-child work, nonprofit work, clinical supervision
I have a background in a variety of community settings, primarily specializing in work related to traumatic stress, family systems, and community mental health. I have individual and group therapy experience working with adult, adolescent, and child survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other forms of interpersonal violence. I am passionate about providing affirming services to the LGBTQIA+ community. Specialties: trauma and attachment, victim advocacy, anger management, relationship issues, transitions, parent-child work, nonprofit work, clinical supervision
(708) 318-4514 View (708) 318-4514
Photo of Mary M Clarke, Psychologist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Mary M Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Waitlist for new clients
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
(773) 770-8540 View (773) 770-8540
Photo of Shelly Gasper, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Shelly Gasper
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
For the past 16 years, I have been dedicated to working with clients in a warm, non-judgemental atmosphere, and I have particularly focused on treating anxiety, depression, relationship and family of origin issues.
Challenges in life are unavoidable, but I believe that with the right therapist in the right environment, people can move in a positive direction. My philosophy is to empower my clients and help them discover the tools they need to move them forward in a productive, beneficial way.
For the past 16 years, I have been dedicated to working with clients in a warm, non-judgemental atmosphere, and I have particularly focused on treating anxiety, depression, relationship and family of origin issues.
Challenges in life are unavoidable, but I believe that with the right therapist in the right environment, people can move in a positive direction. My philosophy is to empower my clients and help them discover the tools they need to move them forward in a productive, beneficial way.
(773) 661-4680 View (773) 661-4680
Photo of Thomas Bateman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Thomas Bateman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I specialize in relationship counseling.
Therapy, from my perspective, is all about balance and curiosity. High hopes and occasional tough love balanced with gentleness and compassion for yourself and your loved ones. Embracing and working toward change while also accepting oneself and loving our immutable parts. Curiosity about why we are the way we are and where we might go from here, and the openness and vulnerability to get there. I view therapy as very much a collaboration -- I bring my expertise in therapeutic methods, you bring your expertise in your own life, and together we work to build the best future for you.
I specialize in relationship counseling.
Therapy, from my perspective, is all about balance and curiosity. High hopes and occasional tough love balanced with gentleness and compassion for yourself and your loved ones. Embracing and working toward change while also accepting oneself and loving our immutable parts. Curiosity about why we are the way we are and where we might go from here, and the openness and vulnerability to get there. I view therapy as very much a collaboration -- I bring my expertise in therapeutic methods, you bring your expertise in your own life, and together we work to build the best future for you.
(773) 985-7260 View (773) 985-7260
Photo of Myra Castañeda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Myra Castañeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
My areas of clinical specialty include sex and sexuality, trauma recovery; and building intimacy and connection with conflictual couples/families.
I work to help people gain awareness of why and how they have lost access to meaningful parts of themselves, find ways to remove blocks to emotional growth and move towards a life that feels more connected and alive. I attend to past and present circumstances, behaviors, feelings, thoughts, and the body. I am open, authentic, engaged, and gently challenging in my interactions with clients. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I intend to support you in enhancing your relationships and offer guidance for healing and growth in any other domains of your life that you'd like to examine.
My areas of clinical specialty include sex and sexuality, trauma recovery; and building intimacy and connection with conflictual couples/families.
I work to help people gain awareness of why and how they have lost access to meaningful parts of themselves, find ways to remove blocks to emotional growth and move towards a life that feels more connected and alive. I attend to past and present circumstances, behaviors, feelings, thoughts, and the body. I am open, authentic, engaged, and gently challenging in my interactions with clients. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I intend to support you in enhancing your relationships and offer guidance for healing and growth in any other domains of your life that you'd like to examine.
(773) 801-7282 View (773) 801-7282
Photo of Emily Reynoso, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Emily Reynoso
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I have experience in working with individuals, couples, and families, helping people manage stress, depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, trauma, and grief and loss.
I believe that therapy should be a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space, that offers the opportunity to process and make sense of emotions and experiences, and move towards deeper sense of self understanding. I am dedicated to helping people identify how certain thoughts, feelings and behaviors contribute to distress, and creating a collaborative path to change. My passion for providing therapy comes from the belief that we are inherently aware of what we need to be successful and are capable of making the changes necessary to move in a positive direction.
I have experience in working with individuals, couples, and families, helping people manage stress, depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, trauma, and grief and loss.
I believe that therapy should be a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space, that offers the opportunity to process and make sense of emotions and experiences, and move towards deeper sense of self understanding. I am dedicated to helping people identify how certain thoughts, feelings and behaviors contribute to distress, and creating a collaborative path to change. My passion for providing therapy comes from the belief that we are inherently aware of what we need to be successful and are capable of making the changes necessary to move in a positive direction.
(773) 570-7693 View (773) 570-7693
Photo of Cynthia J Bassuk, Counselor in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Cynthia J Bassuk
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I am trained in Gottman Couples Therapy and I provide individual and couples counseling services in person at my office in Wicker Park.
Are you trying to find more balance in your life? I can help! I specialize in working with adults who are trying to improve their relationships, navigate infidelity and women/couples who are experiencing infertility or alternative paths to build a family. I support clients who are navigating pregnancy and the stress of early parenthood. I also offer therapy to women who are interested in being a Single Mother by Choice. I provide a supportive environment where you can feel heard and seen in a nonjudgmental space.
I am trained in Gottman Couples Therapy and I provide individual and couples counseling services in person at my office in Wicker Park.
Are you trying to find more balance in your life? I can help! I specialize in working with adults who are trying to improve their relationships, navigate infidelity and women/couples who are experiencing infertility or alternative paths to build a family. I support clients who are navigating pregnancy and the stress of early parenthood. I also offer therapy to women who are interested in being a Single Mother by Choice. I provide a supportive environment where you can feel heard and seen in a nonjudgmental space.
(773) 249-2921 View (773) 249-2921
Photo of Jennifer Langel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Jennifer Langel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience treating a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, relationship problems, parenting challenges, low self-esteem, grief/loss, and trauma.
Coping with life challenges is not something you have to go through alone. Many people seek therapy for support, information, and new ideas on how to better handle the curve balls that life can throw sometimes. I believe that human beings are incredibly resilient and sometimes need assistance in recognizing their own inner strength to create positive changes in their lives. The therapeutic relationship should be collaborative, built upon both mutual respect and independence, and I hope to empower my clients to find opportunities for personal growth so that they can move forward with their goals.
I have over 20 years of experience treating a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, relationship problems, parenting challenges, low self-esteem, grief/loss, and trauma.
Coping with life challenges is not something you have to go through alone. Many people seek therapy for support, information, and new ideas on how to better handle the curve balls that life can throw sometimes. I believe that human beings are incredibly resilient and sometimes need assistance in recognizing their own inner strength to create positive changes in their lives. The therapeutic relationship should be collaborative, built upon both mutual respect and independence, and I hope to empower my clients to find opportunities for personal growth so that they can move forward with their goals.
(773) 825-8718 View (773) 825-8718
Photo of Kristin Praznowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Kristin Praznowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I am a licensed social worker with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. In addition to office-based settings, I have worked in intensive in-home treatment and as a school counselor. Many years of my career were spent as a clinical consultant for a research-based, family-focused treatment model, Multisystemic Therapy (MST). Through my work, I have gained advanced knowledge in family and couples therapy, behavioral modification, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I believe that all individuals have assets that can be leveraged to foster change, and that my role is to support clients in living a full and rewarding life. In my approach with children and adolescents, I view parents/caregivers as the experts on their children, and essential partners in ensuring successful treatment. Understanding family dynamics and promoting healthier patterns are special areas of interest, and utilized in my therapeutic approach. I commend you for taking the first step in researching a therapist for yourself or loved one!
I am a licensed social worker with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. In addition to office-based settings, I have worked in intensive in-home treatment and as a school counselor. Many years of my career were spent as a clinical consultant for a research-based, family-focused treatment model, Multisystemic Therapy (MST). Through my work, I have gained advanced knowledge in family and couples therapy, behavioral modification, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I believe that all individuals have assets that can be leveraged to foster change, and that my role is to support clients in living a full and rewarding life. In my approach with children and adolescents, I view parents/caregivers as the experts on their children, and essential partners in ensuring successful treatment. Understanding family dynamics and promoting healthier patterns are special areas of interest, and utilized in my therapeutic approach. I commend you for taking the first step in researching a therapist for yourself or loved one!
(708) 832-6223 View (708) 832-6223
Photo of Mary-Beth A Golden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Mary-Beth A Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I am a certified Sex Therapist who is sex positive and who has special interest in helping individuals and couples improve their sexual relationship including those who are suffering from reproductive difficulties as well as helping persons learn how middle age and older adulthood influences sexuality.
I am a direct, interactive, and insightful psychotherapist who has a thoughtful, patient, and collaborative approach to therapy. My clinical practice focuses on sexual and reproductive health as well as relationship issues in individuals and couples. Therapy is about improving relationships with oneself and others by working through unexpected difficulties and changes which occur in life and creating better possibilities for the future. Therapy can help explore patterns of relating, both past and present, and find alternative ways of expressing these thoughts and feelings so that one may achieve increased life satisfaction.
I am a certified Sex Therapist who is sex positive and who has special interest in helping individuals and couples improve their sexual relationship including those who are suffering from reproductive difficulties as well as helping persons learn how middle age and older adulthood influences sexuality.
I am a direct, interactive, and insightful psychotherapist who has a thoughtful, patient, and collaborative approach to therapy. My clinical practice focuses on sexual and reproductive health as well as relationship issues in individuals and couples. Therapy is about improving relationships with oneself and others by working through unexpected difficulties and changes which occur in life and creating better possibilities for the future. Therapy can help explore patterns of relating, both past and present, and find alternative ways of expressing these thoughts and feelings so that one may achieve increased life satisfaction.
(872) 274-2544 View (872) 274-2544
Photo of Louis V. Haynes, Psychologist in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Louis V. Haynes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
(773) 639-1094 View (773) 639-1094
Photo of Ann Friesema, Counselor in Portage Park, Chicago, IL
Ann Friesema
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portage Park, Chicago, IL 60641
Many of my clients are addressing concerns related to life transitions such as new parenting or career changes, relationship changes, or increased stress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and earned a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision from Northern Illinois University. I have provided a range of counseling, supervision, and training services over the past 16 years. I believe that change occurs through an honest, respectful, and authentic relationship and I strive to work collaboratively with my clients and trainees as a counselor, educator, supervisor, and consultant. Through the counseling process I assist clients in identifying and understanding current solutions to a healthier, happier, and more satisfying quality of life.
Many of my clients are addressing concerns related to life transitions such as new parenting or career changes, relationship changes, or increased stress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and earned a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision from Northern Illinois University. I have provided a range of counseling, supervision, and training services over the past 16 years. I believe that change occurs through an honest, respectful, and authentic relationship and I strive to work collaboratively with my clients and trainees as a counselor, educator, supervisor, and consultant. Through the counseling process I assist clients in identifying and understanding current solutions to a healthier, happier, and more satisfying quality of life.
(312) 667-3541 View (312) 667-3541

See more therapy options for Portage Park, Chicago


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.