Couples Counseling Therapists in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD

Photo of John Michael Hayes, Psychologist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
John Michael Hayes
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211
People consult therapists for many reasons. Being a psychotherapist is a great privilege - to meet people at critical times, to come to know them deeply, and to help them sort out bewildering, sometimes frightening, often painful thoughts and feelings. Therapy is about relationships, past and present, and especially our relationship to our own interior. It's been my life's work to help people know themselves and make better decisions about their lives. I'm happy to see anyone, with the will, integrity, and courage to open up and work on themselves in depth.
People consult therapists for many reasons. Being a psychotherapist is a great privilege - to meet people at critical times, to come to know them deeply, and to help them sort out bewildering, sometimes frightening, often painful thoughts and feelings. Therapy is about relationships, past and present, and especially our relationship to our own interior. It's been my life's work to help people know themselves and make better decisions about their lives. I'm happy to see anyone, with the will, integrity, and courage to open up and work on themselves in depth.
(410) 593-1383 View (410) 593-1383
Photo of Kris T Gebhard, Psychologist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Kris T Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211
I hope to partner with clients in co-creating a space where we feel safe to explore, question, and heal.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
I hope to partner with clients in co-creating a space where we feel safe to explore, question, and heal.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
(240) 443-3726 View (240) 443-3726
Photo of Lahna Segarnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Lahna Segarnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211
Waitlist for new clients
Whether I am working with couples, family, or an individual, I strive to understand your how your story is impacted by everything around you.
Whether you're looking to make changes in your life, or trying to accept things you cannot change, you deserve a comfortable and safe place to process your feelings. Together we will look at the relationships in your life, your past, and how you narrate your own story. I strive to create a welcoming space for my clients by fostering a relaxed atmosphere, nonjudgmental environment, and humor. I specialize in working with clients who may not enjoy all aspects of therapy. Therefore, if you are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy, I offer creative methods to process difficult feelings.
Whether I am working with couples, family, or an individual, I strive to understand your how your story is impacted by everything around you.
Whether you're looking to make changes in your life, or trying to accept things you cannot change, you deserve a comfortable and safe place to process your feelings. Together we will look at the relationships in your life, your past, and how you narrate your own story. I strive to create a welcoming space for my clients by fostering a relaxed atmosphere, nonjudgmental environment, and humor. I specialize in working with clients who may not enjoy all aspects of therapy. Therefore, if you are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy, I offer creative methods to process difficult feelings.
(443) 251-3587 View (443) 251-3587
Photo of Jennifer Evans Buerger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Jennifer Evans Buerger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSASS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
I've been an Adolescent, Adult, Couples therapist for over 25 years.
I work extensively with healthcare​ professionals and other therapists. I currently have a few openings for some additional individuals 17+, couples, and​ families. I utilize DBT, CBT, and various other​ modules to assist every client. I have over 25 years of experience assisting adults just like you. ​Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, anger, stress, or something else entirely, I am here for you.
I've been an Adolescent, Adult, Couples therapist for over 25 years.
I work extensively with healthcare​ professionals and other therapists. I currently have a few openings for some additional individuals 17+, couples, and​ families. I utilize DBT, CBT, and various other​ modules to assist every client. I have over 25 years of experience assisting adults just like you. ​Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, anger, stress, or something else entirely, I am here for you.
(410) 449-0939 View (410) 449-0939
Photo of Emily Love, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Emily Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21209
I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults as well as couples sessions. My main focuses are anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, though I help many clients with other disorders and concerns. I especially enjoy working with young adults navigating times of transition, social pressures, and stress.
I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults as well as couples sessions. My main focuses are anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, though I help many clients with other disorders and concerns. I especially enjoy working with young adults navigating times of transition, social pressures, and stress.
(443) 213-0113 View (443) 213-0113
Photo of Eliza Pelton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Eliza Pelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210
I partner with my clients to foster their ability to live a healthy and comfortable life, in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment.
My goal is to help you identify your needs, plan and act for positive change, and create balance in your life. During our sessions, I strive to empower and support you while helping you build the tools to manage stressful life events and reach your goals. Most importantly, I will meet you where you are (mentally and emotionally) and personalize therapy to your needs. I have experience across a broad spectrum of topics and specialize in treating eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I partner with my clients to foster their ability to live a healthy and comfortable life, in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment.
My goal is to help you identify your needs, plan and act for positive change, and create balance in your life. During our sessions, I strive to empower and support you while helping you build the tools to manage stressful life events and reach your goals. Most importantly, I will meet you where you are (mentally and emotionally) and personalize therapy to your needs. I have experience across a broad spectrum of topics and specialize in treating eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
(443) 596-6895 View (443) 596-6895
Photo of Jarrell Slade, Counselor in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Jarrell Slade
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
I am deeply committed to creating an inclusive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your identity, navigate life transitions, address mental health concerns, and build self-esteem! Whether you are seeking support for coming out, relationship challenges, or general well-being, I am here to help you embrace and celebrate your authentic self.
Welcome to a space of acceptance, understanding, and empowerment. I'm Jarrell Slade, a dedicated Licensed Graduate Professional Therapist. I specialize in offering a safe and affirming therapeutic space for individuals, with a concentration on individuals within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and Black and/or Indigenous people of color. My approach is rooted in respect, empathy, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by the community.
I am deeply committed to creating an inclusive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your identity, navigate life transitions, address mental health concerns, and build self-esteem! Whether you are seeking support for coming out, relationship challenges, or general well-being, I am here to help you embrace and celebrate your authentic self.
Welcome to a space of acceptance, understanding, and empowerment. I'm Jarrell Slade, a dedicated Licensed Graduate Professional Therapist. I specialize in offering a safe and affirming therapeutic space for individuals, with a concentration on individuals within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and Black and/or Indigenous people of color. My approach is rooted in respect, empathy, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by the community.
(410) 705-7983 View (410) 705-7983
Photo of Della Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Della Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Are you stressed out in your romantic relationships? Is your teenager starting to struggle to balance school, home, and friends? At Brighter Future Counseling, I use evidenced based strategies with teens, adults, and couples to combat anxiety and depression in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment. If you're feeling stuck, unhappy, or like life is in chaos, give me a call today and we can begin the journey to realizing your strength!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Are you stressed out in your romantic relationships? Is your teenager starting to struggle to balance school, home, and friends? At Brighter Future Counseling, I use evidenced based strategies with teens, adults, and couples to combat anxiety and depression in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment. If you're feeling stuck, unhappy, or like life is in chaos, give me a call today and we can begin the journey to realizing your strength!
(443) 249-8702 View (443) 249-8702
Photo of Steven Christopher Savoy, Counselor in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Steven Christopher Savoy
Counselor
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
I am excited to work with young adults, couples, and families to gain more insight into themselves and their social environment.
I believe that all individuals deserve a space to feel safe to discuss their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Exploring ways to become more present with oneself is essential to positive social growth. I provide a collaborative, caring, and non-judgmental approach to treatment. I assist clients in their journeys to better communication, a positive perspective on life, coping with trauma, understanding Self, and resolving conflict.
I am excited to work with young adults, couples, and families to gain more insight into themselves and their social environment.
I believe that all individuals deserve a space to feel safe to discuss their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Exploring ways to become more present with oneself is essential to positive social growth. I provide a collaborative, caring, and non-judgmental approach to treatment. I assist clients in their journeys to better communication, a positive perspective on life, coping with trauma, understanding Self, and resolving conflict.
(240) 201-9615 View (240) 201-9615
Photo of Mara Katz - Relationship Trauma Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Mara Katz - Relationship Trauma Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing a crisis in your relationship? Looking for ways to improve connection and intimacy? Considering starting or ending a relationship? Whether you are entering into a new relationship, maintaining a long-term relationship, navigating a crisis in a relationship, or working individually to determine next steps, my primary goal is to support you and your relationship goals. Drawing on a variety of treatment models, I view each individual and couple as unique in their experiences and needs and I strive to tailor treatment to build on your strengths to facilitate change and growth.
Are you experiencing a crisis in your relationship? Looking for ways to improve connection and intimacy? Considering starting or ending a relationship? Whether you are entering into a new relationship, maintaining a long-term relationship, navigating a crisis in a relationship, or working individually to determine next steps, my primary goal is to support you and your relationship goals. Drawing on a variety of treatment models, I view each individual and couple as unique in their experiences and needs and I strive to tailor treatment to build on your strengths to facilitate change and growth.
(443) 912-5482 View (443) 912-5482
Photo of Teresa Méndez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Teresa M Méndez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211
Psychodynamic psychotherapy has the capacity to change us deeply. But it can also be subtle: allowing for a sense of "staying the same while changing," as we hold onto the parts of ourselves we value, while better understanding those parts that may be getting in the way. I work from the belief that meaningful and lasting change occurs in the context of relationships - including the relationship between therapist and patient. People come to me with painful relationships, difficult family dynamics, uncomfortable mood or anxiety symptoms, a general feeling that something isn't right, or the desire to simply know themselves better.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy has the capacity to change us deeply. But it can also be subtle: allowing for a sense of "staying the same while changing," as we hold onto the parts of ourselves we value, while better understanding those parts that may be getting in the way. I work from the belief that meaningful and lasting change occurs in the context of relationships - including the relationship between therapist and patient. People come to me with painful relationships, difficult family dynamics, uncomfortable mood or anxiety symptoms, a general feeling that something isn't right, or the desire to simply know themselves better.
(202) 817-2402 View (202) 817-2402
Photo of Mary Rimi, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Mary Rimi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21209  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families, to identify their strengths and create solutions that may help them best manage their current situation.
**Teletherapy Option Available** The decision to come to therapy typically arises when we reach a point where we say "I can't do this alone." The "this" could be anything; maybe you are experiencing significant stressors at work or in your relationship; perhaps you've had years of trying to manage symptoms of trauma, depression or anxiety alone, and you're tired; it could be that your relationship or family has gone through a major change, and you are struggling to adjust. Whatever the issue is, I am happy that you have acknowledged that support is needed, and in that acknowledgment you are on your way to progress already.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, to identify their strengths and create solutions that may help them best manage their current situation.
**Teletherapy Option Available** The decision to come to therapy typically arises when we reach a point where we say "I can't do this alone." The "this" could be anything; maybe you are experiencing significant stressors at work or in your relationship; perhaps you've had years of trying to manage symptoms of trauma, depression or anxiety alone, and you're tired; it could be that your relationship or family has gone through a major change, and you are struggling to adjust. Whatever the issue is, I am happy that you have acknowledged that support is needed, and in that acknowledgment you are on your way to progress already.
(410) 346-9566 View (410) 346-9566
Photo of Lori Chesla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Lori Chesla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210
I believe that therapy is a collaborative relationship best guided by understanding clients’ personal values and relationships; I work with clients to build increased insight, awareness and intentionality into their lives.
I believe that therapy is an opportunity for deep and lasting transformation. I work with clients to build insight and skills that allow for fulfilling relationships, satisfying work, and deep joy in all aspects of life. I provide psychotherapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I have a particular interest in working with folks who identify as neurodivergent, and frequently work with partners of neurodivergent folks who identify as neurotypical.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative relationship best guided by understanding clients’ personal values and relationships; I work with clients to build increased insight, awareness and intentionality into their lives.
I believe that therapy is an opportunity for deep and lasting transformation. I work with clients to build insight and skills that allow for fulfilling relationships, satisfying work, and deep joy in all aspects of life. I provide psychotherapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I have a particular interest in working with folks who identify as neurodivergent, and frequently work with partners of neurodivergent folks who identify as neurotypical.
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Photo of Desire Lines Psychotherapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Desire Lines Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211
I offer Discernment Counseling, relationship therapy and sex therapy for unique people in non-traditional relationships.
A "desire line" is a foot path made by us – people walking over time, as we discover that the path made for us isn't the easiest, safest or most fun route to walk. Desire lines remind us that we are not alone with our longing, frustration or irritation, nor are we alone in our search for fulfillment, peace or pleasure. Desire lines are also a good metaphor for life. Maybe you and your partner are on an unchosen or changing path and you need a therapist to help you navigate new territory.
I offer Discernment Counseling, relationship therapy and sex therapy for unique people in non-traditional relationships.
A "desire line" is a foot path made by us – people walking over time, as we discover that the path made for us isn't the easiest, safest or most fun route to walk. Desire lines remind us that we are not alone with our longing, frustration or irritation, nor are we alone in our search for fulfillment, peace or pleasure. Desire lines are also a good metaphor for life. Maybe you and your partner are on an unchosen or changing path and you need a therapist to help you navigate new territory.
(410) 936-3666 View (410) 936-3666
Photo of Grace Myhill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Grace Myhill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210
With extensive knowledge and experience working with neurodiverse couples, I offer relationship coaching for the unique issues that arise for couples in which one or both partners have Asperger's or autism. Coaching can be done individually, with a couple, or in groups.
With extensive knowledge and experience working with neurodiverse couples, I offer relationship coaching for the unique issues that arise for couples in which one or both partners have Asperger's or autism. Coaching can be done individually, with a couple, or in groups.
(617) 209-2583 View (617) 209-2583
Photo of Amie Post, Marriage & Family Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Amie Post
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210
I help people discover new ways to tackle life's challenges and grow solid self in relationship. Like a great athletic coach, I can help you and your family identify and build your strengths, increase flexibility and stamina in your relationships and develop an effective game plan be present to those you love and better navigate life's challenges.
I help people discover new ways to tackle life's challenges and grow solid self in relationship. Like a great athletic coach, I can help you and your family identify and build your strengths, increase flexibility and stamina in your relationships and develop an effective game plan be present to those you love and better navigate life's challenges.
(443) 247-0439 View (443) 247-0439
Photo of Melissa Weinberg, Counselor in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Melissa Weinberg
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210
I offer individual and couples therapy, tailoring the therapy process to meet your needs.
Your mind is constantly racing, flooding you with worry. You don't even know where the thoughts come from, but they can be upsetting. You try to control or ignore them, but they come right back. You're stressing out the people around you. Why does life seem so easy for other people? You're tired of people telling you to "just relax" and that "it will be okay." Nothing you do seems to work and you've never felt so discouraged. You are afraid that this anxiety will never go away, especially if it is new to you. You want to be at ease. You want to feel like you're actually engaged in your life, not distracted and struggling through it.
I offer individual and couples therapy, tailoring the therapy process to meet your needs.
Your mind is constantly racing, flooding you with worry. You don't even know where the thoughts come from, but they can be upsetting. You try to control or ignore them, but they come right back. You're stressing out the people around you. Why does life seem so easy for other people? You're tired of people telling you to "just relax" and that "it will be okay." Nothing you do seems to work and you've never felt so discouraged. You are afraid that this anxiety will never go away, especially if it is new to you. You want to be at ease. You want to feel like you're actually engaged in your life, not distracted and struggling through it.
(443) 294-7671 View (443) 294-7671
Photo of Marc J Weinstein, Psychologist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Marc J Weinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21210
In my experience, a person who seeks therapy wants solutions that work. And since two heads are better than one, I believe an effective therapeutic alliance can help people attain the happiness and fulfillment they desire. When a safe and trusting environment is established, people can learn to value themselves, develop healthy relationships and heal from painful experiences. My therapy style is direct and active. I rely on honesty and authenticity in therapy to guide our collaborative efforts. Therapy can only be successful when the client and therapist have a good working relationship and the client participates fully.
In my experience, a person who seeks therapy wants solutions that work. And since two heads are better than one, I believe an effective therapeutic alliance can help people attain the happiness and fulfillment they desire. When a safe and trusting environment is established, people can learn to value themselves, develop healthy relationships and heal from painful experiences. My therapy style is direct and active. I rely on honesty and authenticity in therapy to guide our collaborative efforts. Therapy can only be successful when the client and therapist have a good working relationship and the client participates fully.
(410) 205-1022 View (410) 205-1022
Photo of Leon Ginn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Leon Ginn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Life is difficult; making sense of challenges and choices can be complicated. Times of stress can tax every relationship, even the relationship with our self. As a Professional Counselor my goal is to create a relationship in which you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions, assisting in discovering new opportunities for growth and change.
Life is difficult; making sense of challenges and choices can be complicated. Times of stress can tax every relationship, even the relationship with our self. As a Professional Counselor my goal is to create a relationship in which you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions, assisting in discovering new opportunities for growth and change.
(240) 617-3430 View (240) 617-3430
Photo of Julia Rainer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD
Julia Rainer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Julia is a Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, families, caregivers, and groups. She uses empathy and open communication to collaborate with clients and identify their goals for therapy. Julia believes therapy can help build and strengthen the relationship with oneself and others, promote healing, increase confidence, and allow a person to experience more peace and joy in life.
Julia is a Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience working with children, teens, young adults, families, caregivers, and groups. She uses empathy and open communication to collaborate with clients and identify their goals for therapy. Julia believes therapy can help build and strengthen the relationship with oneself and others, promote healing, increase confidence, and allow a person to experience more peace and joy in life.
(240) 410-6379 View (240) 410-6379

See more therapy options for Roland Park-Homewood-Guilford, Baltimore

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.